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-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE-----
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Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR
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Originator-Name: [email protected]
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Originator-Key-Asymmetric:
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TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB
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MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA,
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SPSVqoJ0Ia5Vw/yGt+oOudnFhvYAMrp1f+vOQnvrcIB2X8TJvwKkpfUoTZsV1ydp
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4LsOsAcTKUIjY+F4s1iu3w==
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<SEC-DOCUMENT>0000897101-00-000300.txt : 20000411
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<SEC-HEADER>0000897101-00-000300.hdr.sgml : 20000411
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ACCESSION NUMBER: 0000897101-00-000300
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CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 10-K
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PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 9
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CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 19991231
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FILED AS OF DATE: 20000329
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FILER:
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COMPANY DATA:
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COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: CNS INC /DE/
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CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000814258
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STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: ELECTROMEDICAL & ELECTROTHERAPEUTIC APPARATUS [3845]
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IRS NUMBER: 411580270
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STATE OF INCORPORATION: DE
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FISCAL YEAR END: 1231
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FILING VALUES:
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FORM TYPE: 10-K
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SEC ACT:
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SEC FILE NUMBER: 000-16612
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FILM NUMBER: 583875
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BUSINESS ADDRESS:
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STREET 1: PO BOX 39802
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CITY: MINNEAPOLIS
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STATE: MN
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ZIP: 55439
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BUSINESS PHONE: 6128206696
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MAIL ADDRESS:
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STREET 1: PO BOX 39802
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STREET 2: PO BOX 39802
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CITY: MINNEAPOLIS
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STATE: MN
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ZIP: 55439
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</SEC-HEADER>
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<DOCUMENT>
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<TYPE>10-K
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<SEQUENCE>1
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<TEXT>
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<HTML>
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<head>
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<TITLE>Prepared by American Financial Printing, Inc. www.afpi.com</TITLE>
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</head>
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<body>
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<center>
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<b><FONT Size="2">UNITED STATES<BR>
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION<BR>
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Washington, D.C. 20549</b></FONT>
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<p><font size="4"><b>FORM 10-K</b></font></p>
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</center>
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<p><font size="1">(MARK ONE)</font></p>
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<center>
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<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="10" width="60%">
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<tr>
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<td width="10%" valign="top"><P ALIGN="RIGHT">
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<b><FONT Size="2">[X]</FONT></b></P>
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</td>
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<td width="90%" valign="top"><P ALIGN="LEFT">
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<b><FONT Size="2">ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
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EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934</b></P></FONT>
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</td>
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</tr>
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</TABLE></CENTER>
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<p><CENTER><FONT Size="2">For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1999</FONT></CENTER></p>
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<p><CENTER><B><FONT Size="2">OR</FONT></B></CENTER></p>
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<CENTER><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="10" width="60%">
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<tr>
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<td width="10%" valign="top"><P ALIGN="RIGHT"><B><FONT Size="2">[&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;]</FONT></B></P></td>
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<td width="90%" valign="top"><P ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT Size="2"><B>TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
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SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934</B></FONT></P></td>
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</tr>
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</TABLE></CENTER>
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<P><CENTER><FONT Size="2">For the Transition period from _________ to __________</FONT></CENTER></P>
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<P><CENTER><B><FONT Size="2">COMMISSION FILE NUMBER: 0-16612</FONT></B></CENTER></P>
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<P><CENTER><FONT Size="6"><B>CNS, INC.</B></FONT><BR>
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<FONT Size="1">(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)</FONT></P>
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</CENTER>
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<CENTER><TABLE border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="90%">
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<TR>
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<TD width="40%"><CENTER><U><B><FONT Size="2">Delaware</FONT></B></U><BR><FONT Size="1">(State or other jurisdiction<BR>of incorporation or organization)</FONT></CENTER></TD>
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<TD width="20%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD width="40%"><CENTER><U><B><FONT Size="2">41-1580270</FONT></B></U><BR><FONT Size="1">(I.R.S. Employer<BR>Identification No.)</FONT></CENTER></TD>
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</TR>
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</TABLE>
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</CENTER>
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<CENTER><B><FONT Size="2">P.O. Box 39802<BR>
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Minneapolis, MN 55439</B></FONT><BR>
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<FONT Size="1">(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)</FONT></CENTER>
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<P><FONT Size="2">Registrant's telephone number, including area code: &nbsp;(612) 820-6696</FONT></P>
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<P><FONT Size="2">Securities registered pursuant to section 12(b) of the Act: &nbsp;None</FONT></P>
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<P><FONT Size="2">Securities registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the Act:</FONT></P>
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<TABLE border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="50%">
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<TR>
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<TD width="30%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD width="70%"><U><FONT Size="2">Title of each class</U><BR>
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Common Stock, par value of $.01 per share<BR>
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Preferred Stock purchase rights</TD></FONT>
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</TR>
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</TABLE>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
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Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required
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to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES <U>&nbsp;X&nbsp;</U> No<U>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U></FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein,
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and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated
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by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [&nbsp;&nbsp;]</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">As of March 15, 2000, assuming as market value the price of $5.125 per share, the closing sale price of the Company's
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Common Stock on the Nasdaq National Market, the aggregate market value of shares held by non-affiliates was
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approximately $55,000,000.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">As of March 15, 2000, the Company had outstanding 14,436,561 shares of Common Stock of $.01 par value per share.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">Documents Incorporated by Reference: Portions of the Company's Proxy Statement for its Annual Meeting of Stockholders
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to be held on May 3, 2000, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.</P></FONT>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<CENTER><U><B><FONT Size="2">TABLE OF CONTENTS</FONT></B></U></CENTER>
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<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><U><B>Page</B></U></FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A HREF="#PARTI">PART I</A></B></U></FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD WIDTH="10%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item1">Item 1.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD WIDTH="85%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item1">Business</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;3</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item2">Item 2.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item2">Properties</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">16</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item3">Item 3.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item3">Legal Proceedings</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">17</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item4">Item 4.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item4">Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">17</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A HREF="#PARTII">PART II</A></B></U></FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item5">Item 5.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item5">Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">18</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item6">Item 6.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item6">Selected Financial Data</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">19</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item7">Item 7.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item7">Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition</A><BR>
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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<A HREF="#Item7">and Results of Operations</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">20</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item7A">Item 7A.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item7A">Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">26</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item8">Item 8.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item8">Financial Statements and Supplementary Data</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">26</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item9">Item 9.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item9">Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and</A><BR>
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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<A HREF="#Item9">Financial Disclosure</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">26</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A HREF="#PARTIII">PART III</A></B></U></FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item10">Item 10.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item10">Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">27</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item11">Item 11.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item11">Executive Compensation</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">27</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item12">Item 12.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item12">Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">27</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item13">Item 13.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item13">Certain Relationships and Related Transactions</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">27</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A HREF="#PARTIV">PART IV</A></B></U></FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item14">Item 14.</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#Item14">Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and</A><BR>
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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<A HREF="#Item14">Reports on Form 8-K</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">28</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD COLSPAN="3" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#SIGNATURES">SIGNATURES</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">29</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><A HREF="#EXHIBIT_INDEX">EXHIBIT INDEX</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">31</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR>
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<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2"><A HREF="#FINANCIAL_STATEMENTS">FINANCIAL STATEMENTS</A></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">F-1</FONT></TD>
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</TR>
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</TABLE>
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<CENTER><FONT Size="2">2</FONT></CENTER>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<P><U><B><FONT Size="2">Forward-Looking Statements</FONT></B></U></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Certain statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other written and oral statements
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made from time to time by the Company do not relate strictly to historical or current facts but provide current
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expectations or forecasts of future events. As such, they are considered "forward-looking statements" under
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the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could
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cause actual results to differ materially from those presently anticipated or projected. Such forward-looking
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statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "plan," "intend,"
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"anticipate," "estimate," or "continue" or similar words or expressions. It is not possible to foresee or identify
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all factors affecting the Company's forward-looking statements and investors therefore should not consider any
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list of factors to be an exhaustive statement of all risks, uncertainties or potentially inaccurate assumptions.
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Factors that could cause actual results to differ from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements
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include, but are not limited to, the following factors: (i) the Company's revenue and profitability is reliant on
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sales of Breathe Right&reg; nasal strips; (ii) the Company's success and future growth will depend significantly
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on its ability to effectively market Breathe Right nasal strips and upon its ability to develop and achieve markets
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for additional products; (iii) the Company's competitive position will, to some extent, be dependent on the
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enforceability and comprehensiveness of its patents on the Breathe Right nasal strip technology which have
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been, and in the future may be, the subject of litigation (see Item 1, "Patents, Trademarks and Proprietary
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Rights" and Item 3, "Litigation"); (iv) the Company operates in competitive markets where recent and potential
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entrants into the nasal dilator segment pose greater competitive challenges than those faced by the Company
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in the past (see Item 1, "Competition"); (v) the Company has faced and will continue to face challenges in
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successfully developing and introducing new products and anticipates that there will be substantial costs,
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expenses and risks associated with the introduction of new products during 2000, including those associated
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with the introduction of the Company's FiberChoice<SUP>TM</SUP> chewable fiber tablets (see Item 1, "Business"); (vii) the
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Company is currently establishing its own channels of distribution for its nasal strip products in international
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markets (see Item 1, "International Distribution"), and there can be no assurance that the Company's efforts to
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develop its international distribution will be successful; and (viii) the Company is dependent upon contract
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manufacturers for the production of substantially all of its products.</P></FONT>
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<P><CENTER><B><FONT Size="2"><A NAME="PARTI">PART I</A></FONT></B></CENTER></P>
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<P><U><B><FONT Size="2"><A NAME="Item1">Item 1. BUSINESS</A></FONT></B></U></P>
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<P><B><FONT Size="2">General</FONT></B></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;CNS, Inc. (the "Company") develops and markets consumer health care products, including the Breathe
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Right&reg; nasal strip. The Breathe Right nasal strip improves breathing by reducing nasal airflow resistence. It
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can be effective in providing temporary relief for nasal congestion, reducing snoring and reducing breathing
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difficulties due to a deviated nasal septum. The Company has recently announced its expansion of the Breathe
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Right product line to include nasal strips for colds with Vicks&reg; mentholated vapors that are sized for the entire
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family, and nasal strips for children that will be available in multiple colors and designs. Both are expected to
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be on retail shelves during the fall 2000 cough/cold season.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In the third quarter of 1999, the Company introduced a product for race horses called the FLAIR<SUP>TM</SUP>
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equine nasal strip. Invented by two veterinarians, the FLAIR equine nasal strip is a patented, drug-free product
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that enables horses to breathe more easily during strenuous exercise. The Company plans to introduce its new
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FiberChoice<SUP>TM</SUP> chewable fiber tablets in 2000. The FiberChoice product is a flavored, chewable fiber tablet that
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offers consumers an effective, convenient and good-tasting way to supplement their daily intake of dietary fiber.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to expanding the Breathe Right brand and introducing other new products, the Company is
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exploring possibilities for acquiring new consumer health care products or companies that have established
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consumer brands. The Company is also considering opportunities for licensing new products and technologies.</P></FONT>
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<CENTER><FONT Size="2">3</FONT></CENTER>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<P><B><FONT Size="2">Management</FONT></B></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During 1998, the Company added to its management team several executive officers with a diverse body
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of consumer packaged goods experience. See Item 1, "Executive Officers of the Company." The Company also
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reorganized its management structure into strategic business teams in order to expand the platform for building
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the Breathe Right brand and develop and launch new products: Breathe Right Brand Team; FiberChoice Team;
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FLAIR Team; International Team; and Business Development Team. The Company believes that its team focus
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enables the Company to more effectively implement its business strategies and position itself to become a large,
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multi-product consumer products company with a significant international presence.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Breathe Right Brand Team.</I></B> The Company's Breathe Right Brand Team is responsible for the strategic
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development and management of the Breathe Right nasal strip business and other non-nasal strip products that
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seek to leverage the Breathe Right brand name. Breathe Right nasal strip products currently represent the
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cornerstone of the Company's business. The Company intends to exploit new markets and opportunities that
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it believes exist for its current nasal strip products and plans to commercialize potential new Breathe Right brand
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products. The Company has developed two new products, nasal strips for colds with Vicks&reg; mentholated vapors
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for the entire family and nasal strips for children. Both products are expected to be introduced during the fall
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of 2000 to coincide with the cough/cold season.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FiberChoice Team.</I></B> The Company has recently completed an evaluation and testing of its FiberChoice
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chewable fiber tablets and plans to introduce the product during the second quarter of 2000. The FiberChoice
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Product Team is responsible for the strategic development and management of the FiberChoice chewable fiber
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supplement business and will lead the Company's launch of the product.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FLAIR Team.</I></B> The Company introduced the FLAIR equine nasal strip on a limited basis during the
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fourth quarter of 1999 and plans an official launch of the product in the spring of 2000. The Company's FLAIR
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Product Team is responsible for the strategic development and management of the FLAIR equine nasal strip
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business.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>International Team.</I></B> The Company intends to develop international markets for all of its products and is negotiating with distributors and
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representatives for distribution of Breathe Right nasal strips in a number of
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countries in order to further expand the Company's presence in international markets. See Item 1, "International
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Distribution." The International Team is responsible for developing and managing the Company's overseas
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business and its relationships with distributors and representatives in international markets.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Business Development Team.</I></B> The Business Development Team is committed to the expansion of the
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Company's product base through the acquisition or licensing of promising consumer health care products that
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have significant market potential. The Business Development Team is responsible for identifying and
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evaluating potential new products, inventions and other business prospects that will enable the Company to
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achieve its long-term growth and profit objectives, including opportunities for the acquisition of companies that
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have established product lines.</P></FONT>
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<P><B><FONT Size="2">Products</FONT></B></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Breathe Right Nasal Strips.</I></B> The Breathe Right nasal strip is a nonprescription, single-use disposable
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device that improves breathing by opening the nasal passages. The Company has 510(k) clearance from the
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United States Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") to market the Breathe Right nasal strip for improvement
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of nasal breathing, temporary relief of nasal congestion, elimination or reduction of snoring and temporary relief
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of breathing difficulties due to a deviated nasal septum. See Item 1, "Government Regulation." The Breathe
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Right nasal strip comes both in tan and clear.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Breathe Right nasal strip includes two embedded plastic strips. When folded down onto the sides
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of the nose, the Breathe Right nasal strip lifts the side walls of the nose outward to open the nasal passages. The
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product improves nasal breathing upon application and does not include any medication, thereby avoiding any
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medicinal side effects. The Breathe Right nasal strip is offered in two sizes (small/medium and medium/large)
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to accommodate the range of nose sizes. The Breathe Right nasal strip is packaged for the consumer market in various quantities ranging between 12 to 38 strips per box.</P></FONT>
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<CENTER><FONT Size="2">4</FONT></CENTER>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">The Company believes that the Breathe Right
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nasal strip is priced comparably to medicinal decongestants on a daily or nightly dosage basis at suggested retail
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prices ranging between $3.99 and $11.99 per box. The Company expanded the Breathe Right nasal strip line
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with the reintroduction of the Breathe Right clear nasal strip in the second half of 1999. Research has suggested
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that the clear nasal strip product could increase the Company's customer base for nasal strip products by
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addressing vanity issues that may be associated with the use of the tan Breathe Right nasal strip product.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company is currently planning to introduce two new nasal strip products in the fall of 2000. The
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first product is a Vicks mentholated strip that uses traditional Breathe Right strip technology but contains a
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soothing mentholated aroma for additional relief. The mentholated vapors are released when the strip surface
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is rubbed. The second is a nasal strip product that is specifically sized and styled for children. The Kid's Strips
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will be sized specifically to fit children and include a brightly colored version and a mentholated version.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Breathe Right Brand Products.</I></B> During the third quarter of 1998, the Company began the national
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introduction of a saline nasal spray that leverages the Breathe Right brand name. The Breathe Right saline nasal
399
spray is a non-habit forming, drug-free product that restores moisture to comfort and soothe dry, irritated nasal
400
passages due to colds, allergies, dry air (low humidity), air pollution and the overuse of nasal decongestants.
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The Company intends to introduce additional non-nasal strip products in the future that carry the Breathe Right
402
brand name and to extend the product line.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FiberChoice Chewable Fiber Tablets.</I></B> The Company has recently completed evaluation and testing
405
of its FiberChoice chewable fiber tablets. FiberChoice is a flavored, chewable tablet that offers consumers an
406
effective, convenient good-tasting way to supplement their daily intake of dietary fiber. The Company plans
407
to introduce its FiberChoice product during the second quarter of 2000. The FiberChoice tablets will be
408
available in both regular and sugar-free varieties. The product will be packaged in both 90-count bottles and
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10-count rolls.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FLAIR Equine Nasal Strips.</I></B> The FLAIR equine nasal strip is a product for horses that capitalizes on
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the Company's current nasal strip technology. Invented by two veterinarians, the FLAIR equine nasal strip is
413
a patented, drug-free product that enables horses to breathe more easily during strenuous exercise. Results from
414
a limited clinical trial indicate that the equine nasal strip product also reduces a bleeding condition in horses
415
called exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhaging ("EIPH") that often occurs during and after races, high
416
performance events and strenuous workouts. The FLAIR equine nasal strip holds open the nasal passages of
417
the horses, which can breathe only through their noses, and reduces the effort required to breathe.</P></FONT>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The FLAIR equine nasal strip was introduced for the first time during the Breeder's Cup in November
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of 1999 at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale, Florida. Currently, FLAIR is being sold in tack shops, through equine
421
catalogs and in equine supply stores. The Company expects to officially launch FLAIR in the spring of 2000.</P></FONT>
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<CENTER><FONT Size="2">5</FONT></CENTER>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2"><B>Markets</B></FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Breathe Right Brand Product Line.</I></B> The Breathe Right brand of products includes the Breathe Right
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nasal strips and the Breathe Right saline nasal spray.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Air impedance in the nose accounts for approximately one-half of the total airway resistance involved
433
in the respiratory system (i.e., one-half of the energy required for breathing). If the effort to breathe through
434
the nose during sleep is excessive, the person will resort to mouth breathing, promoting snoring, dry mouth, sore
435
throat and mini-awakenings which disrupt sleep. In addition, nasal breathing difficulties during sleep are often
436
caused by nasal congestion found in people who have a common cold, allergies and sinusitis and by those who
437
experience nasal obstruction due to a deviated nasal septum. The Company believes that people with chronic
438
conditions such as snoring or allergies or with structural problems such as deviated septa may be more
439
predisposed to use Breathe Right products on a regular or daily basis while seasonal sufferers are likely to use
440
Breathe Right products as needed. These conditions are aggravated when people have nasal congestion, thus
441
increasing the opportunity for consumer trial during the cough/cold season. People suffering from these
442
conditions are currently the primary users of the Company's Breathe Right products and are the main targets
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of its advertising.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1999, the Company began to emphasize the Breathe Right nasal strip position as a product that
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provides instant, drug-free relief for those suffering from nasal congestion and other symptoms due to the
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common cold, allergies and sinusitis. The Company's new advertising emphasizes the ability of Breathe Right
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nasal strips to provide immediate relief from nasal congestion due to colds and allergies.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's marketing efforts capitalize on the benefits of Breathe Right products to consumers in
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various, and often overlapping, consumer market segments:</FONT></P>
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<TABLE BORDER="0"CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0">
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<TR>
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<TD WIDTH="3%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="4"><B>&middot;</B></FONT></TD>
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<TD WIDTH="94%" VALIGN="TOP"><P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2"><U><I>Nasal Congestion Relief.</I></U> Virtually all Americans suffer some nasal congestion annually as a
458
result of the common cold, while nasal congestion as a result of allergies affects approximately
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35 million Americans. The Company believes that the Breathe Right nasal strip is often used
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as either an alternative or as an adjunct to decongestant drugs (including nasal sprays and oral
461
decongestants). This broad cough/cold market represents a significant potential for the Breathe
462
Right nasal strip. Prior to 1999, the product had not been marketed directly to the cough/cold
463
consumer in any significant respect. In 1999, the Company commenced marketing efforts
464
aimed at repositioning the Breathe Right nasal strip as a product that provides relief for the
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common cold. The Company believes that its recent efforts to reposition this product will
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increase a significant segment of its business. In the fall of 2000, the Company plans to
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introduce two new products that could also increase the Breathe Right business for colds.
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These products include nasal strips for colds with soothing Vicks mentholated vapors and nasal
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strips for children.</FONT></P></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD><TD VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="4"><B>&middot;</B></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2"><U><I>Snoring Relief.</I></U> Breathe Right nasal strips were effective in eliminating snoring or reducing
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snoring loudness in approximately 75% of the participants in a clinical study. Snoring relief
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was one of the Company's key advertising messages prior to 1999. This market remains very
478
important to the Company since approximately 37 million people snore regularly, while another
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50 million people snore occasionally. The Company believes that snorers can be targeted
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effectively and directly through relationship marketing efforts as well as through broad-based
481
advertising.</FONT></P></TD>
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</TR>
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<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD><TD VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
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<TR>
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<TD>&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="4"><B>&middot;</B></FONT></TD>
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<TD VALIGN="TOP"><P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2"><U><I>Improved Breathing for Consumers with Deviated Septa.</I></U> Approximately 12 million people in
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the United States suffer from a deviated septum, a bend in the cartilage or bone that divides the
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nostrils. Breathe Right nasal strips were cleared by the Food and Drug Administration in 1996
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to provide temporary relief from breathing difficulties associated with a deviated septum. The
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Company plans to approach this market more directly through targeted marketing efforts.</FONT></P></TD>
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</TR>
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</TABLE>
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<CENTER><FONT Size="2">6</FONT></CENTER>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<TABLE BORDER="0"CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0">
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<TR>
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<TD WIDTH="3%">&nbsp;</TD>
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<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="4"><B>&middot;</B></FONT></TD>
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<TD WIDTH="94%" VALIGN="TOP"><P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2"><U><I>Athletic Market.</I></U> The Company believes that the Breathe Right nasal strip may make nasal
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breathing more comfortable and may improve endurance during athletic activity, particularly
505
when a mouth guard is used. An exercise physiology study published in peer-reviewed medical
506
literature in 1997 concluded that the Breathe Right nasal strip provided physiologic advantages
507
in ventilation and heart rate during mid-level exercise. Other exercise physiology studies have
508
been conducted and add to the substantiation of the positive effects of the Breathe Right nasal
509
strip during exercise. The Company continues to use athletes to endorse the Breathe Right
510
nasal strip to increase the visibility of the product, which thereby leads to greater awareness of
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the product.</FONT></P></TD>
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</TR>
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</TABLE>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FiberChoice Chewable Fiber Tablets.</I></B> Approximately 10 million U.S. households annually purchase
516
bulk fiber products, primarily to promote regularity and improve digestive health. The bulk fiber category
517
represents approximately $300 million in U.S. retail sales. The Company believes there is a significant
518
opportunity to expand this category due to both the aging of the baby-boomer generation and the marketing of
519
a better consumer solution to existing dietary fiber products&#150;FiberChoice chewable fiber tablets. As people age,
520
they frequently develop digestive problems. People over 55 years old are three times more likely to purchase
521
a bulk fiber supplement than those younger than 55. The first year the baby-boom generation will turn 55 is in
522
2001. This generation is generally more active and demanding than their parents. These consumers will be
523
searching for solutions that do not hamper their active lifestyles. The Company believes that its FiberChoice
524
chewable fiber tablet represents such a solution in that it provides an effective, convenient and good-tasting alternative for supplementing dietary fiber intake. The tablets can be taken anytime and anywhere, with or
525
without water.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FLAIR Equine Nasal Strips.</I></B> The FLAIR equine nasal strip is similar in concept to the human Breathe
528
Right nasal strip adjusted to the unique anatomy and size of a horse. A horse breathes only through its nose,
529
not through its mouth. During strenuous exercise, large amounts of air are inhaled creating a vacuum inside the
530
lungs which can cause soft tissue on the side of the nose to collapse. The equine nasal strip supports those soft
531
tissues so they do not collapse, which allows a horse to breathe more easily with less vacuum developing in the
532
lungs. Results from a limited clinical trial indicate that horses wearing the FLAIR equine nasal strip use less
533
energy to breath and that the product reduces a bleeding condition in horses called exercise-induced pulmonary
534
hemorrhaging ("EIPH") that often occurs during races, high-performance events and strenuous workouts.
535
Additional studies are underway to more completely delineate the benefits of the FLAIR equine nasal strip
536
product.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The FLAIR equine nasal strip could be used any time a horse is engaged in strenuous exercise. The
539
Company estimates that in the U.S. there are approximately 1.3 million individual horse starts in racing
540
competitions and over 1 million individual horse starts in non-racing competitions. Horses can benefit from
541
the use of the FLAIR equine nasal strip in training as well as competition.</FONT></P>
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<CENTER><FONT Size="2">7</FONT></CENTER>
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<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
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<P><B><FONT Size="2">Business Strategy</FONT></B></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's business strategy includes increasing sales of its Breathe Right nasal strip and other
549
Breathe Right brand products through advertising, expanding its Breathe Right product line with value added
550
line extensions like Breathe Right nasal strips for colds with Vicks mentholated vapors and children's nasal
551
strips, and successfully introducing new products, including the FLAIR equine nasal strip and the FiberChoice
552
chewable fiber tablet.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Increasing New Consumer Product Trial and Increasing Product Usage.</I></B> The Company uses a
555
combination of advertising, sampling, promotions, public relations and celebrity endorsements to increase
556
consumer awareness and to encourage consumer trial of the Breathe Right nasal strip. In 1998, the Company
557
began to emphasize the position of the Breathe Right nasal strip as a product that provides instant, drug-free
558
relief for those suffering from nasal congestion and other symptoms due to the common cold, allergies and
559
sinusitis. The Company's new advertising emphasizes the ability of Breathe right nasal strips to provide instant,
560
drug-free relief from nasal congestion due to colds and allergies.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Marketing New Breathe Right Brand Products.</I></B> The Company believes that the Breathe Right brand
563
name is one of its most valuable assets. In 1998, the Company introduced the Breathe Right saline nasal spray.
564
The Company has also expanded the Breathe Right product line to include nasal strips for colds with Vicks
565
mentholated vapors and nasal strips for children, both of which are expected to be introduced during the fall of
566
2000 in order to coincide with the cough/cold season.</FONT></P>
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Acquiring and Marketing New Products.</I></B> The Company plans to take advantage of its marketing and
569
distribution strengths by acquiring or licensing the rights to new products that it believes have merit and bring
570
them to market. The FLAIR equine nasal strip was introduced in the fourth quarter of 1999 and the FiberChoice
571
chewable fiber tablet is being prepared for a 2000 launch. In addition, the Company is evaluating opportunities
572
for licensing new products and acquiring companies or product lines that have an established base of consumer
573
acceptance.</FONT></P>
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575
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Expanding Company Presence in International Markets.</I></B> The Company believes that there is a
576
significant market potential for its products outside the United States. The 3M Company ("3M") has been the
577
Company's sole distributor of its nasal strip products outside the United States and Canada since August of
578
1995. The Company's relationship with 3M produced less than anticipated results. On September 30, 1999,
579
the Company negotiated the termination of its distribution agreement with 3M to allow the Company to assume
580
the role of selling, marketing and distributing its nasal strip products in international markets during 2000. See
581
Item 1, "International Distribution." The Company is devoting significant resources to the development of its
582
international business and is in the process of entering into agreements with distributors and representatives for
583
the distribution of the Company's nasal strip products in foreign countries. The Company believes that the
584
network that it is attempting to establish for the international distribution of Breathe Right nasal strips will also
585
enable the Company to build its international marketing and distribution capacity for other products. See Item
586
1, "International Distribution."</FONT></P>
587
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<P><B><FONT Size="2">Marketing Strategy</FONT></B></P>
589
590
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's marketing efforts for Breathe Right products are primarily directed to the consumer
591
market. The Company's advertising focuses on the Breathe Right brand benefit of providing instant, drug-free
592
relief from nasal congestion. The Company has primarily used television, magazine and radio advertising to
593
market its products. The Company also uses product promotion programs, such as sampling, coupons and
594
public relations activities to encourage product trial and repeat purchases. Introduction of the new Breathe Right
595
nasal strips for colds with Vicks mentholated vapors will include joint promotional programs with Vicks products. Marketing communications are generally designed to promote trial of Breathe Right brand products
596
by increasing consumer awareness of the benefits of each product.</FONT></P>
597
598
<FONT Size="2"><CENTER>8</CENTER></FONT>
599
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
600
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<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Because the Breathe Right nasal strip is sold as a consumer product, sales of the product will depend
602
in part upon the degree to which the consumer is aware of the product and is satisfied with its use, which also
603
influences repeat usage and word of mouth referrals. The most recent research data collected by a nationally
604
recognized consumer market research firm indicated that approximately 32% of those in the United States who
605
had purchased Breathe Right nasal strips have purchased additional product in the same year.</FONT></P>
606
607
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's marketing efforts for FiberChoice chewable fiber tablets will concentrate on advertising
608
through television and magazines to consumers who are 55 or more years old. In addition, the Company plans
609
to distribute samples of the product and coupons to current users of bulk fiber products. Marketing
610
communications are designed to promote awareness and trial of this new product among current category users.</FONT></P>
611
612
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's marketing communications for FLAIR equine nasal strips focus on the benefits of using
613
the product in training as well as competition. Marketing efforts will include advertising in influential equine
614
magazines and public relations activities surrounding high profile races and events in order to create awareness
615
in the racing and non-racing segments of the market. The Company will also use sampling and direct mail to
616
generate trial among top horse trainers and competitors.</FONT></P>
617
618
<P><B><FONT Size="2">New Products Strategy</FONT></B></P>
619
620
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company is committed to the expansion of its product base through the acquisition and
621
development of unique consumer health care products and technologies that have good market potential. The
622
Business Development Team is responsible for identifying for acquisition or license new products and potential
623
acquisition of companies that have established products in the Company's focus areas of better breathing,
624
digestive health and aging well. The Company has licensed the Vicks trademark from The Proctor &amp; Gamble
625
Company for use with the new product, Breathe Right nasal strips for colds with Vicks mentholated vapors.
626
The Company routinely evaluates the merit of product concepts and acquisition opportunities and, from time
627
to time, may acquire or license the rights to products which it believes could successfully be sold through the
628
Company's established distribution channels.</FONT></P>
629
630
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most, if not all, of the Company's current products are regulated to varying degrees by the FDA and
631
other regulatory bodies. See Item 1, "Government Regulation." Products that the Company may acquire or
632
develop in the future could also be subject to a variety of regulatory requirements. Some products will require
633
extensive clinical studies and regulatory approvals prior to marketing and sale. There can be no assurance that
634
any required regulatory approvals will be obtained or that the Company will market or sell any of these
635
products.</FONT></P>
636
637
<P><B><FONT Size="2">Domestic Distribution</FONT></B></P>
638
639
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Breathe Right nasal strip and the Breathe Right saline nasal spray are sold primarily as consumer
640
products in mass merchant chain stores, drug stores, grocery stores, warehouse clubs and military base stores
641
in the United States. The Company expects that the FiberChoice chewable fiber tablet will be sold in most of
642
the same retail outlets. The Company sells its products through a direct sales force that concentrates on serving
643
certain key retail accounts as well as through a network of independent sales representatives referred to in the
644
industry as non-food general merchandise brokers. The Company uses direct sales people and broker groups
645
who call on the mass merchant, chain drug, and grocery accounts and the wholesalers who serve primarily the
646
independent drug stores and many of the grocery stores in the United States.</FONT></P>
647
648
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Breathe Right nasal strip is typically positioned in the cough, cold and allergy section of stores
649
because it provides benefits similar to those obtained with other decongestant products. The Breathe Right
650
saline nasal spray is also usually positioned in the same section of the store as the Breathe Right nasal strip since
651
the products are typically used by those suffering from congestion, allergies and colds. Dietary fiber products
652
typically occupy a small section of a particular store and the Company anticipates that its FiberChoice chewable
653
fiber tablets will be positioned near well-established brands.</FONT></P>
654
655
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">9</FONT></CENTER>
656
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
657
658
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's retail customers include national chains of mass merchants, drug stores and grocery
659
stores such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target, Eckerd, Walgreens, RiteAid, CVS, and Albertson's and warehouse
660
clubs such as Sam's Club and Price Costco, as well as regional and independent stores in the same store
661
categories. In 1999, one retailer accounted for approximately 24% of sales. The loss of this customer or any
662
other large retailer would require the Company to replace the lost sales through other retail outlets and could
663
disrupt distribution of the Breathe Right nasal strip.</FONT></P>
664
665
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The FLAIR equine nasal strip will, at least initially, be sold primarily to trainers and owners in the horse
666
racing industry through tack shops, equine catalogs and equine supply stores. The product was introduced on
667
a limited basis during the fourth quarter of 1999. The Company intends to officially launch the FLAIR equine
668
nasal strip in the spring of 2000.</FONT></P>
669
670
<P><B><FONT Size="2">International Distribution</FONT></B></P>
671
672
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In August of 1995, the Company executed an international distribution agreement with 3M pursuant
673
to which 3M was given the exclusive right to distribute the Breathe Right nasal strip outside of the United States
674
and Canada. Under the terms of the agreement, 3M was obligated to buy product from the Company and was
675
responsible for obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals outside of the United States and for all marketing
676
and selling expenses. The agreement contained certain minimum performance objectives and breakup
677
provisions. The contractual relationship with 3M produced less than anticipated results in international markets.
678
International sales for the Company were approximately $1 million for 1999, down from its high of
679
approximately $26 million for 1996. The decrease in international sales during that period were attributable
680
in substantial part to the high inventory levels of nasal strips maintained by 3M and disappointing marketing
681
efforts in the international sector.</FONT></P>
682
683
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company is optimistic about the prospects for generating increased sales of nasal strips outside the
684
United States and believes that international markets require an increased level of focus, advertising and
685
promotion to reach their potential. On September 30, 1999, the Company and 3M agreed to terminate the
686
existing distribution agreement in a manner that enables the Company to take a direct and immediate role in the
687
sale, marketing and distribution of its nasal strip products in international markets. The amended distribution
688
agreement provides for an orderly transition of the international business from 3M to the Company. Under the
689
amended distribution agreement, 3M has the nonexclusive right to distribute Breathe Right nasal strips outside
690
the United States and Canada until June 30, 2000. The right of 3M to distribute the Company's nasal strip
691
products terminates on June 30, 2000 and, for a period of two years thereafter, 3M has agreed not to sell any
692
nasal dilator devices. The Company paid 3M a one-time termination fee of approximately $6.3 million. The
693
Company is not obligated to repurchase any unsold inventory of nasal strips after 3M exits the market.</FONT></P>
694
695
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company is currently involved in establishing a broad-ranging international distribution system
696
for the Breathe Right nasal strip business that will consist of both sales representatives and reselling distributors.
697
The markets that the Company plans to address first will be western Europe as well as Japan and Australia.
698
Sales will be supervised by the Company from its Minnesota headquarters and by CNS International, Inc., a
699
wholly-owned domestic subsidiary which has hired one business manager in Europe. The business manager
700
will supervise and coordinate the activities of the distributors and sales representatives. It is expected that the distributors will be appointed largely on an exclusive basis, with territories consisting of one or more countries.
701
The Company will retain control over packaging and advertising in all territories. Most shipments are expected
702
to be made in bulk, either to reselling distributors who will package for the local market, or to Company-controlled warehouse facilities, where final packaging may be arranged by the Company directly before
703
shipment to retailers.</FONT></P>
704
705
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1995, the Company executed a distribution agreement with LOCIN Industries, a Canadian dental
706
floss company, to establish distribution of the Breathe Right nasal strip in the Canadian market. LOCIN
707
purchases nasal strips from the Company in bulk, does its own packaging and distributes the product in Canada.</FONT></P>
708
709
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">10</FONT></CENTER>
710
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
711
712
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Manufacturing and Operations</B></FONT></P>
713
714
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company currently subcontracts with multiple manufacturers to produce the Breathe Right nasal
715
strip, Breathe Right saline nasal spray, the FiberChoice chewable fiber tablet and the FLAIR equine nasal strip.
