Biggest changeInternational commerce and our international operations are subject to many risks, some of which are discussed in more detail below, including: • recessions in foreign economies; • the adoption and expansion of trade restrictions or the occurrence of trade wars; • limitations on repatriation of earnings; • difficulties in protecting our intellectual property or enforcing our intellectual property rights under the laws of other countries; • longer receivables collection periods and greater difficulty in collecting accounts receivable; • difficulties in managing foreign operations; • social, political and economic instability; • restrictions on travel to and from international locations; • political tensions between the U.S. and foreign countries; • compliance with, changes in or adoption of current, new or expanded regulatory requirements, particularly in the areas of wearable technology and data privacy; • our ability to finance foreign operations; • tariffs and other trade barriers; 22 Table of Contents • U.S. government licensing requirements for exports; and • the continuing impact of COVID-19, including any “shelter in place” or other similar mandated or suggested isolation protocols, which have disrupted, and could continue to disrupt, our retail locations and wholesale customers’ stores, as a result of store closures or reduced operating hours and decreased retail traffic.
Biggest changeInternational commerce and our international operations are subject to many risks, some of which are discussed in more detail, including: • recessions in foreign economies; • political instability or uncertainty, including as a result of elections, economic instability, geopolitical events and tensions, wars and military conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas war and tensions between China and Taiwan; • the adoption and expansion of trade restrictions or the occurrence of trade wars; • limitations on repatriation of earnings; • difficulties in protecting our intellectual property or enforcing our intellectual property rights under the laws of other countries; • longer receivables collection periods and greater difficulty in collecting accounts receivable; • difficulties in managing foreign operations; • social, political and economic instability; • restrictions on travel to and from international locations; • political tensions between the U.S. and foreign countries; • compliance with, changes in or adoption of current, new or expanded regulatory requirements; • our ability to finance foreign operations; • tariffs and other trade barriers; • U.S. government licensing requirements for exports; and • the impact of a pandemic.
Any interruption or delay in the supply of any of these components could significantly harm our ability to meet scheduled product deliveries to our customers and cause us to lose sales. Interruptions or delays in supply may be caused by a number of factors that are outside of our and our contract or manufacturers' control.
Any interruption or delay in the supply of any of these components could significantly harm our ability to meet scheduled product deliveries to our customers and cause us to lose sales. Interruptions or delays in supply may be caused by a number of factors that are outside of our and our contract manufacturers' control.
In addition, restrictions on travel to and from this and other regions, such as the travel restrictions that have occurred with COVID-19, and any delays or cancellations of customer orders or the manufacture or shipment of our products, including on account of the COVID-19 pandemic or other health crises, could have a material adverse effect on our ability to meet customer deadlines and timely distribute our products in order to match consumer expectations.
In addition, restrictions on travel to and from this and other regions, such as the travel restrictions that occurred with COVID-19, and any delays or cancellations of customer orders or the manufacture or shipment of our products, including on account of a pandemic or other health crises, could have a material adverse effect on our ability to meet customer deadlines and timely distribute our products in order to match consumer expectations.
These tariffs, imposed via four successive “Lists” were the result of an April 2018 determination by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative that China’s acts, practices, and policies with respect to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation are unreasonable or discriminatory and burden or restrict U.S. commerce.
These tariffs, imposed via four successive “Lists” were the result of an April 2018 determination by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (“USTR”) that China’s acts, practices, and policies with respect to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation are unreasonable or discriminatory and burden or restrict U.S. commerce.
If our supply of certain components is disrupted, our lead times are extended or the cost of our components increases, our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially affected. Seasonality of our business may adversely affect our net sales and operating income.
If our supply of certain components is disrupted, our lead times are extended or the cost of our components increases, our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially affected. Seasonality of our business may adversely affect our net sales, operating income and liquidity.
We have been, are and may in the future be subject to legal proceedings involving claims of alleged infringement of the intellectual property rights of third parties by us and our customers in connection with their marketing and sale of our products.
We have been, are and may in the future be subject to legal proceedings involving claims of alleged infringement of the intellectual property rights of third parties by us and our customers in connection with the marketing and sale of our products.
For example, our products imported to the United States are subject to U.S. customs duties, and in the ordinary course of our business, we may from time to time be subject to claims by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for duties and other charges.
For example, our products imported for distribution in the United States are subject to U.S. customs duties, and in the ordinary course of our business, we may from time to time be subject to claims by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for duties and other charges.
We sell products under certain licensed brands, including, but not limited to, ARMANI EXCHANGE, DIESEL, DKNY, EMPORIO ARMANI, KATE SPADE NEW YORK, MICHAEL KORS, PUMA and TORY BURCH.
We sell products under certain licensed brands, including, but not limited to, ARMANI EXCHANGE, DIESEL, DKNY, EMPORIO ARMANI, KATE SPADE NEW YORK, MICHAEL KORS, and TORY BURCH.
