The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. 10Q - quarterly period ended 12/31/06
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)
[X]  Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the quarterly period ended December 31, 2006  

|_| Transition Report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of The Securities Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from ______ to _______.
 
Commission File No. 0-22818
 
THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
22-3240619
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
58 South Service Road
Melville, New York
(Address of principal executive offices)
11747
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (631) 730-2200

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes |X|       No |_|
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer [X]  Accelerated filer [ ]  Non-accelerated filer [ ]

 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes |_| No |X|
 
As of February 5, 2007 there were 39,442,908 shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock, par value $.01 per share.
 
 

 


THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC.

INDEX


Part I Financial Information

Item 1.
Financial Statements

 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - December 31, 2006
(unaudited) and June 30, 2006
2
     
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income -
Three months and six months ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 (unaudited)
3
     
 
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity -
 
 
Six months ended December 31, 2006 (unaudited)
4
     
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
 
 
Six months ended December 31, 2006 and 2005 (unaudited)
5

              Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
6

Item 2.
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
 
 
Condition and Results of Operations
13
     
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures
 
 
About Market Risk
18
     
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
18
     

Part II Other Information


Item 1 - Legal Proceedings
18
   
Items 1A, 2, 3 and 5 are not applicable
 
   
Item 4 - Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
18
   
Item 6 - Exhibits
19
   
Signatures
20

 
1



PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except per share and share amounts)
 
   
December 31,
2006
 
June 30,
2006
 
ASSETS
 
(Unaudited)
 
(Note)
 
Current assets:
             
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
83,079
 
$
48,875
 
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful
accounts of $2,135 and $2,104
   
104,106
   
80,764
 
Inventories
   
115,665
   
105,883
 
Deferred income taxes
   
3,872
   
2,986
 
Other current assets
   
17,860
   
21,968
 
Total current assets
   
324,582
   
260,476
 
               
Property, plant and equipment, net
   
117,704
   
119,830
 
Goodwill
   
399,666
   
421,002
 
Trademarks and other intangible assets, net
   
79,939
   
61,626
 
Other assets
   
16,043
   
14,750
 
Total assets
 
$
937,934
 
$
877,684
 
               
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
             
Current liabilities:
             
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
$
98,775
 
$
81,894
 
Income taxes payable
   
10,940
   
3,083
 
Current portion of long-term debt
   
400
   
1,065
 
Total current liabilities
   
110,115
   
86,042
 
               
Long-term debt, less current portion
   
151,409
   
151,229
 
Deferred income taxes
   
19,086
   
19,086
 
Total liabilities
   
280,610
   
256,357
 
               
Minority interest
   
5,378
   
4,926
 
               
Stockholders' equity:
             
Preferred stock - $.01 par value, authorized 5,000,000
  shares, no shares issued
   
-
   
-
 
Common stock - $.01 par value, authorized 100,000,000
  shares, issued 40,304,164 and 39,583,671 shares
   
403
   
396
 
Additional paid-in capital
   
459,098
   
446,319
 
Retained earnings
   
188,836
   
165,034
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
   
16,354
   
17,397
 
     
664,691
   
629,146
 
Less: 861,256 shares of treasury stock, at cost
   
(12,745
)
 
(12,745
)
Total stockholders' equity
   
651,946
   
616,401
 
               
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
 
$
937,934
 
$
877,684
 
 
 
Note: The balance sheet at June 30, 2006 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date.

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

2




THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
   
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2006
 
2005
 
           
                   
Net sales
 
$
230,909
 
$
186,227
 
$
441,116
 
$
347,324
 
Cost of sales
   
160,319
   
128,061
   
311,384
   
243,309
 
  Gross profit
   
70,590
   
58,166
   
129,732
   
104,015
 
                           
Selling, general and
  administrative expenses
   
44,799
   
36,988
   
86,645
   
70,857
 
  Operating income
   
25,791
   
21,178
   
43,087
   
33,158
 
                           
Interest and other
  expenses, net
   
1,754
   
1,309
   
3,574
   
2,177
 
                           
Income before income taxes
   
24,037
   
19,869
   
39,513
   
30,981
 
Provision for income taxes
   
9,269
   
7,531
   
15,711
   
11,752
 
                           
Net income
 
$
14,768
 
$
12,338
 
$
23,802
 
$
19,229
 
                           
Net income per share:
                         
  Basic
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.33
 
$
0.61
 
$
0.52
 
                           
  Diluted
 
$
0.36
 
$
0.32
 
$
0.59
 
$
0.51
 
                           
Weighted average common
  shares outstanding:
                         
  Basic
   
39,173
   
37,165
   
38,960
   
36,900
 
                           
  Diluted
   
41,202
   
38,434
   
40,613
   
37,997
 
                           
                           
 
 

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


3





THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2006
(In thousands, except per share and share amounts)
                           
Foreign
         
   
Common Stock
 
Additional
             
  Currency
     
       
Amount
 
Paid-in
 
Retained
 
Treasury Stock
 
Translation
     
Comprehensive
 
   
Shares
 
at $.01
 
Capital
 
Earnings
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
Adjustment
 
Total
 
Income
 
                                       
Balance at June 30, 2006
   
39,583,671
 
$
396
 
$
446,319
 
$
165,034
   
861,256
 
$
(12,745
)
$
17,397
 
$
616,401
   
                                                     
Exercise of stock options
   
720,493
   
7
   
11,736
                           
11,743
   
                                                     
Non-cash compensation charge
               
1,043
                           
1,043
   
                                                     
Comprehensive income:
                                                   
Net income
                     
23,802
                     
23,802
 
$ 23,802
                                                     
Translation adjustments
                                       
(1,043
)
 
(1,043
)
(1,043)
                                                     
Total comprehensive income
                                                 
$22,759
Balance at December 31, 2006
   
40,304,164
 
$
403
 
$
459,098
 
$
188,836
   
861,256
 
$
(12,745
)
$
16,354
 
$
651,946
   


See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

4



THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
(In thousands)

