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Spin Master Corp. — Interim / Quarterly Report 2020
Aug 5, 2020
47311_rns_2020-08-05_b9127e3a-929b-465b-941d-d2249aa315ce.pdf
Interim / Quarterly Report
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August 5, 2020
SPIN MASTER CORP.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL RESULTS
INTRODUCTION
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) for Spin Master Corp. ("Spin Master" or the "Company") provides information concerning the Company’s financial condition and financial performance for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 ("second quarter", "the quarter", "Q2"). This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 ("interim financial statements"), its audited annual consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes ("financial statements") and its annual MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2019 ("Annual MD&A"). Additional information relating to the Company, including the Company’s annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2019, can be found under the Company's profile on the System of Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) which is administered by the Canadian Securities Administrators ("CSA") at www.sedar.com.
Some of the statements in this MD&A contain forward-looking information that involve risks and uncertainties. See "ForwardLooking Statements". Actual results may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those described in "Risks Relating to Spin Master’s Business" in the Annual MD&A and elsewhere in the Annual MD&A and this MD&A.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The Company’s interim financial statements and accompanying notes have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34, Interim Reporting and all financial information is prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). However, certain financial measures contained in this MD&A are non-IFRS measures and are discussed further in the "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" section. All financial information is presented in United States dollars ("$", "dollars" and "US$") and has been rounded to the nearest hundred thousand, except per share amounts and where otherwise indicated.
BUSINESS OVERVIEW
Spin Master is a leading global children’s entertainment company creating exceptional play experiences through a diverse portfolio of innovative toys, entertainment franchises and digital toys and games. Spin Master's entertainment team, through its in-house studio and partnerships with outside creators, has produced 11 television series, including the pre-school hit PAW Patrol and broadcasts content in more than 160 countries globally. The Company has grown its mobile digital presence which encompasses Toca Boca and Sago Mini apps. The Company is driven by a desire to challenge and expand traditional play patterns through the creation of innovative products, entertainment and digital content.
Spin Master’s principal strategies to drive the Company’s continued growth include:
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Innovate using our global internal and external research and development network;
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Developing evergreen global entertainment and digital toys properties;
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Increasing international sales in developed and emerging markets; and
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Leveraging the Company's global platform through strategic acquisitions.
Spin Master's organic growth strategy is centered around the Company's 36-month brand innovation pipeline. This pipeline is fed by internal innovation and multiple touch points with inventors, licensors, consumers and potential acquisitions, traditional and innovative entertainment contact and digital toys. These touch points strengthen consumers' attachments to Spin Master's brands and franchises and are the engine of long-term growth.
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Spin Master continues to expand into content for traditional television, video-on-demand, subscription video-on-demand, as well as other short-form and long-form content, including movies, across a variety of distribution channels. In addition, the Company will continue its focus on direct-to-consumer initiatives as consumer purchasing trends in the retail landscape evolve.
Spin Master’s business is separated into three geographic segments: North America, comprised of the United States ("U.S.") and Canada; Europe, comprised of the United Kingdom, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic, Poland, Russia and Greece; and the Rest of World, primarily comprised of Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, India, Australia, Mexico and all other areas of the world serviced by Spin Master’s third party distribution network. The Company remains focused on its long-term goal of more than 45% of sales outside of the North America segment.
Spin Master’s diversified portfolio of children’s products, brands and entertainment properties is reported under five product categories: (1) Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush; (2) Remote Control and Interactive Characters; (3) Boys Action and Construction; (4) Pre-School and Girls; and (5) Outdoor.
Seasonality factors cause the Company's operating results to fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter. A majority of the Company’s annual sales occur during the third and fourth quarters of the Company’s fiscal year with a significant portion of its net income earned and cash flows generated during the same period.
COVID-19 PANDEMIC UPDATE
In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of COVID-19 as a global pandemic. The crisis related to COVID-19 is unprecedented and has had an impact on the Company's employees, customers and suppliers.
Supply Chain
When COVID-19 first emerged early in the first quarter of 2020, it directly affected Spin Master’s third party manufacturing capacity in China, which comprises between 60% to 65% of Spin Master’s manufacturing capacity. Capacity progressively improved through the first quarter such that by the end of the quarter it had largely returned to normal levels. Throughout the second quarter, Spin Master did not experience disruption to its manufacturing in China as a result of COVID-19 and is currently operating at planned capacity for this time of year. Based on current production levels, the Company anticipates being able to meet the holiday demand.
Manufacturing outside of China, such as India, operated at varying levels of productivity depending on local government and safety considerations, with some markets operating at lower than normal production levels. The disruption in these markets during the second quarter did not significantly impact the business.
The Company continues to monitor the changing global environment to enable immediate actions to be taken to ensure customer order fulfillment across the various markets.
Demand
The pandemic spread to customer markets globally late in the first quarter of 2020 and continued through the second quarter. Due to government-imposed restrictions and the closure of many retail locations, the pandemic resulted in significant reductions in retail consumer traffic in most countries globally, including some of Spin Master’s largest markets and has put further pressure on the Company's business, driving disruption in customer behaviour and consumer demand. North American online and e-commerce channels, however, remain active in most countries.
Spin Master has adopted measures to mitigate the impact to employees, customers, suppliers and the Company as a whole. Spin Master is also taking steps to manage its cash resources by reducing and/or deferring capital expenditures and reducing operating expenses to mitigate the adverse impact of the pandemic. These steps include, but are not limited to, slowing down new employee hiring and reducing marketing, travel, legal, rent, consulting and other expenses. Given the dynamic nature of these circumstances, the Company continues to regularly assess the business environment and assess its strategies and plans.
Liquidity
During the first quarter of 2020, as a precautionary measure and to increase available cash on hand, the Company drew down $350.0 million from the $510.0 million available on its secured revolving credit facility ("Credit Facility"). During the second quarter of 2020, the Company has repaid $50.0 million on its Credit Facility. The balance of the Credit Facility matures in the third quarter of 2020. Given the cash on hand at the end of the quarter and the undrawn capacity in Spin Master’s Credit Facility, the Company believes it has sufficient liquidity to meet its operational requirements.
Spin Master’s financial performance in 2020 has been and will continue to be negatively impacted by the supply chain disruption and the reduction in customer demand due to COVID-19. As a result of the dynamic nature of these circumstances and the fact that the extent and duration of the pandemic remains uncertain, the Company has elected to continue to suspend providing guidance until circumstances warrant.
Selected Financial Information
The following provides selected key performance metrics of the Company for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, which should be read in conjunction with the financial statements of the Company.
| Key Performance Metrics | Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions, except per share information) | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 |
| Sales and Earnings | ||||
| Gross Product Sales1 | 282.2 | 316.8 | 524.5 | 557.3 |
| Net Sales1 | 252.6 | 290.6 | 458.0 | 500.7 |
| Revenue | 281.1 | 321.0 | 508.4 | 560.0 |
| Net (loss) income | (14.9) | 10.2 | (41.6) | (10.7) |
| Adjusted Net (Loss) Income1 | (9.5) | 19.8 | (56.3) | 7.3 |
| EBITDA | 16.2 | 40.4 | (32.6) | 36.0 |
| Adjusted EBITDA1 | 21.5 | 55.1 | (10.8) | 62.1 |
| Adjusted EBITDA Margin1 | 7.6% | 17.2% | (2.1)% | 11.1% |
| Earnings Per Share ("EPS") | ||||
| Basic and diluted EPS | (0.15) | 0.10 | (0.41) | (0.10) |
| Adjusted Basic and Diluted EPS1 | (0.09) | 0.19 | (0.55) | 0.07 |
| Jun 30, | Dec 31, | |||
| 2020 | 2019 | |||
| Balance Sheet Data | ||||
| Cash | 410.8 | 115.3 | ||
| Total assets | 1,375.6 | 1,256.4 | ||
| Total non-current liabilities | 85.6 | 97.0 | ||
| Loans and borrowings | 299.3 | — | ||
| Cash, net of loans and borrowings | 111.4 | 115.3 | ||
| Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | ||
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Cash Flow Data | ||||
| Cash provided by (used in) operating activities | 64.2 | (12.6) | 55.4 | (18.8) |
| Cash used in investing activities | (26.4) | (22.1) | (45.4) | (43.7) |
| Cash (used in) provided by financing activities | (53.7) | (3.2) | 291.3 | (6.4) |
| Free Cash Flow1 | (9.8) | 18.6 | (84.7) | (21.3) |
| Notes: | ||||
| 1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures". |
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, revenue of $281.1 million decreased by 12.4% from $321.0 million in 2019. In constant currency terms (a non-IFRS measure), revenue decreased by 13.4%. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, revenue of $508.4 million decreased by 9.2% from $560.0 million. In constant currency terms (a non-IFRS
measure), revenue decreased by 8.3%. The decline in revenue was primarily driven by a decline in Gross Product Sales (a non-IFRS measure), higher Sales Allowances and a decrease in other revenue.
