Biggest changeOur certificate of incorporation provides, subject to limited exceptions, that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware and the federal district courts of the United States of America will be the sole and exclusive forums for certain stockholder litigation matters, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, employees or stockholders.
Biggest changeOur Series A Preferred Stock, if not converted into common stock, will also be senior to our common stock in distribution and liquidation if such shares are not converted into common stock, which could negatively affect the value of our common stock and impair our ability to raise additional capital. 27 Table of Contents Our certificate of incorporation provides, subject to limited exceptions, that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware and the federal district courts of the United States of America will be the sole and exclusive forums for certain stockholder litigation matters, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers, employees or stockholders.
We seek to manage price and availability risks related to raw materials, such as fuel, fertilizer, chemicals, road salt and mulch, through procurement strategies, these efforts may not be successful and we may experience adverse impacts due to the rising prices of such products.
Although we seek to manage price and availability risks related to raw materials, such as fuel, fertilizer, chemicals, road salt and mulch, through procurement strategies, these efforts may not be successful and we may experience adverse impacts due to the rising prices of such products.
Tax increases and changes in tax rules may adversely affect our financial results As a company conducting business with physical operations throughout North America, we are exposed, both directly and indirectly, to the effects of changes in U.S., state and local tax rules.
Tax increases and changes in tax rules may adversely affect our financial results As a company conducting business with physical operations throughout North America, we are exposed, both directly and indirectly, to the effects of changes in U.S. federal, state and local tax rules.
Variability in the frequency of which we must perform our services can affect the margins we realize on a given contract. Certain extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, can result in increased enhancement revenues related to cleanup and other services.
Variability in the frequency of which we must perform our services can affect the margins we realize on a given contract. Certain extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, can result in increased revenues related to cleanup and other services.
If either we are unable to conclude that we have effective internal control over financial reporting or our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to provide us with an unqualified report, investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a material adverse effect on the trading price of our common stock. Item 1B.
If either we are unable to conclude that we have effective internal control over financial reporting or our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to provide us with an unqualified report, investors could lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a material adverse effect on the trading price of our common stock.
Beginning in 2024, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“IRA”) will impose a 15% minimum tax on global adjusted financial statement income for corporations with three-year average annual adjusted financial statement income exceeding $1 billion. The IRA also imposes a 1% excise tax on certain repurchases (including certain redemptions) of stock by publicly traded domestic corporations.
Beginning in 2024, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (“IRA”) imposes a 15% minimum tax on global adjusted financial statement income for corporations with three-year average annual adjusted financial statement income exceeding $1 billion. The IRA also imposes a 1% excise tax on certain repurchases (including certain redemptions) of stock by publicly traded domestic corporations.
These provisions provide for, among other things, our Board of Directors to issue one or more series of preferred stock; advance notice requirements for nominations of directors by stockholders and for stockholders to include matters to be considered at our annual 26 Table of Contents meetings; certain limitations on convening special stockholder meetings; the removal of directors only upon the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66 2 ⁄ 3 % of the shares of common stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors if KKR and its affiliates cease to beneficially own at least 40% of shares of common stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors.
These provisions provide for, among other things, our Board of Directors to issue one or more series of preferred stock; advance notice requirements for nominations of directors by stockholders and for stockholders to include matters to be considered at our annual meetings; certain limitations on convening special stockholder meetings; the removal of directors only upon the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 66 2 ⁄ 3 % of the shares of common stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors if KKR and its affiliates cease to beneficially own at least 40% of shares of common stock entitled to vote generally in the election of directors.
We perform landscape services, the demand for which is affected by weather conditions, including impacts from climate change, droughts, severe storms, significant rain or snowfall and other severe weather conditions or events, all of which may impact the timing and frequency of the performance of our services, or our ability to perform the services at all.
We perform landscape services, the demand for which is affected by weather conditions, including impacts from climate change, droughts, severe storms, significant rain or snowfall and other severe weather conditions or events (including hurricanes and wildfires), all of which may impact the timing and frequency of the performance of our services, or our ability to perform the services at all.
Any of our competitors may foresee the course of market development more accurately than we do, provide superior service, have the ability to deliver similar services at a 16 Table of Contents lower cost, develop stronger relationships with our customers and other consumers in the landscape services industry, adapt more quickly to evolving customer requirements, devote greater resources to the promotion and sale of their services or access financing on more favorable terms than we can obtain.
Any of our competitors may foresee the course of market development more accurately than we do, provide superior service, have the ability to deliver similar services at a lower cost, develop stronger relationships with our customers and other consumers in the landscape services industry, adapt more quickly to evolving customer requirements, devote greater resources to the promotion and sale of their services or access financing on more favorable terms than we can obtain.