   
Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES
     
           
Net income
 
$
23,802
 
$
19,229
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
             
Depreciation and amortization
   
7,088
   
6,016
 
Deferred income tax benefit
   
(857
)
 
-
 
Non-cash compensation
   
1,043
   
1,808
 
Gain on sale of Biomarché
   
(2,527
)
 
-
 
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
   
(596
)
 
-
 
Other non-cash items, net
   
431
   
348
 
               
Increase (decrease) in cash attributable to changes in operating assets and
liabilities, net of amounts applicable to acquired/disposed businesses:
             
Accounts receivable
   
(21,937
)
 
(11,650
)
Inventories
   
(5,401
)
 
(16,622
)
Other current assets
   
4,341
   
(126
)
Other assets
   
(635
)
 
1,386
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
   
18,320
   
(226
)
Income taxes, net
   
7,603
   
7,356
 
               
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
30,675
   
7,519
 
               
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES
             
Purchases of property and equipment
   
(6,521
)
 
(6,335
)
Proceeds from disposals of property and equipment
   
2,664
   
-
 
Acquisitions of business, net of cash acquired
   
(11,194
)
 
(32,217
)
Proceeds from sale of Biomarché
   
8,160
   
-
 
Loan to affiliate
   
(1,911
)
 
-
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(8,802
)
 
(38,552
)
               
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES
             
Borrowings under bank revolving credit facility, net
   
-
   
17,000
 
Proceeds from exercises of stock options, net of related expenses
   
11,743
   
7,276
 
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation
   
596
   
-
 
Repayments of other long-term debt, net
   
(432
)
 
(66
)
               
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
11,907
   
24,210
 
               
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
   
424
   
43
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
   
34,204
   
(6,780
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
   
48,875
   
24,139
 
               
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
83,079
 
$
17,359
 


See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.



5



THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

1. GENERAL

The Hain Celestial Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”, and herein referred to as “we”,us”, and “our”) manufacture, market, distribute and sell natural and organic food products and natural personal care products under brand names which are sold as “better-for-you” products. We are a leader in many of the top natural food categories, with such well-known food brands as Celestial Seasonings®, Hain Pure Foods®, Westbrae®, WestSoy®, Rice Dream®, Soy Dream®, Imagine™, Walnut Acres Organic, Ethnic Gourmet®, Rosetto®, Little Bear Organic Foods®, Bearitos®, Arrowhead Mills®, Health Valley®, Breadshop®, Casbah®, Spectrum Naturals®, Spectrum Essentials®, Garden of Eatin’®, Terra®, Harry’s Premium Snacks®, Boston’s®, Lima®, Grains Noirs®, Natumi®, , Yves Veggie Cuisine®, DeBoles®, Earth’s Best®, Nile Spice®, Linda McCartney®, Realeat® and Granose®. The Company’s principal specialty product lines include Hollywood® cooking oils, Estee® sugar-free products, Boston Better Snacks®, and Alba Foods®. Our natural personal care product line is marketed under the JASON®, Zia®, Orjene®, Shaman Earthly Organics, Heather’s®, Queen Helene®, Batherapy®, Shower Therapy®, Footherapy®, Avalon Organic® and Alba Botanica® brands. Our natural and organic antibiotic-free chicken is marketed under the FreeBird brand.

We operate in one business segment: the sale of natural and organic food and personal care products. In our 2006 fiscal year, approximately 47% of our revenues were derived from products that were manufactured within our own facilities with 53% produced by various co-packers.
 
All dollar amounts in our condensed consolidated financial statements and tables have been rounded to the nearest thousand dollars, except per share amounts. Share amounts in the notes to condensed consolidated financial statements are presented in thousands.

2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Our condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all normal recurring adjustments which, in management’s opinion, are necessary for a fair presentation for interim periods. Operating results for the three months and six months ended December 31, 2006 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending June 30, 2007. Please refer to the footnotes to our consolidated financial statements as of June 30, 2006 and for the year then ended included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for information not included in these condensed footnotes.

Results previously reported for the three months and six months ended December 31, 2005 have been adjusted to reflect charges in connection with the requirements of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123(R)”). SFAS No. 123(R) requires that contractual commitments to issue stock options be recorded as compensation cost whether or not the options have been granted. The Company’s employment agreement with its Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) contains such a commitment; however the options which were to be awarded in July 2005 and July 2006 have not been granted, principally due to an insufficient number of shares available under the Company’s Long Term Incentive and Stock Award Plans. Under SFAS No. 123(R), regardless of whether the options are ever granted, either currently or in the future, a non-cash accounting expense is required to be recorded during the year leading up to the anticipated grant date under the contract. This period is defined in SFAS No. 123(R) as the “requisite service period.” The requisite service period related to the July 2006 un-granted options was completed during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2006. These options remain un-granted at February 9, 2007. Results for the three months ended December 31, 2005 have been reduced from those previously reported by $0.5 million ($0.3 million net of tax) or $0.01 per diluted share. Results for the six months ended December 31, 2005 have been reduced from those previously reported by $1.3 million ($0.8 million net of tax) or $.02 per diluted share. The requisite service period related to the July 2005 un-granted options was completed on June 30, 2005, which was prior to the required implementation of SFAS No. 123(R) and, therefore, no expense has been recorded for the July 2005 options. The Company will incur a charge to earnings at such time as those options are granted. Until such time as the July 2006 options are granted, the Company will be required to revalue (mark-to-market based on Black-Scholes value) the un-granted options at the end of each quarter, with the change in value charged or credited to compensation expense, included in selling, general and administrative expenses.


6


THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)-Continued


3. EARNINGS PER SHARE

We report basic and diluted earnings per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128, "Earnings Per Share" ("SFAS No. 128"). Basic earnings per share excludes the dilutive effects of options and warrants. Diluted earnings per share includes only the dilutive effects of common stock equivalents such as stock options and warrants.