Net loss for the three months ended June 30, 2020 was $14.9 million, a decrease of $25.1 million from net income of $10.2 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, net loss was $41.6 million, a decrease of $30.9 million from net loss of $10.7 million. Excluding share-based compensation expense, restructuring expense, foreign exchange loss and a one-time income tax recovery, Adjusted Net Loss (a non-IFRS measure) for the three months ended June 30, 2020 was $9.5 million, a decrease of $29.3 million from Adjusted Net Income of $19.8 million. Adjusted Net Loss (a non-IFRS measure) for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was $56.3 million, a decrease of $63.6 million from Adjusted Net Income of $7.3 million.
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, Adjusted EBITDA (a non-IFRS measure) decreased to $21.5 million or 7.6% of revenue, compared to $55.1 million or 17.2% in 2019. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, Adjusted EBITDA (a non-IFRS measure) decreased to negative $10.8 million or 2.1% of revenue, compared to $62.1 million or 11.1% in 2019, primarily driven by lower gross profit and higher distribution, administrative and product development expenses, offset in part by lower marketing expenses.
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, Free Cash Flow was negative $9.8 million compared to $18.6 million, a decrease of $28.4 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, Free Cash Flow was negative $84.7 million compared to negative $21.3 million, a decrease of $63.4 million. Free Cash Flow declined primarily due to lower Adjusted EBITDA, offset in part by lower restructuring expense. There was no significant change in investing activities.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
For the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2019:
Consolidated Results
The following tables provide a summary of Spin Master’s consolidated results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| June 30, 2020 and 2019: | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | |||
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Revenue | 281.1 | 321.0 | (39.9) | (12.4)% |
| Cost of sales | 162.9 | 156.7 | 6.2 | 4.0 % |
| Gross profit | 118.2 | 164.3 | (46.1) | (28.1)% |
| Selling, marketing, distribution and product development |
59.6 | 71.2 | (11.6) | (16.3)% |
| Administrative expenses | 55.2 | 66.4 | (11.2) | (16.9)% |
| Depreciation expenses | 9.0 | 8.0 | 1.0 | 12.5 % |
| Other expenses (income) | 0.4 | (0.5) | 0.9 | (180.0)% |
| Foreign exchange loss | 3.5 | 3.6 | (0.1) | (2.8)% |
| Finance costs | 3.3 | 2.6 | 0.7 | 26.9 % |
| (Loss) income before income tax | (12.8) | 13.0 | (25.8) | (198.5)% |
| Income tax expense | 2.1 | 2.8 | (0.7) | (25.0)% |
| Net (loss) income | (14.9) | 10.2 | (25.1) | (246.1)% |
Highlights for the three months ended June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019:
(US$ millions, except per share information)
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Revenue of $281.1 million decreased by 12.4% from $321.0 million. In constant currency terms (a non-IFRS measure), revenue decreased by 13.4%.
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Gross profit as a percentage of revenue decreased to 42.0% from 51.2%.
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Selling, marketing, distribution and product development expenses decreased to $59.6 million or 21.2% of revenue from $71.2 million or 22.2%.
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Administrative expenses decreased to $55.2 million or 19.6% of revenue from $66.4 million or 20.7%.
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Net loss was $14.9 million or loss per share of $0.15 compared to net income of $10.2 million or earnings per share of $0.10 (diluted).
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Adjusted Net Loss (a non-IFRS measure) was $9.5 million or loss per share of $0.09 compared to Adjusted Net Income of $19.8 million or earnings per share of $0.19 (diluted).
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Adjusted EBITDA (a non-IFRS measure) decreased to $21.5 million or 7.6% of revenue, from $55.1 million or 17.2%.
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Free Cash Flow was negative $9.8 million compared to $18.6 million. Including changes in working capital Free Cash Flow was $40.2 million compared to negative $34.7 million.
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During the second quarter of 2020, the Company repaid $50.0 million of the $350.0 million drawn down from its Credit Facility in the first quarter of 2020.
| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Revenue | 508.4 | 560.0 | (51.6) | (9.2)% |
| Cost of sales | 299.4 | 288.0 | 11.4 | 4.0 % |
| Gross profit | 209.0 | 272.0 | (63.0) | (23.2)% |
| Selling, marketing, distribution and product development |
140.5 | 132.2 | 8.3 | 6.3 % |
| Administrative expenses | 120.9 | 125.8 | (4.9) | (3.9)% |
| Depreciation expenses | 18.2 | 14.8 | 3.4 | 23.0 % |
| Other income | (1.0) | (0.6) | (0.4) | 66.7 % |
| Foreign exchange loss | 12.0 | 9.9 | 2.1 | 21.2 % |
| Finance costs | 6.1 | 5.4 | 0.7 | 13.0 % |
| Loss before income tax recovery | (87.7) | (15.5) | (72.2) | 465.8 % |
| Income tax recovery | (46.1) | (4.8) | (41.3) | 860.4 % |
| Net loss | (41.6) | (10.7) | (30.9) | 288.8 % |
Highlights for the six months ended June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019: (US$ millions, except per share information)
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Revenue of $508.4 million decreased by 9.2% from $560.0 million. In constant currency terms (a non-IFRS measure), revenue decreased by 8.3%.
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Gross profit as a percentage of revenue decreased to 41.1% from 48.6%.
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Selling, marketing, distribution and product development expenses increased to $140.5 million or 27.6% of revenue from $132.2 million or 23.6%.
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Administrative expenses decreased by $4.9 million to $120.9 million from $125.8 million. As a percentage of revenue, administrative expenses increased to 23.8% from 22.5%.
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Net loss was $41.6 million or loss per share of $0.41 compared to net loss of $10.7 million or loss per share of $0.10.
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Adjusted Net Loss (a non-IFRS measure) was $56.3 million or loss per share of $0.55 compared to Adjusted Net Income of $7.4 million or earnings per share of $0.07 (diluted).
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Adjusted EBITDA (a non-IFRS measure) decreased to negative $10.8 million or negative 2.1% of revenue, compared to $62.1 million or 11.1%.
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Free Cash Flow decreased to $84.7 million compared to $21.3 million. Including changes in working capital Free Cash Flow was $12.4 million compared to negative $62.5 million.
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Revenue
For the three months ended June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019:
The following table provides a summary of Spin Master’s revenue and details by product category for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush | 95.5 | 80.1 | 15.4 | 19.2 % |
| Remote Control and Interactive Characters | 33.2 | 44.5 | (11.3) | (25.4)% |
| Boys Action and Construction | 44.5 | 64.0 | (19.5) | (30.5)% |
| Pre-School and Girls | 74.3 | 96.4 | (22.1) | (22.9)% |
| Outdoor | 34.7 | 31.8 | 2.9 | 9.1 % |
| Gross Product Sales1 | 282.2 | 316.8 | (34.6) | (10.9)% |
| Sales Allowances1 | (29.6) | (26.2) | (3.4) | 13.0 % |
| Net Sales1 | 252.6 | 290.6 | (38.0) | (13.1)% |
| Other revenue | 28.5 | 30.4 | (1.9) | (6.3)% |
| Revenue | 281.1 | 321.0 | (39.9) | (12.4)% |
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
Gross Product Sales decreased by $34.6 million or 10.9%, to $282.2 million with a favourable foreign exchange impact of $3.4 million or 1.1%. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, Gross Product Sales decreased by $38.0 million or 12.0% to $278.8 million. The decrease was primarily driven by Pre-School & Girls, Boys Action & Construction and Remote Control & Interactive Characters, offset by growth in Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush, as well as Outdoor.
Gross Product Sales in Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush increased by $15.4 million or 19.2% to $95.5 million. The increase was driven primarily by increases in Kinetic Sand and the Games & Puzzles portfolio, partially offset by declines in Gund .
Gross Product Sales in Remote Control and Interactive Characters decreased by $11.3 million or 25.4% to $33.2 million, primarily due to lower sales of Hatchimals , Juno and Luvabella , partially offset by increases in Monster Jam RC and PAW Patrol RC .