Although we conduct due diligence investigations prior to each acquisition, there can be no assurance that we will discover or adequately protect against all material liabilities of an acquired business for which we may be responsible as a successor owner or operator.
Although we conduct due diligence investigations prior to each acquisition, there can be no assurance that we will discover or adequately protect against liabilities of an acquired business for which we may be responsible as a successor owner or operator.
Our financial performance has been adversely affected by increases in our operating expenses, including fuel, fertilizer, chemicals, road salt, mulch, wages and salaries, employee benefits, health care, subcontractor costs, vehicle, facilities and equipment leases, insurance and regulatory compliance costs.
Our financial performance has been adversely affected in the past by increases in our operating expenses, including fuel, fertilizer, chemicals, road salt, mulch, wages and salaries, employee benefits, health care, subcontractor costs, vehicle, facilities and equipment leases, insurance and regulatory compliance costs.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain new business, renew existing customer contracts at the same or higher levels of pricing or that our current customers will not cease operations, elect to self-operate or terminate contracts with us.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain new business, renew existing customer contracts at the same or higher levels of pricing or that our current customers will not elect to self-operate or terminate contracts with us.
Consequently, we cannot predict with certainty whether, if challenged, a court will enforce any particular non-competition agreement. Any increased competition from businesses started by former employees may reduce our market share and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Our business success depends on our ability to preserve long-term customer relationships.
Consequently, we cannot predict with certainty whether, if challenged, a court will enforce any particular non-competition agreement. Any increased competition from businesses started by former employees may reduce our market share and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. 17 Table of Contents Our business success depends on our ability to preserve long-term customer relationships.
A significant portion of our assets consists of goodwill and other intangible assets, the value of which may be reduced if we determine that these assets are impaired. Accounting for our numerous historical acquisitions has resulted in the generation of various amounts of goodwill.
A significant portion of our assets consists of goodwill and other intangible assets, the value of which may be reduced if we determine that these assets are impaired. Accounting for our numerous historical transactions has resulted in the generation of various amounts of goodwill.
Geopolitical instability, including overseas conflicts, may increase the risk that we will experience cyber-attacks or 23 Table of Contents cyber-intrusions. Any unauthorized disclosure of confidential information could damage our reputation, interrupt our operations and could result in a violation of applicable laws, regulations, industry standards or agreements and potentially subject us to costs, penalties and liabilities.
Geopolitical instability, including overseas conflicts, may increase the risk that we will experience cyber-attacks or cyber-intrusions. Any unauthorized disclosure of confidential information could damage our reputation, interrupt our operations and could result in a violation of applicable laws, regulations, industry standards or agreements and potentially subject us to costs, penalties and liabilities.
For example, due to the highly fragmented nature of our industry, it may be difficult for us to identify potential targets with revenues sufficient to justify taking on the risks associated with pursuing their acquisition.
For example, due to the highly fragmented nature of our industry, it may be difficult for us to identify potential targets with revenues sufficient to justify taking on the risks associated with pursuing the acquisition of such targets.
As a result, a decline in frequency or total amounts of snowfall in multiple regions for an extended time could cause our results of operations to decline and adversely affect our ability to generate cash flow.
As a result, a decline in frequency or total amounts of snowfall in multiple regions for an extended time could cause our results of operations to decline and adversely affect our ability to generate cash flows.
To the extent such costs continue to increase, we may be prevented, in whole or in part, from passing these cost increases through to our existing and prospective customers, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
To the extent such costs continue to increase, we may be prevented, 28 Table of Contents in whole or in part, from passing these cost increases through to our existing and prospective customers, which could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
The Biden administration has announced, and in certain cases has enacted, a number of tax proposals in the past three years to fund new government investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, among other things.
The Biden administration has announced, and in certain cases has enacted, a number of tax proposals in the past four years to fund new government investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, among other things.
Our level of debt could have important consequences, including making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt, limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions, or other general corporate requirements, requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows to be dedicated to debt service payments instead of other purposes, thereby reducing the amount of cash flows available for working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions and other general corporate purposes, increasing our vulnerability to adverse changes in general economic, industry and competitive conditions, exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates as certain of our borrowings, including borrowings under the Credit Agreement, are at variable rates of interest, limiting our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the industries in which we compete, placing us at a disadvantage compared to other, less leveraged competitors, increasing our cost of borrowing and hampering our ability to execute on our growth strategy.