If the factories in China are disrupted for any reason, we would need to arrange for the manufacture and shipment of products by alternative sources.
If these factories in China are disrupted for any reason, we would need to arrange for the manufacture and shipment of products by alternative sources.
If we are unable to achieve the minimum net sales thresholds, minimum marketing spend, restrictive covenants and/or other obligations of a license in the future, we would need to seek a waiver of the non-compliance from the applicable licensor or amend the agreement to modify the thresholds, covenants or obligations or face the possibility that the licensor could terminate the license agreement before its expiration date.
If we are unable to achieve the minimum net sales thresholds, minimum marketing spend, restrictive covenants and/or other obligations of a license, we would need to seek a waiver of the non-compliance from the applicable licensor or amend the agreement to modify the thresholds, covenants or obligations or face the possibility that the licensor could terminate the license agreement before its expiration date.
Our operations internationally are conducted from various administrative, distribution and assembly facilities outside of the U.S., particularly in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Switzerland and Vietnam. The complete or temporary loss of use of all or part of these facilities could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our operations internationally are conducted from various administrative, distribution and assembly facilities outside of the U.S., particularly in China, Germany, Hong Kong, India and Switzerland. The complete or temporary loss of use of all or part of these facilities could have a material adverse effect on our business.
For example, our license agreement with MICHAEL KORS provides the licensor with a right to terminate some or all of the licensing rights if we fail to meet certain net sales thresholds for two consecutive years. For fiscal year 2021, we met net sales thresholds for MICHAEL KORS.
For example, our license agreement with MICHAEL KORS provides the licensor with a right to terminate some or all of the licensing rights if we fail to meet certain net sales thresholds for two consecutive years. For fiscal year 2023, we met the net sales thresholds for MICHAEL KORS.
Our quarterly results of operations have fluctuated in the past and may continue to fluctuate as a result of a number of factors, including seasonal cycles, timing of new product introductions, timing of orders by our customers and mix of product sales demand. Our business is seasonal by nature.
Our quarterly results of operations have fluctuated in the past and will continue to fluctuate as a result of a number of factors, including seasonal cycles, timing of new product introductions, timing of orders by our customers and mix of product sales demand. Our business is seasonal by nature.
Further, controls can be circumvented by individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more persons, or by management override of the controls.
Further, controls can be circumvented by individual acts, by collusion of two or more persons, or by management override of the controls.
As is typical with new products, market acceptance of new designs, features, technology and products is subject to uncertainty. In addition, we generally make decisions regarding product designs and technology development several months in advance of the time when consumer acceptance can be measured.
As is typical with new products, market acceptance of new designs, features, and products is subject to uncertainty. In addition, we generally make decisions regarding product designs several months in advance of the time when consumer acceptance can be measured.
While we have not experienced any material issues with foreign governmental regulations that would impact our arrangements with our foreign manufacturing sources, we believe that this issue is of particular concern with regard to China due to the less mature nature of the Chinese market economy, the historical involvement of the Chinese government in the industry and recent trade tensions between China and the United States.
While we have not experienced any material issues with foreign governmental regulations that would impact our arrangements with our foreign manufacturing sources, we believe that this issue is of particular concern with regard to China due to the less mature nature of the Chinese 30 Table of Contents market economy, the historical involvement of the Chinese government in the industry and recent trade tensions between China and the United States.
In addition, the amount of net sales and operating income generated during our fiscal first quarter depends in part upon the actual level of retail sales during the holiday season. The seasonality of our business may adversely affect our net sales and operating income during the first and fourth quarters of our fiscal year.
In addition, the amount of net sales and operating income generated during our fiscal first quarter depends in part upon the actual level of retail sales during the previous holiday season. The seasonality of our business may adversely affect our net sales, operating income and liquidity during the first and fourth quarters of our fiscal year.
Our operations are subject to domestic and international laws and regulations in a number of areas, including, but not limited to, labor, advertising, consumer protection, real estate, product safety, e-commerce, promotions, intellectual property, tax, import and export, anti-corruption, anti-bribery, foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation, data privacy, anti- 28 Table of Contents competition, environmental, health and safety.
Our operations are subject to domestic and international laws and regulations in a number of areas, including, but not limited to, labor, advertising, consumer protection, real estate, product safety, e-commerce, promotions, intellectual property, tax, import and export, anti-corruption, anti-bribery, foreign exchange controls and cash repatriation, data privacy, anti-competition, environmental, health and safety.
Finally, smart watches, certain jewelry products, and several of our traditional watch products were subject to an additional 15% ad valorem tariff, based on the first sale export price as imported into the U.S., beginning in September 2019, a rate that was lowered to 7.5% ad valorem from February 2020 to present (“List 4A”).