Gross Product Sales in Boys Action and Construction decreased by $19.5 million or 30.5% to $44.5 million. The decrease was primarily driven by declines in DreamWorks Dragons and Bakugan , partially offset by DC licensed products and Tech Deck .
Gross Product Sales in Pre School and Girls decreased by $22.1 million or 22.9% to $74.3 million. The decrease was driven primarily by declines in PAW Patrol , Twisty Petz , Candylocks and Pre Cool .
Gross Product Sales in Outdoor increased by $2.9 million or 9.1% to $34.7 million.
Sales Allowances increased by $3.4 million or 13.0% to $29.6 million, primarily driven by an increase in noncompliance charges resulting from the operational challenges, which arose in the second half of 2019, partially offset by a change in geographic mix due to higher sales in North America relative to Europe. As a percentage of Gross Product Sales, Sales Allowances increased 2.2% to 10.5% from 8.3%.
Other revenue decreased by $1.9 million or 6.3% to $28.5 million, driven by lower royalty income from products marketed by third parties using Spin Master’s owned intellectual property and lower television distribution revenue, offset in part by higher app revenue from Toca Boca and Sago Mini.
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The following table provides a summary of Spin Master’s Gross Product Sales by geographic segment for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| Three Months | Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | % of GPS | 2019 | % of GPS | $ Change | % Change |
| North America | 204.0 | 72.3% | 203.9 | 64.4% | 0.1 | — % |
| Europe | 49.7 | 17.6% | 63.4 | 20.0% | (13.7) | (21.6)% |
| Rest of World | 28.5 | 10.1% | 49.5 | 15.6% | (21.0) | (42.4)% |
| Gross Product Sales1 | 282.2 | 100.0% | 316.8 | 100.0% | (34.6) | (10.9)% |
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
As a percentage of total Gross Product Sales, the North America segment increased 7.9% to 72.3% compared to 64.4% in the prior year. International sales, comprised of the Europe and Rest of World segments, decreased 7.9% to 27.7% compared to 35.6% in the prior year. The key driver of the decline is due to the relative strength of North America during COVID-19.
Gross Product Sales in North America increased slightly by $0.1 million to $204.0 million, with a favourable foreign exchange impact of $0.1 million. The increase was driven by sales of DC licensed products and increases in the Games & Puzzles portfolio, Kinetic Sand , Marshmallow , SwimWays and Monster Jam products, which was offset by declines in DreamWorks Dragons , PAW Patrol , Juno , Bakugan , Twisty Petz , Gund , Candylocks and Cool Maker .
Gross Product Sales in Europe decreased by $13.7 million or 21.6% to $49.7 million, with a favourable foreign exchange impact of $4.1 million. The decrease was primarily driven by declines in DreamWorks Dragons , Hatchimals , Twisty Petz and the Games & Puzzles portfolio, offset in part by DC licensed products, Kinetic Sand and Bakugan .
Gross Product Sales in Rest of World decreased by $21.0 million or 42.4% to $28.5 million, with an unfavourable foreign exchange impact of $0.8 million. The decrease was primarily due to declines in Bakugan , PAW Patrol , DreamWorks Dragons , Hatchimals , the Games & Puzzles portfolio and Monster Jam , offset in part by DC licensed products.
For the six months ended June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019:
The following table provides a summary of Spin Master’s revenue and details by product category for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019: | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | ||||
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush | 173.6 | 143.1 | 30.5 | 21.3 % |
| Remote Control and Interactive Characters | 53.4 | 75.6 | (22.2) | (29.4)% |
| Boys Action and Construction | 103.6 | 113.4 | (9.8) | (8.6)% |
| Pre-School and Girls | 130.8 | 159.8 | (29.0) | (18.1)% |
| Outdoor | 63.1 | 65.4 | (2.3) | (3.5)% |
| Gross Product Sales1 | 524.5 | 557.3 | (32.8) | (5.9)% |
| Sales Allowances1 | (66.5) | (56.6) | (9.9) | 17.5 % |
| Net Sales1 | 458.0 | 500.7 | (42.7) | (8.5)% |
| Other revenue | 50.4 | 59.3 | (8.9) | (15.0)% |
| Revenue | 508.4 | 560.0 | (51.6) | (9.2)% |
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
Gross Product Sales decreased by $32.8 million or 5.9% to $524.5 million, with an unfavourable foreign exchange impact of $4.5 million or 0.8%. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, Gross Product Sales decreased by $28.3 million or 5.1% to $529.0 million. The decrease was driven by declines in Pre-School & Girls, Remote Control
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& Interactive Characters and Boys Action & Construction, partially offset by an increase in Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush.
Gross Product Sales in Activities, Games & Puzzles and Plush increased by $30.5 million or 21.3% to $173.6 million, primarily driven by increases in Kinetic Sand and the Games & Puzzles portfolio, offset in part by declines in Gund and Bunchems .
Gross Product Sales in Remote Control and Interactive Characters decreased by $22.2 million or 29.4% to $53.4 million, primarily due to declines in Hatchimals , Juno , Luvabella , Air Hogs and Lollipets , partially offset by PAW Patrol RC , DC licensed products, Monster Jam RC and Owleez .
Gross Product Sales in Boys Action and High Tech Construction decreased by $9.8 million or 8.6% to $103.6 million, primarily due to declines in DreamWorks Dragons , Boxer , Fugglers and Meccano , partially offset by DC licensed products and Tech Deck .
Gross Product Sales in Pre School and Girls decreased by $29.0 million or 18.1% to $130.8 million, driven by declines in PAW Patrol , Twisty Petz , Off the Hook and Party Popteenies .
Gross Product Sales in Outdoor decreased by $2.3 million or 3.5% to $63.1 million.
Sales Allowances increased by $9.9 million or 17.5% to $66.5 million, primarily driven by an increase in noncompliance charges, growth in Europe, which has higher Sales Allowance rates and higher markdowns. Sales Allowances, as a percentage of Gross Product Sales increased 2.5% to 12.7% from 10.2%.
Other revenue decreased by $8.9 million or 15.0% to $50.4 million, driven by decreased royalty income from products marketed by third parties using Spin Master’s owned intellectual property and lower television distribution revenue, partially offset by increased app revenue from Toca Boca and Sago Mini.
The following table provides a summary of Spin Master’s Gross Product Sales by geographic segment for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | % of GPS | 2019 | % of GPS | $ Change | % Change |
| North America | 348.6 | 66.5% | 345.5 | 62.0% | 3.1 | 0.9 % |
| Europe | 123.2 | 23.5% | 128.0 | 23.0% | (4.8) | (3.8)% |
| Rest of World | 52.7 | 10.0% | 83.8 | 15.0% | (31.1) | (37.1)% |
| Gross Product Sales1 | 524.5 | 100.0% | 557.3 | 100.0% | (32.8) | (5.9)% |
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
As a percentage of total Gross Product Sales, the North America segment increased 4.5% to 66.5% compared to 62.0% in the prior year. International sales, comprised of the Europe and Rest of World segments, decreased 4.5% to 33.5% compared to 38.0% in the prior year. The key driver of the decline is due to the relative strength of North America during COVID-19.
Gross Product Sales in North America increased by $3.1 million or 0.9% to $348.6 million, with an unfavourable foreign exchange impact of $0.2 million. The increase was driven primarily by sales of DC licensed products and increases in Kinetic Sand , the Games & Puzzles portfolio, Marshmallow , Tech Deck , Monster Jam RC and Etch a Sketch , partially offset by declines in DreamWorks Dragons , PAW Patrol , Hatchimals , Bakugan , Gund , Twisty Petz , Juno , Cool Maker , Luvabella , Candylocks , SwimWays , Fugglers , Boxer and Pre Cool .
Gross Product Sales in Europe decreased by $4.8 million or 3.8% to $123.2 million, with an unfavourable foreign exchange impact of $2.0 million. The decrease was primarily driven by declines in DreamWorks Dragons , Hatchimals , Twisty Petz and the Games & Puzzles portfolio, partially offset by DC licensed products, Bakugan , PAW Patrol , Kinetic Sand and Candylocks .
Gross Product Sales in Rest of World decreased by $31.1 million or 37.1% to $52.7 million, with an unfavourable foreign exchange impact of $2.3 million. The decrease was primarily driven by declines in Bakugan , DreamWorks
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Dragons , PAW Patrol , Hatchimals , the Games & Puzzles portfolio, Monster Jam , Twisty Petz , Gund and Air Hogs , partially offset by DC licensed products.