Our level of debt could have important consequences, including making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to our debt, limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund future working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions, or other general corporate requirements, requiring a substantial portion of our cash flows to be dedicated to debt service payments instead of other purposes, thereby reducing the amount of cash flows available for working capital, capital expenditures, investments or acquisitions and other general corporate purposes, increasing our vulnerability to adverse changes in general economic, industry and competitive conditions, exposing us to the risk of increased interest rates as certain of our borrowings, including borrowings under our credit agreement dated December 18, 2013 (as amended, the “Credit Agreement”), are at variable rates of interest, limiting our flexibility in planning for and reacting to changes in the industries in which we compete, placing us at a disadvantage compared to other, less leveraged competitors, increasing our cost of borrowing and hampering our ability to execute on our growth strategy.
These rules and regulations have increased our legal and financial compliance costs and made some activities more time-consuming and costly. Our management devotes a substantial amount of time to ensure that we comply with all of these 29 Table of Contents requirements, diverting the attention of management away from revenue-producing activities.
These rules and regulations have increased our legal and financial compliance costs and made some activities more time-consuming and costly. Our management devotes a substantial amount of time to ensure that we comply with all of these requirements, diverting the attention of management away from revenue-producing activities.
We are subject to governmental regulation at the federal, state, and local levels in many areas of our business, such as employment laws, wage and hour laws, discrimination laws, immigration laws, human health and safety laws, transportation laws, environmental laws, false claims or whistleblower statutes, disadvantaged business enterprise statutes, tax codes, antitrust and competition laws, intellectual property laws, governmentally funded entitlement programs and cost and accounting principles, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, other anti-corruption laws, lobbying laws, motor carrier safety laws and data privacy and security laws.
We are subject to governmental regulation at the federal, state, and local levels in many areas of our business, such as employment laws, wage and hour laws, discrimination laws, immigration laws, human health and safety laws, transportation laws, environmental laws, false claims or whistleblower statutes, disadvantaged business enterprise statutes, tax codes, antitrust and competition laws, intellectual property laws, government-funded entitlement programs and cost and accounting principles, the Foreign Corrupt Practices 21 Table of Contents Act, other anti-corruption laws, lobbying laws, motor carrier safety laws and data privacy and security laws.
If we fail to comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those referred to above, we may be subject to investigations, criminal sanctions or civil remedies, including fines, 21 Table of Contents penalties, damages, reimbursement, injunctions, seizures, disgorgements or the loss of the ability to operate our motor vehicles.
If we fail to comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those referred to above, we may be subject to investigations, criminal sanctions or civil remedies, including fines, penalties, damages, reimbursement, injunctions, seizures, disgorgements or the loss of the ability to operate our motor vehicles.
We are subject to risks caused by data breaches and operational disruptions, particularly through cyber-attack, cyber-intrusion, ransomware attacks, phishing attempts or other social engineering attempts to fraudulently induce the transfer of company funds, including by computer hackers, foreign governments and cyber terrorists.
We are subject to risks caused by data breaches and 23 Table of Contents operational disruptions, particularly through cyber-attack, cyber-intrusion, ransomware attacks, phishing attempts or other social engineering attempts to fraudulently induce the transfer of company funds, including by computer hackers, foreign governments and cyber terrorists.
KKR or One Rock and their respective affiliates also may pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to our business and, as a result, those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. Anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents could delay or prevent a change of control.
KKR or One Rock and their respective affiliates also may pursue acquisition opportunities that may be complementary to our business and, as a result, those acquisition opportunities may not be available to us. 26 Table of Contents Anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents could delay or prevent a change of control.
Additionally, the effects of climate change may impact the frequency and total amounts of future snowfall, which could have a material adverse effect on our revenues, results of operations and cash flow. 19 Table of Contents Our success depends on our executive management and other key personnel.
Additionally, the effects of climate change may impact the frequency and total amounts of future snowfall, which could have a material adverse effect on our revenues, results of operations and cash flow. Our success depends on our executive management and other key personnel.
In addition, geopolitical conflicts, such as the current war in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas war, or potential conflict between China and Taiwan and any related international response may exacerbate these inflationary pressures. Therefore, the recessionary risks discussed above and elsewhere in these risk factors are more pronounced in the current economic environment.
In addition, geopolitical conflicts, such as the current war in Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East, or potential conflict between China and Taiwan and any related international response may exacerbate these inflationary pressures. Therefore, the recessionary risks discussed above and elsewhere in these risk factors are more pronounced in the current economic environment.
Our industry and the markets in which we operate are highly competitive and increased competitive pressures could reduce our share of the markets we serve and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Risks Related to Our Business Our industry and the markets in which we operate are highly competitive and increased competitive pressures could reduce our share of the markets we serve and adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
See Note 10 “Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments” to our audited consolidated financial statements included in Part II. Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Our debt agreements contain restrictions that limit our flexibility in operating our business. The Credit Agreement imposes significant operating and financial restrictions.