716
The Company does no in-house product production itself. These contract manufacturers are capable of
717
providing full turnkey service and shipping product to the Company that is completely packaged ready to be
718
sold to retailers or providing semi-finished goods to the Company that require final packaging. With respect
719
to the Breathe Right nasal strip, the Company has the ability to wrap individual strips in the paper sleeve
720
in-house and subcontracts the final packaging out to qualified packaging subcontractors.</FONT></P>
721
722
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each of the manufacturers builds the product to the Company's specifications using materials specified
723
by the Company and, for the major nasal strip materials, places orders against a supply agreement negotiated
724
by the Company with the material manufacturer. The contract manufacturers have all entered into
725
confidentiality agreements with the Company to protect the Company's intellectual property rights. Company
726
quality control and operations personnel periodically visit the contract manufacturers in order to observe
727
processes and procedures. Finished goods are inspected at the Company to ensure that they meet quality
728
requirements. The Company inspects its contract manufacturers on a regular basis and is not aware of any
729
material violation of FDA Good Manufacturing Practice Standards. The Company works closely with its
730
material vendors and contract manufacturers to reduce scrap and waste, improve efficiency and improve yields
731
to reduce the manufacturing costs of the product. The Company has received certification that it has established
732
and maintains a quality system which meets the requirements of ISO 9002/EN 46002.</FONT></P>
733
734
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To ensure consistent quality and favorable pricing, the Company has entered into a multi-year material
735
supply agreement with 3M for the major components of the Breathe Right nasal strip. Similar materials are,
736
however, currently available from other suppliers. The inability to obtain sufficient quantities of these
737
components or the need to develop alternative sources in a timely and cost-effective manner could adversely
738
affect the Company's operations until new sources of these components become available, if at all. In addition,
739
while the Company does not expect 3M to do so, 3M has the right to discontinue its production or sale of these
740
products at any time upon 90 days' notice to the Company.</FONT></P>
741
742
<P><B><FONT Size="2">Competition</FONT></B></P>
743
744
<P><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>Breathe Right Nasal Strips</I></B></FONT></P>
745
746
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company believes that the market for decongestant products is highly competitive. The Company's
747
competition in the consumer market for decongestant products and other cold, allergy and sinus relief products
748
consists primarily of pharmaceutical products, other nasal sprays and external nasal dilators while competition
749
in the snoring remedies market also consists primarily of nasal dilators, throat sprays and herbs. Although the
750
Company is currently the leading manufacturer of external nasal dilation products, Schering Plough Corp.
751
entered the market in the fourth quarter of 1998 with an external nasal dilation device. Other companies have
752
also recently entered the nasal dilation market with private label products. Many of the companies that compete
753
with the Breathe Right nasal strip and other Breathe Right products, including Schering Plough, have
754
significantly greater financial and operating resources than the Company. The Company has developed and
755
implemented marketing strategies aimed at minimizing the impact of competitive products. As a result, the
756
Breathe Right nasal strip has maintained more than 85% of the nasal dilator market despite the entry of Schering
757
Plough and other competitors into the market place.</FONT></P>
758
759
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The patents licensed by the Company on the Breathe Right nasal strip will limit the ability of others to
760
introduce competitive external nasal dilator products similar to the Breathe Right nasal strip in the United States.
761
The Company intends to aggressively enforce the patents it has licensed covering the Breathe Right nasal strip
762
and has engaged in significant litigation to protect its patent rights. See Item 3, "Legal Proceedings."</FONT></P>
763
764
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There can be no assurance that potential competitors will not be able to develop nasal dilation products
765
which circumvent the Company's patents. In addition, external nasal dilator products compete in the consumer
766
markets with decongestant and sinus relief products and snoring remedies in many international markets where
767
the Company does not yet have patent protection on the Breathe Right nasal strip.</FONT></P>
768
769
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">11</FONT></CENTER>
770
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
771
772
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FiberChoice Chewable Fiber Tablet</I></B></FONT></P>
773
774
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Although the market for dietary fiber supplements is highly competitive and dominated by large
775
companies with resources greater than the Company's and established brands, such as Metamucil, Citrucel and
776
FiberCon, the Company believes that its FiberChoice chewable fiber tablet is a unique product that will present
777
a significant opportunity for the Company. The Company believes that its product will offer consumers an
778
effective, convenient and good tasting alternative to existing products.</FONT></P>
779
780
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<B><I>FLAIR Equine Nasal Strip</I></B></FONT></P>
781
782
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As an alternative to controversial drug therapies, the FLAIR equine nasal strip is a unique product which
783
currently has no direct competition. The only competitive product currently available is the drug Lasix. Lasix
784
is intended to alleviate a bleeding condition in the lungs of horses called exercise-induced pulmonary
785
hemorrhaging ("EIPH") that often occurs during races, high-performance events and strenuous workouts.</FONT></P>
786
787
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Government Regulation</B></FONT></P>
788
789
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As a manufacturer and marketer of medical devices, the Company is subject to regulation by, among
790
other governmental entities, the FDA and the corresponding agencies of the states and foreign countries in which
791
the Company sells its products. The Company must comply with a variety of regulations, including the FDA's
792
Good Manufacturing Practice regulations, and is subject to periodic inspections by the FDA and applicable state
793
and foreign agencies. If the FDA believes that its regulations have not been fulfilled, it may implement
794
extensive enforcement powers, including the ability to ban products from the market, prohibit the operation of
795
manufacturing facilities and effect recalls of products from customer locations. The Company believes that it
796
is currently in compliance with applicable FDA regulations.</FONT></P>
797
798
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;FDA regulations classify medical devices into three categories that determine the degree of regulatory
799
control to which the manufacturer of the device is subject. In general, Class I devices involve compliance with
800
labeling and record keeping requirements and are subject to other general controls. Class II devices are subject
801
to performance standards in addition to general controls. Class III devices are those devices, usually invasive,
802
for which pre-market approval (as distinct from pre-market notification) is required before commercial
803
marketing to assure product safety and effectiveness.</FONT></P>
804
805
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Before a new medical device can be introduced into the market, the manufacturer generally must obtain
806
FDA clearance through either a 510(k) pre-market notification or a pre-market approval application ("PMA").
807
A 510(k) clearance will be granted if the submitted data establish that the proposed device is "substantially
808
equivalent" to a legally marketed Class I or II medical device, or to a Class III medical device for which the
809
FDA has not called for PMAs. The PMA process can be expensive, uncertain and lengthy, frequently requiring
810
from one to several years from the date the PMA is accepted. In addition to requiring clearance for new
811
products, FDA rules may require a filing and waiting period prior to marketing modifications of existing
812
products. The Company has received 510(k) approvals to market the Breathe Right nasal strip as a device that
813
can (i) temporarily relieve the symptoms of nasal congestion and stuffy nose, (ii) eliminate or reduce snoring,
814
(iii) improve nasal breathing by reducing nasal airflow resistance, and (iv) temporarily relieve breathing
815
difficulties due to a deviated nasal septum. In March of 1998, nasal dilators were classified by the FDA as Class
816
I devices and exempt from pre-market notification.</FONT></P>
817
818
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's FiberChoice product is considered to be a dietary supplement and is regulated under
819
the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act as amended by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act
820
"DSHEA" of 1994, and under the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act. There is generally no requirement that a
821
company obtain a license or approval from FDA before marketing dietary supplements in the United States.
822
The FDA is developing implementing regulations for certain provisions of the DSHEA which will be published
823
as final rules in the Federal Register.</FONT></P>
824
825
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">12</FONT></CENTER>
826
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
827
828
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There is no national regulatory body for horse racing. Consequently, approval from state horse racing
829
commissions must be obtained on a state-by-state basis before the Company's FLAIR equine nasal strip can be
830
used during horse racing events. The Company has been working with state racing commissions to gain
831
approval for the use of the FLAIR equine nasal strip in competition. To date, the FLAIR equine nasal strip can
832
be used in horse races in approximately 25 states, including the leading racing states of Kentucky, California
833
and Florida, and 3 provinces in Canada.</FONT></P>
834
835
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sales of the Company's products outside the United States are subject to regulatory requirements that
836
vary widely from country to country. Under its international distribution agreement with the Company which
837
will terminate on June 30, 2000, 3M was responsible for obtaining all necessary approvals outside the United
838
States for Breathe Right nasal strips. As part of the renegotiations of the 3M distribution agreement (see Item
839
1, "International Distribution"), the Company will transfer the product registrations from the 3M subsidiary in
840
each country to a new distributor or third party. The Company has selected a third party to act as an
841
"Authorized Representative" in the European Union. The Company believes that it has the necessary
842
documentation to support affixing the "CE" mark, an international symbol of quality and compliance with
843
applicable European medical device directives, to the Company's products in Europe.</FONT></P>
844
845
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No assurance can be given that the FDA or state or foreign regulatory agencies will give on a timely
846
basis, if at all, the requisite approvals or clearances for additional applications for the Breathe Right nasal strip
847
or for any of the other Company's products. Moreover, after clearance is given, the Company is required to
848
advise the FDA and these other regulatory agencies of modifications to its products. These agencies have the
849
power to withdraw the clearance or require the Company to change the device or its manufacturing process or
850
labeling, to supply additional proof of its safety and effectiveness or to recall, repair, replace or refund the cost
851
of the medical device if it is shown to be hazardous or defective. The process of obtaining clearance to market
852
products is costly and time-consuming and can delay the marketing and sale of the Company's products.
853
Furthermore, federal, state and foreign regulations regarding the manufacture and sale of medical devices and
854
other products are subject to future change. The Company cannot predict what impact, if any, such changes
855
might have on its business.</FONT></P>
856
857
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company is also subject to substantial federal, state and local regulation regarding occupational
858
health and safety, environmental protection, hazardous substance control and waste management and disposal,
859
among others.</FONT></P>
860
861
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Patents, Trademarks and Proprietary Rights</B></FONT></P>
862
863
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company has registered trademarks, and has a number of patents under licenses which are used in
864
connection with its business. Some of these patents and licenses cover significant product formulations,
865
processing and designs for the Company's products. The Company believes its trademarks are important as
866
protection for the Company's image in the marketplace and advertising. The Company's success is and will
867
continue to be dependent upon the existence of and ability to protect its patents, trademarks and licenses and
868
the Company intends to take such steps as are necessary to protect its intellectual property rights.</FONT></P>
869
870
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There can be no assurance that the Company's technology and proprietary rights will not be challenged
871
on the grounds that its products infringe on patents, copyrights or other proprietary information owned or
872
claimed by others, or that others will not successfully utilize part or all of the Company's technology without
873
compensation to the Company. Nor can there be any assurance that others will not attempt to challenge the
874
validity or enforceability of the Company's licensed patents on the basis of prior art or introduce products
875
different from that of the Company. In addition to seeking patent protection for its products, the Company also
876
intends to protect its proprietary technologies and proprietary information as trade secrets.</FONT></P>
877
878
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company entered into license agreements pursuant to which the Company acquired from the
879
licensors the exclusive rights to manufacture and sell the Breathe Right nasal strip, the FiberChoice chewable
880
fiber tablet and the FLAIR equine nasal strip. Specifically, the Company has the exclusive right pursuant to
881
those license agreements to manufacture, sell and otherwise practice any invention claimed in the licensor's</FONT></P>
882
883
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">13</FONT></CENTER>
884
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
885
886
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">patent applications related thereto and all patents issued in any country which correspond to those applications.
887
The Company is obligated to pay royalties to the licensors based on sales of the products including certain
888
minimum royalty amounts in order to maintain its exclusivity.</FONT></P>
889
890
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The licensor of the Breathe Right nasal strip has filed patent applications with the U.S. Patent and
891
Trademark Office seeking patent protection for different aspects of the Breathe Right nasal strip technology.
892
Six of these patent applications have resulted in issued patents in the United States, including one with claims
893
that cover the single-body construction of the Breathe Right nasal strip. The licensor of the Breathe Right nasal
894
strip also has one patent application which is currently pending. In addition, that licensor has obtained patent
895
protection on the Breathe Right nasal strip in several foreign countries and has various applications pending
896
which seek further patent protection in these and a number of additional countries. The Company has two patent
897
applications both pending in the U.S. and has filed a corresponding patent application seeking protection in
898
several foreign countries to protect certain rights to nasal dilation technology that it acquired.</FONT></P>
899
900
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The licensor of the FiberChoice chewable fiber tablet has filed at least two patent applications with the
901
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office seeking patent protection for different aspects of this product which remain
902
pending. The licensor of the Breathe Right aromatic nasal strip has filed at least three patent applications with
903
the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office resulting in one issued patent so far. At least two patent applications for
904
the FLAIR equine nasal strip have also been filed by the licensor thereof in the U.S. Patent and Trademark
905
Office which have resulted in an issued U.S. patent. Each of these licensors has filed corresponding patent
906
applications for acquiring patent protection in several foreign countries on the licensed products.</FONT></P>
907
908
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Although the Company believes that its licensed patents on the Breathe Right nasal strip will limit the
909
ability of others to introduce competitive external nasal dilator products in the United States, there can be no
910
assurance that the patents on the Breathe Right nasal strip, or any additional patents on this or other products
911
issued, if any, will effectively foreclose the development of competitive products or that the Company will have
912
sufficient resources to pursue enforcement of any patents issued. The Company does, however, intend to
913
aggressively enforce the patents covering the Breathe Right nasal strip and its other products. In order to
914
enforce any patents issued covering the Breathe Right nasal strip or any of its other products, the Company may
915
have to engage in litigation, which may result in substantial cost to the Company and counterclaims against the
916
Company. Any adverse outcome of such litigation could have a negative impact on the Company's business.</FONT></P>
917
918
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company has in the past and is currently engaged in litigation to enforce its patent rights relating
919
to the Breathe Right nasal strip. The Company has recently brought a suit in federal district court to enforce
920
one of the licensed nasal strip patents. In the course of this suit, the defendant requested reexamination in the
921
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office of the patent involved which request was granted thus leaving the licensor
922
to await further action on the part of the Office. (See Item 3, "Legal Proceedings").</FONT></P>
923
924
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company has registered its Breathe Right trademark in the United States and in several foreign
925
countries and is seeking further registration of that trademark and other trademarks. The Company has also
926
licensed the right to a U.S. trademark registration for the FLAIR equine nasal strip product as well as the
927
pending trademark application for the FiberChoice chewable fiber tablet.</FONT></P>
928
929
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Employees</B></FONT></P>
930
931
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At March 15, 2000, the Company had 73 full-time and 3 part-time employees, of whom 18 were
932
engaged in operations, 23 in general administration, 31 in marketing and sales and 4 in product development.
933
There are no unions representing Company employees. Relations with its employees are believed to be positive
934
and there are no pending or threatened labor employment disputes or work interruptions.</FONT></P>
935
936
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">14</FONT></CENTER>
937
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
938
939
<CENTER><P><B><FONT Size="2">EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY</FONT></B></P></CENTER>
940
941
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The following table sets forth the names and ages of the Company's Executive Officers together with
942
all positions and offices held with the Company by such executive officers. Officers are appointed to serve until
943
the meeting of the Board of Directors following the next Annual Meeting of Stockholders and until their
944
successors have been elected and have qualified.</FONT></P>
945
946
<CENTER>
947
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLSPACING="2" CELLPADDING="0">
948
<TR>
949
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="30%"><CENTER><FONT Size="2"><U>Name and Age</U></FONT></CENTER></TD>
950
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="20%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
951
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="50%"><CENTER><FONT Size="2"><U>Office</U></FONT></CENTER></TD>
952
</TR>
953
<TR>
954
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
955
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
956
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
957
</TR>
958
<TR>
959
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Daniel E. Cohen (47)</FONT></TD>
960
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
961
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director</FONT></TD>
962
</TR>
963
<TR>
964
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
965
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
966
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
967
</TR>
968
<TR>
969
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Marti Morfitt (42)</FONT></TD>
970
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
971
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">President, Chief Operating Officer and Director</FONT></TD>
972
</TR>
973
<TR>
974
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
975
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
976
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
977
</TR>
978
<TR>
979
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">M. W. Anderson, Ph.D (49)</FONT></TD>
980
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
981
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of Product Development and Regulatory Affairs</FONT></TD>
982
</TR>
983
<TR>
984
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
985
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
986
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
987
</TR>
988
<TR>
989
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Douglas G. Austin (45)</FONT></TD>
990
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
991
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of Operations</FONT></TD>
992
</TR>
993
<TR>
994
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
995
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
996
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
997
</TR>
998
<TR>
999
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">David J. Byrd (46)</FONT></TD>
1000
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1001
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer</FONT></TD>
1002
</TR>
1003
<TR>
1004
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1005
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1006
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1007
</TR>
1008
<TR>
1009
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Kirk P. Hodgdon (40)</FONT></TD>
1010
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1011
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of Business Development</FONT></TD>
1012
</TR>
1013
<TR>
1014
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1015
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1016
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1017
</TR>
1018
<TR>
1019
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">John J. Keppeler (38)</FONT></TD>
1020
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1021
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of Worldwide Sales</FONT></TD>
1022
</TR>
1023
<TR>
1024
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1025
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1026
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1027
</TR>
1028
<TR>
1029
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Teri P. Osgood (36)</FONT></TD>
1030
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1031
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of U.S. Marketing</FONT></TD>
1032
</TR>
1033
<TR>
1034
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1035
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1036
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1037
</TR>
1038
<TR>
1039
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Carol J. Watzke (52)</FONT></TD>
1040
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1041
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Vice President of Consumer Strategy</FONT></TD>
1042
</TR>
1043
</TABLE>
1044
</CENTER>
1045
1046
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Daniel E. Cohen</I> has served as the Company's Chairman of the Board since 1993, its Chief Executive
1047
Officer since 1989 and a director since 1982. He also served as the Company's Treasurer from 1982 to March
1048
of 1999. Mr. Cohen, a founder of the Company, is a medical doctor and board-certified neurologist.</FONT></P>
1049
1050
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Marti Morfitt</I> has served as the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer and a director since
1051
March 1998. From September of 1982 through February of 1998, Ms. Morfitt served in a series of positions
1052
of increasing responsibility with The Pillsbury Company, a Minneapolis-based manufacturer and distributor of
1053
food products, most recently serving from May of 1997 to February of 1998 as Vice-President, Meals, and from
1054
February 1994 to May 1997 as Vice-President, Green Giant Brands. She also serves as a director of Graco, Inc.,
1055
a Minneapolis-based manufacturer of fluid handling systems.</FONT></P>
1056
1057
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>M. W. Anderson, Ph.D</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of Product Development and
1058
Regulatory Affairs since 1998,Vice President of Clinical and Regulatory Affairs from 1994 to 1998, and Vice
1059
President of Research and Development from 1990 to 1994. He has served in various other capacities since
1060
joining the Company in 1984, including Director of Applications Research and Director of Research and
1061
Development. Prior to joining the Company in 1984, Dr. Anderson was an Assistant Professor at the University
1062
of Minnesota's College of Pharmacy.</FONT></P>
1063
1064
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Douglas G. Austin</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of Operations since December of 1998.
1065
Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Austin served as: Executive Vice President and Vice President of Operations
1066
for Ergotron, Inc., a manufacturer of computer mounting solutions, from February 1996 to December of 1998;
1067
Director of Logistics and Purchasing for Wilsons - The Leather Experts, a specialty retailer of leather garments
1068
and accessories, from March of 1993 to February of 1996; and Director of System Stores and General
1069
Purchasing of Northwest Airlines, Inc. from June of 1976 to October of 1992.</FONT></P>
1070
1071
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">15</FONT></CENTER>
1072
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1073
1074
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>David J. Byrd</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer since
1075
February of 1996 and its Treasurer since March of 1999. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Byrd was Chief
1076
Financial Officer and Treasurer of Medisys, Inc., a health care services company, since 1991. From 1975 to
1077
1991, Mr. Byrd was employed by Coopers &amp; Lybrand, where he was a partner from 1986 to 1991. Mr. Byrd
1078
is a certified public accountant.</FONT></P>
1079
1080
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Kirk P. Hodgdon</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of Business Development since April of
1081
1999, and has served as the Company's Vice President of Breathe Right Brand from 1998 to 1999 and as Vice
1082
President of Marketing from 1994 to 1998. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Hodgdon served as: Vice
1083
President-Management Supervisor at Gage Marketing Communications, a marketing services company, from
1084
1993 to 1994; Vice President - Account Supervisor at U.S. Communications, a marketing agency, from 1989
1085
to 1993; and Marketing Manager at Land O'Lakes, Inc., a consumer foods cooperative, from 1988 to 1989.</FONT></P>
1086
1087
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>John J. Keppeler</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of Worldwide Sales since August of 1999,
1088
and has served as the Company's Vice President of Sales from 1998 to 1999. From November of 1986 to June
1089
of 1998, Mr. Keppeler served in a series of sales and marketing positions of increasing responsibility with The
1090
Pillsbury Company, a Minneapolis-based manufacturer and distributor of food products, most recently serving
1091
as Director of Category &amp; Customer Development for the Green Giant and Progresso Business.</FONT></P>
1092
1093
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Teri P. Osgood</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of U.S. Marketing since December of 1999,
1094
of the Breathe Right Brand from April to December of 1999, and has served as the Company's Vice President
1095
of New Business Commercialization from 1998 to April of 1999. From August of 1990 to July of 1998, Ms.
1096
Osgood served in a series of positions of increasing responsibility with The Pillsbury Company, a Minneapolis-based manufacturer and distributor of food products, most recently serving from May of 1997 to July of 1998
1097
as Business Team Leader for Old El Paso, and from October of 1995 to May of 1997 as Business Team Leader
1098
for Pizza Snacks. Prior to joining Pillsbury, Ms. Osgood was employed in marketing by the Kimberly Clark
1099
Corp., from 1988 to 1990.</FONT></P>
1100
1101
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Carol J. Watzke</I> has served as the Company's Vice President of Consumer Strategy since July of 1998.
1102
Prior to joining the Company, Ms. Watzke served in a series of positions of increasing responsibility since 1974
1103
with The Pillsbury Company, a Minneapolis-based manufacturer and distributor of food products, most recently
1104
serving as Consumer Insights Director from May of 1997 to July of 1998 and as Market Research Director,
1105
Green Giant Brands, from 1994 to 1997.</FONT></P>
1106
1107
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item2">Item 2. PROPERTIES</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1108
1109
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company leases approximately 80,000 square feet of office, manufacturing and warehouse space
1110
in Bloomington, Minnesota. The lease expires in December of 2000. Upon the expiration of that lease, the
1111
Company will be moving into a different facility that consists of approximately 73,000 square feet of office,
1112
manufacturing and warehouse space located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. The new lease expires in December
1113
of 2011 and contains a renewal option.</FONT></P>
1114
1115
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">16</FONT></CENTER>
1116
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1117
1118
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item3">Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1119
1120
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On July 20, 1999, the Company commenced a civil action in the United States District Court for the
1121
District of Minnesota, Case No. 99-CV-111 JMR/JGL, against JMS Labs Limited (USA), LLC, a/k/a/ JMS Labs
1122
Limited, asserting claims of patent infringement and Lanham Act violations. The Company contends that nasals
1123
strips manufactured, sold and/or offered for sale by JMS infringe United States Patent No. 5,533,499 (the "499
1124
Patent"), and that JMS has made false and/or misleading statements concerning the characteristics and qualities
1125
of its own products and the Company's products. JMS filed an answer and counterclaim, denying the
1126
Company's claims and asserting a counterclaim for declaratory judgment that the 499 Patent is invalid,
1127
unenforceable and not infringed, and that the complained of statements are not false and misleading. The
1128
Company intends to vigorously defend against JMS's counterclaim. No discovery has been conducted in this
1129
action. JMS has also moved before the United States Patent and Trademark Office for re-examination of the
1130
499 Patent.</FONT></P>
1131
1132
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item4">Item 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1133
1134
<P><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;None.</FONT></P>
1135
1136
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">17</FONT></CENTER>
1137
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1138
1139
<P><CENTER><FONT Size="2"><B><A NAME="PARTII">PART II</A></B></FONT></CENTER></P>
1140
1141
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item5">Item 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1142
1143
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Market Information</B></FONT></P>
1144
1145
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's Common Stock has been traded on The Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol
1146
"CNXS" since April 8, 1994. The following table sets forth the high and low last sale prices of the Company's
1147
Common Stock for the period indicated.</FONT></P>
1148
1149
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
1150
<B>Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1999</B> <B>High</B> <B>Low</B>
1151
---- ----
1152
First Quarter........................................................4.06 3.00
1153
Second Quarter.......................................................3.47 2.81
1154
Third Quarter........................................................4.19 3.47
1155
Fourth Quarter.......................................................7.19 3.63
1156
1157
<B>Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 1998</B> <B>High</B> <B>Low</B>
1158
---- ----
1159
First Quarter........................................................7.75 5.44
1160
Second Quarter.......................................................5.56 3.91
1161
Third Quarter........................................................4.81 3.38
1162
Fourth Quarter.......................................................5.06 3.41
1163
</PRE></FONT>
1164
1165
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On March 15, 2000, the last sale price of the Common Stock was $5.125 per share.</FONT></P>
1166
1167
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Shareholders</B></FONT></P>
1168
1169
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As of March 15, 2000, there were approximately 800 owners of record of Common Stock and an
1170
estimated 9,000 beneficial holders whose shares were registered in the names of nominees.</FONT></P>
1171
1172
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Dividends</B></FONT><P>
1173
1174
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company has never paid any dividends on its Common Stock. The Company currently intends
1175
to retain any earnings for use in its operations and does not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable
1176
future. The payment of dividends, if any, in the future will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors and
1177
will depend upon, among other things, future earnings, capital requirements, restrictions in future financing
1178
agreements, the general financial condition of the Company and general business considerations.</FONT></P>
1179
1180
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities</B></FONT></P>
1181
1182
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;On March 12, 1999, the Company issued two ten-year warrants to two individuals in connection with
1183
the Company's acquisition of certain intellectual property rights relating to the FLAIR equine nasal strip
1184
under a license agreement on that same date (the "Holders") between the Company and a business in which
1185
the Holders are principals. The warrants vest over a three-year period and entitle each of the Holders to
1186
purchase up to 25,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company at a purchase price of $3.4375 per share,
1187
the fair market value of the Common Stock of the Company on the date the warrants were issued. The
1188
Company also granted the Holders certain "piggyback" or "incidental" registration rights in connection with
1189
the shares of Common Stock acquired by the Holders upon exercise of the warrants. The Company believes
1190
that the issuance of the warrants was exempt under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933. The Company
1191
did not issue any unregistered securities during the quarter ended December 31, 1999.</FONT></P>
1192
1193
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">18</FONT></CENTER>
1194
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1195
1196
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item6">Item 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1197
1198
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the Company's Consolidated
1199
Financial Statements and Notes thereto together with the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
1200
Condition and Results of Operations," all of which are included elsewhere in this Report. The Consolidated
1201
Statements of Operations and Balance Sheet data presented below as of and for the Years Ended December 31,
1202
1997 through December 31, 1999 inclusive have been derived from the Company's Consolidated Financial
1203
Statements included elsewhere in this Report, which have been audited by KPMG LLP, independent certified
1204
public accountants.</FONT></P>
1205
1206
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS</B><BR>
1207
(In thousands, except per share amounts)</FONT></P></CENTER>
1208
1209
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
1210
Years ended December 31,
1211
1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
1212
---------------------------------------------------------
1213
Net sales $ 46,050 $ 53,623 $ 66,957 $ 85,866 $ 48,631
1214
Operating income (loss) (18,696) 701 9,644 21,743 12,398
1215
Income (loss) from continuing operations (13,757) 2,982 8,770 15,522 13,311
1216
Net income (loss) (13,757) 2,982 8,770 15,522 14,076
1217
Diluted net income (loss) per share
1218
from continuing operations (0.89) 0.16 0.44 0.78 0.72
1219
Diluted net income (loss) per share (0.89) 0.16 0.44 0.78 0.72
1220
1221
Working capital $ 50,183 $ 72,025 $ 76,919 $ 78,403 $ 25,855
1222
Total assets 65,337 84,963 88,495 89,409 32,341
1223
Stockholders' equity 53,584 75,866 80,645 79,775 26,885
1224
</PRE></FONT>
1225
1226
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">19</FONT></CENTER>
1227
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1228
1229
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item7">Item 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1230
1231
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The following discussion of the financial condition and results of
1232
operations should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated
1233
financial statements and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Annual
1234
Report. In the opinion of the Company's management, the quarterly unaudited
1235
information set forth below has been prepared on the same basis as the audited
1236
financial information, and includes all adjustments (consisting only of normal,
1237
recurring adjustments) necessary to present this information fairly when read in
1238
conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements and notes
1239
thereto.</FONT></P>
1240
1241
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Overview</B></FONT></P>
1242
1243
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company was founded in 1982. From 1987 until 1995, the Company
1244
designed, manufactured and marketed computer-based diagnostic devices for sleep
1245
disorders. Since 1995, the Company has focused primarily on the Breathe Right&reg;
1246
nasal strip and divested itself of the assets related to its sleep disorders
1247
business. The Company's revenues are derived primarily from the manufacture and
1248
sale of the Breathe Right nasal strip. Revenue from sales is recognized when
1249
earned, at the time products are shipped.</FONT></P>
1250
1251
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company obtained the exclusive license to manufacture and sell the
1252
Breathe Right nasal strip in 1992 and received FDA clearance in October 1993 to
1253
market the Breathe Right nasal strip as a product that improves nasal breathing.
1254
In September 1994, the Company launched its consumer marketing program which was
1255
enhanced by broad media coverage of the use of Breathe Right nasal strips by
1256
professional football players. At the same time, a number of radio and
1257
television personalities provided unsolicited endorsements of the product on
1258
national radio and television.</FONT></P>
1259
1260
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In August 1995, the Company signed an exclusive international
1261
distribution agreement with the 3M Company ("3M") to market Breathe Right nasal
1262
strips outside the U.S. and Canada. On September 30, 1999, the Company and 3M
1263
amended the distribution agreement in a manner that allows the Company to regain
1264
control of its international business on a phased schedule. In exchange for the
1265
one-time contract termination fee noted below, 3M is authorized to continue to
1266
distribute primarily on a non-exclusive basis until June 30, 2000. The
1267
international distribution agreement with 3M will terminate on June 30, 2000.
1268
The Company is currently adding distributors who will reintroduce nasal strips
1269
to Europe, Japan and Australia.</FONT></P>
1270
1271
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In November 1995, the Company received FDA clearance to market the
1272
Breathe Right nasal strip for the reduction or elimination of snoring and began
1273
marketing programs emphasizing the related snoring benefits of the product. At
1274
the end of 1995, Breathe Right nasal strips were available in most domestic drug
1275
stores, mass merchants and warehouse clubs and a majority of grocery stores.</FONT></P>
1276
1277
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In February 1996, the Company received FDA clearance to market the
1278
Breathe Right nasal strip for the temporary relief of nasal congestion and
1279
thereafter launched a media program to increase consumer awareness of the
1280
benefits of the product for this application. In June 1996, the Company received
1281
FDA clearance to market the Breathe Right nasal strip for the temporary relief
1282
of breathing difficulties due to a deviated nasal septum. In July 1996, U.S.
1283
Utility Patents were issued covering the basic invention of the Breathe Right
1284
nasal strip and additional elements incorporated in the product. During 1997,
1285
the Company became aware of a foreign reference to a nasal dilator, not
1286
commercially available, that the Company believed would result in narrower
1287
protection in the future from the patents licensed for Breathe Right nasal
1288
strips.</FONT></P>
1289
1290
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">20</FONT></CENTER>
1291
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1292
1293
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;During 1998, the Company strengthened its management team to add
1294
consumer packaged goods and new products experience and organized into focused
1295
business teams. The Company completed positioning research work to expand the
1296
Breathe Right brand and developed a road map for new product development. During
1297
1999, the Company invested aggressively in marketing, selling and product
1298
development expenses to build the Breathe Right brand and position additional
1299
products for launch in 2000.</FONT></P>
1300
1301
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Operating Results</B></FONT></P>
1302
1303
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The tables below set forth certain selected financial information of
1304
the Company and the percentage of net sales represented by certain items
1305
included in the Company's statements of income for the periods indicated.</FONT></P>
1306
1307
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
1308
Three Months Ended Year Three Months Ended Year
1309
------------------------------------------ Ended ------------------------------------- Ended
1310
Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31, Dec 31, Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31, Dec 31,
1311
1999 1999 1999 1999 1999 1999 1999 1999 1999 1999
1312
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1313
(In thousands)
1314
Domestic net sales $ 11,811 $ 7,994 $ 10,151 $ 15,106 $ 45,062
1315
International net sales 123 191 312 362 988
1316
--------- -------- -------- --------- --------
1317
Net sales 11,934 8,185 10,463 15,468 46,050 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
1318
Cost of goods sold 4,688 3,629 3,992 6,049 18,358 39.3 44.3 38.2 39.1 39.9
1319
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1320
Gross profit 7,246 4,556 6,471 9,419 27,692 60.7 55.7 61.8 60.9 60.1
1321
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1322
Operating expenses:
1323
Marketing and selling 11,430 4,361 4,644 12,918 33,353 95.8 53.3 44.4 83.5 72.4
1324
General and administrative 803 824 941 815 3,383 6.7 10.1 9.0 5.3 7.3
1325
Product development 979 843 782 702 3,306 8.2 10.3 7.5 4.5 7.2
1326
Contract termination fee 0 0 6,345 0 6,345 0.0 0.0 60.6 0.0 13.8
1327
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1328
Total operating expenses 13,212 6,028 12,712 14,435 46,387 110.7 73.6 121.5 93.3 100.7
1329
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1330
Operating loss (5,966) (1,472) (6,241) (5,016) (18,695) (50.0) (18.0) (59.6) (32.4) (40.6)
1331
Investment income 899 698 643 598 2,838 7.5 8.5 6.1 3.9 6.2
1332
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1333
Loss before income taxes $ (5,067)$ (774)$ (5,598)$ (4,418)$ (15,857) (42.5)% (9.5)% (53.5)% (28.6)% (34.4)%
1334
========= ======== ======== ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
1335
1336
1337
Three Months Ended Year Three Months Ended Year
1338
------------------------------------------ Ended ------------------------------------- Ended
1339
Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31, Dec 31, Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31, Dec 31,
1340
1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998 1998
1341
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1342
(In thousands)
1343
Domestic net sales $ 13,354 $ 11,789 $ 12,581 $ 14,130 $ 51,854
1344
International net sales 1,127 168 168 305 1,768
1345
--------- -------- -------- --------- --------
1346
Net sales 14,481 11,957 12,749 14,435 53,622 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
1347
Cost of goods sold 4,470 4,454 4,242 5,320 18,486 30.9 37.3 33.3 36.9 34.5
1348
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1349
Gross profit 10,011 7,503 8,507 9,115 35,136 69.1 62.7 66.7 63.1 65.5
1350
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1351
Operating expenses:
1352
Marketing and selling 9,694 5,581 7,032 6,470 28,777 66.9 46.7 55.2 44.8 53.7
1353
General and administrative 1,047 1,167 810 596 3,620 7.2 9.8 6.4 4.1 6.8
1354
Product development 395 589 540 515 2,039 2.7 4.9 4.2 3.6 3.8
1355
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1356
Total operating expenses 11,136 7,337 8,382 7,581 34,436 76.9 61.4 65.7 52.5 64.2
1357
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1358
Operating income (loss) (1,125) 166 125 1,534 700 (7.8) 1.4 1.0 10.6 1.3
1359
Investment income 690 730 712 660 2,792 4.8 6.1 5.6 4.6 5.2
1360
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1361
Income (loss) before income taxes $ (435)$ 896 $ 837 $ 2,194 $ 3,492 (3.0)% 7.5 % 6.6 % 15.2 % 6.5 %
1362
========= ======== ======== ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
1363
</PRE></FONT>
1364
1365
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">21</FONT></CENTER>
1366
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1367
1368
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
1369
Three Months Ended Year Three Months Ended Year
1370
------------------------------------------ Ended ------------------------------------- Ended
1371
Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31, Dec 31, Mar 31, Jun 30, Sep 30, Dec 31, Dec 31,
1372
1997 1997 1997 1997 1997 1997 1997 1997 1997 1997
1373
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1374
(In thousands)
1375
Domestic net sales $ 16,909 $ 12,623 $ 12,352 $ 18,718 $ 60,602
1376
International net sales 2,486 970 291 2,608 6,355
1377
--------- -------- -------- --------- --------
1378
Net sales 19,395 13,593 12,643 21,326 66,957 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
1379
Cost of goods sold 6,245 4,456 3,897 6,695 21,293 32.2 32.8 30.8 31.4 31.8
1380
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1381
Gross profit 13,150 9,137 8,746 14,631 45,664 67.8 67.2 69.2 68.6 68.2
1382
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1383
Operating expenses:
1384
Marketing and selling 11,124 4,900 4,582 11,033 31,639 57.4 36.0 36.2 51.7 47.3
1385
General and administrative 762 812 933 768 3,275 3.9 6.0 7.4 3.6 4.9
1386
Product development 202 289 246 369 1,106 1.0 2.1 1.9 1.7 1.7
1387
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1388
Total operating expenses 12,088 6,001 5,761 12,170 36,020 62.3 44.1 45.6 57.1 53.8
1389
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1390
Operating income 1,062 3,136 2,985 2,461 9,644 5.5 23.1 23.6 11.5 14.4
1391
Investment income 710 777 773 716 2,976 3.7 5.7 6.1 3.4 4.4
1392
--------- -------- -------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
1393
Income before income taxes $ 1,772 $ 3,913 $ 3,758 $ 3,177 $ 12,620 9.1 % 28.8 % 29.7 % 14.9 % 18.8 %
1394
========= ======== ======== ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
1395
</PRE></FONT>
1396
1397
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>1999 Compared to 1998</B></FONT></P>
1398
1399
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Net Sales.</I> Net sales were $46.1 million for 1999 compared to $53.6
1400
million for 1998. While sales were down for the year, fourth quarter sales
1401
increased to $15.5 million for 1999 from $14.4 million for 1998 due to increased
1402
advertising expenditures. For the year 1999, domestic sales declined to $45.1
1403
million from $51.9 for 1998. Slower sales for 1999 reflect both a lower level of
1404
advertising during the previous cough/cold season and the presence of
1405
competition. Retailer returns of product in conjunction with our introduction of
1406
new packaging also reduced sales.</FONT></P>
1407
1408
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company has experienced in the past, and expects that it will
1409
continue to experience in the future, quarterly fluctuations in both domestic
1410
and international sales and earnings. These fluctuations are due in part to
1411
advertising levels and seasonality of sales as described below, as well as
1412
increases and decreases in purchases by distributors and retailers in
1413
anticipation of future demand by consumers.</FONT></P>
1414
1415
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;International sales decreased to $988,000 for 1999 from $1.8 million
1416
for 1998. The lower level of international sales for 1999 is attributable in
1417
large part to disappointing marketing results and continued high inventory
1418
levels at the Company's international distributor 3M. The distribution agreement
1419
with 3M has been terminated effective June 30, 2000. The Company is currently
1420
adding distributors who will reintroduce nasal strips to Europe, Japan and
1421
Australia. In addition the Company will take a more active role in international
1422
advertising and promotion.</FONT></P>
1423
1424
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Gross Profit.</I> Gross profit was $27.7 million for 1999 compared to $35.1
1425
million for 1998. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 60.1% for 1999
1426
compared to 65.5% for 1998. The lower gross profit as a percentage of net sales
1427
was primarily due to costs of the transition to new product packaging, lower
1428
sales and product mix.</FONT></P>
1429
1430
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Marketing and Selling Expenses.</I> Marketing and selling expenses were
1431
$33.4 million for 1999 compared to $28.8 million for 1998. This increase
1432
resulted primarily from a resumption in national television advertising during
1433
1999 after no significant advertising in the fourth quarter of</FONT></P>
1434
1435
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">22</FONT></CENTER>
1436
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1437
1438
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT SIZE="2">1998. Marketing
1439
and selling expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 72.4% in 1999
1440
from 53.7% in 1998 reflecting the planned investment in advertising needed to
1441
return the Breathe Right brand to growth in the fourth quarter of 1999.</FONT></P>
1442
1443
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>General and Administrative Expenses.</I> General and administrative
1444
expenses were $3.4 million for 1999 comparable to $3.6 million for 1998. General
1445
and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 7.3% in
1446
1999 from 6.7% in 1998 primarily as a result of the lower level of sales in
1447
1999.</FONT></P>
1448
1449
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Product Development Expenses.</I> Product development expenses were $3.3
1450
million for 1999 compared to $2.0 million for 1998. This increase resulted
1451
primarily from costs related to evaluation and testing of potential new
1452
products, including FLAIR equine nasal strips and FiberChoice chewable fiber
1453
tablets. Product development expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to
1454
7.2% in 1999 from 3.8% in 1998.</FONT></P>
1455
1456
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Contract Termination Fee.</I> Contract termination fee of $6.3 million
1457
represents a one-time payment to 3M, the Company's international distributor, to
1458
terminate the international distribution agreement. The amount paid was
1459
negotiated, and is less than the amount called for in the original contract. The
1460
agreement allows the Company to regain control of the international business on
1461
a phased schedule that will be completed by June 30, 2000.</FONT></P>
1462
1463
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Investment Income.</I> Investment income was $2.8 million for 1999 and 1998.</FONT></P>
1464
1465
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Income Tax Benefit (Expense).</I> Income tax provision for 1999 was a
1466
benefit of $2.1 million compared to an expense of $510,000 for 1998. Due to tax
1467
loss carryforwards the income tax benefit for 1999 represents the remaining tax
1468
benefit available from carrying back current year losses, offset by a reserve
1469
against net deferred income tax assets. A high level of tax-exempt interest
1470
income impacted the effective income tax rate in 1998.</FONT></P>
1471
1472
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>1998 Compared to 1997</B></FONT></P>
1473
1474
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Net Sales.</I> Net sales were $53.6 million for 1998 compared to $67.0
1475
million for 1997. For the year 1998, domestic sales decreased to $51.9 million
1476
from $60.6 million for 1997. The decrease was primarily due to the failure of
1477
marketing efforts to generate the anticipated volume of new Breathe Right nasal
1478
strip users in the first quarter of 1998, a planned reduction in advertising
1479
expenditures during the fourth quarter of 1998 and the entry of a competitor at
1480
the end of 1998.</FONT></P>
1481
1482
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;International sales decreased to $1.8 million for 1998 from $6.4
1483
million for 1997. The lower level of international sales in 1998 reflects
1484
continued high inventory levels at 3M.</FONT></P>
1485
1486
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Gross Profit.</I> Gross profit was $35.1 million for 1998 compared to $45.7
1487
million for 1997. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 65.5% for 1998
1488
compared to 68.2% for 1997. The lower gross profit as a percentage of net sales
1489
in 1998 was due primarily to a write off of inventory in anticipation of the
1490
introduction of new packaging, the inclusion of "20% More Free" Breathe Right
1491
nasal strips in packages for part of the year and the introduction of new
1492
products with lower gross profit margins.</FONT></P>
1493
1494
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Marketing and Selling Expenses.</I> Marketing and selling expenses were
1495
$28.8 million for 1998 compared to $31.6 million for 1997. This decrease
1496
resulted primarily from a planned</FONT></P>
1497
1498
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">23</FONT></CENTER>
1499
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1500
1501
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT SIZE="2">reduction in national television advertising
1502
during the fourth quarter of 1998 and lower than expected coupon redemption.