Gross Profit as compared to the same period in 2019:
| Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Revenue | 281.1 | 321.0 | (39.9) | (12.4)% |
| Gross profit | 118.2 | 164.3 | (46.1) | (28.1)% |
| Gross profit as % of revenue | 42.0% | 51.2% | N/A | (9.2)% |
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, gross profit decreased by $46.1 million or 28.1% to $118.2 million. As a percentage of revenue, gross profit decreased to 42.0% from 51.2%, primarily due to unfavourable changes in product mix, higher Sales Allowances and higher inbound freight-related expenses and costs incurred as a result of the Company's ongoing operational improvement initiatives.
| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Revenue | 508.4 | 560.0 | (51.6) | (9.2)% |
| Gross profit | 209.0 | 272.0 | (63.0) | (23.2)% |
| Gross profit as % of revenue | 41.1% | 48.6% | N/A | (7.5)% |
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, gross profit decreased by $63.0 million or 23.2% to $209.0 million. As a percentage of revenue, gross profit decreased to 41.1% from 48.6%, primarily due to higher inbound freightrelated expenses, Sales Allowances and reconfiguration costs and costs incurred as a result of the Company's ongoing operational improvement initiatives and lower other revenue.
Selling, Marketing, Distribution and Product Development Expenses as compared to the same period in 2019:
| Three Months | Three Months | Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | Ended Jun 30 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | % of revenue |
2019 | % of revenue |
$ Change | % Change | ||
| Selling expenses | 20.4 | 7.3% | 22.0 | 6.9% | (1.6) | (7.3)% | ||
| Marketing expenses | 11.4 | 4.1% | 25.5 | 7.9% | (14.1) | (55.3)% | ||
| Distribution expenses | 18.8 | 6.7% | 16.3 | 5.1% | 2.5 | 15.3 % | ||
| Product development expenses | 9.0 | 3.2% | 7.4 | 2.3% | 1.6 | 21.6 % | ||
| Total | 59.6 | 21.2% | 71.2 | 22.2% | (11.6) | (16.3)% |
Selling expenses decreased by $1.6 million or 7.3% to $20.4 million. Selling expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 7.3% from 6.9%, due to increased sales of licensed products.
Marketing expenses decreased by $14.1 million or 55.3% to $11.4 million, due to decreased media marketing, lower experiential marketing and trade show cancellations as a result of COVID-19. This decline was partially offset by increases in influencer and e-commerce marketing spend. Marketing expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased to 4.1% from 7.9%.
Distribution expenses increased by $2.5 million or 15.3% to $18.8 million, primarily due to higher freight-related and handling charges as a result of the Company's ongoing operational improvement initiatives. Distribution expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 6.7% from 5.1%.
Product development expenses increased by $1.6 million or 21.6% to $9.0 million, due to the timing of projects primarily in the Boys Action and Construction product category.
9
| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | % of revenue |
2019 | % of revenue |
$ Change | % Change | ||
| Selling expenses | 37.7 | 7.4% | 37.9 | 6.8% | (0.2) | (0.5)% | ||
| Marketing expenses | 38.1 | 7.5% | 47.3 | 8.4% | (9.2) | (19.5)% | ||
| Distribution expenses | 47.3 | 9.3% | 33.2 | 5.9% | 14.1 | 42.5 % | ||
| Product development expenses | 17.4 | 3.4% | 13.8 | 2.5% | 3.6 | 26.1 % | ||
| Total | 140.5 | 27.6% | 132.2 | 23.6% | 8.3 | 6.3 % |
Selling expenses decreased by $0.2 million or 0.5% to $37.7 million. Selling expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 7.4% from 6.8%, due to increased sales of licensed products.
Marketing expenses decreased by $9.2 million or 19.5% to $38.1 million, due to decreased media marketing, lower experiential marketing and trade show cancellations as a result of COVID-19. These declines were partially offset by increases in influencer and e-commerce marketing spend. Marketing expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased to 7.5% from 8.4%.
Distribution expenses increased by $14.1 million or 42.5% to $47.3 million, primarily due to higher storage expense attributed to higher inventory levels carried forward from prior year and the shift towards higher domestic sales compared to direct import sales and higher outbound freight related costs. Also contributing to the increase are costs related to the Company's ongoing operational improvement initiative, which has reduced the number of warehouses in North America. Distribution expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 9.3% from 5.9%.
Product development expenses increased by $3.6 million or 26.1% to $17.4 million, primarily due to the timing of projects primarily in the Boys Action and Construction and Pre-School and Girls product categories.
Administrative Expenses as compared to the same period in 2019:
| Three Months | Ended Jun 30 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Administrative expenses | 55.2 | 66.4 | (11.2) | (16.9)% |
| Adjustments: | ||||
| Restructuring expense1 | 1.0 | (7.2) | 8.2 | (113.9)% |
| Share based compensation2 | (2.8) | (3.9) | 1.1 | (28.2)% |
| Adjusted Administrative Expenses3 | 53.4 | 55.3 | (1.9) | (3.4)% |
1) Restructuring expense primarily relates to personnel related costs.
2) Related to expenses associated with subordinate voting shares granted to equity participants at the time of the IPO, share option expense and long-term incentive plan ("LTIP").
3) See “Non-IFRS Financial Measures”.
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, administrative expenses decreased by $11.2 million or 16.9% to $55.2 million. The decrease was primarily due to the reduction in the Company's restructuring accrual and lower travel related expenses, offset in part by an increase in bad debt expense due to the impact of COVID-19 on smaller retailers in the European and North American markets and higher professional services expenses. Administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased to 19.6% from 20.7%. Adjusted Administrative Expenses (a nonIFRS measure) decreased by $1.9 million or 3.4% to $53.4 million. Adjusted Administrative Expenses (a nonIFRS measure) as a percentage of revenue increased to 19.0% from 17.2%.
10
| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Administrative expenses | 120.9 | 125.8 | (4.9) | (3.9)% |
| Adjustments: | ||||
| Restructuring expense1 | (3.4) | (7.9) | 4.5 | (57.0)% |
| Share based compensation2 | (6.4) | (8.3) | 1.9 | (22.9)% |
| Adjusted Administrative Expenses3 | 111.1 | 109.6 | 1.5 | 1.4 % |
1) Restructuring expense primarily relates to personnel related costs. Restructuring expense in the current year includes costs related to changes in senior leadership.
2) Related to expenses associated with subordinate voting shares granted to equity participants at the time of the IPO, share option expense and LTIP.
3) See “Non-IFRS Financial Measures”.
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, administrative expenses decreased by $4.9 million or 3.9% to $120.9 million. The decrease was primarily due to lower incentive compensation attributable to lower earnings and lower restructuring expenses, offset in part by an increase in bad debt expense due to the impact of COVID-19 on smaller retailers in the European and North American markets, higher professional services expenses, increased office operating costs and higher recruiting expenses. Administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue increased to 23.8% from 22.5%. Adjusted Administrative Expenses (a non-IFRS measure) increased by $1.5 million or 1.4% to $111.1 million. Adjusted Administrative Expenses (a non-IFRS measure) as a percentage of revenue increased to 21.9% from 19.6%.
Finance Costs as compared to the same period in 2019:
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, finance costs increased by $0.7 million to $3.3 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, finance costs increased by $0.7 million to $6.1 million. The increase was primarily due to higher interest expense related to the Company's utilization of its Credit Facility, offset in part by lower bank fees, accretion expense and amortization of financing costs.
Depreciation and amortization expense as compared to the same period in 2019:
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, depreciation and amortization expense increased by $1.0 million to $9.0 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, depreciation and amortization expense increased by $3.4 million to $18.2 million. The increase was primarily due to increased computer software, right-of-use assets, equipment and leasehold improvements.
Foreign exchange loss as compared to the same period in 2019:
For the three months ended June 30, 2020, there was a foreign exchange loss of $3.5 million compared to $3.6 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, there was a foreign exchange loss of $12.0 million compared to $9.9 million. Foreign exchange losses are generated by the translation of monetary assets/liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the applicable entity and gains/losses related to the Company's hedging programs.
Income tax expense (recovery) as compared to the same period in 2019:
For the three months ended June 30, 2020 the Company had an income tax expense of $2.1 million compared to $2.8 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020 the Company had an income tax recovery of $46.1 million compared to an income tax recovery of $4.8 million. The effective income tax rate was 52.6% compared to 31.0%. An internal transfer of intellectual property had a one-time income tax recovery impact of $33.3 million or 38.0% on the effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2020. Excluding the impact of the one-time income tax recovery, the effective income tax rate was 14.6%.