See Note 10 " Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments" to our audited consolidated financial statements included in Part II. Item 8 of this Form 10-K. Our debt agreements contain restrictions that limit our flexibility in operating our business. The Credit Agreement imposes significant operating and financial restrictions.
Although the Credit Agreement contains restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, these restrictions are subject to a number of qualifications and exceptions, and the additional indebtedness incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial.
Although the Credit Agreement contains restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, these restrictions are subject to a number of qualifications and exceptions, and the additional indebtedness 25 Table of Contents incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial.
We employed approximately 1,900 seasonal workers in fiscal year 2023 and approximately 2,100 in fiscal year 2022 through the H-2B visa program. If we are unable to hire sufficient numbers of seasonal workers, through the H-2B program or otherwise, we may experience a labor shortage.
We employed approximately 2,000 seasonal workers in fiscal year 2024 and approximately 1,900 seasonal workers in fiscal year 2023 through the H-2B visa program. If we are unable to hire sufficient numbers of seasonal workers, through the H-2B visa program or otherwise, we may experience a labor shortage.
Increases in raw material costs, fuel prices, wages and other operating costs, and changes in our ability to source adequate supplies and materials in a timely manner, have adversely impacted our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Increases in raw material costs, fuel prices, wages and other operating costs, and changes in our ability to source adequate supplies and materials in a timely manner, can adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
If we are unable to compete effectively with our existing competitors or new competitors enter the markets in which we operate, or our current customers stop outsourcing their landscape maintenance services, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows may be materially and adversely affected.
If we are unable to compete effectively with our existing competitors, or new competitors enter the markets in which we operate, or our current customers choose to discontinue landscape maintenance services, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows may be materially and adversely affected.
KKR and One Rock have the ability to exert significant influence over us and their interests may conflict with ours or yours in the future. As of September 30, 2023, the Affiliated Investors beneficially own approximately 71.6% of the combined voting power of our outstanding shares of preferred stock and common stock.
KKR and One Rock have the ability to exert significant influence over us and their interests may conflict with ours or yours in the future. As of September 30, 2024, the Affiliated Investors beneficially own approximately 58.7% of the combined voting power of our outstanding shares of preferred stock and common stock.
Additionally, in the event we were to withdraw from some or all of these plans as a result of our exiting certain markets or otherwise, and the relevant plans are underfunded, we may become subject to a withdrawal liability.
Additionally, in the event we were to withdraw from some or all of these plans as a result of our exiting certain markets or otherwise, and the relevant plans are underfunded, we may become subject to a withdrawal liability. The amount of these required contributions may be material.
A future impairment, if any, could have a material adverse effect to our financial position or results of operations. See Note 7 “Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Acquisitions” to our audited consolidated financial statements included in Part II.
A future impairment, if any, could have a material adverse effect to our financial position or results of operations. See Note 7 "Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Acquisitions, and Divestitures” to our audited consolidated financial statements included in Part II.
The strength of these markets depends on, among other things, housing starts, local occupancy rates, demand for commercial space, non-residential construction spending activity, business investment and general economic conditions, which are a function of many factors beyond our control, including interest rates, employment levels, availability of credit, consumer spending, consumer confidence and capital spending.
The strength of these markets depends on, among other things, housing starts, local occupancy rates, demand for commercial space, increased adoption of remote-working arrangements, non-residential construction spending activity, business investment and general economic conditions, which are a function of many factors beyond our control, including interest rates, employment levels, availability of credit, consumer spending, 19 Table of Contents consumer confidence and capital spending.
In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets are evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. As of September 30, 2023, the net carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets, net, represented $2,153.7 million, or 64.2% of our total assets.
In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets are evaluated for impairment annually, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred. As of September 30, 2024, the net carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets, net, represented $2,111.5 million, or 62% of our total assets.
Such allegations, claims or proceedings may, for example, relate to personal injury, property damage, general liability claims relating to properties where we perform services, vehicle accidents involving our vehicles and our employees, regulatory issues, contract disputes or employment matters and may include class actions. See Part I. Item 3 “Legal Proceedings”.
Such allegations, claims or proceedings may, for example, relate to personal injury, property damage, general liability claims relating to properties where we perform services, vehicle accidents involving our vehicles and our employees, regulatory issues, contract disputes or employment matters and may include class actions.
We reserve currently for anticipated losses and related expenses. We periodically evaluate and adjust our claims reserves to reflect trends in our own experience as well as industry trends. However, ultimate results may differ from our estimates, which could result in losses over our reserved amounts.
We periodically evaluate and adjust our claims reserves to reflect trends in our own experience as well as industry trends. However, ultimate results may differ from our estimates, which could result in losses over our reserved amounts.