Finally, smartwatches, certain jewelry products, and several of our traditional watch products were subject to an additional 15% ad valorem tariff, based on the first sale export price as imported into the U.S., beginning in September 2019, a rate that was lowered to 7.5% ad valorem from February 2020 to present (“List 4A”).
In the normal course of our business, we collect, retain, and transmit certain sensitive and confidential customer information, including credit card information, over public networks. Our customers have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information. In addition, personal information is highly regulated at the international, federal and state level.
In the normal course of our business, we collect, retain, and transmit certain sensitive and confidential customer information, including credit card information, over public networks. Our customers have a high expectation that we will adequately protect their personal information. In addition, 26 Table of Contents personal information is highly regulated at the international, federal and state level.
The loss of any of our license agreements for globally recognized fashion brand names may result in the loss of significant revenues and may adversely affect our business. 18 Table of Contents We have entered into multi-year, worldwide exclusive license agreements for the manufacture, distribution and sale of products bearing the brand names of certain globally recognized fashion brands.
The loss of any of our license agreements for globally recognized fashion brand names may result in the loss of significant revenues and may adversely affect our business. We have entered into multi-year, worldwide exclusive license agreements for the manufacture, distribution and sale of products bearing the brand names of certain globally recognized fashion brands.
Even if the U.S. further modifies these tariffs, it is always possible that our business will be impacted by retaliatory trade measures taken by China or other countries in response to existing or future tariffs, causing us to raise prices or make changes to our operations, any of which could materially harm our revenue or operating results.
Even if the U.S. further modifies these tariffs, it is always possible that new products we introduce could be impacted by the changes, or that our business will be impacted by retaliatory trade measures taken by China or other countries in response to existing or future tariffs, causing us to raise prices or make changes to our operations, any of which could materially harm our revenue or operating results.
We also use tools provided by salesforce.com, inc. in our CRM initiatives. In fiscal year 2022, we also plan to implement a new global point of sale system beginning with our European retail stores. We may experience operational problems with our information systems as a result of system failures, viruses, ransomware, computer "hackers" or other causes.
We also use tools provided by salesforce.com, inc. in our CRM initiatives. In fiscal year 2023, we began to implement a new global point of sale system beginning with our European retail stores. We may experience operational problems with our information systems as a result of system failures, viruses, ransomware, computer "hackers" or other causes.
In addition, Delaware law limits the ability of a Delaware 31 Table of Contents corporation to engage in certain business combinations with interested stockholders. Finally, Mr. Kartsotis has the ability, by virtue of his stock ownership, to influence a vote regarding a change in control.
In addition, Delaware law limits the ability of a Delaware corporation to engage in certain business combinations with interested stockholders. Finally, Mr. Kartsotis has the ability, by virtue of his stock ownership, to influence a vote regarding a change in control.
Our inability or the inability of our partners, for technological or other reasons, some of which may be beyond our or our partners' control, to enhance, develop, manufacture, distribute and monetize wearable technology products in a timely manner, or at all, in response to changing consumer preferences for wearable technology, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition or could result in our products not achieving market acceptance or becoming obsolete.
Our 14 Table of Contents inability or the inability of our partners, for technological or other reasons, some of which may be beyond our or our partners' control, to enhance, develop, manufacture, distribute and monetize products in a timely manner, or at all, in response to changing consumer preferences could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition or could result in our products not achieving market acceptance or becoming obsolete.
If we do not continue to develop innovative products that provide better design, technology and performance attributes than the products of our competitors and that are accepted by consumers, or if our future product lines misjudge consumer demands, we may lose consumer loyalty, which could result in a decline in our sales and market share.
If we do not continue to develop innovative products that provide better design and features than the products of our competitors and that are accepted by consumers, or if our future product lines misjudge consumer demands, we may lose consumer loyalty, which could result in a decline in our sales and market share.
In addition, the limitations imposed by financing agreements on our ability to incur additional debt might significantly impair our ability to obtain other financing.
In addition, the limitations imposed by financing agreements on our ability to incur additional debt and liens might significantly impair our ability to obtain other financing.
Uncertainty in global markets, slowing economic growth, high levels of unemployment, the impact and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, rising interest rates and eroding consumer confidence can negatively impact the level of consumer spending for discretionary items. This can affect our business as it is dependent on consumer demand for our products.
Uncertainty in global markets, slowing economic growth, high levels of unemployment, a pandemic, inflation, rising interest rates and eroding consumer confidence can negatively impact the level of consumer spending for discretionary items. This can affect our business as it is dependent on consumer demand for our products.
These restrictions limit or prohibit our ability to, among other things: • incur additional indebtedness or issue certain types of stock; • pay dividends or make other distributions, repurchase or redeem our stock; • make certain investments; • prepay, redeem, or repurchase certain debt; • sell assets and issue capital stock of our restricted subsidiaries; • incur liens; • enter into agreements restricting our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends, make loans to other Fossil entities or restrict the ability to incur liens; • enter into transactions with affiliates; and • consolidate or merge.