1503
Marketing and selling expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 53.7%
1504
in 1998 from 47.3% in 1997, reflecting the lower level of sales in 1998.</FONT></P>
1505
1506
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>General and Administrative Expenses.</I> General and administrative
1507
expenses were $3.6 million for 1998 compared to $3.3 million for 1997. This
1508
increase resulted primarily from personnel expenses, including costs associated
1509
with the change of the Company's President, offset by a decrease in expenses
1510
from patent litigation that was settled during 1998. General and administrative
1511
expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 6.7% in 1998 from 4.9% in
1512
1997 primarily as a result of the lower level of sales in 1998.</FONT></P>
1513
1514
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Product Development Expenses.</I> Product development expenses were $2.0
1515
million for 1998 compared to $1.1 million for 1997. This increase resulted
1516
primarily from costs related to evaluation and testing of potential new
1517
products. Product development expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to
1518
3.8% in 1998 from 1.6% in 1997.</FONT></P>
1519
1520
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Investment Income.</I> Investment income was $2.8 million for 1998 compared
1521
to $3.0 million for 1997. This decrease resulted primarily from a higher level
1522
of investment in tax exempt municipal bonds in 1998.</FONT></P>
1523
1524
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Income Tax Expense.</I> Income tax expense for 1998 was $510,000 or 14.6%
1525
of income before income taxes compared to $3.9 million or 30.5% for 1997. The
1526
lower effective income tax rate was due primarily to the higher level of tax
1527
exempt interest income as a percentage of income before income taxes.</FONT></P>
1528
1529
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Seasonality</B></FONT></P>
1530
1531
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company believes that approximately 50% of Breathe Right nasal
1532
strip users currently use the product for the temporary relief of nasal
1533
congestion or congestion related to snoring. Sales of nasal congestion remedies
1534
are higher during the fall and winter seasons because of increased use during
1535
the cold season.</FONT></P>
1536
1537
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Liquidity and Capital Resources</B></FONT></P>
1538
1539
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At December 31, 1999, the Company had cash, cash equivalents and
1540
marketable securities of $38.9 million and working capital of $50.2 million.</FONT></P>
1541
1542
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Operating Activities.</I> The Company used cash in operations of
1543
approximately $12.1 million in 1999. The decreased cash flow in 1999 was
1544
primarily due to the net loss for the year. The Company generated cash from
1545
operations of $9.3 million in 1998 and $8.0 million in 1997. The increased cash
1546
flow in 1998 was primarily due to a change in operating assets and liabilities
1547
offset by a decrease in net income.</FONT></P>
1548
1549
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Investing Activities.</I> Sales and maturities of marketable securities
1550
exceeded purchases by $21.1 million in 1999. Net proceeds were used to fund the
1551
cash used in operations and purchase treasury shares. The Company's purchases of
1552
marketable securities equaled sales and maturities of marketable securities in
1553
1998. Marketable securities purchased consisted of cash equivalents, corporate
1554
bonds, U.S. Government obligations and municipal bonds.</FONT></P>
1555
1556
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">24</FONT></CENTER>
1557
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1558
1559
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company purchased $331,000 of property and equipment in 1999 and
1560
$1.1 million in 1998, primarily associated with the upgrade of management
1561
information systems.</FONT></P>
1562
1563
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<I>Financing Activities.</I> The Company purchased 2.3 million shares of its
1564
common stock for $8.6 million in 1999 and purchased 1.9 million shares for $8.3
1565
million in 1998. These treasury shares are to be used to meet the Company's
1566
obligations under its employee stock ownership plan and stock option plans, and
1567
for possible future acquisitions. The Company received $446,000 in 1999 and
1568
$239,000 in 1998 from the exercise of stock options.</FONT></P>
1569
1570
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company believes that its existing funds will be sufficient to
1571
support its planned operations for the foreseeable future, including capital
1572
expenditures and possible future acquisitions of products that would complement
1573
existing operations.</FONT></P>
1574
1575
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Year 2000</B></FONT></P>
1576
1577
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company evaluated the potential impact of what is commonly referred
1578
to as the Year 2000 issue, concerning the inability of certain information
1579
systems to properly recognize and process dates containing the year 2000 and
1580
beyond. The Company identified and tested its systems, and the test results
1581
indicated that these systems were Year 2000 compliant. The Company has
1582
experienced no Year 2000 system issues in 2000.</FONT></P>
1583
1584
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's direct costs for Year 2000 compliance were not
1585
significant and consisted primarily of costs related to the staff time devoted
1586
to Year 2000 compliance.</FONT></P>
1587
1588
<P><FONT Size="2"><B>Recent Accounting Pronouncements</B></FONT></P>
1589
1590
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133,
1591
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. SFAS No. 133
1592
establishes new standards for recognizing all derivatives as either assets or
1593
liabilities, and measuring those instruments at fair value. The Company plans to
1594
adopt the new standard in 2001. The Company is in the process of evaluating SFAS
1595
No. 133 and its potential impact.</FONT></P>
1596
1597
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1998, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee issued Statement
1598
of Position ("SOP") 98-1, Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software
1599
Developed or Obtained for Internal Use. SOP 98-1 provides guidance on accounting
1600
for the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use and
1601
does not require additional disclosures. The Company adopted SOP 98-1 in 1999.
1602
Costs incurred prior to the initial application of the SOP were not adjusted to
1603
conform with SOP 98-1. The adoption did not have a material impact on the
1604
Company's financial position or results of operations.</FONT></P>
1605
1606
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">25</FONT></CENTER>
1607
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1608
1609
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item7A">Item 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1610
1611
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Company's market risk exposure is primarily interest rate risk related to its cash and cash
1612
equivalents and investments in marketable securities. The Company has investment guidelines which limit the
1613
types of securities in which it may invest as well as the length of maturities. No investment may exceed 36
1614
months in maturity and the weighted average life of the portfolio may not exceed 18 months.</FONT></P>
1615
1616
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The table below provides information about the Company's cash and cash equivalents and marketable
1617
securities as of December 31, 1999:</FONT></P>
1618
1619
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
1620
(In thousands)
1621
1622
Cost Fair Value
1623
---- ----------
1624
1625
Due within one year $19,137 $19,091
1626
Due after one year
1627
through two years 16,207 15,990
1628
Due after two years
1629
through three years 2,973 2,916
1630
------- -------
1631
$38,317 $37,997
1632
======= =======
1633
</PRE></FONT>
1634
1635
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item8">Item 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1636
1637
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Consolidated Balance Sheets of the Company as of December 31, 1999 and 1998, and the related
1638
Consolidated Statements of Operations, Stockholders' Equity and Comprehensive Income (Loss), and Cash
1639
Flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1999, the Notes to the Consolidated
1640
Financial Statements and the Report of KPMG LLP, independent certified public accountants, are listed under
1641
Item 14 of this Report.</FONT></P>
1642
1643
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item9">Item 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1644
1645
<P><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;None.</FONT></P>
1646
1647
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">26</FONT></CENTER>
1648
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1649
1650
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B><A NAME="PARTIII">PART III</A></B></FONT></P></CENTER>
1651
1652
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item10">Item 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1653
1654
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Certain information required under this Item with respect to directors is contained in the Section
1655
"Election of Directors" and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" in the Company's
1656
Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 3, 2000 (the "2000 Proxy
1657
Statement"), a definitive copy of which will be filed with the Commission within 120 days of the close of the
1658
last fiscal year, and is incorporated herein by reference.</FONT></P>
1659
1660
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Information concerning executive officers is set forth in the Section entitled "Executive Officers of
1661
the Company" in Part I of this Form 10-K pursuant to Instruction 3 to paragraph (b) of Item 401 of Regulation
1662
S-K.</FONT></P>
1663
1664
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item11">Item 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1665
1666
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Information required under this item is contained in the section entitled "Executive Compensation"
1667
in the Company's 2000 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.</FONT></P>
1668
1669
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item12">Item 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1670
1671
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Information required under this item is contained in the section entitled "Security Ownership of
1672
Principal Stockholders and Management" in the Company's 2000 Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein
1673
by reference.</FONT></P>
1674
1675
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item13">Item 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1676
1677
<P><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not Applicable.</FONT></P>
1678
1679
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">27</FONT></CENTER>
1680
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1681
1682
<P><CENTER><B><A NAME="PARTIV">PART IV</A></B></CENTER></P>
1683
1684
<P><FONT Size="2"><U><B><A NAME="Item14">Item 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K</A></B></U></FONT></P>
1685
1686
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0">
1687
<TR>
1688
<TD WIDTH="5%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">(a)</FONT></TD>
1689
<TD WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1690
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">Documents filed as part of this Report:</FONT></P></TD>
1691
</TR>
1692
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1693
<TR>
1694
<TD COLSPAN="5" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1695
<TD WIDTH="14%" VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2"><B>Form 10-K<BR><U>Page Reference</U></B></CENTER></FONT></TD>
1696
</TR>
1697
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1698
<TR>
1699
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1700
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">1.</FONT></TD>
1701
<TD WIDTH="3%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1702
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Financial Statements.</FONT></TD>
1703
</TR>
1704
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1705
<TR>
1706
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1707
<TD WIDTH="70%" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Independent Auditors' Report</FONT></TD>
1708
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-1</FONT></CENTER></TD>
1709
</TR>
1710
<TR>
1711
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1712
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended<BR>
1713
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997</FONT></TD>
1714
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-2</FONT></CENTER></TD>
1715
</TR>
1716
<TR>
1717
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1718
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1999 and 1998</FONT></TD>
1719
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-3</FONT></CENTER></TD>
1720
</TR>
1721
<TR>
1722
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1723
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and Comprehensive<BR>
1724
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Income (Loss) for the Years Ended December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997</FONT></TD>
1725
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-4</FONT></CENTER></TD>
1726
</TR>
1727
<TR>
1728
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1729
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended<BR>
1730
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997</FONT></TD>
1731
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-5</FONT></CENTER></TD>
1732
</TR>
1733
<TR>
1734
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1735
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements</FONT></TD>
1736
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-6</FONT></CENTER></TD>
1737
</TR>
1738
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1739
<TR>
1740
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1741
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">2.</FONT></TD>
1742
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1743
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Financial Statement Schedules.</FONT></TD>
1744
</TR>
1745
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1746
<TR>
1747
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1748
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">None.</FONT></TD>
1749
</TR>
1750
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1751
<TR>
1752
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1753
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">3.</FONT></TD>
1754
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1755
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Exhibits.</FONT></TD>
1756
</TR>
1757
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1758
<TR>
1759
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1760
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">See "Exhibit Index" on the page following the Signature Page.</FONT></TD>
1761
</TR>
1762
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1763
<TR>
1764
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">(b)</FONT></TD>
1765
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1766
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Reports on Form 8-K.</FONT></TD>
1767
</TR>
1768
<TR><TD COLSPAN="6" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD></TR>
1769
<TR>
1770
<TD COLSPAN="2" VALIGN="TOP">&nbsp;</TD>
1771
<TD COLSPAN="4" VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">The Company did not file a report on Form 8-K during the fourth quarter ended December 31, 1999.</FONT>
1772
</TR>
1773
</TABLE>
1774
1775
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">28</FONT></CENTER>
1776
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1777
1778
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B><A NAME="SIGNATURES">SIGNATURES</A></B></FONT></P></CENTER>
1779
1780
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
1781
Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.</FONT></P>
1782
1783
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="2" WIDTH="100%">
1784
<TR>
1785
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="50%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1786
<TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">CNS, INC.<BR>("Registrant")</FONT></TD>
1787
</TR>
1788
<TR>
1789
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;<BR>&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1790
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="2%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;<BR>&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1791
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="48%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;<BR>&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1792
</TR>
1793
<TR>
1794
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Dated: March 27, 2000</FONT></TD>
1795
<TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">By <U>/s/ Daniel E. Cohen&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
1796
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U></FONT></TD>
1797
</TR>
1798
<TR>
1799
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1800
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
1801
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Daniel E. Cohen<BR>Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive<BR>Officer and Director</FONT></TD>
1802
</TR>
1803
</TABLE>
1804
1805
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed by
1806
the following persons on March 27, 2000 on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities indicated.</FONT></P>
1807
1808
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>(POWER OF ATTORNEY)</B></FONT></P></CENTER>
1809
1810
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints DANIEL E. COHEN and
1811
PATRICK DELANEY as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, each acting alone, with the full
1812
power of substitution and resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all
1813
capacities, to sign any or all amendments to this Annual Report on Form 10-K and to file the same, with all
1814
exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission,
1815
granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, each acting alone, full power and authority to do and perform
1816
each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents
1817
and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all said attorneys-in-fact and
1818
agents, each acting alone, or his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.</FONT></P>
1819
<BR>
1820
1821
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ Daniel E. Cohen&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1822
Daniel E. Cohen<BR>
1823
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer<BR>
1824
and Director<BR>
1825
(Principal Executive Officer)</P></FONT>
1826
<BR>
1827
1828
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ Marti Morfitt&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1829
Marti Morfitt<BR>
1830
President, Chief Operating Officer and Director</P></FONT>
1831
<BR>
1832
1833
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ David J. Byrd&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1834
David J. Byrd<BR>
1835
Vice President of Finance, Chief<BR>
1836
Financial Officer and Treasurer<BR>
1837
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)</P></FONT>
1838
<BR>
1839
1840
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ Patrick Delaney&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1841
Patrick Delaney<BR>
1842
Director</P></FONT>
1843
<BR>
1844
1845
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">29</FONT></CENTER>
1846
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1847
1848
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ H. Robert Hawthorne&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1849
H. Robert Hawthorne<BR>
1850
Director</P></FONT>
1851
<BR>
1852
1853
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ R. Hunt Greene&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1854
R. Hunt Greene<BR>
1855
Director</P></FONT>
1856
<BR>
1857
1858
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ Andrew J. Greenshields&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1859
Andrew J. Greenshields<BR>
1860
Director</P></FONT>
1861
<BR>
1862
1863
<P><FONT Size="2"><U>/s/ Richard W. Perkins&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</U><BR>
1864
Richard W. Perkins<BR>
1865
Director</P></FONT>
1866
1867
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">30</FONT></CENTER>
1868
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1869
1870
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><A NAME="EXHIBIT_INDEX">CNS, INC.<BR>
1871
<U>EXHIBIT INDEX</A></U></FONT></P></CENTER>
1872
1873
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
1874
<TR>
1875
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="15%"><FONT Size="2"><U><B>Exhibit No.</B></U></FONT></TD>
1876
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="85%"><FONT Size="2"><U><B>Description</B></U></FONT></TD>
1877
</TR>
1878
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1879
<TR>
1880
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">3.1</FONT></TD>
1881
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Company's Certificate of Incorporation as amended to date (incorporated by reference to
1882
Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December
1883
31, 1995 (the "1995 Form 10-K")).</FONT></TD>
1884
</TR>
1885
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1886
<TR>
1887
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">3.2</FONT></TD>
1888
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Company's Amended and Restated By-Laws.</FONT></TD>
1889
</TR>
1890
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1891
<TR>
1892
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.1*</FONT></TD>
1893
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">CNS, Inc. 1987 Employee Incentive Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to
1894
Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-18, Commission File No.
1895
33-14052C).</FONT></TD>
1896
</TR>
1897
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1898
<TR>
1899
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.2*</FONT></TD>
1900
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">CNS, Inc. 1989 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9
1901
to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8, Commission File No. 33-29454).</FONT></TD>
1902
</TR>
1903
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1904
<TR>
1905
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.3*</FONT></TD>
1906
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">CNS, Inc. 1990 Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the Company's
1907
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1990).</FONT></TD>
1908
</TR>
1909
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1910
<TR>
1911
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.4*</FONT></TD>
1912
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">CNS, Inc. 1994 Amended Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
1913
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997 (the "1997
1914
Form 10-K")).</FONT></TD>
1915
</TR>
1916
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1917
<TR>
1918
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.5**</FONT></TD>
1919
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">License Agreement dated January 30, 1992 between the Company and Creative Integration
1920
and Design, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the 1992 Form S-2).</FONT></TD>
1921
</TR>
1922
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1923
<TR>
1924
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.6</FONT></TD>
1925
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Distribution Agreement dated August 2, 1995 between the Company and Minnesota
1926
Mining and Manufacturing ("3M") incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the
1927
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995 (the "1995
1928
Form 10-K").</FONT></TD>
1929
</TR>
1930
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1931
<TR>
1932
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.7</FONT></TD>
1933
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Amendment to August 2, 1995 Distribution Agreement between the Company and
1934
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing company ("3M") dated effective September 30,
1935
1999.</FONT></TD>
1936
</TR>
1937
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1938
<TR>
1939
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.8</FONT></TD>
1940
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Supply Agreement dated May 17, 1995 between the Company and Minnesota Mining and
1941
Manufacturing Company ("3M") (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the 1995
1942
Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
1943
</TR>
1944
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1945
<TR>
1946
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.9**</FONT></TD>
1947
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">License Agreement dated November 10, 1997 between the Company and Onesta Nutrition,
1948
Inc.</FONT></TD>
1949
</TR>
1950
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1951
<TR>
1952
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.10**</FONT></TD>
1953
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">License Agreement dated March 12, 1999 between the Company and WinEase LLC.</FONT></TD>
1954
</TR>
1955
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1956
<TR>
1957
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.11**</FONT></TD>
1958
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">License Agreement dated June 21, 1999 between the Company and Peter Cronk and Kristen
1959
Cronk.</FONT></TD>
1960
</TR>
1961
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1962
<TR>
1963
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.12*</FONT></TD>
1964
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and Daniel E. Cohen dated February 12,
1965
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company's Annual Report on Form
1966
10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998 (the "1998 Form 10-K")).</FONT></TD>
1967
</TR>
1968
</TABLE>
1969
1970
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">31</FONT></CENTER>
1971
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
1972
1973
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="100%">
1974
<TR>
1975
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="15%"><FONT Size="2">10.13*</FONT></TD>
1976
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="85%"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and Marti Morfitt dated February 12,
1977
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.10 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
1978
</TR>
1979
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1980
<TR>
1981
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.14*</FONT></TD>
1982
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and Kirk P. Hodgdon dated February 12,
1983
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.11 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
1984
</TR>
1985
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1986
<TR>
1987
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.15*</FONT></TD>
1988
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and David J. Byrd dated February 12, 1999
1989
(incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.12 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
1990
</TR>
1991
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1992
<TR>
1993
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.16*</FONT></TD>
1994
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and John J. Keppeler dated February 12,
1995
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.13 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
1996
</TR>
1997
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
1998
<TR>
1999
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.17*</FONT></TD>
2000
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and Teri P. Osgood dated February 12,
2001
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.14 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
2002
</TR>
2003
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2004
<TR>
2005
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.18*</FONT></TD>
2006
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and Carol J. Watzke dated February 12,
2007
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.15 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
2008
</TR>
2009
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2010
<TR>
2011
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.19*</FONT></TD>
2012
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and Douglas G. Austin dated February 12,
2013
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.16 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
2014
</TR>
2015
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2016
<TR>
2017
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">10.20*</FONT></TD>
2018
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Employment Agreement between the Company and M. W. Anderson dated February 12,
2019
1999 (incorporated by referenced to Exhibit 10.17 to the 1998 Form 10-K).</FONT></TD>
2020
</TR>
2021
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2022
<TR>
2023
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">21.1</FONT></TD>
2024
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Subsidiaries of the Company.</FONT></TD>
2025
</TR>
2026
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2027
<TR>
2028
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">23.1</FONT></TD>
2029
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Consent of KPMG LLP.</FONT></TD>
2030
</TR>
2031
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2032
<TR>
2033
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">24.1</FONT></TD>
2034
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Powers of Attorney (included on the signature page hereof).</FONT></TD>
2035
</TR>
2036
<TR><TD COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2037
<TR>
2038
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">27.1</FONT></TD>
2039
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Financial Data Schedule.</FONT></TD>
2040
</TR>
2041
</TABLE>
2042
<BR>
2043
<HR ALIGN="LEFT" WIDTH="25%" SIZE="1" NOSHADE COLOR="000000">
2044
<FONT Size="2">*Indicates Compensatory Agreement</FONT>
2045
2046
<P><FONT Size="2">**Certain portions of this Exhibit have been deleted and filed separately with the Commission pursuant to a
2047
request for confidential treatment under Rule 24b-2. Spaces corresponding to the deleted portions are
2048
represented by brackets with asterisks.</FONT></P>
2049
2050
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">32</FONT></CENTER>
2051
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2052
2053
<A NAME="FINANCIAL_STATEMENTS"></A>
2054
2055
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>Independent Auditors' Report</B></FONT></P></CENTER>
2056
<BR>
2057
<BR>
2058
<BR>
2059
2060
<P><FONT Size="2">The Board of Directors and Stockholders<BR>
2061
CNS, Inc.:</FONT></P>
2062
<BR>
2063
2064
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of CNS, Inc. and
2065
subsidiaries as of December 31, 1999 and 1998 and the related consolidated
2066
statements of operations, stockholders' equity and comprehensive income (loss),
2067
and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31,
2068
1999. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
2069
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated
2070
financial statements based on our audits.</FONT></P>
2071
2072
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
2073
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
2074
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
2075
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
2076
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
2077
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
2078
management as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
2079
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.</FONT></P>
2080
2081
<P ALIGN="justify"><FONT Size="2">In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
2082
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of CNS, Inc. and
2083
subsidiaries as of December 31, 1999 and 1998 and the results of their
2084
operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period
2085
ended December 31, 1999 in conformity with generally accepted accounting
2086
principles.</FONT></P>
2087
<BR>
2088
<BR>
2089
2090
<P><FONT Size="4">/s/ KPMG LLP</FONT></P>
2091
<BR>
2092
<BR>
2093
2094
<P><FONT Size="2">Minneapolis, Minnesota<BR>
2095
January 19, 2000</FONT></P>
2096
2097
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-1</FONT></CENTER>
2098
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2099
2100
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>CNS, INC.</B><BR>
2101
Consolidated Statements of Operations<BR>
2102
Years ended December 1999, 1998, and 1997</FONT></P></CENTER>
2103
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2104
1999 1998 1997
2105
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2106
2107
Net sales $ 46,050,208 $ 53,622,803 $ 66,957,134
2108
Cost of goods sold 18,358,435 18,484,608 21,292,995
2109
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2110
Gross profit 27,691,773 35,138,195 45,664,139
2111
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2112
2113
Operating expenses:
2114
Marketing and selling 33,353,549 28,777,148 31,638,518
2115
General and administrative 3,382,897 3,620,752 3,275,636
2116
Product development 3,306,162 2,039,411 1,105,790
2117
Contract termination fee 6,345,000 0 0
2118
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2119
Total operating expenses 46,387,608 34,437,311 36,019,944
2120
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2121
2122
Operating income (loss) (18,695,835) 700,884 9,644,195
2123
2124
Interest income 2,595,779 2,790,780 2,976,121
2125
Gain on sales of marketable securities 242,567 0 0
2126
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2127
2128
Income (loss) before income taxes (15,857,489) 3,491,664 12,620,316
2129
2130
Income tax benefit (expense) 2,101,138 (510,000) (3,850,000)
2131
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2132
2133
Net income (loss) $ (13,756,351) $ 2,981,664 $ 8,770,316
2134
=============================================================================================================
2135
2136
2137
Basic net income (loss) per share $ (.89) $ .16 $ .46
2138
=============================================================================================================
2139
2140
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding 15,435,000 18,079,000 19,119,000
2141
=============================================================================================================
2142
2143
2144
Diluted net income (loss) per share $ (.89) $ .16 $ .44
2145
=============================================================================================================
2146
Weighted average number of common
2147
and assumed conversion shares outstanding 15,435,000 18,249,000 19,802,000
2148
=============================================================================================================
2149
</PRE></FONT>
2150
2151
<P><FONT Size="2">The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.</FONT></P>
2152
2153
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-2</FONT></CENTER>
2154
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2155
2156
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>CNS, INC.</B><BR>
2157
Consolidated Balance Sheets<BR>
2158
December 31, 1999 and 1998</FONT></P></CENTER>
2159
2160
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2161
Assets 1999 1998
2162
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2163
2164
Current assets:
2165
Cash and cash equivalents $ 859,852 $ 584,718
2166
Marketable securities 37,997,409 59,796,952
2167
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
2168
of $280,000 in 1999 and $210,000 in 1998 11,369,815 7,790,952
2169
Income taxes receivable 3,177,771 0
2170
Inventories 4,905,449 8,823,193
2171
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,625,373 2,794,558
2172
Deferred income taxes 0 1,332,000
2173
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2174
Total current assets 61,935,669 81,122,373
2175
2176
Property and equipment, net 2,010,059 2,406,488
2177
Product rights, net 1,391,107 1,434,566
2178
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2179
2180
$ 65,336,835 $ 84,963,427
2181
=======================================================================================================
2182
2183
2184
Liabilities and Stockholders Equity
2185
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2186
2187
Current liabilities:
2188
Accounts payable $ 5,422,031 $ 4,993,462
2189
Accrued expenses 6,330,730 3,419,187
2190
Accrued income taxes 0 684,937
2191
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2192
Total current liabilities 11,752,761 9,097,586
2193
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2194
2195
Stockholders equity:
2196
Preferred stock - authorized 8,483,589 shares;
2197
none issued or outstanding 0 0
2198
Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares;
2199
issued and outstanding 19,294,570 shares in 1999 and 1998 192,946 192,946
2200
Additional paid-in capital 61,530,522 61,932,529
2201
Treasury shares - at cost; 4,838,098 shares in 1999
2202
and 2,692,144 shares in 1998 (22,220,537) (14,670,128)
2203
Retained earnings 14,401,143 28,157,494
2204
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (320,000) 253,000
2205
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2206
Total stockholders equity 53,584,074 75,865,841
2207
2208
Commitments (notes 9 and 10)
2209
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2210
2211
$ 65,336,835 $ 84,963,427
2212
=======================================================================================================
2213
</PRE></FONT>
2214
2215
<P><FONT Size="2">The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.</FONT></P>
2216
2217
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-3</FONT></CENTER>
2218
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2219
2220
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>CNS, INC.</B><BR>
2221
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders Equity and Comprehensive Income (Loss)<BR>
2222
Years ended December 31, 1999, 1998, and 1997</FONT></P></CENTER>
2223
2224
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2225
Common stock Treasury shares Accumulated
2226
-------------------------- Additional -------------------------- other Total
2227
Number Par paid-in Number Retained comprehensive stockholders'
2228
of shares value capital of shares Cost earnings income (loss) equity
2229
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2230
2231
Balance at December 31, 1996 19,145,445 $ 191,454 $63,177,939 0 $ 0 $16,405,514 $ 0 $ 79,774,907
2232
2233
Stock issued in connection with
2234
Employee Stock Purchase Plan 927 10 7,180 (1,489) 8,464 0 0 15,654
2235
Stock options exercised 77,300 773 241,308 (37,000) 50,062 0 0 292,143
2236
Tax benefit from stock options
2237
exercised 0 0 70,000 0 0 0 0 70,000
2238
Warrants exercised 70,898 709 (709) 0 0 0 0 0
2239
Treasury shares purchased 0 0 0 1,000,000 (8,278,519) 0 0 (8,278,519)
2240
Comprehensive income:
2241
Net income for the year 0 0 0 0 0 8,770,316 0 8,770,316
2242
-----------
2243
Total comprehensive income 8,770,316
2244
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2245
2246
Balance at December 31, 1997 19,294,570 192,946 63,495,718 961,511 (8,219,993) 25,175,830 0 80,644,501
2247
2248
Stock issued in connection with
2249
Employee Stock Purchase Plan 0 0 (25,349) (5,467) 43,141 0 0 17,792
2250
Stock options exercised 0 0 (1,537,840) (171,500) 1,776,871 0 0 239,031
2251
Treasury shares purchased 0 0 0 1,907,600 (8,270,147) 0 0 (8,270,147)
2252
Comprehensive income:
2253
Net income for the year 0 0 0 0 0 2,981,664 0 2,981,664
2254
Unrealized gains on marketable securities
2255
net of income tax effect of $154,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 253,000 253,000
2256
-----------
2257
Total comprehensive income 3,234,664
2258
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2259
2260
Balance at December 31, 1998 19,294,570 192,946 61,932,529 2,692,144 (14,670,128) 28,157,494 253,000 75,865,841
2261
2262
Stock issued in connection with
2263
Employee Stock Purchase Plan 0 0 (98,185) (18,381) 151,404 0 0 53,219
2264
Stock options exercised 0 0 (413,822) (108,065) 860,103 0 0 446,281
2265
Warrants issued 0 0 110,000 0 0 0 0 110,000
2266
Treasury shares purchased 0 0 0 2,272,400 (8,561,916) 0 0 (8,561,916)
2267
Comprehensive loss:
2268
Net loss for the year 0 0 0 0 0 (13,756,351) 0 (13,756,351)
2269
Unrealized losses on marketable securities
2270
net of income tax effect of $154,000 0 0 0 0 0 0 (573,000) (573,000)
2271
-----------
2272
Total comprehensive loss (14,329,351)
2273
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2274
2275
Balance at December 31, 1999 19,294,570 $ 192,946 $61,530,522 4,838,098 $(22,220,537) $ 14,401,143 $ (320,000) $53,584,074
2276
========================================================================================================================================================================
2277
</PRE></FONT>
2278
2279
<P><FONT Size="2">The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.</FONT></P>
2280
2281
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-4</FONT></CENTER>
2282
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2283
2284
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>CNS, INC.</B><BR>
2285
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows<BR>
2286
Years ended December 31, 1999, 1998, and 1997</FONT></P></CENTER>
2287
2288
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2289
1999 1998 1997
2290
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2291
2292
Operating activities:
2293
Net income (loss) $ (13,756,351) $ 2,981,664 $ 8,770,316
2294
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
2295
provided by (used in) operating activities:
2296
Depreciation and amortization 1,029,148 854,702 460,044
2297
Warrants issued 110,000 0 0
2298
Deferred income taxes 1,486,000 284,000 (809,000)
2299
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
2300
Accounts receivable (3,578,863) 3,601,049 3,273,730
2301
Inventories 3,917,744 (198,530) (309,837)
2302
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (4,008,586) 500,443 (1,647,946)
2303
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 2,655,175 1,247,114 (1,783,688)
2304
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2305
2306
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (12,145,733) 9,270,442 7,953,619
2307
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2308
2309
Investing activities:
2310
Purchases of marketable securities (97,157,463) (43,428,987) (99,045,360)
2311
Sales and maturities of marketable securities 118,230,006 43,497,271 89,926,317
2312
Payments for purchases of property and equipment (330,538) (1,101,403) (1,239,918)
2313
Payments for product rights (258,722) (228,826) (1,553,605)
2314
Redemption (purchase) of certificate of deposit, restricted 0 359,898 (19,834)
2315
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2316
2317
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 20,483,283 (902,047) (11,932,400)
2318
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2319
2320
Financing activities:
2321
Proceeds from the issuance of common stock
2322
under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 53,219 17,792 15,654
2323
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 446,281 239,031 362,143
2324
Purchase of treasury shares (8,561,916) (8,270,147) (8,278,519)
2325
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2326
2327
Net cash used in financing activities (8,062,416) (8,013,324) (7,900,722)
2328
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2329
2330
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 275,134 355,071 (11,879,503)
2331
2332
Cash and cash equivalents:
2333
Beginning of year 584,718 229,647 12,109,150
2334
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2335
2336
End of year $ 859,852 $ 584,718 $ 229,647
2337
==================================================================================================================================
2338
2339
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
2340
Cash paid during the year for interest $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
2341
Cash paid during the year for income taxes 344,000 700,000 4,750,000
2342
==================================================================================================================================
2343
</PRE></FONT>
2344
2345
<P><FONT Size="2">The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.</FONT></P>
2346
2347
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-5</FONT></CENTER>
2348
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2349
2350
<CENTER><P><FONT Size="2"><B>CNS, INC.</B><BR>
2351
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements<BR>
2352
December 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997</FONT></P></CENTER>
2353
2354
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2355
<TR>
2356
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2"><B>(1)</B></FONT></TD>
2357
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2"><B>Summary of Significant Accounting Policies</B></FONT></TD>
2358
</TR>
2359
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2360
<TR>
2361
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2362
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Principles of Consolidation&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The accompanying consolidated financial statements
2363
include the accounts of CNS, Inc. and its subsidiaries ("the Company"). All material intercompany
2364
accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.</FONT></TD>
2365
</TR>
2366
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2367
<TR>
2368
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2369
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Business&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The Company designs, manufactures and markets consumer
2370
products, primarily the Breathe Right&reg; nasal strip. The Breathe
2371
Right nasal strip is a nonprescription, single use, disposable
2372
device that can temporarily relieve nasal congestion and reduce or
2373
eliminate snoring by improving nasal breathing. The Breathe Right
2374
nasal strip is sold over-the-counter in retail outlets, including
2375
mass merchant, drug, grocery and club stores. The Company has an
2376
international distribution agreement with 3M Company ("3M") to
2377
market Breathe Right nasal strips outside the U.S. and Canada,
2378
which was amended in 1999 to allow the Company to regain control
2379
of its international business on a phased schedule. The Company's
2380
agreement with 3M will terminate on June 30, 2000.</TD>
2381
</TR>
2382
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2383
<TR>
2384
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2385
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Revenue Recognition&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Revenue from sales is recognized at the time
2386
products are shipped.</TD>
2387
</TR>
2388
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2389
<TR>
2390
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2391
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Accounting Estimates&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The preparation of financial statements in
2392
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires
2393
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the
2394
reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
2395
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
2396
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses
2397
during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from
2398
those estimates.</TD>
2399
</TR>
2400
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2401
<TR>
2402
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2403
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>FairValue of Financial Instruments&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> All financial instruments are
2404
carried at amounts that approximate fair value.</TD>
2405
</TR>
2406
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2407
<TR>
2408
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2409
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Cash Equivalents&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Cash equivalents consist primarily of money market
2410
funds.</TD>
2411
</TR>
2412
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2413
<TR>
2414
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2415
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Marketable Securities&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The Company classifies its marketable debt
2416
securities as available-for-sale and records these securities at
2417
fair market value. Net realized and unrealized gains and losses
2418
are determined on the specific identification cost basis. Any
2419
unrealized gains and losses are reflected as a separate component
2420
of stockholders' equity. A decline in the market value of any
2421
available-for-sale security below cost that is deemed other than
2422
temporary, results in a charge to operations resulting in the
2423
establishment of a new cost basis for the security.</TD>
2424
</TR>
2425
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2426
<TR>
2427
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2428
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Inventories&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Inventories are valued at the lower of cost (determined on
2429
a first-in, first-out basis) or market.</TD>
2430
</TR>
2431
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2432
<TR>
2433
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2434
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Property and Equipment&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Property and equipment are stated at cost.