To the extent we are subject to a higher frequency of claims, are subject to more serious claims or insurance coverage is not available, our liquidity, financial position and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. 22 Table of Contents We are also responsible for our legal expenses relating to such claims.
To the extent we are subject to a higher frequency of claims, are subject to more serious claims or insurance coverage is not available, our liquidity, financial position and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. We are also responsible for our legal expenses relating to such claims. We reserve currently for anticipated losses and related expenses.
Our certificate of incorporation provides, subject to limited exceptions, that unless we consent to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for any (i) derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of our company, (ii) action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer, or other employee or stockholder of our company to the Company or our stockholders, creditors or other constituents, (iii) action asserting a claim against the Company or any director or officer of the Company arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or the DGCL, or our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or our amended and restated bylaws or as to which the DGCL confers jurisdiction on the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, or (iv) action asserting a claim against the Company or any director or officer of the Company governed by the internal affairs doctrine. 27 Table of Contents Our certificate of incorporation further provides that, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the federal district courts of the United States of America will be the exclusive forum for resolving any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the United States federal securities laws.
Our certificate of incorporation provides, subject to limited exceptions, that unless we consent to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for any (i) derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of our company, (ii) action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer, or other employee or stockholder of our company to the Company or our stockholders, creditors or other constituents, (iii) action asserting a claim against the Company or any director or officer of the Company arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or the DGCL, or our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or our amended and restated bylaws or as to which the DGCL confers jurisdiction on the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, or (iv) action asserting a claim against the Company or any director or officer of the Company governed by the internal affairs doctrine.
Risks Related to Our Business Our business is affected by general business, financial market and economic conditions, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Our business and results of operations are significantly affected by general business, financial market and economic conditions.
General Risk Factors Our business is affected by general business, financial market and economic conditions, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Our business and results of operations are significantly affected by general business, financial market and economic conditions.
We have entered into interest rate swap instruments to limit our exposure to changes in variable interest rates. While our hedging strategy is designed to minimize the impact of increases in interest rates applicable to our variable rate debt, there can be no guarantee that our hedging strategy will be effective, and we may experience credit-related losses in some circumstances.
While our hedging strategy is designed to minimize the impact of increases in interest rates applicable to our variable rate debt, there can be no guarantee that our hedging strategy will be effective, and we may experience credit-related losses in some circumstances.
If we are unable to effectively manage the seasonality and year-to-year variability, our results of operations, financial position and cash flow may be adversely affected. Our operations are impacted by weather conditions and climate change.
Consequently, our results of operations and financial position can vary from year-to-year, as well as from quarter-to-quarter. If we are unable to effectively manage the seasonality and year-to-year variability, our results of operations, financial position and cash flow may be adversely affected. Our operations are impacted by weather conditions and climate change.
We have access to capital through our Revolving Credit Facility, which is governed by the Credit Agreement. Each financial institution which is part of the syndicate for our Revolving Credit Facility is responsible on a several, but not joint, basis for providing a portion of the loans to be made under our facility.
Each financial institution which is part of the syndicate for our Revolving Credit Facility is responsible on a several, but not joint, basis for providing a portion of the loans to be made under our facility.
As of September 30, 2023, we had approximately 21,000 employees, approximately 5% of which are represented by a union pursuant to collective bargaining agreements.
As of September 30, 2024, we had approximately 19,600 employees, approximately 5% of which are represented by a union pursuant to collective bargaining agreements.
In addition, we can increase the borrowing availability under the Credit Agreement by up to $303.0 million in the form of additional commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility and/or incremental term loans plus an additional amount so long as we do not exceed a specified first lien secured leverage ratio.
In addition, we can increase the borrowing availability under the Credit Agreement by up to the greater of (1) $303.0 million and (2) 100% of Consolidated EBITDA (as defined in the Credit Agreement) for the most recently ended four consecutive fiscal quarters, in the form of additional commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility and/or incremental term loans plus an additional amount so long as we do not exceed a specified first lien secured leverage ratio.
Recent increases in interest rates have resulted in increases to the cost of servicing our debt under our Credit Agreement and Receivables Financing Agreement. For the year ended September 30, 2023, our interest expense was $97.4 million, compared to $53.3 million for the year ended September 30, 2022.
Increases in interest rates can result in increases to the cost of servicing our debt under our Credit Agreement and Receivables Financing Agreement. For the year ended September 30, 2024, our interest expense was $62.4 million, compared to $97.4 million for the year ended September 30, 2023.