These restrictions limit or prohibit our ability to, among other things: • incur additional indebtedness or issue certain types of stock; • pay dividends or make other distributions, repurchase or redeem our stock; • make certain investments; • prepay, redeem, or repurchase certain debt; • sell assets and issue capital stock of our restricted subsidiaries; • incur liens; • enter into agreements restricting our restricted subsidiaries’ ability to pay dividends, make loans to other related entities or restrict the ability to incur liens; • enter into transactions with affiliates; and 21 Table of Contents • consolidate or merge.
There continues to be a significant decrease in traffic in many of the shopping malls and retail centers in which our stores are located, which has been accelerated by the impact of COVID-19, and has resulted in a significant decrease in traffic to our stores.
There continues to be a decrease in traffic in many of the shopping malls and retail centers in which our stores are located, which was accelerated by the impact of COVID-19, and has resulted in a decrease in traffic to our stores.
If we encounter difficulties with our distribution facilities, or if any such facilities were to shut down or be limited in capacity for any reason, including as a result of fire, other natural disaster, labor disruption, or pandemic 16 Table of Contents (including as a consequence of public health directives, quarantine policies or social distancing measures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic), we could face shortages of inventory, and we could experience disruption or delay, or incur significantly higher costs and longer lead times for distributing our products to our consumers which could result in customer dissatisfaction.
If we encounter difficulties with our distribution facilities, or if any such facilities were to shut down or be limited in capacity for any reason, including as a result of fire, other natural disaster, labor disruption, cyberattack or pandemic (including as a consequence of public health directives, quarantine policies or social distancing measures resulting from a pandemic), we could face shortages of inventory, and we could experience disruption or delay, or incur significantly higher costs and longer lead times for distributing our products to our consumers which could result in customer dissatisfaction.
A significant portion of our net sales and operating income are generated during the third and fourth quarters of our fiscal year, which includes the "back to school" and holiday seasons.
A significant portion of our net sales and operating income are generated 17 Table of Contents during the third and fourth quarters of our fiscal year, which includes the "back to school" and holiday seasons.
Our significant third-party fashion brand license agreements have various expiration dates between the years 2023 and 2028.
Our significant third-party fashion brand license agreements have various expiration dates between the years 2024 and 2028.
The Senior Notes are general unsecured obligations of the Company and rank equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future senior unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness, and rank senior in right of payment to any future subordinated indebtedness.
The Senior Notes are general unsecured 22 Table of Contents obligations of the Company and rank equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future senior unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness, and rank senior in right of payment to any future subordinated indebtedness.
Substantially all of our import operations are subject to customs duties imposed by the governments where our production facilities are located on imported products, 32 Table of Contents including raw materials.
Substantially all of our import operations are subject to customs duties imposed by the governments where our production facilities are located on imported products, including raw materials.
Although we attempt to stay abreast of emerging lifestyle and fashion trends and technology advances affecting 15 Table of Contents accessories, any failure by us to identify and respond to such trends could adversely affect consumer acceptance of our existing brand names and product lines, which in turn could result in inventory valuation reserves and adversely affect sales of our products.
Although we attempt to stay abreast of emerging lifestyle and fashion trends affecting accessories, any failure by us to identify and respond to such trends could adversely affect consumer acceptance of our existing brand names and product lines, which in turn could result in inventory valuation reserves and adversely affect sales of our products.
Our ability to establish new manufacturing relationships involves numerous uncertainties, including those relating to payment terms, costs of manufacturing, adequacy of manufacturing capacity, quality control and timeliness of delivery.
Our ability to establish new manufacturing relationships 18 Table of Contents involves numerous uncertainties, including those relating to payment terms, costs of manufacturing, adequacy of manufacturing capacity, quality control and timeliness of delivery.
We cannot assure you that we will be granted waivers or amendments to these agreements if for any reason we are unable to comply with these agreements or that we will be able to refinance our debt on terms acceptable to us, or at all.
We cannot know for certain that we will be granted waivers or amendments to these agreements if for any reason we are unable to comply with these agreements or that we will be able to refinance our debt on terms acceptable to us, or at all.
Financial Risks Changes in the mix of product sales demand could negatively impact our gross profit margins.
Changes in the mix of product sales demand could negatively impact our gross profit margins.
Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of the raw materials used in our products could have a material adverse effect on our cost of sales or ability to meet our customers' demand.
Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of raw materials could cause delays and increase costs. Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of the raw materials used in our products could have a material adverse effect on our cost of sales or ability to meet our customers' demand.