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share pursuant to SFAS No. 128:


   
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2006
 
2005
 
Numerator:
Net income
 
$
14,768
 
$
12,338
 
$
23,802
 
$
19,229
 
Denominator for basic earnings per
share - weighted average shares
outstanding during the period
   
39,173
   
37,165
   
38,960
   
36,900
 
 
Effect of dilutive stock options
   
2,029
   
1,269
   
1,653
   
1,097
 
                           
Denominator for diluted earnings per
share - adjusted weighted average
shares and assumed conversions
   
41,202
   
38,434
   
40,613
   
37,997
 
Basic net income per share
 
$
0.38
 
$
0.33
 
$
0.61
 
$
0.52
 
Diluted net income per share
 
$
0.36
 
$
0.32
 
$
0.59
 
$
0.51
 


Options totaling 204 for the three months and 808 for the six months ended December 31, 2006 and 2,596 for the three months and 2,805 for the six months ended December 31, 2005 were excluded from our earnings per share calculations as their effects would have been anti-dilutive.


4. INVENTORIES

Inventories consisted of the following:

   
December 31,
2006
 
June 30,
2006
 
Finished goods
 
$
65,841
 
$
64,771
 
Raw materials, work-in-progress and packaging
   
49,824
   
41,112
 
   
$
115,665
 
$
105,883
 




7



THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)-Continued

5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:

   
December 31,
2006
 
June 30,
2006
 
Land
 
$
9,473
 
$
10,958
 
Buildings and improvements
   
34,825
   
38,483
 
Machinery and equipment
   
118,282
   
113,958
 
Furniture and fixtures
   
6,398
   
6,107
 
Leasehold improvements
   
2,582
   
3,120
 
Construction in progress
   
3,743
   
2,257
 
     
175,303
   
174,883
 
               
               
Less: Accumulated depreciation
and amortization
   
57,599
   
55,053
 
   
$
117,704
 
$
119,830
 
               
 
6.  GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 
Goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets must be tested for impairment at least annually. We perform a test for impairment during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year. In accordance with SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,” we have evaluated the fair value of our goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets and, based on such evaluations, no impairment existed through June 30, 2006. Amounts assigned to indefinite-life intangible assets primarily represent the values of trademarks.
 
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the six months ended December 31, 2006 were as follows:
 
Balance as of July 1, 2006
 
$
421,002
 
Addition
   
1,498
 
Sale of Biomarché
   
(3,350
)
Reallocation to intangible assets
   
(17,000
)
Translation and other adjustments
   
(2,484
)
Balance as of December 31, 2006
 
$
399,666
 
 
 
During the quarter ended December 31, 2006, based on the results of an independent appraisal, we reallocated approximately $17.0 million preliminarily allocated to goodwill related to the acquisition of Spectrum Organic Products, Inc. to other intangibles, predominantly non-amortized trademarks. Included in translation and other adjustments during the six months ended December 31, 2006 are the impacts of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on goodwill and adjustments to our estimates of fair value of net assets acquired. We are continuing to evaluate the initial purchase price allocations of certain other acquisitions and will adjust the allocations as additional information relative to the fair values of the assets and liabilities of the acquired businesses becomes known. Accordingly, management has used its best estimate in the initial purchase price allocation as of the date of these financial statements.
 
 

 

8


 
THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)-Continued
 
At December 31, 2006, included in trademarks and other intangible assets on the balance sheet is approximately $4.6 million of intangible assets deemed to have a finite life, which are being amortized over their estimated useful lives. The following table reflects the components of trademarks and other intangible assets:
 
   
 
December 31, 2006
 
 
June 30, 2006
 
   
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
 
Gross Carrying Amount
 
 
Accumulated Amortization
 
Amortized intangible assets:
                         
                           
Other intangibles
 
$
4,643
 
$
2,018
 
$
4,025
 
$
2,763
 
                           
Non-amortized intangible assets:
                         
                           
Trademarks
83,981
6,667
67,017
6,653

Amortization of amortized intangible assets amounted to $0.6 million in the six months ended December 31, 2006, and these intangibles are expected to be completely amortized over the next five years.

7.  ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSAL
 
On December 8, 2006, we acquired the business and certain assets of Haldane Foods Limited, a United Kingdom-based producer of meat-free food and non-dairy beverage products. Haldane’s product lines include Realeat® frozen foods; Granose®, Direct Foods and Realeat® dry mixes; and Granose® and White Wave® non-dairy beverages. The Haldane frozen meat-free business is a complementary fit with our Linda McCartney® brand, acquired last fiscal year. The addition of the Haldane non-dairy beverage manufacturing capability enhances our growing non-diary beverage business in the United Kingdom. The total consideration paid was approximately $11.0 million in cash, including transaction costs. As a result of the initial purchase price allocation, we recorded goodwill of $1.5 million at December 31, 2006 in connection with this acquisition. The purchase price allocation for this acquisition is preliminary and may be revised as additional information becomes available. Any change in the fair value of the net assets acquired will change the amount of the purchase price allocable to goodwill. Management is currently developing integration plans which may result in additional costs, including costs to terminate employees and costs to consolidate facilities, which will be accrued as a liability in conjunction with recording the purchase of the Haldane business and which will result in an increase to goodwill. The operating results of the Haldane business are reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition and were not material.
 
On December 18, 2006, we reached agreement to acquire Avalon Natural Products, Inc., a leader in the natural products category in the areas of skin care, hair care, bath and body and sun care, for approximately $120 million in cash. The acquisition closed on January 11, 2007. See Note 13, Subsequent Event.

In fiscal 2006, our acquisitions included Spectrum Organic Products, Inc., a California-based leading manufacturer and marketer of natural and organic culinary oils, vinegars, condiments and butter substitutes under the Spectrum Naturals® brand and essential fatty acid nutritional supplements under the Spectrum Essentials® brand; the business and assets of Para Laboratories, Inc., including the Queen Helene®, Batherapy®, Shower Therapy® and Footherapy® brands of skin care, hair care, and body care products; and the fresh prepared foods business based in Luton, England, and the Linda McCartney® brand (under license) of frozen meat-free products, including its manufacturing facility, based in Fakenham, England, both acquired from the H. J. Heinz Company. As of December 31, 2006, the purchase accounting for all of these acquisitions, except for Spectrum, are still subject to final adjustment for valuations and certain pre-acquisition contingencies.