If any of these claims or proceedings were to be determined adversely to us, a judgment, a fine or a settlement involving a payment of a material sum of money were to occur, or injunctive relief were issued against us, our business, financial position and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
If any of these claims or proceedings were to be determined adversely to us, a judgment, a fine or a settlement involving a payment of a material sum of money were to occur, or injunctive relief were issued against us, our business, financial position and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. 22 Table of Contents Currently, we carry a broad range of insurance for the protection of our assets and operations.
Our business and growth strategies benefit from customers and prospective customers continuing to outsource services. Customers will outsource if they perceive that outsourcing may provide quality services at a lower overall cost and permit them to focus on their core business activities.
Our business and growth strategies benefit from customers and prospective customers continuing to outsource services. Customers will outsource if they perceive that outsourcing may provide quality services at a lower overall cost and permit them to focus on their core business activities. We cannot be certain that customers that have outsourced functions will not decide to perform these functions themselves.
We face risks related to heightened inflation, geopolitical conflicts, recession, financial market disruptions and other economic conditions. Customer and consumer demand for our services may be impacted by weak economic conditions, recession, equity market volatility or other negative economic factors in the U.S. or other nations.
Customer and consumer demand for our services may be impacted by weak economic conditions, heightened inflation, equity market volatility or other negative economic factors in the U.S. or other nations.
While inflation and supply chain pressures have eased in recent months, further increases in, or sustained elevation of, inflation rates or disruptions to our supply chain will adversely affect our financial performance.
Further increases in, or sustained elevation of, inflation rates or disruptions to our supply chain will adversely affect our financial performance.
The loss of, or a substantial decrease in the availability of, supplies and products from our suppliers or the loss of key supplier arrangements could adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
The loss of, or a substantial decrease in the availability of, supplies and products from our suppliers or the loss of key supplier arrangements could adversely impact our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, global health emergencies and other external events could adversely affect our business.
Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock Future sales, or the perception of future sales, of equity securities by us or our affiliates, could cause the market price for our common stock to decline. Our employees, directors, officers and affiliates, including KKR BrightView Aggregator L.P.
Risks Related to Ownership of Our Common Stock Future sales, or the perception of future sales, of equity securities by us or our affiliates, could cause the market price for our common stock to decline.
General Risk Factors Natural disasters, terrorist attacks and other external events could adversely affect our business. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks and other adverse external events could materially damage our facilities or disrupt our operations, or damage the facilities or disrupt the operations of our customers or suppliers.
Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, global health emergencies and other adverse external events could materially damage our facilities or disrupt our operations, or damage the facilities or disrupt the operations of our customers or suppliers.
However, use of E-Verify does not guarantee that we will successfully identify all applicants who are ineligible for employment. Although we use E-Verify and require all new employees to provide us with government-specified documentation evidencing their employment eligibility, some of our employees may, without our knowledge, be unauthorized workers.
Although we use E-Verify and require all new employees to provide us with government-specified documentation evidencing their employment eligibility, some of our employees may, without our knowledge, be unauthorized workers.
If interest rates continue to increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed will remain the same, our ability to refinance some or all of our existing indebtedness may be impacted and our net income and cash flows, including cash available for servicing our indebtedness, will correspondingly decrease. 24 Table of Contents We utilize derivative financial instruments to reduce our exposure to market risks from changes in interest rates on our variable rate indebtedness and we will be exposed to risks related to counterparty credit worthiness or non-performance of these instruments.
If interest rates continue to increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness will increase even though the amount borrowed will remain 24 Table of Contents the same, our ability to refinance some or all of our existing indebtedness may be impacted and our net income and cash flows, including cash available for servicing our indebtedness, will correspondingly decrease.
The holders of Series A Preferred Stock may have different interests from the holders of our common stock and could vote their shares in a manner deemed adverse to the holders of our common stock. Future issuances of preferred stock or the future designation of additional series of preferred stock could also adversely affect holders of our common stock.
The holders of Series A Preferred Stock may have different interests to those of the holders of our common stock and could vote their shares in a manner deemed adverse to the holders of our common stock.
The process of integrating an acquired business may create unforeseen difficulties and expenses, including the diversion of management’s attention or resources away from our operations; the inability to retain employees, customers and suppliers; difficulties implementing our strategy at the acquired business; the assumption of actual or contingent liabilities (including those relating to the environment); failure to effectively and timely adopt and adhere to our internal control processes, accounting systems and other policies; write-offs or impairment charges relating to goodwill and other intangible assets; unanticipated liabilities relating to acquired businesses; and potential expenses associated with litigation with sellers of such businesses.