The change in the effective income tax rate was primarily driven by different tax rates of subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions and items of revenue or expense not taxable or deductible in determining the taxable income.
11
Net (loss) income as compared to the same period in 2019:
Net loss for the three months ended June 30, 2020 was $14.9 million, a decrease of $25.1 million from net income of $10.2 million. Excluding share-based compensation, restructuring expense and foreign exchange loss, Adjusted Net Loss (a non-IFRS measure) for the three months ended June 30, 2020 was $9.5 million, a decrease of $29.3 million from Adjusted Net Income of $19.8 million.
Net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was $41.6 million, a decrease of $30.9 million from net loss of $10.7 million. Excluding share-based compensation, restructuring expense, foreign exchange loss and a onetime income tax recovery, Adjusted Net Loss (a non-IFRS measure) for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was $56.3 million, a decrease of $63.6 million from Adjusted Net Income of $7.3 million.
OUTLOOK
Spin Master continues to focus on driving long-term growth. Its principle strategies include:
-
Innovate using our global internal and external research and development network;
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Developing evergreen global entertainment and digital toys properties;
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Increasing international sales in developed and emerging markets; and
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• Leveraging the Company's global platform through strategic acquisitions.
Given the uncertain environment associated with COVID-19, the Company has elected to suspend providing guidance until circumstances warrant.
SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Seasonality factors cause Spin Master’s operating results to fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter. A majority of the Company’s annual sales occur during the third and fourth quarters of the Company’s fiscal year.
The following table provides selected historical information and other data, which should be read in conjunction with the financial statements of the Company.
| Q2 | Q1 | Q4 | Q3 | Q2 | Q1 | Q4 | Q3 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in US$ millions, except EPS) | 2020 | 2020 | 2019 | 2019 | 2019 | 2019 | 2018 | 2018 |
| Gross Product Sales1 | 282.2 | 242.3 | 550.7 | 583.3 | 316.8 | 240.5 | 465.5 | 658.2 |
| Revenue | 281.1 | 227.3 | 473.5 | 548.1 | 321.0 | 239.0 | 414.3 | 620.0 |
| Adjusted EBITDA1 | 21.5 | (32.3) | 6.7 | 150.1 | 55.2 | 7.0 | 35.2 | 179.9 |
| Adjusted EBITDA margin1 | 7.6% | (14.2)% | 1.4% | 27.4% | 17.2% | 2.9% | 8.5% | 29.0% |
| Net (loss) income | (14.9) | (26.7) | (17.2) | 92.1 | 10.2 | (20.9) | 11.4 | 107.9 |
| Basic EPS | $(0.15) | $(0.26) | $(0.17) | $0.90 | $0.10 | $(0.21) | $0.11 | $1.06 |
| Diluted EPS | $(0.15) | $(0.26) | $(0.17) | $0.89 | $0.10 | $(0.21) | $0.11 | $1.06 |
| Adjusted Net (Loss) Income1 | (9.5) | (46.8) | (7.8) | 93.2 | 19.9 | (12.5) | 6.2 | 117.8 |
| Adjusted basic EPS1 | $(0.09) | $(0.46) | $(0.08) | $0.91 | $0.19 | $(0.12) | $0.06 | $1.16 |
| Adjusted diluted EPS1 | $(0.09) | $(0.45) | $(0.08) | $0.90 | $0.19 | $(0.12) | $0.06 | $1.15 |
| Cash, net of loans and borrowings | 111.4 | 74.8 | 115.3 | 150.2 | 77.1 | 113.8 | 143.5 | 95.4 |
| Free Cash Flow1 | (9.8) | (74.9) | (22.6) | 128.6 | 18.5 | (39.9) | (11.5) | 149.8 |
1) See “Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
12
The following table provides reconciliations of net (loss) income to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net (Loss) Income.
| (Loss) Income. | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | **Q2 2020 ** | **Q1 2020 ** | **Q4 2019 ** | **Q3 2019 ** | **Q2 2019 ** | **Q1 2019 ** | **Q4 2018 ** | Q3 2018 |
| Net (loss) income | (14.9) | (26.7) | (17.2) | 92.1 | 10.2 | (20.9) | 11.4 | 107.9 |
| Finance costs | 3.3 | 2.8 | 3.2 | 3.2 | 2.6 | 2.7 | 2.9 | 2.7 |
| Depreciation and amortization | 25.7 | 23.3 | 16.2 | 22.2 | 24.8 | 21.4 | 25.4 | 17.7 |
| Income tax expense (recovery) | 2.1 | (48.2) | (7.5) | 33.0 | 2.8 | (7.6) | 2.7 | 38.2 |
| EBITDA1 | 16.2 | (48.8) | (5.3) | 150.5 | 40.4 | (4.4) | 42.4 | 166.5 |
| Adjustments | ||||||||
| Restructuring expense2 | (1.0) | 4.4 | 0.7 | 0.2 | 7.2 | 0.7 | 5.0 | 0.4 |
| Foreign exchange loss (gain)3 | 3.5 | 8.5 | (0.1) | (4.0) | 3.6 | 6.3 | (13.4) | 5.4 |
| Share based compensation4 | 2.8 | 3.6 | 3.5 | 3.4 | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 3.6 |
| Acquisition related incentive compensation5 |
— | — | 3.2 | — | — | — | (0.3) | 0.3 |
| Impairment of intangible assets6 | — | — | 5.6 | — | — | — | — | — |
| Bad debt recovery7 | — | — | (0.9) | — | — | — | (3.0) | — |
| Amortization of fair market value adjustments8 |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | 3.7 |
| Adjusted EBITDA1, 11 | 21.5 | (32.3) | 6.7 | 150.1 | 55.1 | 7.0 | 35.2 | 179.9 |
| Finance costs | 3.3 | 2.8 | 3.2 | 3.2 | 2.6 | 2.7 | 2.9 | 2.7 |
| Depreciation and amortization | 25.7 | 23.3 | 16.2 | 22.2 | 24.8 | 21.4 | 25.4 | 17.7 |
| Income tax expense (recovery) | 2.1 | (48.2) | (7.5) | 33.0 | 2.8 | (7.6) | 2.7 | 38.2 |
| One-time income tax recovery9 | — | 33.3 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Tax effect of adjustments10 | (0.1) | 3.3 | 2.6 | (1.5) | 5.1 | 3.0 | (2.0) | 3.5 |
| Adjusted Net (Loss) Income1 | (9.5) | (46.8) | (7.8) | 93.2 | 19.8 | (12.5) | 6.2 | 117.8 |
Footnotes:
-
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
-
2) Restructuring expense primarily relates to personnel related costs. Restructuring expense included costs related to changes in senior leadership in the first quarter of 2020. In the second quarter of 2019 and fourth quarter of 2018, restructuring expenses also included costs related to facility closures.
-
3) Includes foreign exchange losses (gains) generated by the translation of monetary assets/liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the applicable entity and losses (gains) related to the Company's hedging programs.
-
4) Related to expenses associated with subordinate voting shares granted to equity participants at the time of the Company's IPO and share option expense. As of August 1, 2018, share based compensation includes expenses related to the Company's LTIP.
-
5) Remuneration expense associated with contingent consideration for the Cardinal and SwimWays acquisition.
-
6) Impairment charges for intangible assets relating to licenses, content development, brands and trademarks.
-
7) Bad debt recovery related to the bankruptcy declaration and liquidation proceedings of Toys "R" Us during the fourth quarter of 2019 and the fourth quarter of 2018.
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8) Amortization of fair market value adjustments to inventory relating to the acquisition of Gund in the second quarter of 2018.
-
9) One-time income tax recovery relates to internal transfer of intangible property of $33.3 million.
-
10) Tax effect of adjustments (Footnotes 2-8). Adjustments are tax effected at the effective tax rate of the given year-to-date period.
-
11) The comparative information presented for 2018 has not been restated for the adoption of IFRS 16. On a pro forma basis, the impact of IFRS 16 on Adjusted EBITDA would be an increase of $3.4 million and $3.3 million for the third and fourth quarters of 2018, respectively.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The Company’s primary source of liquidity is cash flow from operations. As a result of the seasonal nature of the toy and children’s entertainment industries, working capital requirements are variable throughout the year. Working capital needs typically grow through the first three quarters as inventories are built up for the peak sales periods for retailers in the fourth quarter. The Company’s cash flows from operating activities are typically at their highest levels of the year in the fourth quarter.