 

9



 
THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)-Continued

 
The following table presents unaudited pro forma information about sales and net income had the operations of the above described acquisitions been combined with our business as of the first day of the period shown. This information has not been adjusted to reflect any changes in the operations of these businesses subsequent to their acquisition by us. Changes in operations of these acquired businesses include, but are not limited to, discontinuation of products (including discontinuation resulting from the integration of acquired and existing brands with similar products, and discontinuation of sales of private label products), changes in trade practices, application of our credit policies, changes in manufacturing processes or locations, changes in marketing and advertising programs and integration of systems and personnel. Had any of these changes been implemented by the former management of the businesses acquired prior to acquisition by us, the sales and net income information might have been materially different than the actual results achieved and from the pro forma information provided below. Further, the pro forma sales and net income information for the prior periods has not been adjusted to reflect, among other things, brands which have been disposed of or licensed to others, or items no longer sold by us as the result of the 2005 SKU Rationalization Program (sales of rationalized SKUs continued throughout fiscal 2006). As a result, sales as presented for the prior periods appear higher than what would have been presented had these adjustments been reflected.
 
   
Three months ended
December 31
 
Six months ended
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2006
 
2005
 
Net sales
 
$
235,309
 
$
230,788
 
$
451,575
 
$
438,347
 
Net income
 
$
14,010
 
$
12,868
 
$
22,625
 
$
19,929
 
Earnings per share:
Basic
 
$
0.36
 
$
0.34
 
$
0.58
 
$
0.53
 
Diluted
 
$
0.34
 
$
0.33
 
$
0.56
 
$
0.51
 
Weighted average shares:
Basic
   
39,173
   
38,020
   
38,960
   
37,827
 
Diluted
   
41,202
   
39,289
   
40,613
   
38,924
 

In management’s opinion, the unaudited pro forma results of operations are not indicative of the actual results that would have occurred had the above acquisitions been consummated at the beginning of the periods presented or of future operations of the combined companies under our management.
 
On August 31, 2006, we completed the sale of Biomarché, our Belgium-based provider of fresh organic fruits and vegetables, to Pro Natura, a French company specializing in the distribution of organic produce. Biomarché generated approximately $18.0 million in sales for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2006. Total consideration received was €6.5 million (approximately $8.3 million), plus a contingent additional payment of up to approximately €0.7 million based on sales, all subject to an adjustment for working capital and other items. We recognized a pretax gain of $2.5 million, net of a $3.3 million charge for allocated goodwill ($1.1 million after tax) in connection with the sale, which is included in “Interest and other expenses, net” in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of income. The results of operations and cash flows for Biomarché for the two months ended August 31, 2006, which were not material, are included in the condensed consolidated statements of income and of cash flows, respectively.
 
8. SENIOR NOTES AND CREDIT FACILITY

On May 2, 2006, we issued $150 million in aggregate principal amount of senior notes due May 2, 2016 in a private placement. The notes bear interest at 5.98%, payable semi-annually on November 2 and May 2. Also on May 2, 2006, we entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, providing us with a $250 million credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) expiring in May 2011. The Credit Facility provides for an uncommitted $100 million accordion feature, under which the facility may be increased to $350 million. The Credit Facility and the notes are guaranteed by substantially all of our current and future direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries. Revolving credit loans under the Credit Facility bear interest at a base rate (greater of the applicable prime rate or Federal Funds Rate plus an applicable margin) or, at our option, the reserve adjusted LIBOR rate plus an applicable margin. As of December 31, 2006, $150.0 million was borrowed under the senior notes at an interest rate of 5.98%, and there were no borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility.


10




THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)-Continued

During January 2007 we borrowed $75 million under the Credit Facility to fund a portion of the acquisition of Avalon Natural Products, Inc. (See Note 13, Subsequent Event.) We are required by the terms of the Credit Facility and the notes to comply with customary affirmative and negative covenants for facilities and notes of this nature.

9. STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH YHS
 
On September 6, 2005, the Company and Yeo Hiap Seng Limited (“YHS”), a Singapore based natural food and beverage company listed on the Singapore Exchange, exchanged $2 million in equity investments in each other resulting in the issuance of 100,482 shares of the Company’s common stock to YHS and the issuance of 1,326,938 ordinary shares of YHS (representing less than 1% of the outstanding shares) to the Company. These investments represent the completion of the first stage of an alliance established between the Company and YHS which is expected to result in the pursuit of joint interests in marketing and distribution of food and beverages and product development. The Company’s investment in YHS shares is carried at cost and is included in other assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet. The market value of the YHS shares on the Singapore Exchange at December 31, 2006 approximated their carrying value.
 
10. SEGMENT INFORMATION 
 
 
Our company is engaged in one business segment: the manufacturing, distribution and marketing of natural and organic food and personal care products. We define business segments as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated on a regular basis by our chief operating decision maker.
 
 
Outside the United States, we primarily conduct business in Canada and Europe. Selected information related to our operations by geographic area is as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
   
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
   
2006
 
2005
 
2006
 
2005
 
                   
Net sales:
                         
United States
 
$
177,641
 
$
155,632
 
$
334,310
 
$
285,961
 
Canada
   
14,339
   
12,288
   
28,608
   
24,288
 
Europe
   
38,929
   
18,307
   
78,198
   
37,075
 
                           
   
$
230,909
 
$
186,227
 
$
441,116
 
$
347,324
 
 
Earnings before income taxes:
                         
United States
 
$
18,946
 
$
17,774
 
$
29,504
 
$
26,837
 
Canada
   
2,249
   
1,116
   
4,156
   
2,083
 
Europe
   
2,842
   
979
   
5,853
   
2,061
 
                           
   
$
24,037
 
$
19,869
 
$
39,513
 
$
30,981
 
                           


   
December 31, 2006
 
June 30, 2006
 
Long-lived assets:
             
United States
 
$
505,319
 
$
508,001
 
Canada
   
51,818
   
56,349
 
Europe
   
56,215
   
52,858
 
               
   
$
613,352
 
$
617,208
 
 

Net sales are attributed to countries based on location of selling subsidiary.