Any of these issues could have an adverse effect on our business and harm our reputation. We regularly develop new products, features and technology, and new products introduced by us may not achieve consumer acceptance comparable to that of our existing product lines. We regularly update our product offerings, particularly in the wearable technology space.
Any of these issues could have an adverse effect on our business and harm our reputation. We regularly develop new products and features, and new products introduced by us may not achieve consumer acceptance comparable to that of our existing product lines. We regularly update our product offerings.
This could in turn negatively affect our ability to access public debt or equity markets for capital. Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments None.
This could in turn negatively affect our ability to access public debt or equity markets for capital. Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments None. 31 Table of Contents
Risks Related to our Indebtedness Our debt agreements subject us to certain covenants, which may restrict our ability to operate our business and to pursue our business strategies.
Our debt agreements subject us to certain covenants, which may restrict our ability to operate our business and to pursue our business strategies.
In addition, an event of default under the Revolving Facility would permit the lenders to terminate all commitments to extend further credit under the Revolving Facility. Furthermore, the Revolving Facility is secured by liens on our assets.
In addition, an event of default under the Revolving Facility would permit the lenders to terminate all commitments to extend further credit under the Revolving Facility and to accelerate the maturity of all outstanding loans under the Revolving Facility. Furthermore, the Revolving Facility is secured by liens on our assets.
The Revolving Facility also requires us to maintain specified financial ratios and satisfy other financial condition tests in certain circumstances. The Revolving Facility contains a fixed charge coverage ratio covenant if our Availability (as defined in the Revolving Facility) falls below a certain threshold. See Item 7.
The Revolving Facility also requires us to maintain a specified financial ratio in certain circumstances. The Revolving Facility contains a fixed charge coverage ratio covenant if our Availability (as defined in the Revolving Facility) falls below a certain threshold. See Item 7.
This could intensify already-existing risks related to our indebtedness. The terms of the Revolving Facility contain restrictions on our ability to incur additional indebtedness. However, these restrictions are subject to a number of important qualifications and exceptions, and the indebtedness incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial.
The terms of the Revolving Facility contain restrictions on our ability to incur additional indebtedness. However, these restrictions are subject to a number of important qualifications and exceptions, and the indebtedness incurred in compliance with these restrictions could be substantial.
Product mix: traditional watch and jewelry sales typically provide gross margins in excess of historical consolidated gross profit margins, while leather goods and private label products typically provide gross margins below our historical consolidated gross profit margins. In addition, sales of our wearable technology products have produced gross profit margins below our historical consolidated gross profit margins.
Product mix: traditional watch and jewelry sales typically provide gross margins in excess of historical consolidated gross profit margins, while leather goods and private label products typically provide gross margins below our historical consolidated gross profit margins.
Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as well as the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, contain provisions that may have the effect of discouraging a proposal for a takeover.
Our organizational documents contain anti-takeover provisions that could discourage a proposal for a takeover. Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as well as the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, contain provisions that may have the effect of discouraging a proposal for a takeover.
Overall, there are various factors, many of which are beyond our control, that could negatively affect the market price of our common stock or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our common stock, including: • the ongoing impacts and developments relating to the COVID-19 pandemic; 30 Table of Contents • actual or anticipated variations in our annual or quarterly results of operations, including our earnings estimates and whether we meet market expectations with regard to our earnings; • our current inability to pay dividends or other distributions; • publication of research reports by analysts or others about us or the specialty retail industry, which may be unfavorable, inaccurate, inconsistent or not disseminated on a regular basis; • changes in market valuations of similar companies; • market reaction to any additional equity, debt or other securities that we may issue in the future, and which may or may not dilute the holdings of our existing stockholders; • additions or departures of key personnel; • actions by institutional or significant stockholders; • short interest in our stock and the market response to such short interest; • a dramatic increase in the number of individual holders of our stock and their participation in social media platforms targeted at speculative investing; • speculation in the press or investment community about our company or industry; • strategic actions by us or our competitors, such as acquisitions or other investments; • legislative, administrative, regulatory or other actions affecting our business, our industry, including positions taken by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS”); • investigations, proceedings, or litigation that involve or affect us; • the occurrence of any of the other risk factors included or incorporated by reference in this prospectus; and • general market and economic conditions.