2435
Equipment is depreciated using the straight-line method over five
2436
years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the
2437
estimated useful life of the improvement or the term of the lease.</TD>
2438
</TR>
2439
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2440
<TR>
2441
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2442
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Product Rights&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Product rights, consisting of patents, trademarks and
2443
other product rights, are stated at cost and are amortized over
2444
three to seven years using the straight-line method.</TD>
2445
</TR>
2446
</TABLE>
2447
2448
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-6</FONT></CENTER>
2449
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2450
2451
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2452
<TR>
2453
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2454
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2"><B>Stock Based Compensation&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The Company follows the disclosure
2455
requirements for employee stock based compensation plans and,
2456
accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized.</TD>
2457
</TR>
2458
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2459
<TR>
2460
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2461
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Foreign Sales&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Foreign sales are made in U.S. dollars only. There are no currency conversions.</TD>
2462
</TR>
2463
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2464
<TR>
2465
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2466
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Advertising&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The Company expenses the production costs of advertising
2467
the first time the advertising runs.</TD>
2468
</TR>
2469
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2470
<TR>
2471
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2472
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Income Taxes&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Deferred tax assets and liabilities and the resultant
2473
provision for income taxes are determined based on the difference
2474
between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and
2475
liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in
2476
which the differences are expected to reverse.</TD>
2477
</TR>
2478
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2479
<TR>
2480
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2481
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Net Income Per Share&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Basic net income (loss) per share and diluted net
2482
(loss) per share have been computed based upon the weighted
2483
average number of common shares outstanding during the year.
2484
Assumed conversion shares were excluded from the net loss per
2485
share computation as their effect is antidilutive. Common stock
2486
options could potentially dilute basic earnings per share in
2487
future periods if the Company generates net income. Diluted net
2488
income per share has been computed based upon the weighted average
2489
number of common and assumed conversion shares outstanding during
2490
the year.</TD>
2491
</TR>
2492
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2493
<TR>
2494
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2495
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Comprehensive Income (Loss)&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> Comprehensive income (loss) consists of
2496
the Company's net income (loss) and unrealized gains (losses) on
2497
marketable securities and is presented in the consolidated
2498
statements of stockholders' equity and comprehensive income
2499
(loss). Comprehensive income (loss) is an additional disclosure in
2500
the consolidated financial statements; it does not affect the
2501
Company's financial position or results of operations.</TD>
2502
</TR>
2503
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2504
<TR>
2505
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2506
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>New Accounting Standards&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> In 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of
2507
Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
2508
Activities. SFAS No. 133 establishes new standards for recognizing all derivatives as either
2509
assets or liabilities, and measuring those instruments at fair value. The Company plans to adopt
2510
the new standard in 2001. The Company is in the process of evaluating SFAS No. 133 and its
2511
potential impact.</TD>
2512
</TR>
2513
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2514
<TR>
2515
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(2)</B></FONT></TD>
2516
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Marketable Securities</B></FONT></TD>
2517
</TR>
2518
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2519
<TR>
2520
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2521
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Marketable securities, including estimated fair value based on quoted
2522
market prices or valuation models, are summarized as follows (in
2523
thousands):</FONT></TD>
2524
</TR>
2525
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2526
<TR>
2527
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2528
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2529
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2530
December 31
2531
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2532
1999 1998
2533
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
2534
Cost Fair Value Cost Fair Value
2535
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2536
2537
Cash equivalents $ 659 $ 659 $ 1,145 $ 1,145
2538
Certificates of deposit 5,500 5,493 0 0
2539
Corporate bonds 24,088 23,879 1,754 1,772
2540
U.S. Government obligations 8,070 7,966 1,309 1,316
2541
Municipal bonds 0 0 55,182 55,564
2542
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2543
2544
Total marketable securities $ 38,317 $ 37,997 $ 59,390 $ 59,797
2545
================================================================================================================
2546
</PRE></FONT>
2547
</TD>
2548
</TR>
2549
</TABLE>
2550
2551
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-7</FONT></CENTER>
2552
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2553
2554
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2555
<TR>
2556
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2557
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2">Maturities of marketable securities at December 31, 1999 are as
2558
follows (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
2559
</TR>
2560
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2561
<TR>
2562
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2563
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2564
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2565
Cost Fair Value
2566
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
2567
2568
Due within one year $ 19,137 $ 19,091
2569
Due after one year through three years 19,180 18,906
2570
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
2571
2572
Total marketable securities $ 38,317 $ 37,997
2573
================================================================
2574
</PRE></FONT>
2575
</TD>
2576
</TR>
2577
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2578
<TR>
2579
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2580
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">There were realized gains of $243,000 during 1999 and no realized
2581
gains or losses in 1998 or 1997.</FONT></TD>
2582
</TR>
2583
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2584
<TR>
2585
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(3)</B></FONT></TD>
2586
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Advertising</B></FONT></TD>
2587
</TR>
2588
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2589
<TR>
2590
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2591
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">At December 31, 1999 and 1998, $1,762,000 and $445,000, respectively,
2592
of advertising costs were reported as assets. Advertising expense
2593
was $17,669,000 in 1999, $15,783,000 in 1998, and $21,160,000 in
2594
1997.</FONT></TD>
2595
</TR>
2596
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2597
<TR>
2598
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(4)</B></FONT></TD>
2599
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Details of Selected Balance Sheet Accounts</B></FONT></TD>
2600
</TR>
2601
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2602
<TR>
2603
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2604
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Details of selected balance sheet accounts are as follows (in
2605
thousands):</FONT></TD>
2606
</TR>
2607
<TR>
2608
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2609
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2610
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2611
2612
1999 1998 1997
2613
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2614
2615
Allowance for doubtful accounts:
2616
Balance beginning of year $ 210 $ 210 $ 210
2617
Plus provision for doubtful accounts 96 43 5
2618
Less charge offs 26 43 5
2619
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2620
2621
Balance end of year $ 280 $ 210 $ 210
2622
=====================================================================================
2623
2624
December 31
2625
---------------------
2626
1999 1998
2627
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2628
2629
Inventories:
2630
Finished goods $ 2,935 $ 6,364
2631
Work in process 21 183
2632
Raw materials and component parts 1,949 2,276
2633
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2634
2635
Total inventories $ 4,905 $ 8,823
2636
=====================================================================================
2637
2638
Property and equipment:
2639
Production equipment $ 408 $ 410
2640
Office equipment and information systems 3,330 3,096
2641
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2642
3,738 3,506
2643
Less accumulated depreciation 1,728 1,100
2644
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2645
2646
Property and equipment, net $ 2,010 $ 2,406
2647
=====================================================================================
2648
2649
Product rights:
2650
Product rights $ 2,407 $ 2,148
2651
Less accumulated amortization 1,016 713
2652
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2653
2654
Product rights, net $ 1,391 $ 1,435
2655
=====================================================================================
2656
</PRE></FONT>
2657
</TD>
2658
</TR>
2659
</TABLE>
2660
2661
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-8</FONT></CENTER>
2662
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2663
2664
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2665
<TR>
2666
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2667
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2668
Accrued expenses:
2669
Promotions and allowances $ 3,106 $ 1,632
2670
Royalties and commissions 678 665
2671
Salaries, incentives and paid time off 991 1,016
2672
Packaging transition 1,426 0
2673
Other 130 106
2674
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2675
2676
Total accrued expenses $ 6,331 $ 3,419
2677
=====================================================================================
2678
</PRE></FONT>
2679
</TD>
2680
</TR>
2681
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2682
<TR>
2683
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2"><B>(5)</B></FONT></TD>
2684
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2"><B>Stockholders' Equity</B></FONT></TD>
2685
</TR>
2686
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2687
<TR>
2688
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2689
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Stock Options&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The Company's stock option plans allow for the grant of
2690
options to officers, directors, and employees to purchase up to
2691
2,950,000 shares of common stock at exercise prices not less than
2692
100% of fair market value on the dates of grant. The term of the
2693
options may not exceed ten years and vest in increments over 1 to
2694
5 years from the grant date. The plans allow for the grant of
2695
shares of restricted common stock. No shares of restricted common
2696
stock have been granted under these plans as of December 31, 1999.</FONT></TD>
2697
</TR>
2698
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2699
<TR>
2700
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2701
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Stock option activity under these plans is summarized as follows:</FONT></TD>
2702
</TR>
2703
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2704
<TR>
2705
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2706
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2707
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2708
Weighted-average Shares
2709
Exercise Price Shares Available
2710
Per Share Outstanding For Grant
2711
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2712
2713
Balance at December 31, 1996 $ 5.65 1,451,600 67,052
2714
Granted 7.13 110,000 (110,000)
2715
Exercised 2.56 (114,300) 0
2716
Canceled 16.79 (90,000) 90,000
2717
Unused 1987 expired - 0 (31,702)
2718
Amend 1994 Plan - 0 750,000
2719
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2720
2721
Balance at December 31, 1997 5.29 1,357,300 765,350
2722
Granted 4.92 634,700 (634,700)
2723
Exercised 1.39 (171,500) 0
2724
Canceled 10.71 (240,000) 240,000
2725
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2726
2727
Balance at December 31, 1998 4.74 1,580,500 370,650
2728
Granted 3.05 353,000 (353,000)
2729
Exercised 4.16 (115,010) 0
2730
Canceled 4.00 (47,100) 47,100
2731
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2732
2733
Balance at December 31, 1999 $ 4.47 1,771,390 64,750
2734
===============================================================================
2735
</PRE></FONT>
2736
</TD>
2737
</TR>
2738
</TABLE>
2739
2740
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-9</FONT></CENTER>
2741
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2742
2743
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2744
<TR>
2745
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2746
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2">Information on outstanding and currently exercisable options by price
2747
range as of December 31, 1999, is summarized as follows:</FONT></TD>
2748
</TR>
2749
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2750
<TR>
2751
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2752
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2753
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2754
Weighted- Weighted- Weighted-
2755
Total average average Exercisable average
2756
Price Range Number of Remaining Exercise Number of Exercise
2757
Per Share Shares Life (Years) Price Shares Price
2758
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2759
$ 1.69 - 2.31 37,100 1.8 $ 1.97 37,100 $ 1.97
2760
2.81 - 3.94 719,000 7.0 3.12 369,400 3.20
2761
4.13 - 5.00 309,590 8.5 4.70 102,456 4.69
2762
5.44 - 7.25 697,700 5.6 5.81 574,200 5.80
2763
11.38 8,000 .3 11.38 8,000 11.38
2764
------------- ---------------
2765
1,771,390 1,091,156
2766
============= ===============
2767
</PRE></FONT>
2768
</TD>
2769
</TR>
2770
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2771
<TR>
2772
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2773
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">At December 31, 1999, the weighted-average remaining contractual life
2774
of outstanding options was 6.6 years. At December 31, 1999, 1998
2775
and 1997, currently exercisable options aggregated 1,091,156,
2776
1,051,800 and 958,100 shares of common stock, respectively and the
2777
weighted-average exercise price of those options was $4.73, $4.62
2778
and $3.87, respectively.</FONT></TD>
2779
</TR>
2780
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2781
<TR>
2782
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2783
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">The per share weighted-average fair value of stock options granted
2784
during 1999, 1998 and 1997 is estimated as $1.98, $3.20 and $2.38,
2785
respectively on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option
2786
pricing model with the following assumptions: volatility of 65%;
2787
risk-free interest rate of 6.00% in 1999, 6.00% in 1998 and 6.25%
2788
in 1997; and an expected life of 6 years.</FONT></TD>
2789
</TR>
2790
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2791
<TR>
2792
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2793
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">The Company applies APB No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to
2794
Employees, and related interpretations in accounting for its stock
2795
compensation plans. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been
2796
recognized for its stock-based compensation plans. Had the Company
2797
determined compensation cost based on the fair value at the grant
2798
date for its stock options under SFAS No. 123, Accounting for
2799
Stock-Based Compensation, the Company's net income and diluted
2800
earnings per share would have been reduced by approximately
2801
$950,000, or $.06 per share in 1999, $1,300,000, or $.07 per share
2802
in 1998 and $530,000, or $.03 per share in 1997.</FONT></TD>
2803
</TR>
2804
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2805
<TR>
2806
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2807
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Pro forma net income reflects only options granted since 1995.
2808
Therefore, the full impact of calculating compensation cost for
2809
stock options under SFAS No. 123 is not reflected in the pro forma
2810
net income amounts presented because compensation cost is
2811
reflected over the options' vesting period and compensation cost
2812
for options granted prior to January 1, 1995 is not considered.</FONT></TD>
2813
</TR>
2814
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2815
<TR>
2816
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2817
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Employee Stock Purchase Plan&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> The Employee Stock Purchase Plan allows
2818
eligible employees to purchase shares of the Company's common
2819
stock through payroll deductions. The purchase price is the lower
2820
of 85% of the fair market value of the stock on the first or last
2821
day of each six-month period during which an employee participated
2822
in the plan. The Company has reserved 200,000 shares under the
2823
plan of which employees as of December 31, 1999 have purchased
2824
162,650 shares.</FONT></TD>
2825
</TR>
2826
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2827
<TR>
2828
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2829
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Warrants&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> During 1997 and 1995, warrants to purchase a total of 100,000
2830
shares at $2.75 were exercised. The warrants had been issued in
2831
connection with an agreement to license a product.</FONT></TD>
2832
</TR>
2833
</TABLE>
2834
2835
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-10</FONT></CENTER>
2836
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2837
2838
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2839
<TR>
2840
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2841
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2">In connection with agreements to license certain intellectual
2842
property rights to potential products, licensers were issued
2843
warrants. During 1999, warrants were issued to purchase 50,000
2844
shares of the Company's common stock exercisable at a price of
2845
$3.44 per share exercisable evenly over the next three years and
2846
for a period of 10 years. The issuance of the warrants resulted in
2847
an expense of $110,000. Warrants were issued during 1997 to
2848
purchase 25,000 shares at a price of $8.00 per share exercisable
2849
when the potential products are marketed and for a period of five
2850
years. None of these warrants are currently exercisable.</FONT></TD>
2851
</TR>
2852
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2853
<TR>
2854
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2855
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Preferred Stock&nbsp;&nbsp;</B> At December 31, 1999, the Company is authorized to
2856
issue 1,000,000 shares of Series A Junior Participating Preferred
2857
Stock upon a triggering event under the Company's stockholders'
2858
rights plan and is authorized to issue up to an additional
2859
7,483,589 shares of undesignated preferred stock.</FONT></TD>
2860
</TR>
2861
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2862
<TR>
2863
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(6)</B></FONT></TD>
2864
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Income Taxes</B></FONT></TD>
2865
</TR>
2866
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2867
<TR>
2868
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2869
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Income tax expense (benefit) for the three years ended December 31,
2870
1999, is as follows (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
2871
</TR>
2872
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2873
<TR>
2874
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2875
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2876
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2877
Current Deferred Total
2878
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2879
1999:
2880
Federal $ (3,917) $ 1,816 $ (2,101)
2881
State 0 0 0
2882
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2883
2884
Income tax expense (benefit) $ (3,917) $ 1,816 $ (2,101)
2885
=============================================================================
2886
2887
1998:
2888
Federal $ 128 $ 184 $ 312
2889
State 98 100 198
2890
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2891
2892
Income tax expense $ 226 $ 284 $ 510
2893
=============================================================================
2894
2895
1997:
2896
Federal $ 4,154 $ (728) $ 3,426
2897
State 505 (81) 424
2898
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2899
2900
Income tax expense (benefit) $ 4,659 $ (809) $ 3,850
2901
=============================================================================
2902
</PRE></FONT>
2903
</TD>
2904
</TR>
2905
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2906
<TR>
2907
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2908
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Income tax expense (benefit) differed from the amounts computed by
2909
applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% as a result of
2910
the following (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
2911
</TR>
2912
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2913
<TR>
2914
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2915
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2916
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2917
1999 1998 1997
2918
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2919
2920
Computed tax expense (benefit) $ (5,550) $ 1,222 $ 4,417
2921
State taxes, net of federal benefit (431) 64 331
2922
Tax exempt interest (178) (789) (765)
2923
Benefit of foreign sales corporation 0 0 (127)
2924
Change in deferred tax valuation allowance 3,932 0 0
2925
Other 126 13 (6)
2926
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2927
2928
Actual tax expense (benefit) $ (2,101) $ 510 $ 3,850
2929
===================================================================================
2930
</PRE></FONT>
2931
</TD>
2932
</TR>
2933
</TABLE>
2934
2935
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-11</FONT></CENTER>
2936
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
2937
2938
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
2939
<TR>
2940
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2941
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2">The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant
2942
portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities
2943
for 1999 and 1998 are presented below (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
2944
</TR>
2945
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2946
<TR>
2947
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2948
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
2949
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
2950
December 31
2951
------------------------
2952
1999 1998
2953
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
2954
2955
Deferred tax assets:
2956
Inventory items $ 677 $ 659
2957
Accounts receivable allowance 104 78
2958
Product rights 181 113
2959
Accrued expenses 1,835 710
2960
Net operating loss and credit carryforwards 1,124 0
2961
Unrealized loss on marketable securities 122 0
2962
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
2963
4,043 1,560
2964
Less valuation allowance 3,932 0
2965
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
2966
111 1,560
2967
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
2968
2969
Deferred tax liabilities:
2970
Unrealized gains on marketable securities 0 (154)
2971
Property and equipment (111) (74)
2972
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
2973
(111) (228)
2974
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
2975
2976
Net deferred tax assets $ 0 $ 1,332
2977
==========================================================================
2978
</PRE></FONT>
2979
</TD>
2980
</TR>
2981
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2982
<TR>
2983
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
2984
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">In assessing the realization of deferred tax assets, management
2985
considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or
2986
all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate
2987
realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the
2988
generation of future taxable income during the periods in which
2989
those temporary differences become deductible. Based on the level
2990
on historical taxable income and projections of future taxable
2991
income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are
2992
deductible, management does not believe that it is more likely
2993
than not the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible
2994
differences. Accordingly, the Company has provided a valuation
2995
allowance against the net deferred assets as of December 31, 1999.</FONT></TD>
2996
</TR>
2997
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
2998
<TR>
2999
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3000
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">As of December 31, 1999, the Company has reported federal net
3001
operating loss carryforwards of approximately $1,700,000. The
3002
federal net operating loss carryforwards expire in 2009.</FONT></TD>
3003
</TR>
3004
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3005
<TR>
3006
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(7)</B></FONT></TD>
3007
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Sales</B></FONT></TD>
3008
</TR>
3009
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3010
<TR>
3011
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3012
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">The Company had one significant customer who accounted for
3013
approximately 24% of total sales in 1999 and 20% of total sales in
3014
1998 and two significant customers, including 3M Company, who
3015
accounted for approximately 28% of total sales in 1997. Accounts
3016
receivable from this customer as of December 31, 1999 and 1998
3017
were $4,330,000 and $1,013,000, respectively. Sales by geographic
3018
area are as follows (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
3019
</TR>
3020
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3021
<TR>
3022
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3023
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
3024
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
3025
1999 1998 1997
3026
- -----------------------------------------------------------
3027
3028
Domestic $ 45,062 $ 51,855 $ 60,602
3029
International 988 1,768 6,355
3030
- -----------------------------------------------------------
3031
3032
Total sales $ 46,050 $ 53,623 $ 66,957
3033
===========================================================
3034
</PRE></FONT>
3035
</TD>
3036
</TR>
3037
</TABLE>
3038
3039
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-12</FONT></CENTER>
3040
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
3041
3042
<TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="0" CELLPADDING="2" WIDTH="100%">
3043
<TR>
3044
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="5%"><FONT Size="2"><B>(8)</B></FONT></TD>
3045
<TD VALIGN="TOP" WIDTH="95%"><FONT Size="2"><B>Contract Termination Fee</B></FONT></TD>
3046
</TR>
3047
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3048
<TR>
3049
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3050
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">On September 30, 1999, the Company and 3M amended the international
3051
distribution agreement in a manner that allows the Company to
3052
regain control of its international business on a phased schedule.
3053
In exchange for the 1999 payment of a one-time contract
3054
termination fee of $6,345,000, the international distribution
3055
agreement with 3M will terminate on June 30, 2000.</FONT></TD>
3056
</TR>
3057
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3058
<TR>
3059
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(9)</B></FONT></TD>
3060
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>License Agreements</B></FONT></TD>
3061
</TR>
3062
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3063
<TR>
3064
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3065
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">The Company has agreements to exclusively license intellectual
3066
property rights to certain products. Royalties due under these
3067
agreements are based on various percentages of net sales. To
3068
maintain the Company's licenses, it must make minimum royalty
3069
payments of $1,250,000 each year until patents for the products
3070
expire. Royalty expense was $1,477,000 in 1999, $1,509,000 in 1998
3071
and $1,995,000 in 1997.</FONT></TD>
3072
</TR>
3073
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3074
<TR>
3075
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(10)</B></FONT></TD>
3076
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Operating Leases</B></FONT></TD>
3077
</TR>
3078
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3079
<TR>
3080
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3081
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">The Company leases equipment and office space under noncancelable
3082
operating leases that have initial or noncancelable lease terms in
3083
excess of one year. Future minimum lease payments due in
3084
accordance with these leases as of December 31, 1999 are as
3085
follows (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
3086
</TR>
3087
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3088
<TR>
3089
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3090
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
3091
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
3092
Year ending December 31, Amount
3093
- ---------------------------------------------------------
3094
3095
2000 $ 481
3096
2001 697
3097
2002 711
3098
2003 725
3099
2004 727
3100
Later years 4,599
3101
- ---------------------------------------------------------
3102
3103
Future minimum lease payments $ 7,940
3104
=========================================================
3105
</PRE></FONT>
3106
</TD>
3107
</TR>
3108
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3109
<TR>
3110
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3111
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Total rental expense for operating leases was $555,000 in 1999,
3112
$564,000 in 1998, and $471,000 in 1997.</FONT></TD>
3113
</TR>
3114
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3115
<TR>
3116
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>(11)</B></FONT></TD>
3117
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2"><B>Earnings Per Share</B></FONT></TD>
3118
</TR>
3119
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3120
<TR>
3121
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3122
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">A reconciliation of basic and diluted weighted average common shares
3123
outstanding is as follows (in thousands):</FONT></TD>
3124
</TR>
3125
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3126
<TR>
3127
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3128
<TD VALIGN="TOP">
3129
<FONT SIZE="2"><PRE>
3130
1999 1998 1997
3131
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3132
3133
Weighted average common shares outstanding 15,435 18,079 19,119
3134
Assumed conversion of stock options 0 170 682
3135
Assumed conversion of warrants 0 0 1
3136
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3137
Average common and assumed Conversion shares 15,435 18,249 19,802
3138
==================================================================================
3139
</PRE></FONT>
3140
</TD>
3141
</TR>
3142
<TR><TD VALIGN="TOP" COLSPAN="2"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD></TR>
3143
<TR>
3144
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
3145
<TD VALIGN="TOP"><FONT Size="2">Options and warrants to purchase 1,846,390 shares of common stock with
3146
a range of exercise prices from $1.69 to $11.38 per share were
3147
outstanding during 1999 but were not included in the computation
3148
of 1999 diluted earnings per share because the effect would be
3149
anti-dilutive. The options expire from 2000 to 2009.</FONT></TD>
3150
</TR>
3151
</TABLE>
3152
3153
<CENTER><FONT Size="2">F-13</FONT></CENTER>
3154
<HR SIZE=5 COLOR=GRAY NOSHADE>
3155
3156
</body>
3157
</HTML>
3158
3159
</TEXT>
3160
</DOCUMENT>
3161
<DOCUMENT>
3162
<TYPE>EX-3.2
3163
<SEQUENCE>2
3164
<DESCRIPTION>AMENDED AND RESTATED BY-LAWS
3165
<TEXT>
3166
3167
3168
Exhibit 3.2
3169
3170
3171
3172
3173
3174
3175
3176
AMENDED AND RESTATED BY-LAWS
3177
3178
3179
3180
OF
3181
3182
3183
3184
3185
CNS, INC.
3186
3187
3188
3189
3190
3191
3192
DATED MARCH 13, 2000
3193
3194
<PAGE>
3195
3196
3197
CONTENTS OF AMENDED AND RESTATED BY-LAWS
3198
OF
3199
CNS, INC.
3200
3201
ARTICLE 1 - OFFICES............................................................1
3202
1.1) Registered Offices.............................................1
3203
1.2) Offices........................................................1
3204
3205
ARTICLE 2 - CORPORATE SEAL.....................................................1
3206
3207
ARTICLE 3 - SHAREHOLDERS.......................................................1
3208
3.1) Regular Meeting................................................1
3209
3.2) Special Meetings...............................................2
3210
3.3) Quorum.........................................................2
3211
3.4) Voting.........................................................2
3212
3.5) Notice of Meeting..............................................3
3213
3.6) Proxies........................................................3
3214
3.7) Closing Transfer Books.........................................3
3215
3.8) Record Date....................................................3
3216
3.9) Presiding Officer..............................................3
3217
3.10) Conduct of Meetings of Shareholders............................4
3218
3.11) Order of Business..............................................4
3219
3.12) Inspectors of Election.........................................5
3220
3.13) Informal Action by Shareholders................................5
3221
3222
ARTICLE 4 - DIRECTORS..........................................................5
3223
4.1) General Powers.................................................5
3224
4.2) Number.........................................................5
3225
4.3) Qualifications and Term of Office..............................5
3226
4.4) Quorum.........................................................5
3227
4.5) Regular Meetings...............................................6
3228
4.6) Telephonic Meetings............................................6
3229
4.7) Special Meetings...............................................6
3230
4.8) Compensation...................................................6
3231
4.9) Salaries.......................................................6
3232
4.10) Committees.....................................................6
3233
4.11) Committee of Disinterested Persons.............................7
3234
4.12) Vacancies......................................................7
3235
4.13) Order of Business..............................................7
3236
4.14) Written Consent or Opposition in Advance of Meeting............7
3237
4.15) Informal Action by Directors...................................8
3238
4.16) Removal of Directors...........................................8
3239
3240
ARTICLE 5 - OFFICERS...........................................................8
3241
5.1) Number.........................................................8
3242
5.2) Election, Term of Office and Qualifications....................8
3243
5.3) Chairman of the Board..........................................8
3244
5.4) President and Chief Executive Officer..........................8
3245
5.5) Chief Operating Officer........................................8
3246
5.6) Vice President.................................................9
3247
5.7) Secretary......................................................9
3248
3249
<PAGE>
3250
3251
3252
5.8) Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer..........................9
3253
5.9) Assistant Officers.............................................9
3254
5.10) Officers Shall Not Lend Corporate Credit.......................9
3255
3256
ARTICLE 6 - INDEMNIFICATION...................................................10
3257
3258
ARTICLE 7 - SHARES AND THEIR TRANSFER.........................................10
3259
7.1) Certificates of Stock.........................................10
3260
7.2) Facsimile Signature...........................................10
3261
7.3) Issuance of Shares............................................10
3262
7.4) Transfer of Shares............................................10
3263
7.5) Lost Certificates.............................................11
3264
7.6) Treasury Stock................................................11
3265
7.7) Indebtedness of Shareholders..................................11
3266
7.8) Transfer Agent and Registrar..................................11
3267
3268
ARTICLE 8 - BOOKS AND RECORDS.................................................11
3269
8.1) Share Register; Dates of Issuance.............................11
3270
8.2) Other Documents Required......................................11
3271
8.3) Financial Records.............................................12
3272
8.4) Right to Inspect..............................................12
3273
8.5) Cost of Copies................................................12
3274
8.6) Computerized Records..........................................12
3275
8.7) Financial Statements..........................................12
3276
3277
ARTICLE 9 - DISTRIBUTIONS.....................................................13
3278
9.1) Distributions.................................................13
3279
9.2) Record Date...................................................13
3280
9.3) Restrictions..................................................13
3281
3282
ARTICLE 10 - FINANCIAL AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT................................13
3283
10.1) Fiscal Year...................................................13
3284
10.2) Audit of Books and Accounts...................................13
3285
10.3) Contracts.....................................................14
3286
10.4) Checks........................................................14
3287
10.5) Deposits......................................................14
3288
10.6) Voting Securities Held by Corporation.........................14
3289
3290
ARTICLE 11 - WAIVER OF NOTICE.................................................14
3291
3292
ARTICLE 12 - AMENDMENTS.......................................................14
3293
3294
<PAGE>
3295
3296
3297
AMENDED AND RESTATED BY-LAWS
3298
3299
OF
3300
3301
CNS, INC.
3302
3303
ARTICLE 1
3304
3305
OFFICES
3306
3307
1.1) Registered Offices - The address of the registered office of the
3308
corporation shall be established and maintained at the office of the Corporation
3309
Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, in the City of Wilmington, County of New
3310
Castle, State of Delaware and the Corporation Trust Company shall be the
3311
registered agent of the corporation. The Board of Directors shall have authority
3312
to change the registered office of the corporation from time to time, and any
3313
such change shall be registered by the secretary with the Secretary of State of
3314
Delaware.
3315
3316
1.2) Offices - The corporation may have such other offices, including
3317
its principal business office, either within or without the State of Delaware,
3318
as the Board of Directors may designate or as the business of the corporation
3319
may require from time to time.
3320
3321
ARTICLE 2
3322
3323
CORPORATE SEAL
3324
3325
The corporate seal shall have thereon the name of the corporation,
3326
and the words "Corporate Seal" and when so directed by the Board of Directors a
3327
duplicate of the seal may be kept and used by the secretary or treasurer or by
3328
an assistant secretary or assistant treasurer.
3329
3330
ARTICLE 3
3331
3332
SHAREHOLDERS
3333
3334
3.1) Regular Meeting - The regular meeting of the shareholders of the
3335
corporation shall be an annual meeting held at the principal business office of
3336
the corporation, or at such place as is designated by the Board of Directors or
3337
by written consent of all the shareholders entitled to vote thereat, at which
3338
time the shareholders, voting as provided in the Articles of Incorporation,
3339
shall elect a Board of Directors for the ensuing year, and shall transact such
3340
other business as shall properly come before them. In the event the regular
3341
meeting is not held for a period of thirteen (13) months or more, a shareholder
3342
or director may apply to the Court of Chancery to summarily order a meeting to
3343
be held. To be properly brought before the annual meeting, business must be of a
3344
nature that is appropriate for consideration at an annual meeting and must be
3345
(i) specified in the notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto) given by or
3346
at the direction of the Board of Directors, (ii) otherwise properly brought
3347
before the meeting by a shareholder. In addition to any other applicable
3348
requirements, for business to be properly brought before the annual meeting by a
3349
shareholder, the shareholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to
3350
the Secretary of the corporation. To be timely, each such notice must be given,
3351
either by personal delivery or by United States mail, postage prepaid, to the
3352
Secretary of the corporation, not less than 45 days nor more than 60 days prior
3353
to the date the proxy materials for the previous year's annual meeting were
3354
mailed to shareholders of the corporation. Each such notice to the Secretary
3355
shall set forth as to each matter the shareholder proposes to bring before the
3356
annual
3357
3358
<PAGE>
3359
3360
3361
meeting (w) a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the
3362
annual meeting and the reasons for conducting such business at the annual
3363
meeting, (x) the name and address of record of the shareholders proposing such
3364
business, (y) the class or series (if any) and the number of shares of the
3365
corporation which are owned by the shareholder, and (z) any material interest of
3366
the shareholder in such business. Notwithstanding anything in these By-laws to
3367
the contrary, no business shall be transacted at the annual meeting except in
3368
accordance with the procedures set forth in this Article; provided, however,
3369
that nothing in this Article shall be deemed to preclude discussion by any
3370
shareholder of any business properly brought before the annual meeting, in
3371
accordance with these By-Laws.
3372
3373
3.2) Special Meetings - Special meetings of the shareholders shall be
3374
called by the Secretary at any time upon request of the President, a
3375
Vice-President acting in the capacity of the President, the Treasurer or two (2)
3376
or more members of the Board of Directors, or upon a written request of
3377
shareholders holding ten percent (10%) or more of the capital stock entitled to
3378
vote. Notice shall be given in accordance with the provisions of Article 3.5
3379
hereof.
3380
3381
3.3) Quorum - The holders of fifty (50%) percent of the outstanding
3382
shares entitled to vote, represented either in person or by proxy, shall
3383
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The shareholders present at
3384
a duly called or held meeting, at which a quorum of the shareholders is present,
3385
may continue to transact business until adjournment notwithstanding the
3386
withdrawal of enough shareholders to leave less than a quorum. In case a quorum
3387
is not present at any meeting, those present shall have the power to adjourn the
3388
meeting from time to time, without notice or other announcement at the meeting,
3389
until the requisite number of voting shares shall be represented. Any business
3390
may be transacted at such reconvened meeting which might have been transacted at
3391
the meeting which was adjourned.
3392
3393
3.4) Voting - At each meeting of the shareholders, every shareholder
3394
having the right to vote shall be entitled to vote in person or by proxy duly
3395
appointed by an instrument in writing subscribed by such shareholder. Each
3396
shareholder shall have one (1) vote for each share having voting power standing
3397
in his name on the books of the corporation. Shares owned by two (2) or more
3398
shareholders may be voted by any one of them unless the corporation receives
3399
written notice from any one of them denying the authority of that person to vote
3400
those shares. A holder of voting shares may vote any portion of the shares in
3401
any way the shareholder chooses. If a shareholder votes without designating the
3402
proportion or number of shares voted in a particular way, the shareholder is
3403
deemed to have voted all the shares in that way. Upon the demand of any
3404
shareholder, the vote for director, or the vote upon any question before the
3405
meeting shall be by ballot. All elections shall be had and all questions decided
3406
by a majority vote of the number of shares entitled to vote and represented at
3407
any meeting at which there is a quorum, except in such cases as shall otherwise
3408
be required or permitted by statute, the Certificate of Incorporation, these
3409
By-Laws or by agreement approved by a majority vote of the number of shares
3410
entitled to vote.