11


THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)-Continued

11.  LITIGATION

From time to time the Company is involved in litigation incidental to the conduct of its business on a wide range of matters, including, among others, patent suits and employment claims. In the opinion of management, disposition of pending litigation related to these matters is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations or financial condition.

A second purported shareholder derivative action was filed on October 31, 2006 in the same court, against substantially the same defendants and containing substantially the same allegations as the purported derivative action previously disclosed in our Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2006, adding a claim of breach of fiduciary duty. The Company became aware of the complaint on November 28, 2006. Although no assurances can be made as to the resolution of these proceedings, the Company believes that both lawsuits are without merit.

12. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN No. 48”). FIN No. 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” This Interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. This Interpretation is effective for us for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008. We are currently evaluating the impact FIN No. 48 may have on our consolidated financial statements.
 
In June 2006, the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on Issue No. 06-3, “How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross versus Net Presentation)” (“EITF No. 06-3”). The scope of EITF No. 06-3 includes any tax assessed by a governmental authority that is directly imposed on a revenue-producing activity between a seller and a customer and may include, but is not limited to, sales, use, value added, and some excise taxes. EITF No. 06-3 requires disclosure of the method of accounting for the applicable assessed taxes and the amount of assessed taxes that are included in revenues if they are accounted for under the gross method. EITF No. 06-3 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2006. EITF No. 06-3 will not impact the method for recording these taxes in our consolidated financial statements. We currently present these taxes on a net basis and have elected not to change our presentation method.
 
 
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS No. 157”). SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure of fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements and accordingly, does not require any new fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We have not yet assessed the impact, if any, that the implementation of SFAS No. 157 will have on our consolidated results of operations or financial condition.
 
In September 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, “Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements” (“SAB No. 108”).


12


SAB No. 108 provides guidance on how prior year misstatements should be taken into consideration when quantifying misstatements in current year financial statements for purposes of determining whether the current year’s financial statements are materially misstated. SAB No. 108 requires registrants to apply the new guidance for the first time that it identifies material errors in existence at the beginning of the first fiscal year ending after November 15, 2006 by correcting those errors through a one-time cumulative effect adjustment to beginning-of-year retained earnings. We are currently evaluating SAB No. 108 and have not yet determined the impact on our consolidated results of operations or financial position.

13.  SUBSEQUENT EVENT

On January 11, 2007, we acquired Avalon Natural Products, Inc., a leader in the natural products category in the areas of skin care, hair care, bath and body and sun care, for approximately $120 million in cash, plus transaction costs. We believe that the addition of the Avalon Organics® and Alba Botanica® brands provides us with a stronger, broader personal care portfolio that helps solidify our leadership position in the natural and organic personal care category. The acquisition was funded with available cash balances and $75 million of borrowings under our Credit Facility. The operating results of Avalon will be included in the consolidated financial statements from the date of acquisition.


ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
  AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Overview

We manufacture, market, distribute and sell natural and organic food products and natural personal care products under brand names which are sold as “better-for-you” products. We are a leader in many of the top natural food categories, with such well-known food brands as Celestial Seasonings®, Hain Pure Foods®, Westbrae®, Westsoy®, Rice Dream®, Soy Dream®, Imagine™, Walnut Acres Organic, Ethnic Gourmet®, Rosetto®, Little Bear Organic Foods®, Bearitos®, Arrowhead Mills®, Health Valley®, Breadshop®, Casbah®, Spectrum Naturals®, Spectrum Essentials®, Garden of Eatin’®, Terra®, Harry’s Premium Snacks®, Boston’s®, Lima®, Grains Noirs®, Natumi®, Yves Veggie Cuisine®, DeBoles®, Earth’s Best®, Nile Spice®, Linda McCartney®, Realeat® and Granose®. The Company’s principal specialty product lines include Hollywood® cooking oils, Estee® sugar-free products, Boston Better Snacks®, and Alba Foods®. Our natural personal care product line is marketed under the JASON®, Zia®, Queen Helene®, Batherapy®, Shower Therapy®, Footherapy®, Orjene®, Shaman Earthly Organics, Heather’s®, Avalon Organics® and Alba Botanica® brands. Our natural and organic antibiotic-free chicken is marketed under the FreeBird brand. Our website is www.hain-celestial.com.

Our products are sold primarily to specialty and natural food distributors, supermarkets, natural food stores, and other retail classes of trade including mass-market stores, drug stores, food service channels and club stores.

Our brand names are well recognized in the various market categories they serve. We have acquired numerous brands and we will seek future growth through internal expansion as well as the acquisition of additional complementary brands.

Our overall mission is to be a leading marketer and seller of natural, organic, beverage, snack, specialty food and personal care products by integrating all of our brands under one management team and employing a uniform marketing, sales and distribution program. Our business strategy is to capitalize on the brand equity and the distribution previously achieved by each of our acquired product lines and to enhance revenues by strategic introductions of new product lines that complement existing products.



13


Results of Operations

Three months ended December 31, 2006
 
Net sales for the three months ended December 31, 2006 were $230.9 million, an increase of $44.7 million, or 24.0%, over net sales of $186.2 million in the December 31, 2005 quarter. Net sales in the second quarters of both fiscal 2007 and 2006 were impacted by acquisitions and dispositions. Net sales in the second quarter of fiscal 2007 include $29.3 million from businesses acquired after the second quarter of fiscal 2006, while the second quarter of fiscal 2006 includes sales of $4.8 million from brands disposed of or licensed to others after the second quarter of fiscal 2006. Sales of grocery and snacks increased with the strong performance of our Garden of Eatin’, Arrowhead Mills, Earth’s Best, Health Valley and Spectrum brands and from successful new product introductions, partially offset by a decline in sales of Terra, and from successful new product introductions. Net sales of our Celestial Seasonings® tea brand were down principally as a result of continued warmer than normal temperatures in North America and lower consumption of green tea. Sales of our personal care brands increased as a result of strong growth from our JASON® brand and sales of the brands we acquired from Para Laboratories. Sales for our brands in Canada were up principally as a result of increased sales of our refrigerated and frozen products. Sales in Europe increased primarily as a result of our recently-acquired United Kingdom operations.

Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2006 was $70.6 million, an increase of $12.4 million from last year’s second quarter. Gross profit for the three months ended December 31, 2006 was 30.6% of net sales as compared to 31.2% of net sales for the December 31, 2005 quarter. The decrease in gross profit percentage was principally the result of approximately $0.6 million, or 0.3% of consolidated net sales, of start-up costs associated with a new production line at our West Chester frozen foods facility, now complete, and the impact of the inclusion of our recently acquired United Kingdom operations. In the United Kingdom, we continue to co-pack for the previous owner at one of the facilities under an agreement allowing for a minimal margin and, as a result, during the term of the co-pack arrangement our gross margin generated in the United Kingdom will be depressed even though the arrangement helps absorb what otherwise may be unabsorbed overhead. The effect on our gross profit percentage this quarter was a 110 basis point reduction related to the inclusion of the lower margin business in the United Kingdom. In addition, we have been able to offset the impact of higher costs for ingredients with improvements in manufacturing efficiencies.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $7.8 million, or 21.1%, to $44.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2006 as compared to $37.0 million in the December 31, 2005 quarter. Selling, general and administrative expenses have increased primarily as a result of costs associated with the businesses we acquired in 2006. We have been successful in leveraging our existing infrastructure with the acquisitions we have made and have executed a disciplined strategy in building effective marketing programs, resulting in our selling, general and administrative expenses declining as a percentage of net sales to 19.4% in the second quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to 19.9% in the second quarter of last year.

Operating income was $25.8 million in the three months ended December 31, 2006 compared to $21.2 million in the December 31, 2005 quarter. The increase in operating income is a result of our increased sales and gross profit. Operating income as a percentage of net sales was 11.2% in the December 31, 2006 quarter compared with 11.4% in the December 31, 2005 quarter. The decrease in operating income as a percentage of net sales resulted from the decrease in our gross profit ratio to net sales.

Interest and other expenses, net were $1.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2006 compared to $1.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2005. Interest expense totaled $2.3 million in this year’s second quarter, which was primarily related to the $150 million of 5.98% senior notes we issued in the fourth quarter of last fiscal year and was partially offset by $0.9 million of interest income earned on higher cash balances. Interest expense in last year’s second quarter was approximately $1.3 million, which was partially offset by $0.2 million of interest income.

Income before income taxes for the three months ended December 31, 2006 amounted to $24.0 million compared to $19.9 million in the comparable period of the prior year. This increase was primarily attributable to the increase in operating income.
 
Income tax expense for the three months ended December 31, 2006 was $9.3 million, or an effective income tax rate of 38.6% of pre-tax income, and is based on our estimated annual effective tax rate for fiscal 2007. Income tax expense was $7.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2005, or 37.9% of pre-tax income.
 


14


Net income for the three months ended December 31, 2006 was $14.8 million compared to $12.3 million in the December 31, 2005 quarter. The increase of $2.4 million in earnings was primarily attributable to the increase in sales and the resultant increase in gross profit.

Six months ended December 31, 2006
 
Net sales for the six months ended December 31, 2006 were $441.1 million, an increase of $93.8 million, or 27.0%, over net sales of $347.3 million in the December 31, 2005 six-month period. Net sales were impacted by acquisitions and dispositions in the first half of both fiscal 2007 and 2006. Net sales in the first half of fiscal 2007 include $72.1 million from businesses acquired after the second quarter of fiscal 2006, while the first half of fiscal 2006 includes sales of $11.3 million from brands disposed of or licensed to others after the second quarter of fiscal 2006. Sales of grocery and snacks increased with the strong performance our Garden of Eatin’, Arrowhead Mills, Earth’s Best, Health Valley and Spectrum brands and from successful new product introductions, partially offset by a decline in sales of Terra, and from successful new product introductions. Net sales of our Celestial Seasonings® tea brand were down principally as a result of continued warmer than normal temperatures in North America and lower consumption of green tea. Sales of our personal care brands increased as a result of strong growth from our JASON® brand and sales of the brands we acquired from Para Laboratories. Sales for our brands in Canada were up principally as a result of increased sales of our refrigerated and frozen products. Sales in Europe increased primarily as a result of our recently-acquired United Kingdom operations.

Gross profit for the six months ended December 31, 2006 was $129.7 million, an increase of $25.7 million from last year’s six-month period. Gross profit for the six months ended December 31, 2006 was 29.4% of net sales as compared to 30.0% of net sales for the December 31, 2005 period. The decrease in gross profit percentage was principally the result of approximately $1.7 million of start-up costs associated with a new production line at our West Chester frozen foods facility (a reduction of 40 basis points) and the inclusion of our recently acquired United Kingdom operations. In the United Kingdom, we continue to co-pack for the previous owner at one of the facilities under an agreement allowing for a minimal margin and, as a result, during the term of the co-pack arrangement our gross margin generated in the United Kingdom will be depressed even though the arrangement helps absorb what otherwise may be unabsorbed overhead. The effect on our gross profit percentage for the six months ended December 31, 2006 was a 102 basis point reduction from the lower margins in the United Kingdom.

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $15.8 million, or 22.3%, to $86.6 million for the six months ended December 31, 2006 as compared to $70.9 million in the December 31, 2005 six-month period. Selling, general and administrative expenses have increased primarily as a result of costs associated with the businesses we acquired in fiscal 2006. We also increased spending in certain advertising and promotional programs in the first quarter of this year. We have been successful in leveraging our existing infrastructure as selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales declined to 19.6% in the first six months of fiscal 2007 as compared to 20.4% in the first six months of last year.