The Company expects that cash, future operating cash flows and the amounts available to be drawn against the Credit Facilities will enable the Company to finance its capital investment program and fund its ongoing business requirements over the next 12 months, including working capital and financial obligations.
13
During the first quarter of 2020, as a precautionary measure, the Company borrowed a total of $350.0 million under its Credit Facility, to maximize liquidity and increase available cash on hand. The Company drew on the Credit Facility due to the uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the second quarter of 2020, the Company has repaid $50.0 million on its Credit Facility. The balance of the Credit Facility matures in the third quarter of 2020.
In addition, as at June 30, 2020, the Company had an additional $210.0 million available under its Credit Facility, which matures in July 2023. The Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purposes including refinancing existing indebtedness, funding working capital requirements, permitted acquisitions and permitted distributions. The Credit Facility also has an option which permits the Company to increase the total capital available by an additional $200.0 million. As at June 30, 2020, unamortized debt issuance costs related to this facility were $0.7 million.
On December 19, 2018, the Company entered into an uncommitted Overdraft Facility Agreement (the "European Facility") for $16.8 million ( € 15.0 million). The European Facility may be used to fund working capital requirements in Europe. As at June 30, 2020, the European Facility was undrawn.
The Company has a Credit Facility (the "Production Facility") with a limit of $7.3 million ($10.0 CAD million) to finance television and film production. The interest rate on amounts drawn under the Production Facility bear interest at a variable rate referenced to the lending institution’s Canadian dollar prime rate. As at June 30, 2020, the Production Facility was undrawn.
Management believes that cash flows from its ongoing operations, plus cash on hand and availability under the Credit Facility provide sufficient liquidity to support ongoing operations over the next 12 months. Cash flows from operations could be negatively impacted by decreased demand for the Company’s products, which may result from factors such as adverse economic conditions and changes in public and consumer preferences, the loss of confidence by the Company’s principal customers in the Company and its product lines, or by increased costs associated with manufacturing and distribution of products. The Company’s primary capital needs are related to inventory financing, accounts payable funding, debt servicing and capital expenditures for tooling, film production, and to fund strategic acquisitions.
Capital and Investment Framework
Over the long term, the Company plans to use its free cash flows to fund seasonal working capital requirements related to product sales, television shows, short-form content, mobile digital development as well as strategic acquisitions.
Spin Master primarily uses third parties to manufacture, warehouse and distribute its products. As a result, the Company does not have to incur material investments in property, plant and equipment. The Company’s capital expenses are generally comprised of the purchase of tooling used in the manufacturing process and entertainment property production.
CASH FLOW
The following tables provide a summary of Spin Master’s consolidated cash flows for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| Three Months Ended Jun 30 | Three Months Ended Jun 30 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change |
| Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities | 64.2 | (12.6) | 76.8 |
| Net cash flows used in investing activities | (26.4) | (22.1) | (4.3) |
| Net cash flows used in financing activities | (53.7) | (3.2) | (50.5) |
| Net decrease in cash | (15.9) | (37.9) | 22.0 |
| Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | 2.7 | 1.2 | 1.5 |
| Cash at beginning of period | 424.0 | 113.8 | 310.2 |
| Cash at end of period | 410.8 | 77.1 | 333.7 |
14
Cash flows provided by operating activities were $64.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020 compared to cash flows used in operating activities of $12.6 million. The increase was primarily driven by the reduction in working capital, partially offset by higher net loss.
| Six Months Ended Jun | Six Months Ended Jun | 30 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | |
| Net cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities | 55.4 | (18.8) | 74.2 | |
| Net cash flows used in investing activities | (45.4) | (43.7) | (1.7) | |
| Net cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities | 291.3 | (6.4) | 297.7 | |
| Net increase (decrease) in cash | 301.3 | (68.9) | 370.2 | |
| Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash | (5.8) | 2.5 | (8.3) | |
| Cash at beginning of period | 115.3 | 143.5 | (28.2) | |
| Cash at end of period | 410.8 | 77.1 | 333.7 |
Cash from Operating Activities as compared to the same period in 2019:
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, cash flows provided by operating activities were $55.4 million compared to cash flows used in operating activities of $18.8 million. The increase was primarily driven by the reduction in working capital, partially offset by higher net loss.
The table below outlines key financial information pertaining to the Company's net working capital:
| Jun 30, | Dec 31, | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Trade receivables, net1 | 194.2 | 370.7 | (176.5) | (47.6)% |
| Other receivables2 | 49.6 | 57.0 | (7.4) | (13.0)% |
| Inventories | 154.3 | 185.3 | (31.0) | (16.7)% |
| Advances on royalties | 14.8 | 18.0 | (3.2) | (17.8)% |
| Prepaid expenses | 8.7 | 14.4 | (5.7) | (39.6)% |
| Total current assets | 421.6 | 645.4 | (223.8) | (34.7)% |
| Trade payables | 124.2 | 215.8 | (91.6) | (42.4)% |
| Accrued liabilities3 | 82.5 | 129.8 | (47.3) | (36.4)% |
| Contract liabilities | 14.6 | 7.6 | 7.0 | 92.1 % |
| Provisions and contingent liabilities | 26.8 | 26.2 | 0.6 | 2.3 % |
| Total current liabilities | 248.1 | 379.4 | (131.3) | (34.6)% |
| Total net working capital | 173.5 | 266.0 | (92.5) | (34.8)% |
1) Trade receivables are net of allowance for doubtful accounts and provisions for sales allowances. Refer to Note 7 of the financial statements for additional details.
- 2) Other receivables include film and video production tax credits, royalties, commodity tax and other balances. Refer to Note 7 of the financial statements.
3) Accrued liabilities are comprised of employee compensation liabilities, royalties and commodity tax balances. Refer to Note 12 of the financial statements for additional details.
Total net working capital decreased by $92.5 million or 34.8% to $173.5 million at June 30, 2020 from $266.0 million at December 31, 2019. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, total net working capital decreased by $97.1 million.
Trade receivables, net, decreased by $176.5 million or 47.6% to $194.2 million at June 30, 2020 from $370.7 million at December 31, 2019, driven by the timing of collections in line with the seasonality of the business.
Inventories decreased by $31.0 million or 16.7% to $154.3 million at June 30, 2020 from $185.3 million at December 31, 2019. The decrease is driven by the shift towards higher domestic sales compared to direct import sales.
Trade payables decreased by $91.6 million or 42.4% to $124.2 million at June 30, 2020 from $215.8 million at December 31, 2019, driven by the timing of payments in line with the seasonality of the business.
15
Investing Activities as compared to the same period in 2019:
The following tables provide a summary of Spin Master’s consolidated cash flows used in investing activities for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| Three Months Ended Jun 30 | Three Months Ended Jun 30 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change |
| Property, plant and equipment | |||
| Tooling | 9.2 | 9.7 | (0.5) |
| Other | 1.5 | 5.0 | (3.5) |
| Total property, plant and equipment | 10.7 | 14.7 | (4.0) |
| Intangible assets | |||
| Content development | 11.3 | 6.4 | 4.9 |
| Computer software | 2.0 | 1.5 | 0.5 |
| Total intangible assets | 13.3 | 7.9 | 5.4 |
| Total capital expenditures | 24.0 | 22.6 | 1.4 |
| Disposals | — | (0.5) | 0.5 |
| Investment in trademark license agreement | 2.4 | — | 2.4 |
| Cash used in investing activities | 26.4 | 22.1 | 4.3 |
Cash used in investing activities was $26.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020 compared to $22.1 million. The increase was primarily driven by higher investments in content development and investment in a trademark license agreement, offset in part by lower investments in other property, plant and equipment.
| Six Months Ended Jun | Six Months Ended Jun | 30 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | |
| Property, plant and equipment | ||||
| Tooling | 11.6 | 13.0 | (1.4) | |
| Other | 2.3 | 9.3 | (7.0) | |
| Total property, plant and equipment | 13.9 | 22.3 | (8.4) | |
| Intangible assets | ||||
| Content development | 24.4 | 19.5 | 4.9 | |
| Computer software | 4.7 | 2.4 | 2.3 | |
| Total intangible assets | 29.1 | 21.9 | 7.2 | |
| Total capital expenditures | 43.0 | 44.2 | (1.2) | |
| Proceeds from disposals | — | (0.5) | 0.5 | |
| Investment in trademark license agreement | 2.4 | — | 2.4 | |
| Cash used in investing activities | 45.4 | 43.7 | 1.7 |
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, cash used in investing activities was $45.4 million compared to $43.7 million. The increase was primarily driven by higher investment in content development attributable to the PAW Patrol movie, the investment in a trademark license agreement and higher investment in computer software, offset in part by lower investment in other property, plant and equipment.