3411
3412
3.5) Notice of Meeting - There shall be mailed to each shareholder
3413
shown by the books of the corporation to be a holder of record of voting shares,
3414
at his address as shown by the books of the corporation, a notice setting out
3415
the time and place of the regular meeting or any special meeting, which notice
3416
shall be mailed at least ten (10) days and not more than sixty (60) days prior
3417
thereto. Every notice of any special meeting shall state the purpose or purposes
3418
of the proposed meeting, and the business transacted at all special meetings
3419
shall be confined to purposes stated in the call. A shareholder may waive notice
3420
of a meeting of shareholders. A waiver of notice by a shareholder entitled to
3421
notice is effective whether given before, at, or after the meeting, or whether
3422
given in writing, orally, or by attendance. Attendance by a shareholder at a
3423
meeting is a waiver of notice of that meeting, except where the shareholder
3424
objects at the beginning of the meeting to the transaction of business because
3425
the meeting is not lawfully called or convened, or objects before a vote on an
3426
item of business because the item may not lawfully be considered at that meeting
3427
and does not participate in the consideration of the item at that meeting.
3428
3429
<PAGE>
3430
3431
3432
3.6) Proxies - At all meetings of shareholders, a shareholder may
3433
vote by proxy executed in writing by the shareholder or by his duly authorized
3434
attorney-in-fact. Such proxies shall be filed with the Secretary of the
3435
corporation before or at the time of the meeting. No proxy shall be valid after
3436
eleven (11) months from the date of its execution, unless otherwise provided in
3437
the proxy. No appointment of a proxy is irrevocable unless the appointment is
3438
coupled with an interest in the shares of the corporation.
3439
3440
3.7) Closing Transfer Books - The Board of Directors may close the
3441
stock transfer books for a period of time not exceeding sixty (60) days
3442
preceding the date of any meeting of shareholders, payment of dividend,
3443
allotment of rights, change, conversion or exchange of capital stock or the date
3444
of obtaining consent of shareholders for any purpose.
3445
3446
3.8) Record Date - In lieu of closing the stock record books the
3447
Board of Directors may fix in advance a date, not exceeding sixty (60) days
3448
preceding the date of any of the aforesaid events, as a record date for the
3449
determination of shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at any such
3450
meeting and any adjournment thereof, or to receive any such dividend or
3451
allotment or rights, or to exercise the rights in respect to any change,
3452
conversion or exchange of capital stock or to give such consent, and in such
3453
case only such shareholders on the record date so fixed shall be entitled to
3454
notice of and to vote at such meeting and any adjournment thereof, or to receive
3455
such dividend or allotment of rights, or to exercise such rights, or to give
3456
such consent, as the case may be, notwithstanding any transfer of any stock on
3457
the books of the corporation after any such record date so fixed. If the stock
3458
transfer books are not closed and no record date is fixed for such determination
3459
of the shareholders of record, the date on which notice of the meeting is
3460
mailed, or the date of adoption of a resolution of the Board of Directors
3461
declaring a dividend, allotment of rights, change, conversion or exchange of
3462
capital stock or to give such consent, as the case may be, shall be the record
3463
date for such determination of shareholders. A determination of shareholders
3464
entitled to vote shall apply to any adjournment of such meeting except when the
3465
date of determination or the closing of the stock transfer book exceeds sixty
3466
(60) days preceding such adjourned meeting, in which event a new meeting must be
3467
called.
3468
3469
3.9) Presiding Officer - The appropriate officers of the corporation
3470
shall preside over all meetings of the shareholders; provided, however, that in
3471
the absence of an appropriate corporate officer at any meeting of the
3472
shareholders, the meeting shall choose any person present to act as presiding
3473
officer of the meeting.
3474
3475
3.10) Conduct of Meetings of Shareholders - Subject to the following,
3476
meetings of shareholders generally shall follow accepted rules of parliamentary
3477
procedure:
3478
3479
1. The chairman of the meeting shall have absolute authority
3480
over matters of procedure and there shall be no appeal
3481
from the ruling of the chairman. If the chairman, in his
3482
absolute discretion, deems it advisable to dispense with
3483
the rules of parliamentary procedure as to any one meeting
3484
of shareholders or part thereof the chairman shall so
3485
state and shall clearly state the rules under which the
3486
meeting or appropriate part thereof shall be conducted.
3487
3488
2. If disorder should arise which prevents continuation of
3489
the legitimate business of the meeting, the chairman may
3490
quit the chair and announce the adjournment of the
3491
meeting; and upon his so doing, the meeting is immediately
3492
adjourned.
3493
3494
3. The chairman may ask or require that anyone not a bona
3495
fide shareholder or proxy leave the meeting.
3496
3497
4. A resolution or motion shall be considered for vote only
3498
if proposed by a shareholder or duly authorized proxy, and
3499
seconded by an individual who is a shareholder or a duly
3500
3501
<PAGE>
3502
3503
3504
authorized proxy, other than the individual who proposed
3505
the resolution or motion; provided, however, that the
3506
chairman shall have the discretion to rule out of order
3507
any resolution or motion which seeks shareholder vote on a
3508
proposal that has failed to comply with the requirements
3509
of Article 3.1.
3510
3511
3.11) Order of Business - The suggested order of business at the
3512
regular meeting of shareholders, and so far as possible at all other meetings of
3513
the shareholders, shall be:
3514
3515
1. Calling of roll.
3516
3517
2. Proof of due notice of meeting, or unanimous waiver.
3518
3519
3. Reading and disposal of any unapproved minutes.
3520
3521
4. Annual reports of all officers and committees.
3522
3523
5. Election of directors.
3524
3525
6. Unfinished business.
3526
3527
7. New business properly presented.
3528
3529
8. Adjournment.
3530
3531
3.12) Inspectors of Election - The Board of Directors in advance of
3532
any meeting of shareholders may appoint inspectors to act at such meeting or any
3533
adjournment thereof. If inspectors of election are not so appointed, the officer
3534
or person acting as chairman of any such meeting may, and on the request of any
3535
shareholder or his proxy, shall make such appointment. In case any person
3536
appointed as inspector shall fail to appear or act, the vacancy may be filled by
3537
appointment made by the Board of Directors in advance of the meeting, or at the
3538
meeting by the officer or person acting as chairman. The inspectors of election
3539
shall determine the number of shares outstanding, the voting power of each, the
3540
shares represented at the meeting, the existence of a quorum, the authenticity,
3541
validity and effect of proxies, receive votes, ballots, assents or consents,
3542
hear and determine all challenges and questions in any way arising and announce
3543
the result, and do such acts as may be proper to conduct the election or vote
3544
with fairness to all shareholders.
3545
3546
No inspector whether appointed by the Board of Directors or by the
3547
officer or person acting as chairman need be a shareholder.
3548
3549
3.13) Informal Action by Shareholders - Any action required to be
3550
taken at a meeting of the shareholders, or any other action which may be taken
3551
at a meeting of the shareholders, may be taken without a meeting and notice
3552
thereof if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be
3553
signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum
3554
number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a
3555
meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted. The
3556
written action is effective when it has been signed by all of those
3557
shareholders, unless a different effective time is provided in the written
3558
action.
3559
3560
ARTICLE 4
3561
3562
DIRECTORS
3563
3564
4.1) General Powers - The property, affairs, and business of the
3565
corporation shall be managed by the Board of Directors.
3566
3567
<PAGE>
3568
3569
3570
4.2) Number - The Board of Directors shall consist of such number of
3571
directors, not less than five (5) nor more than eight (8), the exact number to
3572
be fixed from time to time solely by resolution of the Board of Directors,
3573
acting by not less than a majority of the directors then in office.
3574
3575
4.3) Qualifications and Term of Office - Directors need not be
3576
shareholders or residents of the State of Delaware. Directors shall be elected
3577
by the shareholders at the regular meeting for a term of one (1) year or until
3578
their successors are elected and qualified. Each of the directors of the
3579
corporation shall hold office until the regular meeting next following or
3580
closely coinciding with the expiration of his term of office and until his
3581
successor shall have been elected and shall qualify or until he shall resign, or
3582
shall have been removed as provided by statute.
3583
3584
4.4) Quorum - A majority of the whole Board of Directors shall
3585
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business; provided, however, that if
3586
any vacancies exist by reason of death, resignation or otherwise, a majority of
3587
the remaining directors shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of business.
3588
If less than a quorum is present at any meeting, a majority of the directors
3589
present may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice. If a
3590
quorum is present when a duly called or held meeting is convened, the directors
3591
present may continue to transact business until adjournment, even though the
3592
withdrawal of a number of directors originally present leaves less than a
3593
majority.
3594
3595
4.5) Regular Meetings - As soon as practical after each regular
3596
meeting of shareholders, the Board of Directors shall meet for the purposes of
3597
organization, choosing the officers of the corporation and for the transaction
3598
of other business at the place where the shareholders' meeting is held or at the
3599
place where regular meetings of the Board of Directors are held. No notice of
3600
such meeting need be given. Such first meeting may be held at any other time and
3601
place which shall be specified in a notice given as hereinafter provided for
3602
special meetings or in a consent and waiver of notice signed by all the
3603
directors.
3604
3605
4.6) Telephonic Meetings - Any member or members of the Board of
3606
Directors, or any committee designated by such Board, may participate in a
3607
meeting of the Board of Directors or such committee by means of conference
3608
telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons
3609
participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in a meeting
3610
pursuant to this paragraph shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.
3611
3612
4.7) Special Meetings - Special meetings of the Board of Directors
3613
may be held at such time and place as may from time to time be designated in the
3614
notice or waiver of notice of the meeting. Special meetings of the Board of
3615
Directors may be called by the president, or by any director. Unless notice
3616
shall be waived by all directors entitled to notice, notice of the special
3617
meeting shall be given by the secretary, who shall give at least twenty-four
3618
(24) hours notice thereof to each director by mail, telegraph, telephone, or in
3619
person; provided, however, that meetings may be held without waiver of notice
3620
from or giving notice to any director while he is in the Armed Forces of the
3621
United States. Each director, by his attendance and his participation in the
3622
action taken at any directors' meeting, shall be deemed to have waived notice of
3623
such meeting.
3624
3625
4.8) Compensation - Directors and any members of any committee of the
3626
corporation contemplated by these By-Laws or otherwise provided for by
3627
resolution of the Board of Directors, shall receive such compensation therefore
3628
as may be determined from time to time by resolution of the Board of Directors.
3629
Nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any director from
3630
serving the corporation in any other capacity and receiving proper compensation
3631
therefor.
3632
3633
<PAGE>
3634
3635
3636
4.9) Salaries - Salaries and other compensation of all officers and
3637
employees of the corporation shall be fixed by the Board of Directors. Nothing
3638
herein contained shall be construed to preclude any officer from serving the
3639
corporation as a director, consultant or in any other capacity and receiving
3640
proper compensation therefor. In the event that any authority, such as the
3641
Internal Revenue Service, determines, and such determination is ultimately
3642
accepted, that any compensation paid to a director, officer or employee of the
3643
corporation is excessive and disallows the corporate deduction therefor, the
3644
recipient of the amounts so determined to be excessive shall repay the
3645
corporation said amount.
3646
3647
4.10) Committees - A resolution approved by the affirmative vote of a
3648
majority of the Board of Directors may establish committees having the authority
3649
of the Board in the management of the business of the corporation to the extent
3650
provided in the resolution. Committees are subject at all times to the direction
3651
and control of the Board of Directors except as provided in Article 4.11. A
3652
committee shall consist of one or more natural persons, who are directors,
3653
appointed by affirmative vote of a majority of the directors present. A majority
3654
of the members of the committee present at a meeting is a quorum for the
3655
transaction of business unless a larger or smaller proportion is provided in a
3656
resolution approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors
3657
present.
3658
3659
4.11) Committee of Disinterested Persons - The Board of Directors may
3660
establish a committee composed of two or more disinterested directors or other
3661
disinterested persons to determine whether it is in the best interests of the
3662
corporation to pursue a particular legal right or remedy of the corporation and
3663
whether to cause the dismissal or discontinuance of a particular proceeding that
3664
seeks to assert a right or remedy on behalf of the corporation. A director or
3665
other person is "disinterested" if he is not an owner of more than one percent
3666
of the outstanding shares of, or a present or former officer, employee or agent
3667
of the corporation or of a related corporation and has not been made or
3668
threatened to be made a party to the proceeding in question. The committee, once
3669
established, is not subject to the direction or control of, or termination by,
3670
the Board of Directors. A vacancy on the committee may be filled by a majority
3671
vote of the remaining members. The good faith determinations of the committee
3672
are binding upon the corporation and its directors, officers and shareholders.
3673
The committee terminates when it issues a written report of its determinations.
3674
3675
4.12) Vacancies - Any vacancy in the Board of Directors shall be
3676
filled by an affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors of the
3677
Board, though less than a quorum, and each person so elected shall be a director
3678
until his successor is elected by the shareholders, who may make such election
3679
at their next annual meeting or any meeting duly called for that purpose.
3680
3681
4.13) Order of Business - The meetings shall be conducted in
3682
accordance with Roberts Rules of Order, Revised, and the suggested order of
3683
business at any meeting of the directors shall be:
3684
3685
1. Roll call.
3686
3687
2. Proof of due notice of meeting, or unanimous consent, or
3688
unanimous presence and declaration by president.
3689
3690
3. Reading and disposal of any unapproved minutes.
3691
3692
4. Reports of officers and committees.
3693
3694
5. Election of officers.
3695
3696
6. Unfinished business.
3697
3698
7. New business.
3699
3700
<PAGE>
3701
3702
3703
8. Adjournment.
3704
3705
4.14) Written Consent or Opposition in Advance of Meeting - Any
3706
member of the Board of Directors or a committee thereof, may give advance
3707
written consent or opposition to a proposal or resolution stating an action to
3708
be taken by the Board or committee. Such consent or opposition shall be a vote
3709
in favor of or against the proposal or resolution if the proposal or resolution
3710
acted upon at the meeting is substantially the same or has substantially the
3711
same effect as the proposal or resolution to which the member of the Board or
3712
committee has consented or objected.
3713
3714
4.15) Informal Action by Directors - Any action required or permitted
3715
to be taken at a meeting of the directors may be taken without a meeting and
3716
notice thereof if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall
3717
be signed by all of the directors entitled to vote with respect to the subject
3718
matter set forth.
3719
3720
4.16) Removal of Directors - The holders of a majority of the shares
3721
entitled to vote at an election of directors may remove at any time, for cause
3722
or without cause, any director of the corporation.
3723
3724
ARTICLE 5
3725
3726
OFFICERS
3727
3728
5.1) Number - The officers of the corporation shall include a
3729
president or chief executive officer, a treasurer or chief financial officer and
3730
a secretary and may include such other officers as may from time to time be
3731
chosen by the Board of Directors. Any two offices except those of president and
3732
vice- president may be held by one person.
3733
3734
5.2) Election, Term of Office and Qualifications - At any regular
3735
meeting of the Board of Directors, the Board shall elect from their number a
3736
president or chief executive officer and shall, from within or without their
3737
number, elect a treasurer or chief financial officer and a secretary, and may,
3738
in addition, from within or without their number, elect one or more
3739
vice-presidents and such other officers and assistant officers as may be deemed
3740
advisable. Such officers shall hold office until the next regular meeting or
3741
until their successors are elected and qualified; provided, however, that any
3742
officer may be removed with or without cause by the affirmative vote of a
3743
majority of the whole Board of Directors.
3744
3745
5.3) Chairman of the Board - The chairman of the board of directors
3746
shall preside at all meetings of shareholders and directors, and he shall have
3747
such other powers and perform such other duties as the Board of Directors may
3748
from time to time prescribe.
3749
3750
5.4) President and Chief Executive Officer - The president shall have
3751
general and active management of the business under the supervision and
3752
direction of the Board of Directors, and he shall be responsible for carrying
3753
into effect all orders and resolutions of the Board of Directors. He shall be
3754
the chief executive officer of the corporation and shall perform all duties
3755
usually incident to the office of president and chief executive officer and such
3756
other duties as may be from time to time prescribed by the Board of Directors;
3757
except that if the Board of Directors elects a separate chief executive officer,
3758
then the president shall perform such duties usually incident to the office of
3759
president and the chief executive officer shall perform such duties usually
3760
incident to the office of the chief executive officer and each of them shall
3761
perform such duties as may be from time to time prescribed to each of them by
3762
the Board of Directors.
3763
3764
5.5) Chief Operating Officer - The chief operating officer of the
3765
corporation shall be responsible for directing and supervising the corporation's
3766
overall business activities. He shall be the officer primarily responsible for
3767
planning and carrying out the business policies of the corporation and shall
3768
report
3769
3770
<PAGE>
3771
3772
3773
to the Board of Directors thereon at each meeting of the Board of Directors. He
3774
shall have such other responsibilities and shall exercise such additional
3775
authority as may from time to time be assigned to him by the Board.
3776
3777
5.6) Vice President - Each vice-president shall have such powers and
3778
shall perform such duties as may be specified in these By-Laws or prescribed by
3779
the Board of Directors. In the event of absence or disability of the president,
3780
a vice-president shall succeed to his powers and duties in the order in which
3781
they are elected or as otherwise prescribed by the Board of Directors. A
3782
vice-president who is not a director shall not succeed to the office of
3783
president.
3784
3785
5.7) Secretary - The secretary shall be secretary of and shall attend
3786
all meetings of the shareholders and Board of Directors. He shall act as clerk
3787
thereof and shall record all the proceedings of such meetings in the minute book
3788
of the corporation. He shall give proper notice of meetings of shareholders and
3789
directors. He shall keep the seal of the corporation and shall affix the same to
3790
any instrument requiring it and shall attest the seal by his signature. He
3791
shall, with the president or any vice-president, acknowledge all certificates
3792
for shares of the corporation and shall perform such other duties as may be
3793
prescribed from time to time by the Board of Directors.
3794
3795
5.8) Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer - The treasurer shall keep
3796
accurate accounts of all moneys of the corporation received or disbursed. He
3797
shall deposit all moneys, drafts, and checks in the name and to the credit of
3798
the corporation in such banks and depositories as the Board of Directors shall
3799
designate from time to time. He shall endorse for deposit all notes, checks and
3800
drafts received by the corporation as ordered by the Board of Directors, making
3801
proper vouchers therefor. He shall disburse the funds of the corporation as
3802
authorized by the Board of Directors. He shall render to the president and the
3803
Board of Directors, whenever required, an account of all of his transactions as
3804
treasurer and of the financial condition of the corporation and shall perform
3805
such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to
3806
time.
3807
3808
5.9) Assistant Officers - In the event of absence or disability of
3809
any vice-president, secretary, or treasurer, such assistants to such officers
3810
shall succeed to the powers and duties of the absent officer in the order in
3811
which they are elected or as otherwise prescribed by the Board of Directors
3812
until such principal officer shall resume his duties or a replacement is elected
3813
by the Board of Directors. Such assistant officers shall exercise such other
3814
powers and duties as may be delegated to them from time to time by the Board of
3815
Directors, but they shall be subordinate to the principal officer they are
3816
designated to assist.
3817
3818
5.10) Officers Shall Not Lend Corporate Credit - Except for the
3819
proper use of the corporation, no officer of this corporation shall sign or
3820
endorse in the name or on behalf of this corporation, or in his official
3821
capacity, any obligations for the accommodation of any other party or parties,
3822
nor shall any check, note, bond, stock certificate or other security or thing of
3823
value belonging to this company be used by any officer or director as collateral
3824
for any obligation other than valid obligations of this corporation.
3825
3826
ARTICLE 6
3827
3828
INDEMNIFICATION
3829
3830
Any person who at any time shall serve or shall have served as a
3831
director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, and the heirs,
3832
executors and administrators of such person shall be indemnified by the
3833
Corporation in accordance with, and the fullest extent permitted by, the
3834
provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law, as it may be amended from
3835
time to time.
3836
3837
<PAGE>
3838
3839
3840
ARTICLE 7
3841
3842
SHARES AND THEIR TRANSFER
3843
3844
7.1) Certificates of Stock - Every owner of stock of the corporation
3845
shall be entitled to a certificate, to be in such form as the Board of Directors
3846
prescribe, certifying the number of shares of stock of the corporation owned by
3847
him. The certificates for such stock shall be numbered in the order in which
3848
they shall be issued and shall be signed in the name of the corporation by the
3849
president, and by the secretary, or by any other two (2) proper officers of the
3850
corporation authorized by the Board of Directors. A record shall be kept of the
3851
name of the person, firm or corporation owning the stock represented by each
3852
such certificate, and the respective issue date thereof, and in the case of
3853
cancellation, the respective dates of cancellation. Every certificate
3854
surrendered to the corporation for exchange or transfer shall be canceled and no
3855
other certificate or certificates shall be issued in exchange for any existing
3856
certificates until such existing certificate shall have been so canceled except
3857
in cases provided for in Article 7.5.
3858
3859
7.2) Facsimile Signature - Where any certificate is manually signed
3860
by a transfer agent, a transfer clerk or by a registrar appointed by the Board
3861
of Directors to perform such duties, a facsimile or engraved signature of the
3862
president and secretary or other proper officer of the corporation authorized by
3863
the Board of Directors may be inscribed on the certificate in lieu of the actual
3864
signature of such officer. The fact that a certificate bears the facsimile
3865
signature of an officer who has ceased to hold office shall not affect the
3866
validity of such certificate if otherwise validly issued.
3867
3868
7.3) Issuance of Shares - Subject to the provisions and limitations
3869
of Article 4 of the Certificate of Incorporation, the Board of Directors is
3870
authorized to cause to be issued shares of the corporation, to the full amount
3871
of such authorized shares, and at such times as may be determined by the Board
3872
of Directors and as may be permitted by law.
3873
3874
7.4) Transfer of Shares - Transfer of shares on the books of the
3875
corporation may be authorized only by the shareholder named in the certificate,
3876
or by the shareholder's legal representative, or duly authorized
3877
attorney-in-fact, and upon surrender for cancellation of the certificate or
3878
certificates for such shares. The shareholder in whose name shares of stock
3879
stand on the books of the corporation shall be deemed the owner thereof for all
3880
purposes as regards the corporation; provided, that when any transfer of shares
3881
shall be made as collateral security, and not absolutely, such facts, if known
3882
to the secretary of the corporation, or to the transfer agent, shall be so
3883
expressed in the entry of transfer.
3884
3885
7.5) Lost Certificates - Any shareholder claiming a certificate of
3886
stock to be lost or destroyed shall make an affidavit or affirmation of that
3887
fact in such form as the Board of Directors may require, and shall, if the
3888
directors so require, give the corporation a bond of indemnity in form and with
3889
one or more sureties satisfactory to the Board, in an amount determined by the
3890
Board of Directors not exceeding double the value of the stock represented by
3891
such certificate to indemnify the corporation, against any claim that may be
3892
made against it on account of the alleged loss or destruction of such
3893
certificate; whereupon a new certificate may be issued in the same tenor and for
3894
the same number of shares as the one alleged to have been destroyed or lost.
3895
3896
7.6) Treasury Stock - Treasury stock shall be held by the corporation
3897
subject to disposal by the Board of Directors, in accordance with the
3898
Certificate of Incorporation and these By-Laws, and shall not have voting rights
3899
nor participate in dividends.
3900
3901
7.7) Indebtedness of Shareholders - The corporation shall have a
3902
first lien on all the shares of its capital stock and upon all dividends
3903
declared upon the same for any indebtedness of the respective holders thereof to
3904
the corporation.
3905
3906
<PAGE>
3907
3908
3909
7.8) Transfer Agent and Registrar - The Board of Directors may
3910
appoint one or more transfer agents or transfer clerks, and may require all
3911
certificates for shares to bear the signature or signatures of any of them.
3912
3913
ARTICLE 8
3914
3915
BOOKS AND RECORDS
3916
3917
8.1) Share Register; Dates of Issuance - The corporation shall keep
3918
at its principal business office, or at another place or places within the
3919
United States determined by the Board of Directors, a share register not more
3920
than one year old, containing the names and addresses of the shareholders and
3921
the number and classes of shares held by each shareholder. The corporation shall
3922
also keep, with the share register, a record of the dates on which certificates
3923
or transaction statements representing shares were issued.
3924
3925
8.2) Other Documents Required - A corporation shall keep at its
3926
principal business office, or, if its principal business office is outside of
3927
this state, shall make available at its registered office within ten days after
3928
receipt by an officer of the corporation of a written demand for them made by a
3929
person described in Article 8.4, originals or copies of:
3930
3931
1. Records of all proceedings of shareholders for the last
3932
three years;
3933
3934
2. Records of all proceedings of the board for the last three
3935
years;
3936
3937
3. Its articles and all amendments currently in effect;
3938
3939
4. Its by-laws and all amendments currently in effect;
3940
3941
5. Financial statements required by Article 8.7 and the
3942
financial statement for the most recent interim period
3943
prepared in the course of the operation of the corporation
3944
for distribution to the shareholders or to a governmental
3945
agency as a matter of public record;
3946
3947
6. Reports made to shareholders generally within the last
3948
three years;
3949
3950
7. A statement of the names and usual business addresses of
3951
its directors and principal officers;
3952
3953
8. Voting trust agreements; and
3954
3955
9. Shareholder control agreements.
3956
3957
8.3) Financial Records - A corporation shall keep appropriate and
3958
complete financial records.
3959
3960
8.4) Right to Inspect - A shareholder, beneficial owner, or a holder
3961
of a voting trust certificate has an absolute right, upon written demand, to
3962
examine and copy, in person or by a legal representative, during the usual hours
3963
for business, the share register and all documents referred to in Article 8.2. A
3964
shareholder, beneficial owner, or a holder of a voting trust certificate has a
3965
right, upon written demand, to examine and copy in person or by legal
3966
representative, other corporate records during the usual hours for business,
3967
only if the shareholder, beneficial owner, or holder of a voting trust
3968
certificate demonstrates a proper purpose for the examination. A "proper
3969
purpose" is one reasonably related to the person's interest as a shareholder,
3970
beneficial owner, or holder of a voting trust certificate of the corporation.
3971
3972
<PAGE>
3973
3974
3975
8.5) Cost of Copies - Copies of all documents referred to in Article
3976
8.2 shall be furnished at the expense of the corporation. A copy of the most
3977
recently generated share register shall be furnished at the expense of the
3978
corporation if the requesting party shows a proper purpose. In all other cases,
3979
the corporation may charge the requesting party a reasonable fee to cover the
3980
expenses of providing the copy.
3981
3982
8.6) Computerized Records - The records maintained by the
3983
corporation, including its share register, financial records, and minute books,
3984
may utilize any information storage technique, including, for example, punched
3985
holes, printed or magnetized spots, or microimages, even though that makes them
3986
illegible visually, if the records can be converted, by machine and within a
3987
reasonable time, into a form that is legible visually and whose contents are
3988
assembled by related subject matter to permit convenient use by people in the
3989
normal course of business. The corporation shall convert any of the records
3990
referred to in Articles 8.1 and 8.2 upon the request of a person entitled to
3991
inspect them, and the expense of the conversion shall be borne by the person who
3992
bears the expense of copying pursuant to Article 8.5. A copy of the conversion
3993
is admissible in evidence, and shall be accepted for all other purposes, to the
3994
same extent as the existing or original records would be if they were legible
3995
visually.
3996
3997
8.7) Financial Statements - The corporation shall upon written
3998
request by a shareholder stating a proper purpose therefor, furnish annual
3999
financial statements, including at least a balance sheet as of the end of each
4000
fiscal year and a statement of income for the fiscal year, which shall be
4001
prepared on the basis of accounting methods reasonable in the circumstances and
4002
may be consolidated statements of the corporation and one or more of its
4003
subsidiaries. In the case of statements audited by a public accountant, each
4004
copy shall be accompanied by a report setting forth the opinion of the
4005
accountant on the statements; in other cases, each copy shall be accompanied by
4006
a statement of the president or other person in charge of the corporation's
4007
financial records stating the reasonable belief of the person that the financial
4008
statements were prepared in accordance with accounting methods reasonable in the
4009
circumstances, describing the basis of presentation, and describing any respects
4010
in which the financial statements were not prepared on a basis consistent with
4011
those prepared for the previous year.
4012
4013
ARTICLE 9
4014
4015
DISTRIBUTIONS
4016
4017
9.1) Distributions - The Board of Directors may authorize
4018
distributions by the corporation from funds legally available therefor at such
4019
times and in such amounts as the Board shall deem reasonable.
4020
4021
9.2) Record Date - Subject to any provisions of the Certificate of
4022
Incorporation, the Board of Directors may fix a date preceding the date fixed
4023
for the payment of any distribution or allotment of other rights as the record
4024
date for the determination of the shareholders entitled to receive payment of
4025
such distribution or allotment notwithstanding any transfer of shares on the
4026
books of the Corporation after such record date.
4027
4028
9.3) Restrictions - A distribution may be made to the holders of a
4029
class or series of shares only if:
4030
4031
1. All amounts payable to the holders of shares having a
4032
preference for the payment of that kind of distribution
4033
are paid; and
4034
4035
2. The payment of the distribution does not reduce the
4036
remaining net assets of the corporation below the
4037
aggregate preferential amount payable in the event of
4038
liquidation to the holders of shares having preferential
4039
rights, unless the distribution is made to those
4040
shareholders in the order and to the extent of their
4041
respective priorities.
4042
4043
<PAGE>
4044
4045
4046
3. The money or property available for distribution is
4047
insufficient to satisfy all preferences, the distributions
4048
shall be made pro rate according to the order of priority
4049
of preferences by classes and by series within those
4050
classes.
4051
4052
ARTICLE 10
4053
4054
FINANCIAL AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
4055
4056
10.1) Fiscal Year - The fiscal year of the corporation shall be set
4057
by the Board of Directors.
4058
4059
10.2) Audit of Books and Accounts - The books and accounts of the
4060
corporation shall be audited at such times as may be ordered by the Board of
4061
Directors.
4062
4063
10.3) Contracts - The Board of Directors may authorize any officer or
4064
officers, agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any
4065
instrument in the name of and on behalf of the corporation, and such authority
4066
may be general or confined to specific instances.
4067
4068
10.4) Checks - All checks, drafts, or other orders for the payment of
4069
money, notes, or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the
4070
corporation shall be signed by the treasurer or such other officer or officers,
4071
agent or agents of the corporation and in such manner as shall from time to time
4072
be determined by resolution of the Board of Directors.
4073
4074
10.5) Deposits - All funds of the corporation not otherwise employed
4075
shall be deposited from time to time to the credit of the corporation in such
4076
banks, trust companies, or other depositories as the Board of Directors may
4077
select.
4078
4079
10.6) Voting Securities Held by Corporation - The president or other
4080
agent designated by the Board of Directors, shall have full power and authority
4081
on behalf of the corporation to attend, act and vote at any meeting of security
4082
holders of other corporations in which this corporation may hold securities. At
4083
such meeting the president, or such other agent, shall possess and exercise any
4084
and all rights and powers incident to the ownership of such securities which the
4085
corporation might possess and exercise.
4086
4087
ARTICLE 11
4088
4089
WAIVER OF NOTICE
4090
4091
Whenever any notice whatsoever is required to be given by these
4092
By-Laws or the Certificate of Incorporation of the corporation or any of the
4093
corporate laws of the State of Delaware, a waiver thereof in writing, signed by
4094
the person or persons entitled to said notice, either before, at, or after the
4095
time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto.
4096
4097
ARTICLE 12
4098
4099
AMENDMENTS
4100
4101
Subject to the limitations set forth in the Delaware General
4102
Corporation Law, these By-Laws may be amended by a vote of the majority of the
4103
whole Board of Directors at any meeting, provided that notice of such proposed
4104
amendment shall have been included in the notice of such meeting given to the
4105
directors.
4106
4107
The undersigned Secretary hereby certifies that the foregoing Amended
4108
and Restated By-Laws were adopted as the complete By-Laws of the corporation by
4109
the Board of Directors on this 13th day of March, 2000.
4110
4111
4112
Patrick Delaney, Secretary
4113
4114
</TEXT>
4115
</DOCUMENT>
4116
<DOCUMENT>
4117
<TYPE>EX-10.7
4118
<SEQUENCE>3
4119
<DESCRIPTION>AGREEMENT
4120
<TEXT>
4121
4122
4123
Exhibit 10.7
4124
4125
4126
AGREEMENT
4127
4128
4129
This Agreement is entered into between Minnesota Mining and
4130
Manufacturing Company ("3M") and CNS, Inc. ("CNS").
4131
4132
RECITALS
4133
4134
WHEREAS, 3M and CNS entered into a Distribution Agreement with an
4135
effective date of August 2, 1995, ("the 1995 Agreement") and
4136
4137
WHEREAS, under the terms of the 1995 Agreement, 3M became CNS's
4138
exclusive distributor of CNS's nasal dilator outside of the United States and
4139
Canada, CNS provided product to 3M with 3M's label, either in bulk or through
4140
packaging by CNS, and 3M licensed the Breathe Right(R) trademark from CNS, but
4141
agreed to use 3M's trade dress, and
4142
4143
WHEREAS, certain disputes and disagreements have arisen between 3M and
4144
CNS, and 3M and CNS wish to finally resolve any such disputes or disagreements,
4145
and
4146
4147
WHEREAS, the parties now desire to amend the 1995 Agreement and change
4148
their business relationship, and
4149
4150
WHEREAS, the purpose of this new Agreement is to allow CNS to assume
4151
the international sales and distribution of nasal dilators from 3M, to provide
4152
for an orderly transition process for doing so, and to provide compensation to
4153
3M for doing so, releasing certain of its rights under the 1995 Agreement.
4154
4155
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:
4156
4157
1. Effective Date. The effective date of this Agreement is September
4158
30, 1999.
4159
4160
2. Amendment. This Agreement modifies and amends the 1995 Agreement,
4161
and the parties deem this Agreement to be sufficient written amendment to meet
4162
the requirements of paragraph 17G of the 1995 Agreement. The terms of this
4163
Agreement control to the extent they are inconsistent with the terms of the 1995
4164
Agreement.
4165
4166
3. Nonexclusive Distribution. Effective on the date hereof, 3M is
4167
authorized by CNS to continue to distribute CNS's nasal dilator strips outside
4168
of the United States and Canada, but its distribution
4169
4170
<PAGE>
4171
4172
4173
shall no longer be exclusive. Notwithstanding the foregoing, 3M shall be the
4174
exclusive distributor of CNS nasal dilators to its current drug store and
4175
pharmacy customers outside the United States and Canada and to Boots, Migros and
4176
Franklin's (Australia) provided 3M maintains distribution at those customers
4177
through March 1, 2000. 3M's exclusive distribution rights for such customers
4178
will terminate on March 1, 2000. On that date, 3M's rights will be nonexclusive
4179
until the termination of 3M's distribution rights on June 30, 2000, as set forth
4180
in this Agreement. During the period from the date of this Agreement until June
4181
30, 2000, 3M will sell no nasal dilator strips or dilators other than those
4182
supplied to it by CNS. CNS will not send any direct communications to 3M's
4183
exclusive customers (identified above) regarding the termination of the
4184
Distribution Agreement or the transfer of the business prior to the
4185
communication referenced in paragraph 13(a).
4186
4187
4. Payment. Within ten business days of the effective date of this
4188
Agreement, CNS shall pay to 3M $6,345,000.
4189
4190
5. End of Sales and Distribution. On June 30, 2000, all 3M's rights of
4191
any sort to sell or distribute CNS nasal dilators shall terminate.
4192
4193
6. Non-Competition. 3M will not sell any nasal dilator devices during
4194
the period beginning July 1, 2000 and ending June 30, 2002.
4195
4196
7. Fulfillment of Orders. CNS will continue to fill orders for nasal
4197
dilators to be sold by 3M between the date of this Agreement and June 30, 2000,
4198
and will cooperate to minimize ending inventory while assuring supply. Beginning
4199
January 1, 2000, CNS will supply nasal dialators to fill orders received by 3M
4200
in generic cold seal wrappers ("packaging") on a consignment basis. 3M will pay
4201
for the nasal dilators upon 3M's sale of the nasal dilators to its customers.
4202
4203
8. Remaining Inventory. To the extent any inventory of 3M packaged
4204
dilators is left in 3M's possession or control on June 30, 2000, such inventory
4205
shall be the sole responsibility of 3M and 3M shall destroy that inventory and
4206
shall have no rights to sell such inventory or return such inventory to CNS. The
4207
parties recognize and agree that the purpose of this provision is to provide an
4208
incentive to 3M to meet its responsibilities to continue its marketing and
4209
distribution responsibilities until the termination of its distribution rights
4210
and responsibilities, as set forth below. By September 30, 2000, 3M will return
4211
unsold nasal dilators in generic packaging to CNS.