Overall, there are various factors, many of which are beyond our control, that could negatively affect the market price of our common stock or result in fluctuations in the price or trading volume of our common stock, including: • the impact of any future pandemic; • actual or anticipated variations in our annual or quarterly results of operations, including our earnings estimates and whether we meet market expectations with regard to our earnings and liquidity; • our decision not to, or our current inability to, pay dividends or other distributions; • publication of research reports by analysts or others about us or the specialty retail industry, which may be unfavorable, inaccurate, inconsistent or not disseminated on a regular basis; • changes in market valuations of similar companies; • market reaction to any additional equity, debt or other securities that we may issue in the future, and which may or may not dilute the holdings of our existing stockholders; • additions or departures of key personnel; • actions by activist and institutional or significant stockholders; • short interest in our stock and the market response to such short interest; • a dramatic increase in the number of individual holders of our stock and their participation in social media platforms targeted at speculative investing; • speculation in the press or investment community about our company or industry; • financial results reported by certain of our significant public licensing partners; • strategic actions by us or our competitors, such as acquisitions or other investments; • legislative, administrative, regulatory or other actions affecting our business, our industry, including positions taken by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS”); 29 Table of Contents • investigations, proceedings, or litigation that involve or affect us; • general market and economic conditions; • a downgrade in our debt ratings; and • the other risks identified herein.
This level of indebtedness could have important consequences, including the following: • it requires us to use a meaningful percentage of our cash flow from operations for debt service and the repayment of our indebtedness, including indebtedness we may incur in the future, and such cash flow may not be available for other purposes; • it limits our ability to borrow money or sell stock to fund our working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and debt service requirements; • it may limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and future business opportunities; • we are more highly leveraged than some of our competitors, which may place us at a competitive disadvantage; • it may make us more vulnerable to a downturn in our business or the economy; • it may increase our cost of borrowing; • debt service requirements could make it more difficult for us to make payments on our other indebtedness; and • there would be a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition if we were unable to service our indebtedness or obtain additional financing as needed.
Our level of indebtedness could have other important consequences, including the following: • it limits our ability to borrow money or sell stock to fund our working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and debt service requirements; • it may limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and future business opportunities; • we are more highly leveraged than some of our competitors, which may place us at a competitive disadvantage; • it may make us more vulnerable to a downturn in our business or the economy; • it may increase our cost of borrowing and; • there would be a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition if we were unable to service our indebtedness or obtain additional financing as needed.
Competition for qualified personnel in the fashion industry is intense. Our ability to attract and retain employees, especially in the competitive market for employees with digital experience, is influenced by our ability to offer competitive compensation and benefits, employee morale, our reputation, recruitment by other employers, perceived internal opportunities, non-competition and non-solicitation agreements and macro unemployment rates.
Our ability to attract and retain employees, especially in the competitive market for employees with digital experience, is influenced by our ability to offer competitive compensation and benefits, employee morale, our reputation, recruitment by othe r employers, perceived internal opportunities, non-competition and non-solicitation agreements and macro unemployment rates.
If we are unable to attract, develop, motivate and retain talented employees with the necessary skills and experience, or if changes to our organizational structure, operating results, or business model, including as a result of COVID-19, adversely affect morale, hiring and/or retention, we may not achieve our objectives and our results of operations could be adversely impacted.
If we 20 Table of Contents are unable to attract, develop, motivate and retain talented employees with the necessary skills and experience, or if changes to our organizational structure, operating results, or business model adversely affect morale, hiring and/or retention, we may not achieve our objectives and our results of operations could be adversely impacted.
However, assuming no further offsets from price increases, sourcing changes, or other changes to trade policy and regulatory rulings, all of which are currently under review, the estimated gross profit exposure from the Section 301 tariffs is approximately $8.7 million in fiscal year 2022.
However, assuming no further offsets from price increases, sourcing changes, or 27 Table of Contents other changes to trade policy and regulatory rulings, all of which are currently under review, the estimated gross profit exposure from the Section 301 tariffs is approximately $2.4 million in fiscal year 2024.
If an event of default (other than an event of default of the type described in the following sentence) occurs and is continuing with respect to the Senior Notes, the trustee may, and at the direction of the registered holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding debt securities of the Senior Notes shall, declare the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest, premium and additional amounts, if any, on the Senior Notes to be due and payable immediately.
If an event of default (other than an event of default of the type described in the following sentence) occurs and is continuing with respect to the Senior Notes, the trustee may, and at the direction of the registered holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Senior Notes shall, declare the principal of all Senior Notes, together with all accrued and unpaid interest, to be due and payable immediately.
The failure by us to maintain or renew one or more of our existing license agreements could result in a significant decrease in our sales and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
The failure by us to maintain or renew one or more of our existing license agreements could result in a significant decrease in our sales and have a material adverse effect on our results of operations. Our inability to effectively manage our retail store operations could adversely affect our results of operations.
For fiscal years 2021, 2020 and 2019, 63.5%, 66.1% and 63.0% of our consolidated net sales were generated outside of the U.S. 27 Table of Contents In general, our overall financial results are affected positively by a weaker U.S. dollar and are affected negatively by a stronger U.S. dollar as compared to the foreign currencies in which we conduct our business.
For fiscal years 2023, 2022 and 2021, 63.6%, 63.1% and 63.5% of our consolidated net sales were generated outside of the U.S. In general, our overall financial results are affected positively by a weaker U.S. dollar and are affected negatively by a stronger U.S. dollar as compared to the foreign currencies in which we conduct our business.