Operating income was $43.1 million in the six months ended December 31, 2006 compared to $33.2 million in the December 31, 2005 comparable period. Operating income as a percentage of net sales was 9.8% in the December 31, 2006 period compared with 9.6% in the six months ended December 31, 2005. The increase in operating income is a result of our increased net sales and gross profit. The improvement in operating income as a percentage of net sales resulted from our ability to leverage our selling, general and administrative expenses over the increased sales base.

Interest and other expenses, net were $3.6 million for the six months ended December 31, 2006 compared to $2.2 million for the six months ended December 31, 2005. Interest expense totaled $4.7 million in this year’s first six months, which was primarily related to the $150 million of 5.98% senior notes we issued in the fourth quarter of last fiscal year and was partially offset by $1.4 million of interest income earned. Interest expense in last year’s first six months was approximately $2.5 million and was partially offset by interest income earned of $0.3 million. We also recorded a $2.2 million charge in the first quarter of fiscal 2007 for a value added tax assessment resulting from an unfavorable decision by the German government in connection with our sales of non-dairy beverages in Germany. At the end of August 2006 we sold Biomarché, our Belgium-based provider of fresh organic fruits and vegetables and recognized a gain on the disposal of approximately $2.5 million, net of a $3.3 million charge for allocated goodwill.

Income before income taxes for the six months ended December 31, 2006 amounted to $39.5 million compared to $31.0 million in the comparable period of the prior year. This increase was primarily attributable to the increase in operating income.


15



Our income tax expense was $15.7 million for the six months ended December 31, 2006, an effective income tax rate of 39.8%, compared to $11.8 million for the six months ended December 31, 2005, an effective income tax rate of 37.9%. The effective tax rate for the first six months of fiscal 2007 was higher than the comparable period in the prior year as a result of the unfavorable impact of the nondeductible goodwill expensed in connection with the sale of Biomarché.

Net income for the six months ended December 31, 2006 was $23.8 million compared to $19.2 million for the six months ended December 31, 2005. The increase of $4.6 million in earnings was primarily attributable to the increase in sales and the resultant increase in gross profit.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We finance our operations and growth primarily with the cash flows we generate from our operations and from both long-term fixed-rate borrowings and borrowings available to us under our Credit Facility.
 
Our cash balance increased $34.2 million to $83.1 million during the six months ended December 31, 2006. Net cash provided by operating activities was $30.7 million for the first six months of fiscal 2007, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $7.5 million in the six months ended December 31, 2005. The increase in cash provided by operations in 2007 resulted from improved working capital management. Our working capital increased to $214.5 million at December 31, 2006 compared with $174.4 million at June 30, 2006. Accounts receivable increased as a result of our higher sales volume, but our days’ sales in receivables remained at 39 days. Improvements in our days’ sales in inventory and accounts payable from December 31, 2005 resulted in the improved cash flows provided by operating activities in fiscal 2007.

We used $8.8 million of cash in investing activities in the six months ended December 31, 2006. We used $11.2 million of cash in connection with the acquisition of the assets of Haldane Foods in the United Kingdom in December 2006, $6.5 million for capital expenditures and $1.9 million for a loan to an affiliated joint venture. This was partially offset by $8.2 million of proceeds from the sale of Biomarché, our Belgium-based provider of fresh organic fruits and vegetables, and $2.7 million of proceeds from the disposals of fixed assets. In the six months ended December 31, 2005, we used $38.6 million of cash in investing activities, including $32.2 million for the acquisitions of the business that became Hain Pure Protein and for Spectrum Organic Products, Inc. and $6.3 million for the purchase of property, plant and equipment.

Net cash of $11.9 million was provided by financing activities for the six months ended December 31, 2006 compared to $24.2 million provided for the six months ended December 31, 2005. The decrease was due principally to our not requiring any new borrowings under our revolving credit facility in the first six months of fiscal 2007 compared to $17.0 million of cash provided by borrowings in the first six months of fiscal 2006. The decrease was partially offset by increased proceeds from exercises of stock options in the first six months of fiscal 2007 to $11.7 million from $7.3 million in fiscal 2006.

We maintain our cash and cash equivalents primarily in money market funds or their equivalent. As of December 31, 2006, all of our investments mature in less than three months. Accordingly, we do not believe that our investments have significant exposure to interest rate risk.

On May 2, 2006, we issued $150 million in aggregate principal amount of senior notes due May 2, 2016 in a private placement. The notes bear interest at 5.98%, which is payable semi-annually on November 2 and May 2. Also on May 2, 2006, we entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, providing us with a $250 million credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) expiring in May 2011. The Credit Facility provides for an uncommitted $100 million accordion feature, under which the facility may be increased to $350 million. The Credit Facility and the senior notes are guaranteed by substantially all of our current and future direct and indirect domestic subsidiaries. Revolving credit loans under the Credit Facility bear interest at a base rate (greater of the applicable prime rate or Federal Funds Rate plus an applicable margin) or, at our option, the reserve adjusted LIBOR rate plus an applicable margin. As of December 31, 2006, $150.0 million was outstanding under the senior notes at an interest rate of 5.98%, and no borrowings were outstanding under the Credit Facility. During January 2007 we borrowed $75 million under the Credit Facility to fund a portion of the acquisition of Avalon Natural Products, Inc. (See Note 13 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.) We are required by the terms of the Credit Facility and the senior notes to comply with customary affirmative and negative covenants for facilities and notes of this nature.


16



This access to capital provides us with the flexibility to address our working capital needs in the ordinary course of business, the opportunity to grow our business through acquisitions and the ability to develop our existing infrastructure through capital investment.

We believe that our cash on hand of $83.1 million at December 31, 2006, projected remaining fiscal 2007 cash flows from operations, and availability under our Credit Facility are sufficient to fund our working capital needs, anticipated capital expenditures of approximately $15 million for the current fiscal year, scheduled debt and lease payments of approximately $6 million over the next twelve months. In connection with the acquisition of Avalon Natural Products, Inc., in January 2007, we used approximately $50 million of our available cash on hand to fund a portion of the purchase price.