4212
4213
<PAGE>
4214
4215
4216
9. Excessive Sales and Prices. In the period before June 30, 2000, 3M
4217
shall not sell 'excessive' amounts of inventory to customers by offering prices
4218
below 3M's original cost of CNS nasal dilators in local currency. For the
4219
purposes of this paragraph, 'excessive' means amounts substantially in excess of
4220
a reasonable forecast of sales by the customer. Nothing in this paragraph limits
4221
3M's ability to promote CNS nasal dilators to consumers, for example, by
4222
offering 'buy one get two free' or by offering a fee nasal dilator with the
4223
purchase of other 3M products.
4224
4225
10. Product Returns. Customer returns of nasal strip product will be
4226
the responsibility of the Company -- 3M or CNS -- who originally sold that
4227
product.
4228
4229
11. Trade Fund Resolution. 3M will be responsible for any trade funding
4230
commitments that it enters with customers for nasal strips purchased from 3M,
4231
for example, promotional allowances, and volume incentives.
4232
4233
12. License. CNS hereby licenses to 3M the use of the CNS Breathe
4234
Right(R) trademark or trade name for use outside of the United States and Canada
4235
for sales of products provided or to be provided to 3M by CNS for sale and
4236
distribution. This license and 3M's use of the Breathe Right(R) trademark and
4237
trade name shall cease on June 30, 2000.
4238
4239
13. Business Transition. 3M shall make the following reasonable efforts
4240
to arrange for the transition to CNS of its business relationships concerning
4241
nasal dilators and of its sales and distribution of nasal dilators. To that end,
4242
3M shall perform the following:
4243
4244
a) Provide to 3M's customers, and others assisting 3M in
4245
distributing nasal dilators, a written communication concerning the
4246
transfer of the nasal dilator business from 3M to CNS. The
4247
communication shall be in the form of a letter, the text of which shall
4248
be prepared by 3M and approved by CNS. CNS will not withhold its
4249
approval unreasonably. The letter will be sent by March 1, 2000 and
4250
will state that after June 30, 2000, Breathe Right(R) nasal dilators,
4251
or whatever nasal dilator strips are being sold by 3M to customers,
4252
shall thereafter be available from 3M's former licensor, CNS, and its
4253
distributor specified by CNS.
4254
4255
<PAGE>
4256
4257
4258
b) Provide to CNS by January 1, 2000, 3M's customer lists and
4259
a two year sales history ending September 30, 1999. 3M will not be
4260
obligated to provide such customer lists and sales history if, prior to
4261
January 1, 2000, CNS announces an intent to be acquired or is acquired
4262
by a competitor of any of 3M's First Aid Dressing and First Aid
4263
Supplies businesses.
4264
4265
14. Release. CNS and 3M hereby release each other, as well as the
4266
directors, officers, employees and agents of the other from all claims up to the
4267
date of this Agreement which the parties have against each other, known or
4268
unknown, including, but not limited to, claims relating to the parties'
4269
performance or lack thereof under the 1995 Agreement. This release does not
4270
excuse 3M from paying for any products that have been ordered or delivered to
4271
date, or excuse CNS from delivering ordered products.
4272
4273
15. Independent Contractors. 3M and CNS are independent contractors.
4274
They are not agents of each other, partners, joint ventures or
4275
franchisor/franchisee. Neither has the right to bind or act on the other's
4276
behalf.
4277
4278
16. No Assignment. Neither party will assign this Agreement without the
4279
consent of the other, except for an assignment by CNS to a successor of CNS's
4280
nasal dilator business.
4281
4282
17. No Waiver. Neither 3M nor CNS waives any of its rights provided by
4283
this Agreement because it fails to enforce them.
4284
4285
18. Entire Agreement. This Agreement is the entire agreement between 3M
4286
and CNS regarding the amendment of the 1995 Agreement. This Agreement supersedes
4287
any other agreement concerning such amendment and may be modified only by a
4288
written agreement.
4289
4290
19. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by Minnesota law.
4291
4292
20. Dispute Resolution. Any controversy or claim arising out of or
4293
relating to this Agreement or the 1995 Agreement, or the breach, termination or
4294
validity thereof, shall be settled by arbitration in accordance with the rules
4295
of the Center of Public Resources by a single arbitrator selected by mutual
4296
agreement of the parties from the panel of the Center for Public Resources. The
4297
arbitration will be governed by the United States Arbitration Act.
4298
4299
a) The arbitrator shall apply Minnesota law and shall have the
4300
power to require specific performance, issue injunctions, declare the
4301
rights of the parties and award damages.
4302
4303
b) Judgment of the arbitrator may be entered by any court with
4304
appropriate jurisdiction.
4305
4306
<PAGE>
4307
4308
4309
c) The arbitration hearing shall begin no more than 120 days
4310
from the date Notice of Arbitration is delivered to the respondent.
4311
4312
4313
MINNESOTA MINING AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY
4314
4315
4316
4317
By Dated:
4318
4319
Its
4320
4321
4322
4323
CNS, INC.
4324
4325
4326
4327
By Dated:
4328
4329
Its
4330
4331
</TEXT>
4332
</DOCUMENT>
4333
<DOCUMENT>
4334
<TYPE>EX-10.9
4335
<SEQUENCE>4
4336
<DESCRIPTION>LICENSE AGREEMENT
4337
<TEXT>
4338
4339
4340
Exhibit 10.9
4341
4342
4343
[CERTAIN INFORMATION HAS BEEN OMITTED FROM THIS EXHIBIT AND FILED SEPARATELY
4344
WITH THE SEC PURSUANT TO A REQUEST FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT UNDER RULE 24b-2.]
4345
4346
LICENSE AGREEMENT
4347
4348
4349
THIS AGREEMENT is made and effective as of this 10th day of November,
4350
1997 by and between CNS, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("Licensee"), and Onesta
4351
Nutrition, Inc., a Minnesota corporation ("Licensor").
4352
4353
RECITALS
4354
4355
WHEREAS, Licensor is now and has been engaged in developing certain
4356
Products (as defined in Subsection 1.1) for use in providing dietary fiber in
4357
tablet form.
4358
4359
WHEREAS, the Products embody inventions and designs owned exclusively by
4360
Licensor and Licensor has available certain Know-how relating to the manufacture
4361
of the Products;
4362
4363
WHEREAS, Licensor owns or controls, or may hereafter own or control,
4364
certain Know-how, patents or patent applications relating to the Products;
4365
4366
WHEREAS, Licensee desires to obtain an exclusive worldwide license from
4367
Licensor of certain Know-how, patents and patent applications of Licensor
4368
relating to the manufacture and use of the Products for providing dietary fiber
4369
and Licensor is willing to grant such a license to Licensee.
4370
4371
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises, the mutual covenants
4372
and agreements hereinafter set forth and other good consideration, the receipt
4373
and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:
4374
4375
1. GENERAL DEFINITIONS. As used herein, the following terms shall be
4376
defined in the manner set forth below:
4377
4378
1.1 Products. The term "Products" shall mean the soluble fiber
4379
supplement product described on Schedule 1.1 attached hereto, the manufacture,
4380
use or sale of which is covered by the Licensed Patents or is made or developed
4381
through the use of the Know-How, including all improvements thereto, and any
4382
other inulin-based soluble fiber supplement products developed by Licensor or
4383
any of its employees, consultants, agents or representatives during the term of
4384
this Agreement using any Licensed Patents or Know-how; provided, however, that
4385
for any such improvement or enhancement or similar product developed by Licensor
4386
to be included within the license herein granted, Licensor shall notify Licensee
4387
of any such improvement or enhancement and Licensee shall at its option make an
4388
election to include such improvement or enhancement in this License by providing
4389
written notice of such election to Licensor within thirty (30) days after
4390
Licensee learns of such improvement, enhancement or similar product. If Licensee
4391
shall make an such election, Licensee shall reimburse Licensor for reasonable
4392
expenses incurred in developing such improvement or enhancement or similar
4393
product.
4394
4395
1.2 Know-how. The term "Know-how" shall mean any and all
4396
tangible and intangible information, technology, documents and materials in the
4397
possession and control of Licensor, and necessary in order to enable Licensee to
4398
utilize fully the rights granted by Licensor to Licensee hereunder and shall
4399
include, without limiting the foregoing, the ideas, concepts, confidential
4400
information, trade secrets and techniques, as well as all the materials,
4401
documents, manuals, specifications, patterns, art work, bills of materials and
4402
other information of Licensor relating to the Products.
4403
4404
<PAGE>
4405
4406
4407
1.3 Licensed Patents. The term "Licensed Patents" shall mean the
4408
following: (i) the United States and foreign patent(s) and patent application(s)
4409
to the Products listed on Schedule 1.3 attached hereto; (ii) all future United
4410
States or foreign patent applications related to the Products and any patents
4411
arising therefrom; (iii) the rights, patents and patent applications, if any, in
4412
any country or jurisdiction in the world corresponding to the United States
4413
patent applications; and (iv) any division, continuation, continuation-in-part,
4414
divisional, re-examined, reissued or extended letters patent, applications and
4415
petty patents, utility models, utility model conversions, inventor's
4416
certificates relating to the inventions claimed in any of the foregoing United
4417
States patents and patents pending and foreign patent rights, which may be
4418
developed, acquired or controlled by Licensor during the term of this Agreement
4419
and with respect to which Licensor shall have the right to grant the license
4420
hereinafter provided.
4421
4422
1.4. Contract Year and Quarter. The term "Contract Year" shall
4423
mean each period following October 1 of 1998, 1999 and 2000. The term "Contract
4424
Quarter" shall mean each period of three consecutive months commencing January
4425
1, April 1, July 1 and October 1.
4426
4427
1.5. Gross Revenues. The term "Gross Revenues" shall mean the
4428
gross amounts collected by Licensee from any end-user, sublicensee, assignee or
4429
other person or entity relating to or arising from the sale of Products after
4430
the deduction of (i) any amounts repaid or credited by reason of rejections or
4431
returns, and (ii) trade and quantity discounts actually allowed and taken.
4432
4433
1.6. Earned Royalty . The term "Earned Royalty" shall mean the
4434
royalty payable to Licensor on Products.
4435
4436
2. GRANT OF LICENSES.
4437
4438
2.1 Patent and Know-how License. Licensor hereby grants to
4439
Licensee a sole and exclusive, worldwide, transferable right and license under
4440
the Licensed Patents and Know-How to make, have made, use, import, offer for
4441
sale and sell the Products and to practice worldwide any process claimed or
4442
disclosed in the Licensed Patents and Know-how. Without limiting the foregoing,
4443
the Licensed Products may be distributed as a product to consumers, retailers,
4444
wholesalers or otherwise.
4445
4446
2.2 Sublicenses and Assignments. Licensee may sublicense and/or
4447
assign to any third party, including affiliates of Licensee, any and all rights
4448
granted hereunder. In the event of an assignment, Licensee shall enter into a
4449
written agreement with the assignee pursuant to which the assignee shall assume
4450
all of the obligations of Licensee under this Agreement and this Agreement shall
4451
be binding upon and inure to the benefit of such assignee. In the event of a
4452
sub-license, Licensee shall enter into a written agreement with sub-licensee (i)
4453
with a term no greater than the term of this Agreement, (ii) with rights granted
4454
to sub- licensee which are no greater than the terms of this Agreement, and
4455
(iii) pursuant to which Licensee shall use reasonable business efforts to impose
4456
upon sub-licensees similar obligations as Licensor has imposed upon Licensee
4457
under this Agreement.
4458
4459
2.3 Patent Procurement and Costs. Licensee shall be responsible
4460
for and pay all patent costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees)
4461
incurred by Licensor in obtaining, prosecuting, owning and maintaining any of
4462
the Licensed Patents issued or to be issued under the law of any country or
4463
jurisdiction, including filing, prosecution, working and maintenance costs and
4464
taxes. Licensee shall have the right to review and comment on Licensor's filings
4465
with respect to the Licensed Patents, at Licensee's own expense. Notwithstanding
4466
the above, Licensor shall direct and control the procurement of the Licensed
4467
Patents using patent counsel of its own choosing for such procurement (the
4468
choice and which counsel is subject to the reasonable consent of Licensee). Such
4469
patent costs and expenses incurred by Licensor and reimbursed by Licensee
4470
hereunder may be offset against the royalties payable under excess of running
4471
royalties payable under Section 4.1 over the minimum royalties payable under
4472
Section 4.3 in any Contract Quarter to the extent that such excess arises from
4473
sales of Licensed Products in the country or region in which such patent costs
4474
and expenses were incurred.
4475
4476
<PAGE>
4477
4478
4479
2.4 Exploitation. Licensee hereby agrees that during the term of
4480
this Agreement it will use its reasonable best efforts to manufacture, sell and
4481
market the Products, and will exert its reasonable best efforts to create a
4482
demand for the Products worldwide, and to increase and extend its business in
4483
the manufacture, sale and marketing of the Products worldwide.
4484
4485
3. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
4486
4487
3.1 Licensor hereby warrants and represents to Licensee as
4488
follows:
4489
4490
(a) Licensor is a corporation duly organized, validly existing
4491
and in good standing under the laws of the State of Minnesota.
4492
4493
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
4494
delivered by Licensor and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of
4495
Licensor, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as rights to
4496
indemnification thereunder may be limited by applicable law and except
4497
as the enforcement thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency,
4498
reorganization, moratorium or other similar laws relating to or
4499
affecting creditors' rights generally or by general equitable
4500
principles. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by
4501
Licensor and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby do
4502
not and will not conflict with or result in any material breach of any
4503
of the provisions of, or constitute a material default under, or result
4504
in a material violation of, or require any authorization, consent or
4505
approval, under the provisions of such party's Articles of Incorporation
4506
or Bylaws or any other agreement or instrument to which such party is
4507
bound or affected, or to he best of Licensor's knowledge, any law,
4508
statute, rule, regulation, judgment order or decree to which such party
4509
is subject.
4510
4511
(c) Licensor owns all the rights of Jerome J. Licari, Ph-D and
4512
all other employees, agents, consultants or representatives of Licensor
4513
with respect to the Products, Licensed Patents and Know-how.
4514
4515
(d) Licensor has filed the patent applications listed on
4516
Schedule 1.3.
4517
4518
(e) To Licensor's knowledge, the Products, Licensed Patents and
4519
Know-how do not infringe on any patent, copyright or other intellectual
4520
property right of any third party.
4521
4522
(f) Licensor has not received notice of any claims, actions,
4523
suits or proceedings pending or threatened effecting Licensor, the
4524
Licensed Patents or Know-how which, if adversely determined, would have
4525
a material adverse effect upon Licensee's ability to manufacture, have
4526
manufactured, use or sell the Products or otherwise practice the rights
4527
and technology licensed to Licensee by Licensor under this Agreement
4528
and, to the best of Licensor's knowledge, there is no reasonable basis
4529
for anyone to bring such claims, actions, suits or proceedings.
4530
4531
(g) Licensor has not received any claim from any third-party
4532
proceedings relating to the Licensed Patents, Know-how, or the Products
4533
which are based upon infringement of any patent or misappropriation or
4534
misuse of trade secrets.
4535
4536
(h) Licensor represents that the product, in its current form,
4537
is manufacturable in quantities sufficient enough to meet the sales
4538
levels required for the minimum guaranteed royalties.
4539
4540
(i) That certain License Agreement between Licensor and Johnson
4541
& Johnson/Merck Consumer Pharmaceuticals Company ("JJMCP"), dated March
4542
31, 1997, was terminated effective June 25, 1997, and Licensor retains a
4543
royalty-free unrestricted right to use any information concerning the
4544
manufacture, formulation and use of the Licensed Products not generally
4545
known to the public, and developed by JJMCP during the term of such
4546
agreement (other than information covered by any published patent or
4547
patent application).
4548
4549
<PAGE>
4550
4551
4552
3.2 Licensee hereby warrants and represents to Licensor as
4553
follows:
4554
4555
(a) Licensee is a corporation duly organized, validly existing
4556
and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware.
4557
4558
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
4559
delivered by Licensee and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of
4560
Licensee, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as rights to
4561
indemnification thereunder may be limited by applicable law and except
4562
as the enforcement thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency,
4563
reorganization, moratorium or other similar laws relating to or
4564
affecting creditors' rights generally or by general equitable
4565
principles. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by
4566
Licensee and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby do
4567
not and will not conflict with or result in any material breach of any
4568
of the provisions of, or constitute a material default under, or result
4569
in a material violation of, or require any authorization consent or
4570
approval, under the provisions of Licensee's Certificate of
4571
Incorporation or Bylaws or, to the best of Licensee's knowledge, any
4572
other agreement or instrument to which such party is bound or affected,
4573
or any law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment order or decree to which
4574
such party is subject.
4575
4576
4. CONSIDERATION AND REPORTS.
4577
4578
4.1 Royalties. Licensee agrees to pay to Licensor royalties as
4579
follows based on the Gross Revenues from the sale of Products: (a) [CONFIDENTIAL
4580
TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of Gross Revenues until royalties have been paid on an
4581
aggregate total of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] of Gross Revenues, then
4582
(b) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of Gross Revenues until royalties have
4583
been paid on an aggregate total of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] of Gross
4584
Revenues, and then (c) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of all Gross Revenues
4585
in excess of an aggregate total of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]. The
4586
royalty provided for in this Subsection 4.1 shall be reduced to [CONFIDENTIAL
4587
TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of the otherwise applicable rate, on a country-by-country
4588
basis if no Licensed Patent issues in such country.
4589
4590
4.2 Quarterly Payments. All royalties due Licensor from Licensee
4591
hereunder shall be payable on a Contract Quarterly basis. Within forty-five (45)
4592
days after the end of each Contract Quarter during the term of this Agreement,
4593
Licensee shall pay to Licensor, by wire transfer to an account designated
4594
pursuant to Section 10.4, the royalty due Licensor under Subsection 4.1 through
4595
the end of the preceding Contract Quarter and shall furnish Licensor with a
4596
written statement setting forth the number of Products sold and the Gross
4597
Revenues received during such Contract Quarter, and the resulting amount of the
4598
royalty due Licensor under Subsection 4.1.
4599
4600
4.3 Minimum Royalties.
4601
4602
(a) To maintain its rights hereunder, Licensee shall pay to
4603
Licensor minimum royalties as follows in the event that the Products may
4604
be marketed and sold without a prescription:
4605
4606
<TABLE>
4607
<CAPTION>
4608
Minimum Royalty Payment Minimum Royalty Payment
4609
Contract Year* Per Contract Year per Contract Quarter
4610
- -------------- ----------------------- -----------------------
4611
<S> <C> <C>
4612
Year 1 $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
4613
Year 2 [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
4614
Year 3** [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
4615
</TABLE>
4616
4617
* Twelve-month periods beginning on the Contract Year.
4618
** Through the Contract Year of the expiration date of the last of the
4619
Licensed Patents or if no Licensed Patent issues, December 26, 2015.
4620
4621
<PAGE>
4622
4623
4624
(b) In the event the royalty is reduced pursuant to Subsection
4625
4.1 above, the minimum royalties provided for in Subsection 4.3(a) shall
4626
be reduced by [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] in each Contract Year,
4627
pro rata on a country-by-country basis.
4628
4629
4.4 Minimum Royalty Payment. Licensee shall pay Licensor within
4630
forty-five (45) days after the end of each Contract Quarter, by wire transfer to
4631
an account designated pursuant to Section 10.4, an amount equal to the minimum
4632
royalties payable pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.3 for the Contract
4633
Quarter then ended, less: (a) the aggregate amount of Earned Royalties actually
4634
paid to Licensor pursuant to the terms of Subsections 4.1 and 4.2 for the
4635
Contract Quarter then ended; and (b) any Earned Royalties paid to Licensor
4636
during the prior Contract Quarters in the current Contract Year that exceed the
4637
amount of cumulative minimum royalties payable for those Contract Quarters;
4638
provided that in no event shall such deductions reduce the payment to Licensor
4639
in any Contract Year below the then applicable minimum annual royalty payable
4640
under 4.3 of this Agreement. Licensee's failure to pay any and all amounts
4641
payable under the preceding sentence within thirty (30) days after receipt of
4642
written notice from Licensor that such amounts have not been timely paid shall
4643
render the licenses granted hereunder void and thereupon, Licensee shall have no
4644
further rights or interests of any kind or nature with respect to the Products,
4645
Know-how, License or Patents and Licensee shall take any and all action that
4646
Licensor may request to further document the provisions hereof. In the event
4647
that any law, statute, regulation, rule, guideline, ruling or decision of any
4648
governmental or regulatory agency prevents Licensee from marketing or offering
4649
Products for sale, the minimum royalty payment will be suspended until such time
4650
that Licensee is no longer prevented from marketing or offering Products for
4651
sale, such suspension to be determined pro rata on a country-by-country basis.
4652
4653
4.5 Late Payment. Licensee shall have ten (10) days to make any
4654
late payments hereunder, without interest. Thereafter, Licensee shall pay a late
4655
payment fee to Licensor calculated at a variable rate of 2% over the prime per
4656
annum interest rate as set from time to time by Norwest Bank Minneapolis, N.A. ,
4657
Minneapolis, Minnesota (the "Interest Rate"), on any and all amounts that are at
4658
any time overdue and payable to Licensor under this Agreement, such interest
4659
being calculated on each such overdue amount from the date when such amount
4660
became due to the date of actual payment thereof. Such late payment fee shall be
4661
in addition to and not in lieu of any and all other rights or remedies that
4662
Licensor may have under this Agreement or law relating to a default by Licensee
4663
under this Agreement.
4664
4665
4.6 Records. During the term of this Agreement and for three (3)
4666
years after termination of this Agreement, Licensee shall at all times maintain
4667
accurate and up-to-date records containing complete data from which amounts due
4668
to Licensor under this Agreement may be readily calculated. Further, Licensee
4669
shall preserve and permit examination of such records by Licensor's
4670
representatives at reasonable intervals and under reasonable conditions during
4671
the term of this Agreement and for three (3) years thereafter and, upon request,
4672
shall supply to Licensor's representatives all information useful in making a
4673
proper audit and verification of Licensee's performance of its obligations under
4674
this Agreement.
4675
4676
4.7 Underpayment. If Licensor determines by audit and inspection
4677
of Licensee's books and records that Licensee has failed to pay all royalties
4678
due under Subsection 4.1, Licensee shall pay Licensor 105% of such additional
4679
royalties as may be due, plus interest thereon. If the amount of underpayment
4680
exceeds 5% of the royalties due under Subsection 4.1, then Licensor shall, in
4681
addition to any other remedies available to it, recover from Licensee the
4682
reasonable costs incurred in making any such audit and inspection pursuant to
4683
Subsection 4.6 hereof which revealed such shortfall and Licensee shall pay
4684
Licensor 105% of such additional royalties, plus interest thereon.
4685
4686
5. INDEMNIFICATION.
4687
4688
5.1 Indemnification by Licensor. Licensor shall indemnify and
4689
hold Licensee harmless from and against any and all claims, damages, costs
4690
(including reasonable attorneys' fees), judgments and liabilities of any kind or
4691
nature arising out of any third party claim of (a) any breach by Licensor of any
4692
of its warranties, representations and covenants under this Agreement or (b) any
4693
misuse by Licensor of the patent process or fraud by Licensor on the patent
4694
office or notice by Licensor before the date hereof of a claim by any party of a
4695
prior or superseding right to practice the art of and commercialize the
4696
Products.
4697
4698
<PAGE>
4699
4700
4701
5.2 Indemnification by Licensee. Licensee shall indemnify and
4702
hold Licensor harmless from and against any and all claims, damages, costs
4703
(including reasonable attorneys'.fees), judgments -and liabilities of any kind
4704
or nature: (a) arising out of any third party claim of the breach by Licensee of
4705
any of its warranties, representations and covenants under this Agreement; or
4706
(b) arising out of any actual or alleged defect in a Product.
4707
4708
6. PROTECTION AGAINST INFRINGEMENT. In the event that Licensee becomes
4709
aware of activity on the part of any third party which may constitute
4710
infringement of the Licensed Patents, or any other intellectual property rights
4711
with respect to which Licensee is granted a license hereunder, Licensee shall
4712
give Licensor written notice thereof. Upon reasonable request by Licensor,
4713
Licensee shall, at its sole expense, initiate and thereafter diligently maintain
4714
reasonable efforts to prevent and abate such infringement, including the
4715
initiation of an appropriate civil action for infringement and the taking of
4716
such other action as may be necessary or appropriate, to enforce the Licensed
4717
Patents or other intellectual property rights with respect to -which Licensee is
4718
granted a license hereunder. In such event, (i) Licensor will permit the use of
4719
its name in, and as a party to, all such suits and execute all pleadings,
4720
documents and other papers necessary or appropriate in conjunction therewith and
4721
(ii) Licensee shall receive the full benefits of any action it takes pursuant to
4722
this subsection, including retaining all sums recovered in any such suit or in
4723
settlement thereof after paying Licensor the Earned Royalties which shall be
4724
calculated from the amount of Gross Revenues, if any, asserted by Licensee to
4725
support any award of compensatory damages (as opposed to punitive or any other
4726
damages). Licensor may, at its option and its cost and expense, participate in
4727
meetings with Licensee and/or its counsel and receive all pleadings, documents
4728
and other related papers useful for the purpose of keeping Licensor informed of
4729
the status of any proceedings commenced by Licensee pursuant to this Section 6.
4730
4731
7. TERM AND TERMINATION.
4732
4733
7.1 Term. This Agreement shall commence on the effective date
4734
hereof and shall expire, unless earlier terminated pursuant to Subsections 4.8,
4735
7.2 or 7.3 of this Agreement, upon the later of (a) the expiration of the last
4736
of the Licensed Patents to expire or (b) December 26, 2015.
4737
4738
7.2 Termination by Licensor. If Licensee defaults in any of its
4739
obligations under this Agreement, Licensor shall have the right to terminate
4740
this Agreement by giving thirty (30) days' written notice of termination
4741
specifying the reason for termination, provided that such notice will be of no
4742
effect and termination will not occur if the specified default is cured prior to
4743
the expiration of said thirty (30) day notice period.
4744
4745
7.3 Termination by Licensee. (a) This Agreement may be
4746
terminated by Licensee at any time at will, with or without cause, by the giving
4747
of at least ninety (90) days' written notice to Licensor by Licensee, in which
4748
event such license shall terminate upon the effective date stated in any such
4749
notice. In the event of the termination of any such license, neither Licensor
4750
nor Licensee shall have any further obligation to the other party hereunder
4751
except as expressly provided in Sections 7.4 and 8.1 below.
4752
4753
(b) Upon the termination of any license granted under this
4754
Agreement, Licensee may, after the effective date of such termination,
4755
sell any of its (i) completed Products, (ii) Products then in the
4756
process of manufacture and (iii) Products with respect to which
4757
manufacture has been committed at the time of termination by reason of
4758
either (x) any contracts for the purchase of materials to be used in the
4759
manufacture of such Products or (y) any contract for the sale of such
4760
Products. All such sales and uses shall be subject to the royalty
4761
provisions of Section 4 of this Agreement as though the termination of
4762
this Agreement had not occurred.
4763
4764
<PAGE>
4765
4766
4767
(c) Except as expressly provided in Subsection 7.3(b), after
4768
termination of this Agreement, Licensee may not use develop, market or
4769
sell the Products, Know-how, or Licensed Patents in any way or manner
4770
that would violate any rights of Licensor and all rights with respect to
4771
the Licensed Products, Know-how or Licensed Patents shall revert to
4772
Licensor. In addition, Licensee shall assign to Licensor, and hereby
4773
does, effective only upon such termination, any and all (i) improvements
4774
to the Licensed Products, Know-how or Licensed Patents conceived or
4775
reduced to practice during the term of this Agreement and (ii)
4776
trademarks for the Licensed Products (other than master brand trademarks
4777
of Licensee which shall be retained by Licensee). Licensee shall take
4778
any and all steps reasonably requested by Licensor to fully document the
4779
complete vesting of such rights in Licensor upon any such termination.
4780
4781
7.4 Continued Obligations. Termination shall not relieve or
4782
release either party from its obligations to make any payment which may be owing
4783
to the other under the terms of this Agreement or from any other liability which
4784
either party may have to the other arising out of the terms of this Agreement.
4785
Additionally, notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary,
4786
Sections 3, 4 (including Subsection 4.8 to the extent then exercised), 5 and 8.2
4787
shall survive termination of this Agreement and remain in full force and effect;
4788
provided, that Licensor and Licensee hereby acknowledge that they may not bring
4789
claims against one another based upon the representations and warranties
4790
contained in Section 3, except to the extent such representations and warranties
4791
are not accurate as of the date hereof.
4792
4793
8. LICENSEE'S UNDERTAKINGS.
4794
4795
8.1 Licensing Fee and Payment. Licensee will pay to Licensor the
4796
sum of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] as a license fee. The license fee
4797
will be payable to, Licensee, by wire transfer to an account designated pursuant
4798
to Section 10.4, as follows:
4799
4800
(a) $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] at the time of execution
4801
of this License Agreement.
4802
4803
(b) $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] at the beginning of each
4804
of the next three calendar quarters. If this Agreement is terminated by
4805
Licensee prior to the payment of all license fees under this Section
4806
8.1, the remaining payments shall be paid on or before the effective
4807
date of such termination. All license fees shall be non-refundable. Of
4808
the total $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] license fee,
4809
$[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] shall be set off against and reduce
4810
the royalty payments to be made to Licensor under Section 4 of this
4811
Agreement. Such credit shall be applied at the rate of [CONFIDENTIAL
4812
TREATMENT REQUESTED] percent ([CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]%) of
4813
the excess of running royalties payable under Section 4.1 over the
4814
minimum royalties payable under Section 4.3 in any Contract Quarter.
4815
4816
8.2 Confidentiality. Licensee shall maintain the confidentiality
4817
of Licensor's confidential information, both during and after the term of this
4818
Agreement. After this Agreement is terminated, Licensee shall not use any of
4819
Licensor's confidential information for any purpose that is not specifically
4820
provided for in Subsection 7.3(b) of this Agreement.
4821
4822
8.3 Press Release. Upon launch of the first Licensed Product,
4823
Licensee shall issue a press release, reasonably satisfactory to Licensor, which
4824
shall, in part, acknowledge Onesta's and/or Licari's role in developing the
4825
Licensed Products.
4826
4827
9. LICENSOR'S UNDERTAKINGS.
4828
4829
9.1 Disclosure of Improvements. Licensor agrees to promptly
4830
disclose to Licensee any improvement, enhancement or modification to the
4831
Products that Licensor may develop during the term of this Agreement or any
4832
other inulin-based soluble fiber supplement products.
4833
4834
<PAGE>
4835
4836
4837
10. MISCELLANEOUS.
4838
4839
10.1 Force majeure. Neither party shall be responsible for any
4840
delay or failure in the performance of any obligation hereunder due to strikes,
4841
lockouts, fires, floods, acts of God, embargoes, wars, riots, or act or order of
4842
any government or governmental agency; provided, however, nothing set forth in
4843
this Subsection 10.1 shall be construed to relieve Licensee of the requirement
4844
that it pay minimum royalties pursuant to Subsections 4.3 and 4.4 hereof.
4845
4846
10.2 Waiver. The waiver or failure of either party to enforce
4847
the terms of this Agreement in one instance shall not constitute a waiver of
4848
said party's right under this Agreement with respect to other violations.
4849
4850
10.3 Remedies. The election by either party of any particular
4851
right or remedy shall not be deemed to exclude any other right or remedy and all
4852
rights and remedies of either party shall be cumulative. The parties agree that,
4853
in addition to any other relief afforded under the terms of this Agreement or by
4854
law, each party shall have the right to enforce this Agreement by injunctive or
4855
mandatory relief to be issued against the other party, it being understood that
4856
both damages and specific performance shall be proper modes of relief and are
4857
not to be considered as alternative remedies.
4858
4859
10.4 Notices. All notices and replies thereto required hereunder
4860
shall be in writing, signed by the party giving notice, placed in an envelope
4861
and either delivered by hand or sent by facsimile or registered mail, postage
4862
prepaid, return receipt requested, and properly addressed to the other party.
4863
Notices sent by mail shall be deemed received on the date of receipt indicated
4864
by the receipt verification provided by the United States Postal Service.
4865
Notices sent by facsimile shall be deemed received on the date indicated on the
4866
sender's confirmation report. Notice shall be given, mailed or sent to the other
4867
party at the following addresses or at such other address as may be given by
4868
proper notice:
4869
4870
If to Licensor: Onesta Nutrition, Inc.
4871
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
4872
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
4873
Attn: Jerome J. Licari, Ph.D
4874
Fax No.: [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
4875
4876
Wire transfer
4877
information: Anchor Bank of Wayzata
4878
1055 Wayzata Boulevard
4879
Wayzata, MN 55391
4880
ABA Routing No: [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
4881
REQUESTED]
4882
Account No: [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
4883
REQUESTED]
4884
4885
With a copy to: Dorsey & Whitney LLP
4886
220 South Sixth Street
4887
Minneapolis, MN 55402-1498
4888
Attn: Karin A. Keitel
4889
Fax No.: 612-340-8827
4890
4891
If to Licensee: CNS, Inc.
4892
4400 West 78th Street
4893
Minneapolis, MN 55435
4894
Attn: Daniel E. Cohen, M.D.
4895
Fax No.: 612-820-6697
4896
4897
<PAGE>
4898
4899
4900
With a copy to: Lindquist & Vennum P.L.L.P.
4901
4200 IDS Center
4902
80 South 8th Street
4903
Minneapolis, MN 55402-2205
4904
Attn: Patrick Delaney
4905
Fax No.: 612-371-3207
4906
4907
Either party hereto may designate any other address for notices or account for
4908
wire transfer given hereunder by written notice to the other party given at
4909
least ten (10) days prior to the effective date of such change.
4910
4911
10.5 Entire Agreement. This Agreement represents the entire
4912
agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof; there
4913
are no oral promises, representations or warranties. No modification of this
4914
Agreement or waiver of any of its terms shall be binding upon the parties unless
4915
said modification or waiver is in writing, signed by both parties, and states
4916
that it is an amendment to this Agreement.
4917
4918
10.6 Parties in Interest. This Agreement shall inure to the
4919
benefit of, be binding upon, and be enforceable against the parties hereto,
4920
their respective successors and assigns.
4921
4922
10.7 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by,
4923
construed and enforced under the internal laws (and not the laws of conflicts)
4924
of the State of Minnesota. Licensee irrevocably submits to the jurisdiction of
4925
the Minnesota state courts and federal courts sitting in Minneapolis or St.
4926
Paul, Minnesota in connection with any action or proceeding arising out of or
4927
relating to this Agreement and agrees that all claims in respect of such action
4928
or proceeding shall be heard and determined in any such court.
4929
4930
10.8 Severability. If any portion of this Agreement is held
4931
invalid by the final judgment of any court of competent jurisdiction, such
4932
portion shall be deemed revised or "blue lined" so that it is enforceable to the
4933
fullest extent possible under applicable law and the remaining provisions shall
4934
remain in full force and effect as if such invalid provision had not been
4935
included herein.
4936
4937
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as
4938
of the day and year first above written.
4939
4940
CNS, INC.
4941
4942
4943
By
4944
--------------------------------------
4945
Its:
4946
----------------------------------
4947
4948
ONESTA NUTRITION, INC.
4949
4950
4951
By
4952
--------------------------------------
4953
Its:
4954
----------------------------------
4955
4956
<PAGE>
4957
4958
4959
LIST OF SCHEDULES
4960
4961
4962
Number Description
4963
------ -----------
4964
4965
1.1 Products
4966
4967
1.3 Licensed Patents
4968
4969
<PAGE>
4970
4971
4972
SCHEDULE 1.1
4973
4974
DESCRIPTION OF PRODUCTS
4975
4976
Soluble fiber supplement product covered by the Licensed Patents or made
4977
or developed through the use of Know-How.
4978
4979
<PAGE>
4980
4981
4982
SCHEDULE 1.3
4983
4984
DESCRIPTION OF LICENSED PATENTS
4985
4986
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 60/009,231 filed December 26, 1995, "Dietary
4987
Fiber Delivery System"
4988
4989
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/771,960 filed December 23, 1995, "Dietary
4990
Fiber Delivery System"
4991
4992
PCT Patent Application PCT/US 96/20245 filed December 23, 1996, "Dietary Fiber
4993
Delivery System"
4994
4995
</TEXT>
4996
</DOCUMENT>
4997
<DOCUMENT>
4998
<TYPE>EX-10.10
4999
<SEQUENCE>5
5000
<DESCRIPTION>LICENSE AGREEMENT
5001
<TEXT>
5002
5003
5004
Exhibit 10.10
5005
5006
5007
[CERTAIN INFORMATION HAS BEEN OMITTED FROM THIS EXHIBIT AND FILED SEPARATELY
5008
WITH THE SEC PURSUANT TO A REQUEST FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT UNDER RULE 24b-2.]
5009
5010
LICENSE AGREEMENT
5011
5012
THIS AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") is made and effective as of this 12th
5013
day of March, 1999 by and between CNS, Inc., a Delaware corporation
5014
("Licensee"), and WinEase, L.L.C., a Minnesota limited liability company
5015
("Licensor").