If we are not successful in the expansion or development of our product offerings, our new products are not profitable or do not generate sales comparable to those of our existing businesses or we are unable to achieve our digital transformation goals, our results of operations could be negatively impacted.
If we are not successful in the expansion or development of our product offerings, our new products are not profitable or do not generate sales comparable to those of our existing businesses, we are unable to achieve our digital 15 Table of Contents transformation goals or our restructuring and savings initiative does not achieve our desired results, our results of operations could be negatively impacted.
The price and availability of such raw materials may fluctuate significantly, depending on many factors, including natural resources, increased freight costs, increased labor costs, especially in China, increased component costs and weather conditions. Recent inflation rates in the U.S. and certain international markets have reached historical highs.
The price and availability of such raw materials may fluctuate significantly, depending on many factors, including natural resources, increased freight costs, increased labor costs, especially in China, increased component costs and weather conditions. Recently inflation rates in the U.S. and certain international markets reached levels not seen in decades.
Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future sources of capital under the Revolving Facility or otherwise may not be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. If we complete an acquisition, our debt service requirements could increase.
In the future, our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations and future sources of capital under the Revolving Facility or otherwise may not be available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our debt service obligations and to fund our other liquidity needs.
If trends shift away from our products, if our wearable technology becomes outdated, if we are not able to develop and introduce new products that incorporate new technologies or if we misjudge the market for our product lines, including demand for older generation technology products, we may be faced with significant amounts of unsold inventory or other conditions which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
If trends shift away from our products, if we are not able to develop and introduce new compelling products or if we misjudge the market for our product lines, we may be faced with significant amounts of unsold inventory or other conditions which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
The covenants under the Revolving Facility allow us to incur additional indebtedness from other sources in certain circumstances. On November 8, 2021, we sold $150,000,000 aggregate principal amount of our 7.00% Senior Notes due 2026 (the “Senior Notes”).
As of December 31, 2023, we had $62.1 million outstanding under the Revolving Facility. The covenants under the Revolving Facility allow us to incur additional indebtedness from other sources in certain circumstances. On November 8, 2021, we sold $150 million aggregate principal amount of our 7.00% Senior Notes due 2026 (the “Senior Notes”).
During the time that the sub-zone is shut down, we may be unable to adequately meet the supply requests of our customers and our Company-owned retail stores, which could have an adverse effect on our sales, relationships with our customers, and results of operations, especially if the shutdown were to occur during our third or fourth quarter. 20 Table of Contents Fluctuations in the price, availability and quality of raw materials could cause delays and increase costs.
During the time that the sub-zone is shut down, we may be unable to adequately meet the supply requests of our customers and our Company-owned retail stores, which could have an adverse effect on our sales, relationships with our customers, and results of operations, especially if the shutdown were to occur during our third or fourth quarter.
Failure to comply with any of the covenants in our existing or future financing agreements could result in a default under those agreements and under other agreements containing cross-default provisions. A default would permit lenders to accelerate the maturity of the debt under these agreements.
Various risks, uncertainties and events beyond our control could affect our ability to comply with any of the covenants in our existing or future financing agreements, which could result in a default under those agreements and under other agreements containing cross-default provisions. A default would permit lenders to accelerate the maturity of the debt under these agreements.
We are increasingly dependent on information systems to operate our websites, process transactions, manage inventory, monitor sales and purchase, sell and ship goods on a timely basis.
Any material disruption of our information systems could disrupt our business and reduce our sales. We are increasingly dependent on information systems to operate our websites, process transactions, manage inventory, monitor sales and purchase, sell and ship goods on a timely basis.
The failure of new product designs, technology or next generation wearable products or new product lines to gain market acceptance could also adversely affect our business and the image of our brands. Achieving market acceptance for new products or technology may also require substantial marketing efforts and expenditures to generate consumer demand.
The failure of new product designs or new product lines to gain market acceptance could also adversely affect our business and the image of our brands. Achieving market acceptance for new products may also require substantial marketing efforts and expenditures to generate consumer demand. These requirements could strain our management, financial and operational resources.
A disruption in the flow of our imported merchandise from China or a material increase in the cost of those goods or transportation without any offsetting price increases may significantly decrease our profits.
While our transit times and shipping costs have improved, any future disruption in the flow of our imported merchandise from China or a material increase in the cost of those goods or transportation without any offsetting price increases may significantly decrease our profits.
If an event of default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Company occurs, the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest, and premium, if any, on the Senior Notes will become immediately due and payable without any action on the part of the trustee or any holder of the Senior Notes.
If an event of default relating to certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Company occurs, the principal of all Senior Notes, together with all accrued and unpaid interest, will become due and payable immediately without further action or notice by the trustee or any holder of the Senior Notes.