Critical Accounting Policies

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The accounting principles we use require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and amounts of income and expenses during the reporting periods presented. We believe in the quality and reasonableness of our critical accounting policies; however, it is likely that materially different amounts would be reported under different conditions or using assumptions different from those that we have consistently applied. The accounting policies that have been identified as critical to our business operations and understanding the results of our operations pertain to revenue recognition and sales incentives, valuation of accounts and chargebacks receivable, inventories, property, plant and equipment, goodwill and intangibles and segments. The application of each of these critical accounting policies and estimates was discussed in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2006. There have been no significant changes in the application of these critical accounting policies or estimates during fiscal 2007.

Seasonality

Our tea brand primarily manufactures and markets hot tea products and, as a result, its quarterly results of operations reflect seasonal trends resulting from increased demand for its hot tea products in the cooler months of the year. In addition, some of our other products (e.g., baking and cereal products and soups) also show stronger sales in the cooler months while our snack food product lines are stronger in the warmer months. Quarterly fluctuations in our sales volume and operating results are due to a number of factors relating to our business, including the timing of trade promotions, advertising and consumer promotions and other factors, such as seasonality, inclement weather and unanticipated increases in labor, commodity, energy, insurance or other operating costs. The impact on sales volume and operating results due to the timing and extent of these factors can significantly impact our business. For these reasons, you should not rely on our quarterly operating results as indications of future performance.

Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

Certain statements contained in this Quarterly Report constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1934 and Sections 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the following: general economic and business conditions; our ability to implement our business and acquisition strategy; the ability to effectively integrate our acquisitions; competition; availability of key personnel; changes in, or the failure to comply with, government regulations; and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the report on Form 10-K, and any amendments thereto, for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2006. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, no assurance can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements and neither the Company nor any person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of these statements.



17


ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There have been no material changes in the reported market risks since the end of the most recent fiscal year.

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon this review, these officers concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports it files or submits under the Exchange Act is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (2) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.

There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the fiscal quarter covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Part II - OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

A second purported shareholder derivative action was filed on October 31, 2006 in the same court, against substantially the same defendants and containing substantially the same allegations as the purported derivative action previously disclosed in our Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30, 2006, adding a claim of breach of fiduciary duty. The Company became aware of the complaint on November 28, 2006. Although no assurances can be made as to the resolution of these proceedings, the Company believes that both lawsuits are without merit.

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS

The Annual Meeting of Stockholders was held on November 30, 2006. The Company submitted the following matters to a vote of security holders:

1.  
To elect a Board of Directors to serve until the next Annual Meeting of Stockholders and until their successors are duly elected and qualified;
2.  
To approve an amendment to the Amended and Restated 2002 Long Term Incentive and Stock Award Plan to increase the number of shares issuable under the Plan by 2,000,000 shares, to 5,380,000 shares in the aggregate; and
3.  
To ratify the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as our registered independent accountants for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2007.

 

18


The stockholders elected the persons named below, the Company’s nominees for directors, as directors for the Company, casting votes as shown below:

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
FOR
WITHHELD
Irwin D. Simon
32,059,620
4,145,337
Barry J. Alperin
33,156,041
3,048,916
Beth L. Bronner
31,217,600
4,987,357
Jack Futterman
33,155,160
3,049,797
Daniel R. Glickman
33,135,829
3,069,128
Marina Hahn
32,037,748
4,167,209
Andrew R. Heyer
31,203,335
5,001,622
Roger Meltzer
31,515,070
4,689,887
Mitchell A. Ring
33,133,133
3,071,824
Lewis D. Schiliro
33,157,858
3,047,099
Larry S. Zilavy
33,136,512
3,068,445

The stockholders approved the amendment to the Amended and Restated 2002 Long Term Incentive and Stock Award Plan, casting 18,611,258 votes in favor, 10,773,102 votes against, 112,182 abstaining and 6,708,415 not voted.

The stockholders ratified the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP, casting 35,226,515 votes in favor, 948,013 votes against, and 30,429 abstaining.


ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS


Exhibit Number
Description
   
31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
   
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
   
32.1
Certification by Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.2
Certification by Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.




19



SIGNATURES



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




 
THE HAIN CELESTIAL GROUP, INC.
   
   
   
Date: February 9, 2007
/s/ Irwin D Simon                
 
     Irwin D. Simon,
 
     Chairman, President and Chief
 
     Executive Officer







Date: February 9, 2007
/s/ Ira J. Lamel                
 
     Ira J. Lamel,
 
     Executive Vice President and
 
     Chief Financial Officer

 
 
 
20
Exhibit 31.1 -

 
EXHIBIT 31.1
 
CERTIFICATION
 
I, Irwin D. Simon, certify that:
 
1.  
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of The Hain Celestial Group, Inc.;
 
2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
 
3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
 
4.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
 
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
 
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
 
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
 
5.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date: February 9, 2007
 
/s/ Irwin D. Simon            
Irwin D. Simon
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
Exhibit 31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2
 
CERTIFICATION
 
I, Ira J. Lamel, certify that:
 
1.  
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of The Hain Celestial Group, Inc.;
 
2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
 
3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
 
4.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
 
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
 
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
 
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
 
5.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date: February 9, 2007
 
/s/ Ira J. Lamel        
Ira J. Lamel
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
 
Exhibit 32.1
 
EXHIBIT 32.1
CERTIFICATION FURNISHED
PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906
OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 
In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2006 (the “Report”) filed by The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (the “Company”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission, I, Irwin D. Simon, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 
Date: February 9, 2007
 
 
/s/ Irwin D. Simon            
Irwin D. Simon
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. and will be retained by The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.



Exhibit 32.2
 
EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION FURNISHED
PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906
OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
 

In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended December 31, 2006 (the “Report”) filed by The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (the “Company”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission, I, Ira J. Lamel, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
 
The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
 
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
 
 
Date: February 9, 2007

 
/s/ Ira J. Lamel        
Ira J. Lamel
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. and will be retained by The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.