5016
5017
RECITALS
5018
5019
WHEREAS, Licensor is now and has been engaged in developing certain
5020
technology related to animal care and specifically has developed products and
5021
methods directed to the support of nasal passages for animals, including the
5022
"Products" (as defined in Paragraph 1.1 below);
5023
5024
WHEREAS, Licensor owns certain patents, pending patent applications and
5025
Know-how (as defined in Paragraph 1.4) related to the Products and methods,
5026
these patents and pending applications listed in the attached Schedule 1.5, and
5027
Licensor is willing to license such patents, pending applications and Know-how
5028
to Licensee exclusively and in accordance with the terms of this Agreement;
5029
5030
WHEREAS, Licensor has also developed certain trademarks related to the
5031
Products and owns certain trademark registrations and pending trademark
5032
applications as listed in the attached Schedule 1.6, and Licensor is willing to
5033
license such trademarks including the trademark registrations and pending
5034
applications in accordance with the terms of the Trademark License Agreement
5035
attached hereto as Exhibit A;
5036
5037
WHEREAS, Licensee desires to obtain an exclusive, worldwide,
5038
royalty-bearing license from Licensor under all of those certain patents, patent
5039
applications, Know-how, Product Improvements (as defined in Paragraph 1.3),
5040
trademarks, and trademark applications relating to the development, manufacture,
5041
sale and use of the Products and Licensed Methods (as defined in Paragraph 1.2).
5042
5043
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of these premises, and the mutual
5044
covenants and agreements hereinafter set forth and other good and valuable
5045
consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the
5046
parties agree as follows:
5047
5048
1. GENERAL DEFINITIONS. As used herein, the following terms shall be
5049
defined in the manner set forth below:
5050
5051
1.1 Products. The term "Products" shall mean the nasal support devices
5052
for animals and parts and components thereof and related thereto and any other
5053
products similar in function and purpose developed by Licensor or any of its
5054
employees, consultants, agents or representatives prior to or during the term of
5055
this Agreement based upon or using the Know-how or any claim within Patent
5056
Rights. The term Products also specifically includes any product that is made by
5057
a Licensed Method or is intended to be used in accordance with a Licensed
5058
Method.
5059
5060
1.2 Licensed Methods. The term "Licensed Methods" shall mean any
5061
methods or techniques developed by Licensor of making or using the nasal support
5062
devices for animals and parts and components thereof and related thereto and any
5063
other products similar in function and purpose developed by Licensor or any of
5064
its employees, consultants, agents or representatives prior to or during the
5065
term of this Agreement based upon or using the Know-how or any claim within the
5066
Patent Rights.
5067
5068
1.3 Product Improvements. The term "Product Improvements" shall mean
5069
any improvement or enhancement to the Products or any similar product conceived
5070
of by Licensor or any of its officers, employees, consultants, agents or
5071
representatives after the effective date of this Agreement which utilize any of
5072
the Know-how, Patent Rights or Licensed Methods.
5073
5074
<PAGE>
5075
5076
5077
1.4 Know-how. The term "Know-how" shall mean any and all of the
5078
information of any description directly relating to the Products and Licensed
5079
Methods developed by or for Licensor at any time prior to or after the effective
5080
date of this Agreement and connected or associated with the Patent Rights,
5081
including, but not limited to, any and all tangible and intangible information,
5082
technology, documents and materials in the possession and control of Licensor
5083
(prior to the term of this Agreement), necessary or desirable in order to enable
5084
Licensee to utilize fully the rights granted by Licensor to Licensee hereunder
5085
and shall include, without limiting the foregoing, the ideas, concepts,
5086
confidential information, trade secrets and techniques, as well as all the
5087
materials, documents, manuals, schematics, blueprints, specifications, patterns,
5088
art work, bills of materials and technical specifications and other information
5089
owned or controlled by Licensor relating to the Products, Patent Rights and
5090
Licensed Methods.
5091
5092
1.5 Patent Rights. The term "Patent Rights" shall mean the following:
5093
(i) the United States and foreign patent(s) and patent application(s) listed on
5094
the attached Schedule 1.5 relating to the Products and Licensed Methods; (ii)
5095
all future United States or foreign patent applications related to the Products,
5096
Product Improvements and Licensed Methods and any patents arising therefrom;
5097
(iii) the rights, patents and patent applications, if any, in any country or
5098
jurisdiction in the world corresponding to the United States patents or patent
5099
applications; and (iv) any division, continuation, continuation-in-part,
5100
divisional, re-examined, reissued or extended letters patent, applications and
5101
petty patents, utility models, utility model conversions, inventor's
5102
certificates relating to the inventions claimed in any of the foregoing United
5103
States patents and patents pending and foreign patent rights, which may be
5104
developed, acquired or controlled by Licensor during the term of this Agreement
5105
and with respect to which Licensor has or shall have the right to grant the
5106
license hereinafter provided.
5107
5108
1.6 Trademark Rights. The term "Trademark Rights" shall mean those
5109
trademarks procured by Licensor and listed on the attached Schedule 1.6 for use
5110
in connection with Products and Licensed Methods, including all current and
5111
future registrations and pending trademark applications in the United States and
5112
foreign countries that are related to those trademarks listed in Schedule 1.6.
5113
The term Trademark Rights also includes any new trademarks that may be developed
5114
by Licensor for application to the Products or the Licensed Methods.
5115
5116
1.7 Contract Year and Quarter. The term "Contract Year" shall mean each
5117
period of twelve (12) consecutive months commencing on the first day of the
5118
first month of the Contract Quarter following the date Licensee elects, in its
5119
sole discretion, to commercially introduce the Products (the "Product Acceptance
5120
Date"); provided, however, the Product Acceptance Date shall in no event be
5121
later than September 1, 1999 unless otherwise agreed by both parties. The term
5122
"Contract Quarter" shall mean each period of three (3) consecutive months
5123
commencing on the first day of (i) July, 1999 in the event that the Product
5124
Acceptance Date occurs on or before August 15, 1999; or (ii) October, 1999 in
5125
the event that the Product Acceptance Date occurs after August 15, 1999.
5126
5127
1.8 Net Sales The term "Net Sales" shall mean the total amount
5128
collected by Licensee or any sublicensee for sales of the Products to third
5129
parties after a deduction of any: (i) sales, use or excise taxes; (ii) freight
5130
or shipping charges; (iii) duty or insurance included therein; (iv) credits or
5131
prepayments due to rejections; (v) defects or returns; and (vi) amounts for
5132
trade and quantity discounts actually allowed and taken.
5133
5134
1.9 Earned Royalty. The term "Earned Royalty" shall mean the royalty
5135
payable to Licensor on the Net Sales from the sale of the Products.
5136
5137
2. LICENSING AND COMMERCIALIZATION.
5138
5139
2.1 Patent Rights and Know-how License. Licensor hereby grants to
5140
Licensee a sole and exclusive, worldwide, royalty-bearing license, subject to
5141
Paragraph 2.3 below, to manufacture, have others manufacture for it, use, sell,
5142
distribute, export, or otherwise dispose of the Products and to practice the
5143
Licensed Methods to make or use the Products under the Patent Rights and the
5144
Know-how of Licensor.
5145
5146
<PAGE>
5147
5148
5149
2.2 Confidentiality of Know-how. Except as required by law or by a
5150
governmental agency or as may otherwise be necessary or desirable for Licensee
5151
to fully utilize the rights granted under this Agreement, Licensee agrees that
5152
it will not, directly or indirectly, disseminate, disclose or otherwise make
5153
available to any third party Know-how without the prior consent of Licensor and
5154
will take all steps reasonably necessary to carry out this obligation so long as
5155
Licensor has a reversionary right to such Know- how by the terms of this
5156
Agreement, or unless such Know-how is already known to Licensee or until such
5157
Know-how is, or becomes, generally known to the public or is subsequently
5158
received by Licensee in good faith and without any restrictions as to disclosure
5159
from a third party which has the right to make such disclosure. Notwithstanding
5160
the foregoing, Licensee may disclose any Know-how to its directors, officers,
5161
employees, representatives and agents who may need to know such information.
5162
5163
2.3 Sublicenses. Except as may be otherwise necessary or desirable to
5164
manufacture or have manufactured the Products or any components therefore,
5165
Licensee may not sublicense to any third party, including affiliates of
5166
Licensee, any rights granted by Licensor to Licensee hereunder in the United
5167
States. Licensee may, however, sublicense any such rights to a third party or
5168
affiliates outside the United States for selling the Products outside the United
5169
States and without the right to import the Products into the United States. In
5170
the event of any sublicense granted under this Paragraph 2.3, Licensee shall (1)
5171
retain all rights and be responsible for all obligations under this Agreement,
5172
and (2) enter into a written agreement with any such sublicensee (x) with a term
5173
no greater than the term of this Agreement, (y) with rights granted to any such
5174
sublicensee which are no greater than the terms of this Agreement, and (z)
5175
pursuant to which Licensee shall use reasonable business efforts to impose upon
5176
such sublicensees similar obligations as Licensor has imposed upon Licensee
5177
under this Agreement.
5178
5179
2.4 Assignments. Licensee may assign, convey or transfer any and all of
5180
its rights under this Agreement ("Transfer") to a successor in interest of
5181
substantially all of the assets or capital stock of Licensee (the "Acquirer").
5182
In the event of such a Transfer, any such Acquirer shall assume all of the
5183
obligations of Licensee hereunder and this Agreement shall be binding upon and
5184
inure to the benefit of such Acquirer. Except as otherwise set forth in or
5185
contemplated by Paragraph 2.3 above, no other Transfer may be made by Licensee
5186
or the Acquirer unless Licensee or the Acquirer grants Licensor an exclusive
5187
right of first refusal to purchase all of the rights conferred under this
5188
Agreement in accordance with the following procedure:
5189
5190
(a) First, Licensee or the Acquirer, as the case may be, shall
5191
give Licensor written notification of its intention to enter
5192
into a transaction which operates to effectuate a Transfer (a
5193
"Transaction") and shall not enter into any such Transaction
5194
without first disclosing all material information about the
5195
proposed Transaction to Licensor and offering to enter into a
5196
Transaction on substantially identical terms with Licensor;
5197
and then
5198
5199
(b) Second, Licensor shall, unless otherwise waived in writing by
5200
Licensor, have a period of thirty (30) days after receipt of
5201
written notification of any proposed Transaction to exercise
5202
its right of first refusal and enter into a Transaction on
5203
substantially identical terms. The right of first refusal
5204
procedure outlined in this Paragraph 2.4 shall be repeated
5205
prior to entering into by Licensee or the Acquirer of any
5206
Transaction that is (a) on terms less favorable in a material
5207
respect to the Licensee or the Acquirer than specified in an
5208
earlier written notice to Licensor, or (b) with a party other
5209
than that specified in an earlier written notice.
5210
5211
2.5 Option for Product Improvements. Licensor shall own all of its
5212
Product Improvements. Upon Licensor's conception and reduction to practice of
5213
any Product Improvement, Licensor will disclose such Product Improvement to
5214
Licensee in writing within a reasonable period of time, and subsequently,
5215
Licensee shall have the first option to include any such Product Improvement
5216
within the exclusive license granted above in Paragraph 2.1. Licensee shall make
5217
its election under this option within thirty (30) days after disclosure from
5218
Licensor.
5219
5220
2.6 Patent Procurement and Costs. Licensee shall be solely responsible
5221
for and pay all patent costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees)
5222
to be incurred during the term of this Agreement in obtaining, prosecuting, and
5223
maintaining any of the Patent Rights issued or to be issued under the law of any
5224
country or jurisdiction identified on Schedule 2.6, including filing,
5225
prosecution, working and maintenance costs and taxes. Notwithstanding the above,
5226
Licensor shall direct and control the procurement and maintenance of the Patent
5227
Rights and shall select patent counsel for such procurement or maintenance
5228
(which counsel is subject to the reasonable consent of Licensee); provided,
5229
however, that Licensee shall have
5230
5231
<PAGE>
5232
5233
5234
the right to terminate such patent counsel if Licensee has a reasonable basis
5235
for not being satisfied with such counsel's efforts or results, and in such
5236
event Licensee shall select a new patent counsel (which counsel is subject to
5237
the reasonable consent of Licensor). With respect to the procurement and
5238
maintenance of any of the Patent Rights in countries not identified on Schedule
5239
2.6, Licensor shall not be responsible for or required to pay any patent costs
5240
or expenses unless it has given its prior written consent to the procurement of
5241
such Patent Rights in any such country.
5242
5243
2.7 Trademark Licensing. The Trademark Rights are licensed pursuant to
5244
the "Trademark License Agreement" that is attached to this Agreement as Exhibit
5245
A and made a part hereof.
5246
5247
3. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.
5248
5249
3.1 Licensor hereby warrants and represents to Licensee as follows:
5250
5251
(a) Licensor is a limited liability company duly organized,
5252
validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of
5253
Minnesota.
5254
5255
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
5256
delivered by Licensor and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of
5257
Licensor, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as rights to
5258
indemnification thereunder may be limited by applicable law and except
5259
as and to the extent that the enforcement thereof may be limited by
5260
bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other similar
5261
laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally or by general
5262
equitable principles. The execution, delivery and performance of this
5263
Agreement and the agreements attached hereto by Licensor and the
5264
consummation of the transactions contemplated thereby have been
5265
authorized by all necessary corporate action and do not and will not
5266
conflict with or result in any material breach of any of the provisions
5267
of, or constitute a material default under, or result in a material
5268
violation of, or require any authorization, consent or approval, under
5269
the provisions of any organizational charter, articles, bylaw, member
5270
control, operating or other agreement, contract or instrument to which
5271
Licensor is bound or affected, or any law, statute, rule, regulation,
5272
judgment order or decree to which Licensor is subject.
5273
5274
(c) Licensor is the sole and exclusive owner of all the rights
5275
of James R. Chiapetta, Edward L. Blach and all other employees, agents,
5276
consultants or representatives of Licensor with respect to the
5277
Products, Licensed Methods, Patent Rights, Know-how and Trademark
5278
Rights.
5279
5280
(d) Licensor has been allowed and the issue fee has been paid
5281
for the United States patent(s) as listed on Schedule 1.5 covering the
5282
Products or Licensed Methods. Additional United States and
5283
international patent applications that are directed to the Products and
5284
Licensed Methods are currently pending as set forth on Schedule 1.5.
5285
Licensor has no knowledge of information that would render any of the
5286
listed patent applications (or patents granted therefrom) invalid or
5287
unenforceable.
5288
5289
(e) Licensor has good and marketable title to the Trademark
5290
Rights, Patent Rights and Know-how, free and clear of any and all
5291
liens, pledges, claims, licenses, assignments, conditional sales
5292
contracts, agreements or encumbrances of any kind that would impair
5293
Licensor's ability to grant the licenses under this Agreement or the
5294
Trademark License Agreement.
5295
5296
(f) Licensor has no knowledge that any of the Trademark
5297
Rights, Products, Licensed Methods, Patent Right or Know-how infringes
5298
on any patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret, trade dress or any
5299
other intellectual property right of any third party.
5300
5301
(g) None of Licensor's undertakings or activities in
5302
connection with the development, manufacture and sale of the Products
5303
involve the wrongful use of the proprietary rights or assets of any
5304
third party or give rise to any claim by any third party of ownership
5305
or rights in the Trademark Rights, Patent Rights, Licensed Methods or
5306
Know-how.
5307
5308
<PAGE>
5309
5310
5311
(h) Licensor has not received notice of any claims, actions,
5312
suits or proceedings pending or threatened effecting Licensor, the
5313
Trademark Rights, the Patent Rights, the Licensed Methods or the
5314
Know-how, which, if adversely determined, would have a material adverse
5315
effect upon Licensee's ability to manufacture, have manufactured, use
5316
or sell the Products or otherwise practice the rights and technology
5317
licensed to Licensee by Licensor under this Agreement and, to
5318
Licensor's knowledge, there is no reasonable basis for anyone to bring
5319
such claims, actions, suits or proceedings.
5320
5321
(i) Licensor has not received any claim from any third-party
5322
proceedings relating to the Trademark Rights, Licensed Methods, Patent
5323
Rights or Know-how, or that the Products are based upon infringement of
5324
any patent or misappropriation or misuse of trade secrets or any other
5325
intellectual property right.
5326
5327
3.2 Licensee hereby warrants and represents to Licensor as follows:
5328
5329
(a) Licensee is a corporation duly organized, validly existing
5330
and in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware.
5331
5332
(b) This Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
5333
delivered by Licensee and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of
5334
Licensee, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as rights to
5335
indemnification thereunder may be limited by applicable law and except
5336
as the enforcement thereof may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency,
5337
reorganization, moratorium or other similar laws relating to or
5338
affecting creditors' rights generally or by general equitable
5339
principles. The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement
5340
and the agreements attached hereto by Licensee and the consummation of
5341
the transactions contemplated thereby do not and will not conflict with
5342
or result in any material breach of any of the provisions of, or
5343
constitute a material default under, or result in a material violation
5344
of, or require any authorization, consent or approval, under the
5345
provisions of Licensee's Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws or
5346
other agreement, contract or instrument to which Licensee is bound or
5347
affected, or any law, statute, rule, regulation, judgment order or
5348
decree to which Licensee is subject.
5349
5350
4. PAYMENTS, ROYALTIES AND REPORTS.
5351
5352
4.1 Initial License Fee. On the date hereof, Licensee will pay to
5353
Licensor the sum of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] as an initial license
5354
fee.
5355
5356
4.2 Additional License Fees. Unless this Agreement is earlier
5357
terminated or notice of termination is furnished in accordance with Paragraph
5358
7.3 hereof, Licensee will pay to Licensor additional license fees in accordance
5359
with the following:
5360
5361
(a) the sum of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] on the
5362
Product Acceptance Date;
5363
5364
(b) the sum of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] on the
5365
earlier of: (i) six (6) months after the Product Acceptance Date; or
5366
(ii) Net Sales from the sales of Products equal or exceed
5367
$[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] in the aggregate; and
5368
5369
(c) the sum of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] on the
5370
earlier of: (i) twelve (12) months after the Product Acceptance Date;
5371
or (ii) aggregate Net Sales from the sales of Products equal or exceed
5372
$[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] U.S. in the aggregate.
5373
5374
4.3 Royalties on Account of Net Sales.
5375
5376
(a) Licensee agrees to pay to Licensor royalties as follows
5377
based on the annual Net Sales from the sale of Products which are
5378
manufactured, used, sold or imported into a jurisdiction in which
5379
Licensor owns or controls an unexpired granted patent of Patent Rights
5380
containing a valid claim covering such manufacture, use, sale or
5381
importation: (a) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of Net Sales until
5382
royalties have been paid on a total of $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
5383
REQUESTED] U.S., then (b) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of Net
5384
Sales until royalties have been paid on a total of $[CONFIDENTIAL
5385
TREATMENT REQUESTED] U.S., then (c) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]%
5386
of Net Sales until royalties have been paid on a total of
5387
$[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] U.S., and then (d) [CONFIDENTIAL
5388
TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of all Net Sales in excess of a total of
5389
$[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] U.S.
5390
5391
<PAGE>
5392
5393
5394
(b) The royalty percentages provided for in Paragraph 4.3(a)
5395
above shall be reduced by [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
5396
([CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]) on account of Net Sales of
5397
Products which are manufactured, used, sold or imported into a
5398
jurisdiction in which Licensor does not own or control an unexpired
5399
granted patent of Patent Rights containing a valid claim covering such
5400
manufacture, use, sale or importation.
5401
5402
(c) In the event that any third party sells or markets a nasal
5403
support device that competes with the Products in a particular
5404
jurisdiction and Licensee is unable to prohibit such competitor from
5405
marketing or selling such a competitive product in the particular
5406
jurisdiction through patent proceedings or other measures set forth in
5407
or contemplated by Section 6, the royalties provided for hereunder
5408
shall be proportionately reduced such that the royalty percentages then
5409
in effect under either Paragraphs 4.3(a) and 4.3(b) above shall be
5410
multiplied by the market share held by Licensee in the particular
5411
jurisdiction as determined by Licensee every six (6) months in a good
5412
faith analysis of the relevant markets and the competitive effect of
5413
such products on Net Sales.
5414
5415
(d) It is further understood and agreed by the parties that a
5416
Product sold and subject to royalty under this Agreement shall not be
5417
subject to more than one royalty payment and that the royalties
5418
provided for under this Agreement shall in no event be reduced to less
5419
than [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]% of Net Sales.
5420
5421
4.4 Quarterly Payments. All royalties due Licensor from Licensee
5422
hereunder shall be payable on a Contract Quarterly basis. Within thirty (30)
5423
days after the end of each Contract Quarter during the term of this Agreement,
5424
Licensee shall pay to Licensor the royalty due Licensor under Paragraph 4.3
5425
through the end of the preceding Contract Quarter and shall furnish Licensor
5426
with a written statement setting forth the number of Products sold and the Net
5427
Sales received during such Contract Quarter, and the resulting amount of the
5428
royalty due Licensor under Paragraph 4.3.
5429
5430
4.5 Minimum Royalties. To maintain its rights hereunder, Licensee shall
5431
pay to Licensor minimum royalties after the Product Acceptance Date in
5432
accordance with Paragraph 4.4 and the following:
5433
5434
<TABLE>
5435
<CAPTION>
5436
Minimum Royalty Payment Minimum Royalty Payment
5437
Contract Year* Per Contract Year Per Contract Quarter
5438
- -------------- ----------------- --------------------
5439
<S> <C> <C>
5440
Year 1 $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] $[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
5441
Year 2** [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
5442
</TABLE>
5443
5444
*Twelve-month periods beginning on the Contract Year.
5445
5446
**Unless earlier terminated in accordance with Section 7 of this Agreement,
5447
through the Contract Year of the expiration date of the last of the Patent
5448
Rights.
5449
5450
4.7 Minimum Royalty Payment. Licensee shall pay Licensor within thirty
5451
(30) days after the end of each Contract Quarter, an amount equal to (i) the
5452
minimum royalties payable pursuant to the terms of Paragraph 4.5 for the
5453
Contract Quarter then ended, less (ii): (a) the aggregate amount of Earned
5454
Royalties actually paid to Licensor pursuant to the terms of Paragraphs 4.3 and
5455
4.4 for the Contract Quarter then ended; and (b) any Earned Royalties paid to
5456
Licensor during the prior Contract Quarters in the current Contract Year that
5457
exceed the amount of cumulative minimum royalties payable for those Contract
5458
Quarters. Licensee's failure to pay any and all amounts payable under the
5459
preceding sentence within thirty (30) days after receipt of written notice from
5460
Licensor that such amounts have not been timely paid shall render the licenses
5461
granted hereunder void and thereupon, Licensee shall have no further rights or
5462
interests of any kind or nature with respect to the Products, Patent Rights and
5463
Know-how, and Licensee shall take any and all action that Licensor may
5464
reasonably request to further document the provisions hereof. In the event that
5465
any law, statute, regulation, rule, guideline, ruling, order or decision
5466
prevents Licensee from marketing or offering the Products for sale, the minimum
5467
royalty payment will be suspended until such time that Licensee is no longer
5468
prevented from marketing or offering the Products for sale.
5469
5470
<PAGE>
5471
5472
5473
4.8 Late Payment. Licensee shall pay a late payment fee to Licensor for
5474
any Contract Quarter when the royalty amount that is due and payable is not made
5475
within thirty (30) days after the end of that Contract Quarter. The late payment
5476
fee shall be calculated at a variable rate of two percent (2%) over the prime
5477
per annum interest rate as set from time to time by Norwest Bank Minneapolis,
5478
N.A., Minneapolis, Minnesota (the "Interest Rate"), on any and all amounts that
5479
are at any time overdue and payable to Licensor under this Agreement, such
5480
interest being calculated on each such overdue amount from the date when such
5481
amount became due to the date of actual payment thereof. Such late payment fee
5482
shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any and all other rights or remedies
5483
that Licensor may have under this Agreement or law relating to a default by
5484
Licensee under this Agreement.
5485
5486
4.9 Records. During the term of this Agreement and for three (3) years
5487
after termination of this Agreement, Licensee shall at all times maintain
5488
accurate and up-to-date records containing complete data from which amounts due
5489
to Licensor under this Agreement may be readily calculated. Further, Licensee
5490
shall preserve and permit examination of such records by Licensor's
5491
representatives or independent auditors at reasonable intervals and under
5492
reasonable conditions during the term of this Agreement and for three (3) years
5493
thereafter and, upon request, shall supply to Licensor's representatives or
5494
independent auditors all information reasonably requested that is useful in
5495
making a proper audit and verification of Licensee's performance of its
5496
obligations under this Agreement and of any sublicensee's performance in
5497
accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
5498
5499
4.10 Underpayment. If Licensor determines by audit and inspection of
5500
Licensee's books and records that Licensee has failed to pay all royalties due
5501
under Paragraph 4.4, Licensee shall pay Licensor one hundred five percent (105%)
5502
of such additional royalties as may be due in addition to the interest as
5503
provided for in Paragraph 4.8 above. If the amount of underpayment exceeds 5% of
5504
the royalties due under Paragraph 4.4, then Licensor shall, in addition to any
5505
other remedies available to it, recover from Licensee the reasonable costs
5506
incurred in making any such audit and inspection pursuant to Paragraph 4.9
5507
hereof which revealed such shortfall.
5508
5509
5. INDEMNIFICATION.
5510
5511
5.1 Indemnification by Licensor. Licensor shall defend, indemnify and
5512
hold Licensee and its shareholders, directors, officers, agents,
5513
representatives, successors and assigns harmless from and against any and all
5514
claims, damages, costs (including reasonable attorneys' fees), judgments, fines,
5515
penalties, losses, diminution in value and liabilities of any kind or nature:
5516
(a) arising out of the breach by Licensor of any of its warranties,
5517
representations and covenants under this Agreement or the Trademark License
5518
Agreement; (b) arising out of any misuse by Licensor of the patent process or
5519
fraud by Licensor on the patent office.
5520
5521
5.2 Indemnification by Licensee. Licensee shall defend, indemnify and
5522
hold Licensor and its shareholders, directors, officers, agents,
5523
representatives, successors and assigns harmless from and against any and all
5524
claims, damages, costs (including reasonable attorneys' fees), judgments, fines,
5525
penalties, losses, diminution in value and liabilities of any kind or nature
5526
arising out of any act of Licensee including, but not limited to, those: (a)
5527
arising out of the breach by Licensee of any of its warranties, representations
5528
and covenants under this Agreement or the Trademark License Agreement; or (b)
5529
arising out of any actual or alleged defect in a Product.
5530
5531
6. PROTECTION AGAINST INFRINGEMENT. In the event that Licensee becomes
5532
aware of activity on the part of any third party which may constitute
5533
infringement of the Patent Rights, or any other intellectual property rights
5534
with respect to which Licensee is granted a license hereunder, Licensee shall
5535
give Licensor written notice thereof. Licensee shall, at its sole discretion and
5536
expense, have the first exclusive right to initiate and thereafter maintain
5537
reasonable efforts to prevent and abate such infringement, including the
5538
initiation of an appropriate civil action for infringement and the taking of
5539
such other action as may determine to be necessary or appropriate to enforce the
5540
Patent Rights or other intellectual property rights with respect to which
5541
Licensee is granted a license hereunder. In such event, (i) Licensor will permit
5542
the use of its name in, and as a party to, all such suits and execute all
5543
pleadings, documents and other papers necessary or appropriate in conjunction
5544
therewith, and (ii) Licensee shall receive the full benefits of any action it
5545
takes pursuant to this Paragraph, including retaining all sums recovered in any
5546
such suit or in settlement thereof after paying Licensor the Earned Royalties
5547
which shall be calculated from the amount of Net Sales, if any, asserted by
5548
Licensee to support any award of compensatory damages (as opposed to
5549
5550
<PAGE>
5551
5552
5553
punitive or any other damages). In the event that Licensee fails or refuses to
5554
take or cause to be taken any such measures against any third party after six
5555
(6) months from the date of receipt of written notice to Licensee by Licensor of
5556
such infringement, Licensor may take such legal action in its own name or in the
5557
name of Licensee (if needed) and at its own expense upon giving fourteen (14)
5558
days advance, written notice of its intention to do so. In this case, all
5559
damages recovered as a result of such action by Licensor shall be and become the
5560
property of Licensor. If either party litigates under this Section 6, the other
5561
party may, at its option and its cost and expense, participate in meetings with
5562
the litigating party and/or its counsel and receive all pleadings, documents and
5563
other related papers useful for the purpose of keeping the other party informed
5564
of the status of any proceedings commenced by the litigating party.
5565
5566
7. TERM AND TERMINATION.
5567
5568
7.1 Term. This Agreement and the Trademark License Agreement shall
5569
commence on the effective date hereof and shall expire, unless earlier
5570
terminated pursuant to Paragraphs 7.2 or 7.3 of this Agreement, upon the
5571
expiration of the last of the Licensed Patents to expire.
5572
5573
7.2 Termination by Licensor. If Licensee is in material default of any
5574
of its obligations under this Agreement, Licensor shall have the right to
5575
terminate this Agreement by giving thirty (30) days' written notice of
5576
termination specifying the reason for termination, provided that such notice
5577
will be of no effect and termination will not occur if the specified default is
5578
cured prior to the expiration of said thirty (30) day notice period.
5579
5580
7.3 Termination by Licensee.
5581
5582
(a) This Agreement and the Trademark License Agreement may be
5583
terminated by Licensee at any time at will, with or without cause, by
5584
the giving of at least ninety (90) days' prior written notice to
5585
Licensor by Licensee in which event any license granted hereunder
5586
shall, except as otherwise set forth in or contemplated by Paragraph
5587
7.3(b) hereof, terminate upon the effective date of the termination
5588
(the "Termination Date") stated in any such notice. In the event of the
5589
termination of any such license, neither Licensor nor Licensee shall
5590
have any further obligation to the other party hereunder except as
5591
expressly provided in Paragraphs 7.3(b), 7.3(c) or 7.4 of this
5592
Agreement below.
5593
5594
(b) Upon termination of any license granted hereunder or under
5595
the Trademark License Agreement, Licensee may, after the effective date
5596
of such termination, sell any of its (i) completed Products, (ii)
5597
Products then in the process of manufacture, and (iii) Products with
5598
respect to which manufacture has been committed at the time of
5599
termination by reason of either (x) any contracts for the purchase of
5600
materials to be used in the manufacture of such Products or (y) any
5601
contract for the sale of such Products, and may, in its sole
5602
discretion, utilize any of the rights granted by Licensor under the
5603
Trademark License Agreement. All such sales and uses shall be subject
5604
to the royalty provisions of Section 4 of this Agreement as though the
5605
termination of this Agreement had not occurred.
5606
5607
(c) Except as expressly provided in Paragraph 7.3(b), after
5608
termination of this Agreement, Licensee may not use develop, market or
5609
sell the Products, Product Improvements, Licensed Methods, Patent
5610
Rights and Know-how, in any way or manner that would violate any rights
5611
of Licensor and Licensee shall take any and all steps reasonably
5612
requested by Licensor to completely vest all rights licensed hereunder
5613
to Licensee back to Licensor upon any such termination. Furthermore,
5614
Licensee may not use any trademark of the Trademark Rights, and all
5615
Trademark Rights shall remain the property of Licensor or will
5616
thereafter be assigned to Licensor. Termination of this Agreement shall
5617
operate to terminate the Trademark License Agreement.
5618
5619
(d) In the event that Licensee terminates this Agreement and
5620
the Trademark License Agreement under this Section 7, Licensee shall,
5621
upon written request of Licensor, deliver to Licensor copies of all
5622
material scientific and marketing research documentation related to or
5623
used in connection with the Products including, but not limited to,
5624
manufacturing sources and technical specifications, reports, surveys,
5625
know-how, trademarks (except the Breathe Right(R) trademark), customer
5626
lists and other information prepared for or by Licensee with respect to
5627
which Licensee shall have the right to deliver; provided, however, that
5628
the delivery of any such information and materials will not impair any
5629
trade secret relating to Licensee's other existing or contemplated
5630
products or be deemed by Licensee to be otherwise confidential in
5631
nature.
5632
5633
<PAGE>
5634
5635
5636
(e) In the event that Licensee terminates this Agreement under
5637
this Section 7, Licensee shall grant to Licensor a limited,
5638
non-exclusive, worldwide, non-royalty bearing license to any and all
5639
improvements to the Products developed by Licensee or any of its
5640
employees or consultants between the date hereof and Termination Date
5641
which Licensee shall have the right to grant; provided, however, that
5642
(i) nothing contained in this Paragraph 7(e) shall be in any way
5643
construed to confer upon Licensor or any third party any rights to such
5644
improvements which may be subject to the proprietary protection of a
5645
party other than Licensee including, without limitation, the rights
5646
granted to Licensee by Creative Integration & Design, Inc. and its
5647
affiliates; (ii) the license granted shall be applicable to the
5648
Products and limited for use in the area of nasal support devices for
5649
animals and no other purpose.
5650
5651
7.4 Continued Obligations. Termination shall not relieve or release
5652
either party from its obligations to make any payment which may be owing to the
5653
other under the terms of this Agreement or from any other liability which either
5654
party may have to the other arising out of the terms of this Agreement.
5655
Additionally, notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary,
5656
Sections 3, 5 and 9 shall survive termination of this Agreement and remain in
5657
full force and effect.
5658
5659
8. LICENSEE'S UNDERTAKINGS.
5660
5661
8.1 Exploitation. Licensee hereby agrees that during the term of this
5662
Agreement it will use its best efforts to manufacture, sell and market the
5663
Products, and will exert its best efforts to create a demand for the Products in
5664
appropriate worldwide markets, and to increase and extend its business in the
5665
manufacture, sale and marketing of the Products in appropriate worldwide
5666
markets.
5667
5668
8.2 Distribution. Licensee agrees to undertake and will use its best
5669
efforts to investigate and, if determined by Licensee to be commercially
5670
feasible, develop a direct distribution system whereby the Products may be
5671
marketed directly to the end user.
5672
5673
8.3 Marking. Licensee agrees to apply appropriate patent notices to the
5674
Products and to any product advertisements and packaging.
5675
5676
8.4 Additional Consent or License. In the event that Licensee believes
5677
it to be necessary or desirable to obtain the consent or a license from Creative
5678
Integration & Design, Inc. to practice some or all of the Patent Rights under
5679
this Agreement, the fees paid by Licensee for any such consent or license shall
5680
not affect the royalties set forth in this Agreement. In addition, Licensor
5681
acknowledges and agrees that any and all of the rights granted to Licensee by
5682
Creative Integration & Design, Inc. are not in any way intended to be considered
5683
transferrable or impaired hereunder any circumstances.
5684
5685
9. MISCELLANEOUS.
5686
5687
9.1 Recitals, Schedules and Exhibits Incorporated. The Recitals,
5688
Schedules and Exhibits are true and correct, incorporated herein and made a part
5689
of this Agreement as specifically set forth.
5690
5691
9.2 Force Majeure. Neither party shall be responsible for any delay or
5692
failure in the performance of any obligation hereunder due to strikes, lockouts,
5693
fires, floods, acts of God, embargoes, wars, riots, or act or order of any
5694
government or governmental agency; provided, however, nothing set forth in this
5695
Paragraph 9.2 (except as otherwise set forth in or contemplated by Paragraph 4.7
5696
of this Agreement) shall be construed to relieve Licensee of the requirement
5697
that it pay minimum royalties pursuant to Paragraphs 4.5 hereof.
5698
5699
9.3 Waiver. The waiver or failure of either party to enforce the terms
5700
of this Agreement in one instance shall not constitute a waiver of said party's
5701
right under this Agreement with respect to other violations.
5702
5703
<PAGE>
5704
5705
5706
9.4 Remedies. The election by either party of any particular right or
5707
remedy shall not be deemed to exclude any other right or remedy and all rights
5708
and remedies of either party shall be cumulative. The parties agree that, in
5709
addition to any other relief afforded under the terms of this Agreement or by
5710
law, each party shall have the right to enforce this Agreement by injunctive or
5711
mandatory relief to be issued against the other party, it being understood that
5712
both damages and specific performance shall be proper modes of relief and are
5713
not to be considered as alternative remedies.
5714
5715
9.5 Notices. All notices and replies thereto required hereunder shall
5716
be in writing, signed by the party giving notice, placed in an envelope and
5717
either delivered by hand or sent by facsimile or registered mail, postage
5718
prepaid, return receipt requested, and properly addressed to the other party.
5719
Notices sent by mail shall be deemed received on the date of receipt indicated
5720
by the receipt verification provided by the United States Postal Service.
5721
Notices sent by facsimile shall be deemed received on the date indicated on the
5722
sender's confirmation report. Notice shall be given, mailed or sent to the other
5723
party at the following addresses or at such other address as may be given by
5724
proper notice:
5725
5726
If to Licensor: WinEase, LLC
5727
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
5728
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
5729
Attn: James R. Chiapetta
5730
Fax No.: [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
5731
5732
If to Licensee: CNS, Inc.