The success of our business also depends on our ability to continue to develop and maintain a reliable digital experience for our customers. We strive to give our customers a seamless omni-channel experience both in stores and through digital technologies, such as computers, mobile phones, tablets, and other devices.
The success of our business also depends on our ability to continue to develop and maintain a reliable digital experience for our customers. We strive to give our customers a seamless omni-channel experience both in stores and online across devices.
A portion of our cash flow will be required to pay interest and principal on our outstanding indebtedness, and we may be unable to generate sufficient cash flow from operations, or have future borrowings available under our Revolving Facility, to enable us to repay our indebtedness or to fund other liquidity needs.
A portion of our cash flow will be required to pay interest and principal on our outstanding indebtedness, and we may be unable to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or borrow additional funds under our Revolving Facility or otherwise, to enable us to meet our debt service obligations and fund our other liquidity needs.
The intense competition and greater size and resources of some of our competitors could have a material adverse effect on the amount of net sales we generate and on our results of operations.
The intense competition and greater size and resources of some of our competitors could have a material adverse effect on the amount of net sales we generate and on our results of operations. We face competition from traditional accessory competitors as well as competitors in the wearable technology category.
Increased competition from online only retailers and a highly promotional retail environment may increase pressure on our margins. The continued increase in e-commerce competitors for retail sales and slowing mall traffic has resulted in significant pricing pressure and a highly promotional retail environment, which has been heightened by the impact of COVID-19.
The continued increase in e-commerce competitors for retail sales and slowing mall traffic has resulted in significant pricing pressure and a highly promotional retail environment, which was heightened by the impact of COVID-19.
We face competition from traditional competitors as well as new competitors in the wearable technology category. 21 Table of Contents There is intense competition in each of the businesses in which we compete. In all of our businesses, we compete with numerous manufacturers, importers and distributors who may have significantly greater financial, distribution, advertising and marketing resources than us.
There is intense competition in each of the businesses in which we compete. In all of our businesses, we compete with numerous manufacturers, importers and distributors who may have significantly greater financial, distribution, advertising and marketing resources than us.
We also operate FOSSIL brand stores and other watch stores globally to further strengthen our brand image. As of January 1, 2022, we operated 370 stores worldwide.
We also operate FOSSIL brand stores and other watch stores globally to further strengthen our brand image. As of December 30, 2023, we operated 302 stores worldwide.
Further, if it became necessary for us to resort to litigation to protect our intellectual property rights, any proceedings could be burdensome and costly and we may not prevail.
Further, if it became necessary for us to resort to litigation to protect our intellectual property rights, any proceedings could be burdensome and costly and we may not prevail. The failure to obtain or maintain trademark, patent or other intellectual property rights could materially harm our business.
COVID-19 Pandemic Risks The COVID-19 pandemic has had, and may continue to have, a material adverse impact on our business, operations, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.
Pandemic and Public Health Risks A pandemic has had in the past, and may have in the future, a material adverse impact on our business, operations, liquidity, financial condition and results of operations.
We and our contract manufacturers currently purchase a number of key components used to manufacture our products from limited sources of supply for which alternative sources may not be readily available.
Certain key components in our products come from limited sources of supply, which exposes us to potential supply shortages that could disrupt the manufacture and sale of our products. We and our contract manufacturers currently purchase a number of key components used to manufacture our products from limited sources of supply for which alternative sources may not be readily available.
We may not be able to consummate these asset sales to raise capital or sell assets at prices and on terms that we believe are fair, and any proceeds that we do receive may not be adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due.
We may not be able to consummate asset sales or other transactions at prices and on terms that we believe are commercially reasonable, or at all, and any proceeds that we do receive may not be available for, or adequate to meet, any debt service obligations then due.
The loss of key senior management personnel or our failure to attract and retain qualified personnel could negatively affect our business. We depend on our senior management and other key personnel, particularly Kosta N. Kartsotis, our Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chairman. We do not have "key person" life insurance policies for any of our personnel.
The loss of key senior management personnel or our failure to attract and retain qualified personnel could negatively affect our business. We depend on our senior management and other key personnel. We do not have "key person" life insurance policies for any of our personnel. Competition for qualified personnel in the fashion industry is intense.
The base and first supplemental indentures governing the Senior Notes (collectively, the “Indenture”) contain customary events of default and cure provisions.
The base indenture and first supplemental indenture that govern the Senior Notes contain customary events of default and cure provisions.
For example, due to a generally weaker U.S. dollar in fiscal year 2021, the translation of foreign-based net sales into U.S. dollars increased our reported net sales by approximately $33.4 million compared to fiscal year 2020.
For example, due to a stronger U.S. dollar in fiscal year 2023, the translation of foreign-based net sales into U.S. dollars decreased our reported net sales by approximately $2.1 million compared to fiscal year 2022.