Financing Activities as compared to the same period in 2019:
Cash flows used in financing activities were $53.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020 compared to $3.2 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, cash flows provided by financing activities were $291.3 million compared to cash flows used in financing activities of $6.4 million, primarily driven by the Company's utilization of its Credit Facility.
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Free Cash Flow as compared to the same period in 2019:
The following tables provide a reconciliation of Spin Master’s consolidated Free Cash Flow (a non-IFRS measure) to cash from operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2019:
| Three Months Ended Jun 30 | Three Months Ended Jun 30 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change |
| Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities | 64.2 | (12.6) | 76.8 |
| Changes in net working capital | (50.0) | 53.3 | (103.3) |
| Net cash flows provided by operating activities before net working capital changes |
14.2 | 40.7 | (26.5) |
| Cash flows used in investing activities | (26.4) | (22.1) | (4.3) |
| Plus: | |||
| Cash used for license, brand and business acquisitions | 2.4 | — | 2.4 |
| Free Cash Flow1 | (9.8) | 18.6 | (28.4) |
| Six | Months Ended Jun 30 | ||
| (US$ millions) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change |
| Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities | 55.4 | (18.8) | 74.2 |
| Changes in net working capital | (97.1) | 41.2 | (138.3) |
| Net cash flows (used in) provided by operating activities before net working capital changes |
(41.7) | 22.4 | (64.1) |
| Cash flows used in investing activities | (45.4) | (43.7) | (1.7) |
| Plus: | |||
| Cash used for license, brand and business acquisitions | 2.4 | — | 2.4 |
| Free Cash Flow1 | (84.7) | (21.3) | (63.4) |
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
Free Cash Flow was negative $9.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2020 compared to $18.6 million, a decrease of $28.4 million. Free Cash Flow declined primarily driven by a decrease in EBITDA. There was no significant change in investing activities. Including changes in working capital Free Cash Flow was $40.2 million compared to negative $34.7 million.
For the six months ended June 30, 2020, Free Cash Flow was negative $84.7 million compared to negative $21.3 million, a decrease of $63.4 million. The decline in Free Cash Flow was primarily driven by a decrease in EBITDA. There was no significant change in investing activities. Including changes in working capital Free Cash Flow was $12.4 million compared to negative $62.5 million.
COMMITMENTS
In the normal course of business, Spin Master enters into contractual arrangements to obtain and protect Spin Master’s right to create and market certain products and to ensure availability and timely delivery of future purchases of goods and services. These arrangements include commitments for future services, purchases and royalty payments pursuant to licensing agreements. Certain of these commitments routinely contain provisions for guarantees or minimum expenditures during the terms of the contracts. Additionally, Spin Master routinely enters into non cancellable lease agreements for premises and equipment, which contain minimum rental payments.
OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
Spin Master has no off balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future material effect on its financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.
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CAPITALIZATION
Share Capital
As at August 5, 2020, there were 102.0 million shares outstanding comprised of 70.6 million Multiple Voting Shares and 31.4 million Subordinate Voting Shares.
As of August 5, 2020, pursuant to grants under the Company's Long-Term Incentive Plan, 0.8 million Subordinate Voting Shares were issuable under outstanding Restricted Stock Units, up to 1.8 million Subordinate Voting Shares were issuable under outstanding Performance Share Units (assuming vesting at a maximum of 200% for units with an outstanding performance period) and 0.5 million Subordinate Voting Shares were issuable under outstanding Share Option grants.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
The Company periodically engages the services of a law firm whose managing partner is also a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. During the six months ended June 30, 2020, the fees for services rendered were approximately $0.5 million (2019 - $0.1 million).
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
Included in the Company's 2019 financial statements, as well as in the Company's 2019 Annual MD&A, are the accounting policies under IFRS and estimates that are critical to the understanding of the business and to the results of operations. For the six months ended June 30, 2020, there were no changes to the critical accounting estimates of the Company from those reported in the 2019 Annual MD&A and financial statements.
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES
There have been no changes to the Company's accounting policies from those disclosed in the Company's 2019 Annual MD&A, except as set forth below.
IFRS 16 Leases
The Company has adopted the IFRS 16 amendment regarding COVID-19-Related Rent Concessions effective June 1, 2020. The amendment provides lessees with a practical expedient that relieves a lessee from assessing whether a COVID-19-related rent concession is a lease modification.
The Company, as a lessee, has elected to apply the practical expedient to all eligible contracts and has accounted for rent concessions occurring as a direct consequence of COVID-19 as if they were not lease modifications. The forgiveness of lease payments is accounted for as a variable lease payment and that part of the lease liability is derecognized. For deferrals of lease payments, interest continues to be recognized on the lease liability and the liability is reduced once payments are made to the lessor.
The Company has applied the amendment retrospectively on June 30, 2020 and has recognized an impact of $0.1 million related to rent forgiveness and $0.3 million related to rent deferrals in its lease liabilities.
INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
There have been no changes in the Company’s Internal Control over Financial Reporting (“ICFR”) during the six months ended June 30, 2020 which have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s ICFR.
LIMITATIONS OF AN INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM
The Co-Chief Executive Officers and the Chief Financial Officer believe that any Disclosure Controls and Procedures or ICFR, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met and that all control issues, including instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been prevented or detected. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs.
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The design of any system of control is also based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential (future) conditions.
NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES
In addition to using financial measures prescribed under IFRS, references are made in this MD&A to “EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA”, “Adjusted EBITDA Margin”, “Adjusted Net (Loss) Income”, “Free Cash Flow”, “Gross Product Sales”, “Constant Currency”, “Sales Allowances”, "Net Sales" and "Adjusted Administrative Expenses" which are non-IFRS financial measures. Non-IFRS financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
EBITDA is calculated as net (loss) earnings before finance costs, income tax expense and depreciation and amortization.
Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as EBITDA excluding adjustments that do not necessarily reflect the Company’s underlying financial performance. These adjustments include restructuring expenses, foreign exchange gains or losses and equity-settled share based compensation expenses. Adjusted EBITDA is used by management as a measure of the Company’s profitability.
Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by Revenue. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA Margin to evaluate the Company’s performance compared to internal targets and to benchmark its performance against key competitors.
Adjusted Net (Loss) Income is calculated as net (loss) income excluding adjustments, as defined above, in addition to a one-time income tax recovery and the corresponding impact these items have on income tax expense. Management uses Adjusted Net (Loss) Income to measure the underlying financial performance of the business on a consistent basis over time.
Constant Currency represents Revenue and Gross Product Sales results that are presented excluding the impact from changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The current period and prior period results for entities reporting in currencies other than the US dollar are translated using consistent exchange rates, rather than using the actual exchange rate in effect during the respective periods. The difference between the current period and prior period results using the consistent exchange rates reflects the changes in the underlying performance results, excluding the impact from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
Free Cash Flow is calculated as cash flows provided by/used in operating activities before changes in net working capital and after cash flows used in investing activities before cash used in license, brand and business acquisitions. Management uses the Free Cash Flow metric to analyze the cash flow being generated by the Company’s business.
Gross Product Sales represent sales of the Company’s products to customers, excluding the impact of Sales Allowances. As Sales Allowances are generally not associated with individual products, the Company uses changes in Gross Product Sales to provide meaningful comparisons across product category and geographical segment results to highlight trends in Spin Master’s business. For a reconciliation of Gross Product Sales to Revenue, please see the revenue table for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019 in this MD&A.
Sales Allowances represent marketing and sales credits requested by customers relating to factors such as cooperative advertising, contractual discounts, negotiated discounts, customer audits, volume rebates, defective products and costs incurred by customers to sell the Company’s products and are recorded as a reduction to Gross Product Sales. Management uses Sales Allowances to identify and compare the cost of doing business with individual retailers, different geographic markets and amongst various distribution channels.
Net Sales represents Gross Product Sales less Sales Allowances. Management uses Net Sales to evaluate the Company’s total net revenue generating capacity compared to internal targets and as a measure of Company performance.
Adjusted Administrative Expenses is calculated as administrative expenses adjusted for restructuring expenses and equity-settled share based compensation expenses. Please see the Adjusted Administrative Expenses table for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019 in this MD&A.