The process of integrating an acquired business may create unforeseen difficulties and expenses, including the diversion of management’s attention or resources away from our operations; the inability to retain employees, customers and suppliers; difficulties implementing our strategy at the acquired business; the assumption of actual or contingent liabilities (including those relating to the environment); failure to effectively and timely adopt and adhere to our internal control processes, accounting systems and other policies; write-offs or impairment charges relating to goodwill and other intangible assets; unanticipated liabilities relating to acquired businesses; and potential expenses associated with litigation with sellers of such businesses. 18 Table of Contents If management is not able to effectively manage the integration process, or if any significant business activities are interrupted as a result of the integration process, we may not be able to realize anticipated benefits and revenue opportunities resulting from acquisitions and our business could suffer.
In addition, with anti-ESG sentiment gaining momentum in some of our markets, we could experience reduced revenue and reputational harm if we are targeted by groups or influential individuals who disagree with our public positions on social or environmental issues.
In addition, with anti-ESG sentiment present in some of our markets, we could experience reduced revenue and reputational harm if we are targeted by groups or influential individuals who disagree with our public positions on social or environmental issues. We may be unable to satisfactorily meet evolving standards, regulations and disclosure requirements related to ESG.
In connection with our acquisitions, we generally require that key management and former principals of the businesses we acquire enter into non-competition agreements in our favor. Enforceability of these non-competition agreements varies from state to state, and may depend on the relevant facts and circumstances.
In connection with our acquisitions, we generally require that key management and former principals of the businesses we acquire enter into non-competition agreements in our favor.
The severity and length of time that a downturn in economic and financial market conditions may persist, as well as the timing, strength and sustainability of any recovery from such downturn, are unknown and are beyond our control. For example, the U.S. experienced significantly heightened inflationary pressures in 2022, which have continued into 2023.
The severity and length of time that a downturn in economic and financial market conditions may persist, as well as the timing, strength and sustainability of any recovery from such downturn, are unknown and are beyond our control.
Such matters can affect the willingness or ability of investors to make an investment in our Company, as well as our ability to meet regulatory requirements, including proposed rules related to greenhouse gas emissions.
Furthermore, there continues to be a lack of consistent proposed climate change and ESG-related legislation, which creates regulatory and economic uncertainty. Such matters can affect the willingness or ability of investors to make an investment in our Company, as well as our ability to meet regulatory requirements, including proposed rules related to greenhouse gas emissions.
Such changes may impede our ability to provide services or make it difficult for us to anticipate customer demand. The uncertainties caused by weather conditions could negatively impact our ability to execute on our business strategy, which in turn could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
The uncertainties caused by weather conditions could negatively impact our ability to execute on our business strategy, which in turn could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
In the future, if we identify a control deficiency that rises to the level of a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting, this material weakness may adversely affect our ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information timely and accurately.
Our independent registered public accounting firm is also required to issue an attestation report on effectiveness of our internal controls in each annual report on Form 10-K. 30 Table of Contents In the future, if we identify a control deficiency that rises to the level of a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting, this material weakness may adversely affect our ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information timely and accurately.
As of September 30, 2023, these stockholders held approximately 51,757,843 shares of our common stock and 500,000 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock, which represents, in the aggregate, approximately 71.6% of the combined voting power of our outstanding shares of preferred stock and common stock.
As of September 30, 2024, the Affiliated Investors held approximately 33,133,123 shares of our common stock and 500,000 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock, which represents, in the aggregate, approximately 58.7% of the combined voting power of our outstanding shares of preferred stock and common stock.
Droughts could cause shortage in the water supply and governments may impose limitations on water usage, which may change customer demand for landscape maintenance and irrigation services.
Droughts could cause shortages in the water supply and governments may impose limitations on water usage, which may change customer demand for landscape maintenance and irrigation services. There is a risk that demand for our services will change in ways that we are unable to predict.
Our employment and working capital needs generally correspond with the increased demand for our services in the spring and summer months and employment levels and operating costs are generally at their highest during such months. Consequently, our results of operations and financial position can vary from year-to-year, as well as from quarter-to-quarter.
Due to the seasonal nature of the services we provide, we also experience seasonality in our employment and working capital needs. Our employment and working capital needs generally correspond with the increased demand for our services in the spring and summer months and employment levels and operating costs are generally at their highest during such months.
In addition, we may incur certain costs as we pursue our growth, operational and management initiatives, and we may not meet anticipated implementation timetables or stay within budgeted costs.
In addition, we may incur certain costs as we pursue our growth, operational and management initiatives, and we may not meet anticipated implementation timetables or stay within budgeted costs. As these initiatives are undertaken, we may not fully achieve our expected efficiency improvements or growth rates, or these initiatives could adversely impact our customer retention, supplier relationships or operations.