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Management believes the non-IFRS measures defined above are important supplemental measures of operating performance and highlight trends in the core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS financial measures. Management believes that these measures allow for assessment of the Company’s operating performance and financial condition on a basis that is more consistent and comparable between reporting periods. The Company believes that lenders, securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use these non-IFRS financial measures in the evaluation of issuers.
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Reconciliation Tables
The following table presents a reconciliation of net (loss) income to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net (Loss) Income, and Cash provided by (used in) Operations to Free Cash Flow for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, and 2019:
| Three Months | Three Months | Ended Jun | 30 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in US$ millions, except percentages) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures | ||||
| Net (loss) income | (14.9) | 10.2 | (25.1) | (246.1)% |
| Income tax expense | 2.1 | 2.8 | (0.7) | (25.0)% |
| Finance costs | 3.3 | 2.6 | 0.7 | 26.9 % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 25.7 | 24.8 | 0.9 | 3.6 % |
| EBITDA1 | 16.2 | 40.4 | (24.2) | (59.9)% |
| Adjustments: | ||||
| Restructuring expense2 | (1.0) | 7.2 | (8.2) | (113.9)% |
| Foreign exchange loss3 | 3.5 | 3.6 | (0.1) | (2.8)% |
| Share based compensation4 | 2.8 | 3.9 | (1.1) | (28.2)% |
| Adjusted EBITDA1 | 21.5 | 55.1 | (33.6) | (61.0)% |
| Income tax expense | 2.1 | 2.8 | (0.7) | (25.0)% |
| Finance costs | 3.3 | 2.6 | 0.7 | 26.9 % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 25.7 | 24.8 | 0.9 | 3.6 % |
| Tax effect of adjustments5 | (0.1) | 5.1 | (5.2) | (102.0)% |
| Adjusted Net (Loss) Income1 | (9.5) | 19.8 | (29.3) | (148.0)% |
| Cash provided by (used in) operations | 64.2 | (12.6) | 76.8 | (609.5)% |
| Changes in net working capital | (50.0) | 53.3 | (103.3) | (193.8)% |
| Cash provided by operations before net working capital changes |
14.2 | 40.7 | (26.5) | (65.1)% |
| Cash used in investing activities | (26.4) | (22.1) | (4.3) | 19.5 % |
| Plus: | ||||
| Cash used for license, brand and business acquisitions | 2.4 | — | 2.4 | n.m. |
| Free Cash Flow1 | (9.8) | 18.6 | (28.4) | (152.7)% |
-
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
-
2) Restructuring expense primarily relates to personnel related expenses costs.
-
3) Includes foreign exchange losses generated by the translation of monetary assets/liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the applicable entity and losses related to the Company's hedging programs.
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4) Related to non-cash expenses associated with subordinate voting shares granted to equity participants at the time of the IPO, share option expense and LTIP.
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5) Tax effect of adjustments (Footnotes 2-4). Adjustments are tax effected at the effective tax rate of the given period.
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| Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | Six Months Ended Jun 30 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (in US$ millions, except percentages) | 2020 | 2019 | $ Change | % Change |
| Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures | ||||
| Net loss | (41.6) | (10.7) | (30.9) | 288.8 % |
| Income tax recovery | (46.1) | (4.8) | (41.3) | 860.4 % |
| Finance costs | 6.1 | 5.3 | 0.8 | 15.1 % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 49.0 | 46.2 | 2.8 | 6.1 % |
| EBITDA1 | (32.6) | 36.0 | (68.6) | (190.6)% |
| Adjustments: | ||||
| Restructuring expense2 | 3.4 | 7.9 | (4.5) | (57.0)% |
| Foreign exchange loss3 | 12.0 | 9.9 | 2.1 | 21.2 % |
| Share based compensation4 | 6.4 | 8.3 | (1.9) | (22.9)% |
| Adjusted EBITDA1 | (10.8) | 62.1 | (72.9) | (117.4)% |
| Income tax recovery | (46.1) | (4.8) | (41.3) | 860.4 % |
| Finance costs | 6.1 | 5.3 | 0.8 | 15.1 % |
| Depreciation and amortization | 49.0 | 46.2 | 2.8 | 6.1 % |
| One-time income tax recovery5 | 33.3 | — | 33.3 | n.m. |
| Tax effect of adjustments6 | 3.2 | 8.1 | (4.9) | (60.5)% |
| Adjusted Net (Loss) Income1 | (56.3) | 7.3 | (63.6) | (871.2)% |
| Cash provided by (used in) operations | 55.4 | (18.8) | 74.2 | (394.7)% |
| Changes in net working capital | (97.1) | 41.2 | (138.3) | (335.7)% |
| Cash (used in) provided by operations before net working capital changes |
(41.7) | 22.4 | (64.1) | (286.2)% |
| Cash used in investing activities | (45.4) | (43.7) | (1.7) | 3.9 % |
| Plus: | ||||
| Cash used for license, brand and business acquisitions | 2.4 | — | 2.4 | n.m. |
| Free Cash Flow1 | (84.7) | (21.3) | (63.4) | 297.7 % |
-
1) See "Non-IFRS Financial Measures".
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2) Restructuring expense primarily relates to personnel related costs. Restructuring expense in the current period includes costs related to changes in senior leadership.
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3) Includes foreign exchange losses generated by the translation of monetary assets/liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the applicable entity and losses related to the Company's hedging programs.
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4) Related to expenses associated with subordinate voting shares granted to equity participants at the time of the IPO, share option expense and LTIP expense.
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5) One-time income tax recovery relates to internal transfer of intangible property of $33.3 million.
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6) Tax effect of adjustments (Footnotes 2-4). Adjustments are tax effected at the effective tax rate of the given period.
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this MD&A constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the Securities Act (Ontario), and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date on which the statements are made in this MD&A. The words “plans”, “expects”, “projected”, “estimated”, “forecasts”, “anticipates”, “indicative”, “intend”, “guidance”, “outlook”, “potential”, “prospects”, “seek”, “strategy”, “targets” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain future conditions, actions, events or results “will”, “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” or “can”, or negative versions thereof, “be taken”, “occur”, “continue” or “be achieved”, and other similar expressions, identify statements containing forward-looking information. Statements of forward-looking information in this MD&A include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the Company’s intentions to issue guidance in the future (see “Outlook”); future growth expectations; financial position, cash flows and financial performance; drivers for such growth; the resolution of logistics problems; the program to achieve operational efficiencies; impact of acquisitions on future financial performance; the successful execution of its strategies for growth; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company; and the seasonality of financial results and performance.
Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon management’s perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as a number of specific factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management as of the date on which the statements are made in this MD&A, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies which could result in the forward-looking statements ultimately being incorrect. In addition to any factors and assumptions set
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forth above in this MD&A, the material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: the ability of factories to manufacture products, including labour size and allocation, tooling, raw material and component availability, ability to shift between product mix, and customer acceptance of delayed delivery dates; that the program designed to gain operational efficiencies will achieve the desired results; the expanded use of advanced technology, robotics and innovation the Company applies to its products will have a level of success consistent with its past experiences; the Company will continue to successfully secure broader licenses from third parties for major entertainment properties consistent with past practices; the expansion of sales and marketing offices in new markets will increase the sales of products in that territory; the Company will be able to successfully identify and integrate strategic acquisition opportunities; the Company will be able to maintain its distribution capabilities; the Company will be able to leverage its global platform to grow sales from acquired brands; the Company will be able to recognize and capitalize on opportunities earlier than its competitors; the Company will be able to continue to build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships; the Company will maintain its status as a preferred collaborator; the culture and business structure of the Company will support its growth; the current business strategies of the Company will continue to be desirable on an international platform; the Company will be able to expand its portfolio of owned branded intellectual property and successfully license it to third parties; use of advanced technology and robotics in the Company’s products will expand; access of entertainment content on mobile platforms will expand; fragmentation of the market will continue to create acquisition opportunities; the Company will be able to maintain its relationships with its employees, suppliers and retailers; the Company will continue to attract qualified personnel to support its development requirements; and the Company's key personnel will continue to be involved in the Company products and entertainment properties will be launched as scheduled and that the risk factors noted in this MD&A, collectively, do not have a material impact on the Company.
By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. Known and unknown risk factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this MD&A. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the magnitude and length of economic disruption as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the factors discussed in the Company's disclosure materials, including the Annual MD&A and the Company's most recent AIF, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada and available under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). These risk factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect the Company and investors are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s expectations and plans relating to the future. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law.
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