If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the related risks that we now face could intensify. 25 Table of Contents If the financial institutions that are part of the syndicate of our Revolving Credit Facility fail to extend credit under our facility or reduce the borrowing base under our Revolving Credit Facility, our liquidity and results of operations may be adversely affected.
If the financial institutions that are part of the syndicate of our Revolving Credit Facility fail to extend credit under our facility or reduce the borrowing base under our Revolving Credit Facility, our liquidity and results of operations may be adversely affected. We have access to capital through our Revolving Credit Facility, which is governed by the Credit Agreement.
The amount of these required contributions may be material. 20 Table of Contents Our business could be adversely affected by a failure to properly verify the employment eligibility of our employees. We use the U.S. government’s “E-Verify” program to verify employment eligibility for all new employees throughout our company.
Our business could be adversely affected by a failure to properly verify the employment eligibility of our employees. We use the U.S. government’s “E-Verify” program to verify employment eligibility for all new employees throughout our company. However, use of E-Verify does not guarantee that we will successfully identify all applicants who are ineligible for employment.
Any inability by us to negotiate collective bargaining arrangements could result in strikes or other work stoppages disrupting our operations, and new union contracts could increase operating and labor costs. If these labor organizing activities were successful, it could further increase labor costs, decrease operating efficiency and productivity in the future, or otherwise disrupt or negatively impact our operations.
Any inability by us to negotiate collective bargaining arrangements could result in strikes or other work stoppages disrupting 20 Table of Contents our operations, and new union contracts could increase operating and labor costs.
In our Development Services segment, we typically experience lower activity levels during the winter months. Such seasonality causes our results of operations to vary from quarter to quarter. Due to the seasonal nature of the services we provide, we also experience seasonality in our employment and working capital needs.
The lower level of activity in seasonal markets during our first and second fiscal quarters is partially offset by revenue from our snow removal services. In our Development Services segment, we typically experience lower activity levels during the winter months. Such seasonality causes our results of operations to vary from quarter to quarter.
If we are unable to successfully integrate the new Chief Executive Officer into our leadership team, our operations and financial conditions may be adversely affected. The failure to retain our executive officers and other key personnel or a failure to provide adequate succession plans could have an adverse impact.
Since the beginning of calendar year 2022, we have hired a new Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, among other leadership changes. The failure to retain our executive officers and other key personnel or a failure to provide adequate succession plans could have an adverse impact.
There is a risk that demand for our services will change in ways that we are unable to predict. 18 Table of Contents Climate change may increase in the frequency, duration and severity of extreme weather events and make weather patterns change or more difficult to predict.
Climate change may increase in the frequency, duration and severity of extreme weather events and make weather patterns change or more difficult to predict. Such changes may impede our ability to provide services or make it difficult for us to anticipate customer demand.
The regions that we service averaged 2,208.9 inches of annual snowfall in calendar year 2022, 2,600.0 inches of annual snowfall in calendar year 2021, and 3,020.4 inches of annual snowfall in calendar year 2020. In the past ten- and thirty-year periods, the regions that we service have averaged 2,889.6 inches and 2,971.4 inches of annual snowfall, respectively .
The regions that we service averaged 1,695 inches of annual snowfall in calendar year 2023, 1,913 inches of annual snowfall in calendar year 2023, and 2,049 inches of annual snowfall in calendar year 2022. In the past ten-, fifteen- and thirty-year periods, the regions that we service have averaged 2,456 inches, 2,702 inches, and 2,687 inches of annual snowfall, respectively.
(“KKR”) and Birch-OR Equity Holdings, LLC and Birch Equity Holdings, LP (together, “One Rock” and, collectively with KKR, the “Affiliated Investors”), hold substantial amounts of shares of our common stock and all of our outstanding Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”), which is convertible into shares of our common stock.
Our employees, directors, officers and affiliates, including KKR and One Rock, hold substantial amounts of shares of our common stock and all of our outstanding Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Preferred Stock”), which is convertible into shares of our common stock.
Since then, our common stock has been relatively thinly traded and at times been subject to price volatility. Recently, from October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023, the closing price of our common stock on the New York Stock Exchange ranged from $5.17 to $9.17 per share.
Our common stock has traded on the New York Stock Exchange, under the symbol “BV,” since June 2018. Since then, our common stock has been relatively thinly traded and at times been subject to price volatility.
Our stock price may change significantly, and you may not be able to resell shares of our common stock at or above the price you paid or at all, and you could lose all or part of your investment as a result. Our common stock has traded on the New York Stock Exchange, under the symbol “BV,” since June 2018.
Any failure, or perceived failure, to meet evolving regulations and industry standards could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, or stock price. 29 Table of Contents Our stock price may change significantly, and you may not be able to resell shares of our common stock at or above the price you paid or at all, and you could lose all or part of your investment as a result.