5733
4400 West 78th Street
5734
Minneapolis, MN 55435
5735
Attn: Daniel E. Cohen, M.D.
5736
Fax No.: (612) 820-6697
5737
5738
With a copy to: Lindquist & Vennum P.L.L.P.
5739
4200 IDS Center
5740
80 South 8th Street
5741
Minneapolis, MN 55402-2205
5742
Attn: Patrick Delaney
5743
Fax No.: (612) 317-3207
5744
5745
Either party hereto may designate any other address for notices given
5746
hereunder by written notice to the other party given at least ten (10) days
5747
prior to the effective date of such change.
5748
5749
9.6 Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with the attached
5750
schedules and exhibits, represents the entire agreement between the parties with
5751
respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and
5752
discussions (whether written or oral); there are no oral promises,
5753
representations or warranties not set forth in this Agreement. No modification
5754
of this Agreement or waiver of any of its terms shall be binding upon the
5755
parties unless said modification or waiver is in writing, signed by both
5756
parties, and states that it is an amendment to this Agreement.
5757
5758
9.7 Parties in Interest. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of,
5759
be binding upon, and be enforceable against the parties hereto, their respective
5760
successors and assigns.
5761
5762
9.8 Governing Law. The parties hereby irrevocably submit and consent to
5763
the jurisdiction of Minnesota state and federal courts over any action or
5764
proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement and further agree that
5765
all claims in respect of such action or proceeding shall be heard and determined
5766
in any such court which shall construe and enforce the Agreement under the
5767
internal laws (and not the laws of conflicts) in such state. Licensor and
5768
Licensee hereby waive any argument that venue in such forums is not convenient.
5769
5770
<PAGE>
5771
5772
5773
9.9 Severability. If any portion of this Agreement is held invalid by
5774
the final judgment of any court of competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be
5775
deemed revised or "blue lined" so that it is enforceable to the fullest extent
5776
possible under applicable law and the remaining provisions shall remain in full
5777
force and effect as if such invalid provision had not been included herein.
5778
5779
9.10 Reasonableness. Licensor and Licensee agree that the restrictions,
5780
covenants, agreements and obligations contained in this Agreement are reasonable
5781
and necessary to protect the legitimate interests of the parties.
5782
5783
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as
5784
of the day and year first above written.
5785
5786
CNS, INC.
5787
5788
5789
5790
By:
5791
--------------------------------------
5792
Its:
5793
---------------------------------
5794
5795
5796
WINEASE, LLC
5797
5798
5799
5800
By:
5801
--------------------------------------
5802
Its:
5803
---------------------------------
5804
5805
<PAGE>
5806
5807
5808
5809
LIST OF SCHEDULES
5810
5811
Number Description
5812
------ -----------
5813
5814
1.5 Patent Rights
5815
1.6 Trademark Rights
5816
2.6 Countries List
5817
5818
<PAGE>
5819
5820
5821
SCHEDULE 1.5
5822
5823
DESCRIPTION OF LICENSED PATENTS
5824
5825
U.S. Patent Applications and all other applications and continuations
5826
thereof filed in connection with the Products together with any and all
5827
international filings as further described in Section 1.3 of this Agreement.
5828
5829
Application Status
5830
----------- ------
5831
5832
U.S. patent application serial no. 08/843,741 Issue fee paid 12/3/98
5833
5834
U.S. patent application serial no. 09/018,603 Filed 2/4/99
5835
5836
U.S. patent application serial no. 09/250,658 Filed 2/16/99
5837
5838
M&G docket no. 12460.1-US-I2 Filed 3/8/99
5839
5840
PCT/US98/07885 Filed 4/17/98
5841
5842
<PAGE>
5843
5844
5845
SCHEDULE 1.6
5846
5847
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN TRADEMARK RIGHTS
5848
5849
U.S. trademark registration and pending trademark applications as
5850
further described in Section 1.6 of this Agreement.
5851
5852
FLAIR
5853
5854
NSD
5855
5856
<PAGE>
5857
5858
5859
SCHEDULE 2.6
5860
5861
COUNTRIES LIST
5862
5863
1. United States;
5864
5865
2. Canada;
5866
5867
3. China;
5868
5869
4. Japan;
5870
5871
5. Mexico;
5872
5873
6. New Zealand;
5874
5875
7. Australia; and
5876
5877
8. Countries located in Europe.
5878
5879
<PAGE>
5880
5881
5882
EXHIBIT A
5883
5884
TRADEMARK LICENSE AGREEMENT
5885
5886
This Trademark License Agreement (the "Agreement") is entered into and
5887
is effective as of this 12th day of March, 1999 by and between WinEase, L.L.C.
5888
("LICENSOR"), a Minnesota limited liability company, and CNS, Inc. ("LICENSEE"),
5889
a Delaware corporation, upon the following terms and conditions:
5890
5891
Recitals
5892
5893
WHEREAS, LICENSOR and LICENSEE have entered into that certain license
5894
agreement on even date herewith (the "License Agreement");
5895
5896
WHEREAS, LICENSOR is the sole and exclusive owner of the certain
5897
"Trademark Rights" (as defined in the License Agreement); and
5898
5899
WHEREAS, LICENSEE wishes to have the right but not the obligation use
5900
the Trademark Rights in connection with the sale and marketing of the "Products"
5901
(as defined in the License Agreement) and to license from LICENSOR whatever
5902
rights LICENSOR may have in the Trademark Rights for use in connection with the
5903
Products;
5904
5905
WHEREAS, LICENSOR is willing to grant such a license on the terms and
5906
conditions set forth in this Agreement;
5907
5908
NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
5909
sufficiency of which are acknowledged by the parties hereto, LICENSOR and
5910
LICENSEE agree as follows:
5911
5912
Terms and Conditions
5913
5914
1. Definitions. The following definitions shall apply to this
5915
Agreement:
5916
5917
1.1 The term "Marks" shall mean the Trademark Rights.
5918
5919
1.2 The term "Licensed Goods" shall mean the Products.
5920
5921
1.3 The term "Term" shall mean the time period specified in
5922
paragraph 3 of this Agreement.
5923
5924
1.4 The term "Territory" shall mean worldwide.
5925
5926
2. Grant of Rights and Licenses. Subject to all of the terms and
5927
conditions of this Agreement, LICENSOR hereby grants to LICENSEE an exclusive,
5928
worldwide, royalty-free right and license during the Term of this Agreement to
5929
reproduce, display, broadcast, publish and otherwise use any of the Marks in
5930
connection with the Licensed Goods by LICENSEE throughout the Territory, and
5931
LICENSEE hereby accepts such right and license subject to the terms and
5932
conditions of this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything contained in this
5933
Agreement to the contrary, LICENSEE shall not be under any obligation to use any
5934
of the Marks in connection with the sale of the Products or otherwise.
5935
5936
3. Term. This Agreement and any licenses granted by LICENSOR hereunder
5937
shall commence as of the effective date hereof and shall continue in full force
5938
and effect through the term of the License Agreement, at which time they will
5939
automatically terminate, unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms
5940
and conditions of the License Agreement.
5941
5942
<PAGE>
5943
5944
5945
4. Quality Assurance.
5946
5947
4.1 LICENSOR is familiar with LICENSEE'S human nasal dilator
5948
products and finds them to be of acceptable quality. LICENSEE agrees that any of
5949
the Licensed Goods used with the Marks will be of substantially similar quality.
5950
LICENSEE agrees to submit evidence of the nature of the Licensed Goods used with
5951
the Marks to LICENSOR for review and approval from time to time upon LICENSOR's
5952
reasonable request.
5953
5954
4.2 LICENSEE agrees to take all responsibility for any
5955
Licensed Goods with which the Marks are used. LICENSEE agrees to comply in all
5956
material respects with all applicable laws and regulations and obtain all
5957
appropriate governmental approvals pertaining to the Licensed Goods offered in
5958
connection with the Marks.
5959
5960
5. Trademark Use and Ownership.
5961
5962
5.1 In the event that LICENSEE shall at any time elect to use
5963
any of the Marks, LICENSEE agrees to use the Marks only in the form and manner
5964
with appropriate legends as may be prescribed from time to time by LICENSOR.
5965
5966
5.2 In the event that LICENSEE shall at any time elect to use
5967
any of the Marks, LICENSEE agrees that it shall cause to appear in connection
5968
with the Licensed Goods, such reasonable trademark notice as LICENSOR may
5969
reasonably designate.
5970
5971
5.3 LICENSEE acknowledges and agrees that LICENSOR is the
5972
owner of all rights in and to the Marks and that LICENSEE will not during the
5973
Term of this Agreement or at any time thereafter use the Marks or any element
5974
thereof in any form and for any goods or services or challenge the use or
5975
registration thereof except as permitted under this Agreement or contemplated by
5976
the License Agreement without the prior written permission of LICENSOR.
5977
5978
5.4 LICENSEE agrees that it will not state or imply either
5979
directly or indirectly that LICENSEE or LICENSEE's activities, other than those
5980
permitted by this Agreement, are supported, endorsed, or sponsored by LICENSOR
5981
and, upon the direction of LICENSOR, LICENSEE.
5982
5983
5.5 LICENSEE recognizes the goodwill associated with the Marks
5984
and acknowledges that said goodwill belongs exclusively to LICENSOR and that any
5985
use of the Marks by LICENSEE at any time (whether during or after the term of
5986
this Agreement) will, except as otherwise contemplated by the transactions set
5987
forth in the License Agreement, inure solely to the benefit of LICENSOR, and
5988
LICENSEE hereby assigns any such goodwill in its entirety to LICENSOR upon
5989
termination of this Agreement. Nothing contained herein shall be construed to
5990
confer upon LICENSOR any rights of LICENSEE in or to the Breathe Right(R) mark.
5991
5992
5.6 LICENSEE will comply with the provisions of all laws of
5993
the United States and each state in which it elects, in its sole discretion, to
5994
use the Marks regarding trademarks and service marks.
5995
5996
6. Infringement. LICENSEE agrees to notify LICENSOR promptly of any
5997
known use of the Mark by others not duly authorized by LICENSOR. Notification of
5998
such infringement shall include all details known by LICENSEE that would enable
5999
or aid LICENSOR to investigate such infringement.
6000
6001
7. Disputes Relating to the Mark. The parties acknowledge and agree
6002
that all of the provision of Paragraph 6 of the License Agreement shall govern
6003
the parties' rights with respect to disputes relating to the Marks with third
6004
parties.
6005
6006
<PAGE>
6007
6008
6009
8. No Agency. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to create an
6010
agency, joint venture, franchise, or partnership relationship between LICENSEE,
6011
on the one hand, and LICENSOR, on the other hand, and no party shall so hold
6012
itself out. LICENSEE shall have no right to obligate or bind LICENSOR in any
6013
manner whatsoever.
6014
6015
9. Limited Warranty.
6016
6017
9.1 LICENSOR warrants it has the lawful capacity to execute
6018
this Agreement, but does not warrant and shall not be held to have warranted the
6019
validity or scope of the Marks licensed under this Agreement except as may
6020
otherwise be set forth in the License Agreement.
6021
6022
9.2 LICENSOR makes no representations or warranties with
6023
respect to the Licensed Goods provided by LICENSEE and disclaims any liability
6024
arising out of the Licensed Goods offered by LICENSEE under the Marks except as
6025
may otherwise be set forth in the License Agreement.
6026
6027
10. Assignability. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of
6028
LICENSOR, its successors and assigns, but will be personal to LICENSEE and shall
6029
be assignable by LICENSEE only to the extent that the rights of LICENSEE are
6030
assignable under the License Agreement.
6031
6032
11. Termination. The termination of the License Agreement shall operate
6033
to terminate this Agreement.
6034
6035
12. Effect of Termination.
6036
6037
12.1 Except as may otherwise be set forth in Section 7 of the
6038
License Agreement, the license granted hereunder shall cease immediately upon
6039
termination of this Agreement for any reason.
6040
6041
12.2 The exercise by any party of its rights to terminate this
6042
Agreement as provided herein shall be in addition to and not in lieu of any
6043
other remedies such party may have under this Agreement or otherwise.
6044
6045
13. Waiver. No waiver by a party of any breach of any term or provision
6046
of this Agreement shall be construed to be a waiver of any preceding or
6047
succeeding breach of the same or any other term or provision hereof. The
6048
parties' various rights and remedies under this Agreement shall be construed to
6049
be cumulative and no one of them is exclusive of any other or of any right or
6050
remedy allowed by law or in equity.
6051
6052
14. Notices. All notices to be given hereunder must be in writing and
6053
shall be given hereto in the manner and at the addresses set forth in the
6054
License Agreement.
6055
6056
15. No Act Contrary to Law; Severability. Nothing contained in this
6057
Agreement shall be construed to require the commission of any act contrary to
6058
law and wherever there is any conflict between any provision of this Agreement
6059
and any present or future statute, law, governmental regulation or order or
6060
ordinance, then the latter shall prevail, and in such event the provision or
6061
provisions of the Agreement affected shall be curtailed and limited only to the
6062
extent necessary to bring it or them within legal requirements. All other terms
6063
of the Agreement shall remain unaffected.
6064
6065
16. Governing Law; Jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be deemed to have
6066
been made in the State of Minnesota, and its validity, construction and effect
6067
shall be governed by and enforced pursuant to the substantive laws of the State
6068
of Minnesota without regard to its conflicts of laws principles.
6069
6070
<PAGE>
6071
6072
6073
17. Entire Agreement. This Agreement, together with the License
6074
Agreement and attached schedules, constitutes the entire agreement between the
6075
parties relating to the subject matter hereof and shall supersede any and all
6076
prior written or oral agreements between the parties relating to the subject
6077
matter hereof. This Agreement may not be amended except by a written instrument
6078
signed by each of the parties hereto. Each party acknowledges that it has not
6079
executed this Agreement in reliance upon any representation or promise made by
6080
any person, except as expressly provided for in this Agreement or the License
6081
Agreement.
6082
6083
18. Inconsistent Provisions. To the extent that any term or provision
6084
in this Agreement is inconsistent with any term or provision in the License
6085
Agreement, the terms and provisions of the License Agreement shall in all
6086
respects control.
6087
6088
19. Unavoidable Delay. If any party's obligations hereunder are
6089
affected by reason of fire, flood, casualty, Act of God, lockout, strike, labor
6090
conditions, unavoidable accident, LICENSOR calamity, mechanical or other
6091
breakdown, riot, enactment of law or by any similar cause (collectively referred
6092
to as "Unavoidable Delay"), its obligations hereunder herein shall be suspended
6093
during the period of such suspension period due to the Unavoidable Delay, except
6094
that any such suspension period due to such Unavoidable Delay shall in no event
6095
exceed six (6) months.
6096
6097
20. Headings. The headings or captions of this Agreement or any
6098
paragraph hereof are inserted for purposes of convenience only and shall not be
6099
deemed to limit, affect the scope, meaning or intent of this Agreement, nor
6100
shall they otherwise be given any legal effect.
6101
6102
21. Recitals. The Recitals are true and correct, incorporated herein
6103
and made a part of this Agreement.
6104
6105
22. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more
6106
counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original and will, when taken
6107
together, constitute this Agreement notwithstanding that each party is not a
6108
signator to the same counterpart.
6109
6110
23. Binding on Successors. This Agreement will fully bind and inure to
6111
the benefit of each party and its respective heirs, successors, permissible
6112
assigns, and agents.
6113
6114
24. Further Documents. The parties agree to execute such further
6115
documents as may be reasonably requested by the others to effectuate any of the
6116
provisions or purposes of this Agreement.
6117
6118
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
6119
executed by their authorized agents effective as of the date first written
6120
above.
6121
6122
LICENSOR:
6123
6124
WinEase, LLC
6125
6126
6127
By
6128
---------------------------------------
6129
Print Name:
6130
------------------------------
6131
Title:
6132
-----------------------------------
6133
6134
LICENSEE:
6135
6136
CNS, Inc.
6137
6138
6139
By
6140
---------------------------------------
6141
Print Name:
6142
------------------------------
6143
Title:
6144
-----------------------------------
6145
6146
</TEXT>
6147
</DOCUMENT>
6148
<DOCUMENT>
6149
<TYPE>EX-10.11
6150
<SEQUENCE>6
6151
<DESCRIPTION>EXCLUSIVE LICENSE AGREEMENT
6152
<TEXT>
6153
6154
6155
Exhibit 10.11
6156
6157
6158
[CERTAIN INFORMATION HAS BEEN OMITTED FROM THIS EXHIBIT AND FILED SEPARATELY
6159
WITH THE SEC PURSUANT TO A REQUEST FOR CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT UNDER RULE 24b-2.]
6160
6161
6162
EXECUTION COPY
6163
--------------
6164
6165
6166
6167
6168
6169
6170
6171
6172
6173
6174
CNS-CRONKS
6175
EXCLUSIVE LICENSE AGREEMENT
6176
6177
<PAGE>
6178
6179
6180
TABLE OF CONTENTS
6181
6182
Page
6183
----
6184
6185
WITNESSETH...................................................................-1-
6186
6187
1 - DEFINITIONS..............................................................-1-
6188
6189
2 - GRANT....................................................................-4-
6190
6191
3 - REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF CRONKS.................................-5-
6192
6193
4 - DILIGENCE................................................................-6-
6194
6195
5 - ROYALTIES................................................................-7-
6196
6197
6 - REPORTS AND RECORDS......................................................-9-
6198
6199
7 - PATENT PROSECUTION......................................................-10-
6200
6201
8 - INFRINGEMENT............................................................-11-
6202
6203
9 - INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE...........................................-13-
6204
6205
10 - ASSIGNMENT.............................................................-14-
6206
6207
11 - DISPUTE RESOLUTION.....................................................-14-
6208
6209
12 - TERMINATION............................................................-15-
6210
6211
13 - PAYMENTS, NOTICES AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS.............................-17-
6212
6213
14 - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS...............................................-18-
6214
6215
APPENDIX A.........................................................-20-
6216
6217
APPENDIX B.........................................................-21-
6218
6219
<PAGE>
6220
6221
6222
CNS-CRONKS
6223
EXCLUSIVE LICENSE AGREEMENT
6224
6225
This Agreement is made and entered into as of the last date of
6226
signature hereto (the "EFFECTIVE DATE") by and between Peter and Kristen Cronk
6227
(married) located at 919 McElwee Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057 (hereinafter
6228
referred to as "CRONKS"), and CNS, Inc., a corporation duly organized under the
6229
laws of the State of Delaware and having its principal office at 4400 West 78th
6230
Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55435 (hereinafter referred to as "LICENSEE").
6231
6232
WITNESSETH
6233
6234
WHEREAS, CRONKS are the owners of certain PATENT RIGHTS (as later
6235
defined herein) and information and KNOW HOW (as later defined herein) relating
6236
to improvements to nasal dilators, and methods of making and using the same, and
6237
have the right to grant licenses to the said KNOW HOW and PATENT RIGHTS;
6238
6239
WHEREAS, LICENSEE desires to obtain an exclusive license under the
6240
PATENT RIGHTS and KNOW HOW upon the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth;
6241
and
6242
6243
WHEREAS, CRONKS desire to have the PATENT RIGHTS and KNOW HOW developed
6244
and commercialized and are willing to grant an exclusive license thereunder to
6245
LICENSEE.
6246
6247
NOW, THEREFORE, inconsideration of the premises and the mutual
6248
covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:
6249
6250
1 - DEFINITIONS
6251
6252
For the purposes of this Agreement, the following words and phrases
6253
shall have the following meanings:
6254
6255
1.1 "LICENSEE" shall mean LICENSEE or any ASSIGNEE (as later defined).
6256
6257
1.2 "PATENT RIGHTS" shall mean all the following CRONKS' intellectual
6258
property:
6259
6260
a. the United States patents listed in Appendix A;
6261
6262
b. the United States patent applications listed in Appendix A,
6263
and divisionals, continuations and claims of
6264
continuation-in-part applications which shall be directed to
6265
subject matter specifically described in this Paragraph b. or
6266
Paragraph a. above;
6267
6268
<PAGE>
6269
6270
6271
c. any and all patents resulting from reissues or reexaminations
6272
of the United States patents described in Paragraphs a. and b.
6273
above.
6274
6275
d. the foreign patent applications listed in Appendix A, and
6276
divisionals, continuations and claims of
6277
continuation-in-part-applications which shall be directed to
6278
subject matter specifically described in such foreign patent
6279
applications, and the resulting patents;
6280
6281
e. the foreign patent applications filed after the EFFECTIVE DATE
6282
in the countries listed in Appendix B or elsewhere and
6283
divisionals, continuations and claims of continuation-in-part
6284
applications which shall be directed to subject matter
6285
specifically described in such patent applications, and the
6286
resulting patents;
6287
6288
f. any foreign patents, resulting from equivalent foreign
6289
procedures to United States reissues and reexaminations, of
6290
the foreign patents described in d., e. and f. above; and
6291
6292
g. any and all other future United States and foreign patents and
6293
patent applications covering the PRODUCTS which may be
6294
developed, acquired or controlled by CRONKS during the term of
6295
this Agreement and with respect to which CRONKS shall have the
6296
right to grant the license hereinafter provided.
6297
6298
1.3 "PRODUCTS" shall mean any product or part thereof which is covered
6299
in whole or in part by an issued, unexpired claim or a pending claim contained
6300
in any of the PATENT RIGHTS as well as any and all improvements, modifications
6301
or enhancements thereto, whether now existing or in the future developed, and
6302
any other products, methods or compositions similar in function or purpose
6303
developed by CRONKS or any of their agents, employees or affiliates during the
6304
term of this Agreement.
6305
6306
1.4 "KNOW HOW" shall mean any and all tangible and intangible
6307
information, technology, documents and materials in the possession and control
6308
of CRONKS, necessary or desirable in order to enable LICENSEE to utilize fully
6309
the rights granted by CRONKS to LICENSEE hereunder and shall include, without
6310
limiting the foregoing, the ideas, methods, concepts, confidential information,
6311
trade secrets and techniques, as well as all the materials, documents, manuals,
6312
schematics, blueprints, specifications, compositions, patterns, artwork, bills
6313
of materials and technical specifications and other information of CRONKS
6314
relating to the PRODUCTS.
6315
6316
<PAGE>
6317
6318
6319
1.5 "CONTRACT QUARTER" shall mean March 31, June 30, September 30 and
6320
December 31 of each calendar year beginning in the year 2000.
6321
6322
1.6 "NET SALES" shall mean the gross sales price for LICENSED PRODUCTS
6323
from any end-user, sublicensee or other person or entity relating to or arising
6324
from the sale of PRODUCTS after deduction of the following:
6325
6326
a. discounts allowed in amounts customary in the trade for
6327
quantity purchases, cash payments and prompt payments;
6328
6329
b. sales, tariff duties and/or use taxes directly imposed and
6330
with reference to particular sales;
6331
6332
c. outbound transportation or other costs directly related to the
6333
outbound transportation of the PRODUCTS; and
6334
6335
d. amounts allowed or credited on account of rejections or
6336
returns.
6337
6338
No deductions, shown above, shall be made from the sales price shall be
6339
allowed unless all such deductions are shown on an invoice. No deductions shall
6340
be made for commissions paid to individuals whether they be with independent
6341
sales agencies or regularly employed by LICENSEE and on its payroll.
6342
6343
1.7 "MINIMUM ROYALTIES" shall be the amounts set forth in and payable
6344
by LICENSEE in accordance with Paragraph 5.1(c).
6345
6346
1.8 "RUNNING ROYALTIES" shall be the amounts payable by LICENSEE as
6347
determined in accordance with the percentages on account of NET SALES of the
6348
PRODUCTS as set forth in Paragraph 5.1(d).
6349
6350
1.9 "ABATEMENT EFFORTS" shall have the meaning ascribed to the term in
6351
Paragraph 8.2.
6352
6353
1.10 "ASSIGNEE" shall have the meaning ascribed to the term in
6354
Paragraph 10.1.
6355
6356
1.11 "CLAIMS" shall have the meaning ascribed to the term in Paragraph
6357
9.2.
6358
6359
<PAGE>
6360
6361
6362
2 - GRANT
6363
6364
2.1 CRONKS each hereby grant to LICENSEE the exclusive, world-wide
6365
right and license to exploit and practice under the PATENT RIGHTS (as well as
6366
any invention disclosed or claimed therein) and under the KNOW HOW and the
6367
exclusive, world-wide right and license to make, have made, use, lease, sell,
6368
offer for sale, import and export the PRODUCTS until the expiration of the last
6369
to expire of the PATENT RIGHTS, unless this Agreement shall be sooner terminated
6370
according to the terms hereof.
6371
6372
2.2 LICENSEE shall have the right to enter into sublicensing agreements
6373
with third parties for the rights, privileges and licenses granted hereunder. In
6374
the event of a sublicense, LICENSEE shall enter into a written agreement with
6375
sublicensee (i) with a term no greater than the term of this Agreement, (ii)
6376
with rights granted to sublicensee which are no greater than the terms of this
6377
Agreement, and (iii) pursuant to which Licensee shall impose upon any such
6378
sublicensees substantially the same obligations as CRONKS have imposed upon
6379
LICENSEE under this Agreement.
6380
6381
2.3 Any material breach of a sublicense under this Agreement with
6382
respect to obligations of such sublicensee to CRONKS shall be treated as a
6383
material breach of this Agreement by LICENSEE and all provisions for notice and
6384
remedies to cure such breach and terminate this Agreement shall apply.
6385
6386
2.4 LICENSEE agrees to forward to CRONKS a copy of any and all
6387
sublicense agreements promptly upon execution by the parties.
6388
6389
2.5 LICENSEE shall not receive from sublicensees consideration that is
6390
material in value in lieu of cash payments in exchange for any sublicense under
6391
this Agreement, without the express prior written permission of CRONKS.
6392
6393
<PAGE>
6394
6395
6396
2.6 Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to confer any rights
6397
upon LICENSEE by implication, estoppel or otherwise as to any technology or
6398
patent rights of CRONKS or any other entity other than the PATENT RIGHTS and
6399
KNOW HOW.
6400
6401
3 - REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF CRONKS
6402
6403
Each of the CRONKS, jointly and severally, represent and warrant to
6404
LICENSEE as follows:
6405
6406
3.1 CRONKS are the sole and exclusive owners of all the PATENTS RIGHTS,
6407
KNOW HOW and other rights granted under this Agreement.
6408
6409
3.2 Claims have been allowed and the issue fee has been paid for the
6410
United States patent(s) as listed on Appendix A covering the PRODUCTS.
6411
Additional United States and foreign patent applications that are directed to
6412
the PRODUCTS are currently pending as set forth on Appendix A. To the best of
6413
their knowledge, CRONKS have disclosed to the United States Patent and Trademark
6414
Office all material evidence relating to the validity or enforceability of the
6415
PATENT RIGHTS.
6416
6417
3.3 CRONKS have good and marketable title to the PATENT RIGHTS and KNOW
6418
HOW, free and clear of any and all liens, pledges, claims, licenses,
6419
assignments, conditional sales contracts, agreements or encumbrances of any kind
6420
that would impair the ability of CRONKS to grant the exclusive licenses under
6421
this Agreement.
6422
6423
3.4 To the best of CRONKS' knowledge, the PATENT RIGHTS, PRODUCTS and
6424
KNOW HOW do not infringe on any patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret,
6425
trade dress or any other intellectual property right of any third party.
6426
6427
3.5 To the best of CRONKS' knowledge, none of the undertakings or
6428
activities of CRONKS in connection with the development of the PRODUCTS involve
6429
the wrongful use of the proprietary rights or assets of any third party.
6430
6431
3.6 CRONKS have not received notice of any claims, actions, suits or
6432
proceedings pending or threatened effecting CRONKS, the PATENT RIGHTS or the
6433
KNOW HOW which, if adversely determined, would have a material adverse effect
6434
upon LICENSEE's ability to manufacture and have manufactured, use or sell the
6435
PRODUCTS or otherwise practice the rights and technology licensed to LICENSEE by
6436
CRONKS under this Agreement.
6437
6438
<PAGE>
6439
6440
6441
4 - DILIGENCE
6442
6443
4.1 LICENSEE shall use its best efforts to bring one or more of the
6444
PRODUCTS to market through a thorough, vigorous and diligent program for
6445
exploitation of the PATENT RIGHTS and to continue active, diligent marketing
6446
efforts for one or more PRODUCTS throughout the term of this Agreement.
6447
6448
4.2 In addition, LICENSEE shall adhere to the following milestones:
6449
6450
a. LICENSEE shall, within sixty (60) days of executing this
6451
Agreement, provide to CRONKS, correspondence or other
6452
documentation generally describing how LICENSEE intends to
6453
research, develop, market, distribute and sell the PRODUCTS.
6454
6455
b. LICENSEE shall make a first commercial sale of a PRODUCT on or
6456
before March 31, 2000.
6457
6458
4.3 LICENSEE's failure to perform in accordance with Paragraphs 4.1 and
6459
4.2 above shall be grounds for CRONKS to terminate this Agreement pursuant to
6460
Paragraph 12.3 hereof.
6461
6462
5 - ROYALTIES
6463
6464
5.1 For the rights, privileges and licenses granted hereunder, LICENSEE
6465
shall pay royalties to CRONKS in the manner hereinafter provided to the end of
6466
the term of the PATENT RIGHTS or until this Agreement shall be terminated:
6467
6468
a. Up-Front License Fee: of [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
6469
Dollars ($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]), which shall be
6470
non-refundable, and deemed earned and due immediately upon the
6471
EFFECTIVE DATE.
6472
6473
b. Liquidated Expense Fee: of [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
6474
Dollars ($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]), which shall be
6475
non-refundable, and due immediately upon the EFFECTIVE DATE.
6476
6477
c. Minimum Royalty Fees:
6478
6479
(i) for the calendar year 2000, [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
6480
REQUESTED] Dollars ($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]),
6481
payable for each CONTRACT QUARTER in four (4) equal
6482
installments of [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] Dollars
6483
($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]) each;
6484
6485
<PAGE>
6486
6487
6488
(ii) for the calendar year 2001, [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
6489
REQUESTED] Dollars ($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]),
6490
payable for each CONTRACT QUARTER in four (4) equal
6491
installments of [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] Dollars
6492
($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]) each; and
6493
6494
(iii) for the calendar year 2002, and each year thereafter
6495
while PATENT RIGHTS are in force in any country, [CONFIDENTIAL
6496
TREATMENT REQUESTED] Dollars ($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
6497
REQUESTED]), payable for each CONTRACT QUARTER in four (4)
6498
equal installments of [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
6499
Dollars ($[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]) each;
6500
6501
provided, however, that RUNNING ROYALTIES due on NET SALES for
6502
each said CONTRACT QUARTER, if any, shall be creditable
6503
against any of the MINIMUM ROYALTIES due during the calendar
6504
year. RUNNING ROYALTIES paid in excess of MINIMUM ROYALTIES
6505
shall not be creditable against MINIMUM ROYALTIES for future
6506
calendar years.
6507
6508
d. Running Royalties: shall, subject to setoff, adjustment or
6509
credit in accordance with Paragraph 5.1(c) above, be payable
6510
in an amount equal to:
6511
6512
(i) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] percent ([CONFIDENTIAL
6513
TREATMENT REQUESTED]%) for the first [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
6514
REQUESTED] Dollars in NET SALES; then
6515
6516
(ii) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] percent ([CONFIDENTIAL
6517
TREATMENT REQUESTED]%) of the next [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
6518
REQUESTED] Dollars in NET SALES; and then
6519
6520
(iii) [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] percent
6521
([CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]%) of NET SALES over
6522
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] Dollars;
6523
6524
for PRODUCTS manufactured, used, leased or sold by LICENSEE
6525
its sublicensees, or by others on their behalf.
6526
6527
e. In addition to RUNNING ROYALTIES, [CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT
6528
REQUESTED] percent ([CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]%) of
6529
other payments, including, but not limited to, sublicense
6530
issue fees, up-front fees, and milestone fees, received by
6531
LICENSEE from sublicensees in consideration for the right to
6532
utilize the licenses granted hereunder and sell the PRODUCTS.
6533
6534
5.2 All payments due hereunder shall be paid in full, without deduction
6535
of taxes or other fees which may be imposed by any government, except as
6536
otherwise provided in Paragraph 1.6(b).
6537
6538
<PAGE>
6539
6540
6541
5.3 No multiple royalties shall be payable because any PRODUCT, its
6542
importation, manufacture, use, lease, offer for sale or sale are or shall be
6543
covered by more than one claim, patent application or patent licensed under this
6544
Agreement.
6545
6546
5.4 Royalty payments shall be paid in United States dollars to CRONKS'
6547
address in Paragraph 13, or at such other place CRONKS may reasonably designate
6548
consistent with the laws and regulations controlling in any foreign country. If
6549
any currency conversion shall be required in connection with the payment of
6550
royalties hereunder, such conversion shall be made by using the exchange rate as
6551
published in the Wall Street Journal on the last business day of the CONTRACT
6552
QUARTER to which such royalty payments relate.
6553
6554
5.5 In the event PATENT RIGHTS are invalidated or declared
6555
unenforceable by a court or patent office of competent jurisdiction in any
6556
country where they existed, LICENSEE shall pay a RUNNING ROYALTY of only
6557
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED] percent ([CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]%)
6558
of NET SALES for products sold, made or imported into said jurisdiction, for a
6559
period of two (2) years from the date said decision becomes final, or
6560
unappealable, which products would have been, but for the unfavorable decision,
6561
PRODUCTS. Such payments shall be in consideration of CRONKS' KNOW HOW only.
6562
6563
6 - REPORTS AND RECORDS
6564
6565
6.1 LICENSEE shall keep full, true and accurate books of account
6566
containing all particulars that may be necessary for the purpose of showing the
6567
amounts payable to CRONKS hereunder. Said books of account shall be kept at
6568
LICENSEE's principal place of business or the principal place of business of the
6569
appropriate division of LICENSEE to which this Agreement relates. Said books and
6570
the supporting data shall be open at all reasonable times for three (3) years
6571
following the end of the calendar year to which they pertain to the reasonable
6572
inspection of CRONKS or their agents, which shall in no event be more than twice
6573
in a calendar year, for the purpose of verifying LICENSEE's royalty calculations
6574
or compliance in other respects with this Agreement. Should such inspection lead
6575
to the discovery of a greater than five percent (5%) discrepancy in reporting of
6576
RUNNING ROYALTIES to CRONKS' detriment, LICENSEE agrees to pay the reasonable
6577
cost of the inspection which resulted in the discovery of the discrepancy, plus
6578
interest as required under Paragraph 6.4.
6579
6580
<PAGE>
6581
6582
6583
6.2 All royalties due CRONKS from LICENSEE under this Agreement shall
6584
be payable on a CONTRACT QUARTERLY basis. Within forty-five (45) days after the
6585
end of each CONTRACT QUARTER during the term of this Agreement, LICENSEE shall
6586
pay CRONKS the royalties due in accordance with Paragraphs 5.1(c) and 5.1(d).
6587
LICENSEE shall simultaneously deliver with the payment of the royalties due to
6588
CRONKS true and accurate reports, giving such particulars to the business
6589
conducted by LICENSEE and its sublicensees under this Agreement as shall be
6590
pertinent to a royalty accounting hereunder. These reports shall include at
6591
least the following:
6592
6593
a. number of PRODUCTS manufactured and/or sold by or for LICENSEE
6594
and all sublicensees;
6595
6596
b. total invoiced dollar amount for PRODUCTS manufactured and/or
6597
sold by or for LICENSEE and all sublicensees;
6598
6599
c. accounting for NET SALES, noting the deductions applicable as
6600
provided in Paragraph 1.6;
6601
6602
d. RUNNING ROYALTIES less any applicable MINIMUM ROYALTIES
6603
previously paid, due under Paragraph 5.1(c);
6604
6605
e. royalties due on other payments from sublicensees under
6606
Paragraph 5.1(e);
6607
6608
f. total royalties due; and
6609
6610
g. names and addresses of all sublicensees, if any, of LICENSEE.
6611
6612
6.3 If no RUNNING ROYALTIES shall be due under this Agreement, LICENSEE
6613
shall so report.
6614
6615
6.4 Royalty and other payments set forth in Article 5 and amounts due
6616
under Article 7 shall, if overdue, bear interest until payment at a per annum
6617
rate two percent (2%) above the prime rate as published in the Wall Street
6618
Journal on the due date. The payment of such interest shall not foreclose CRONKS
6619
from exercising any other rights they may have as a consequence of the lateness
6620
of any payment.
6621
6622
<PAGE>
6623
6624
6625
7 - PATENT PROSECUTION
6626
6627
7.1 CRONKS shall apply for, seek prompt issuance of, and maintain the
6628
PATENT RIGHTS through their choice of law firm during the term of this
6629
Agreement. Appendix B is a list of the foreign countries in which patent
6630
applications corresponding to the United States Patent applications listed in
6631
Appendix A shall be filed. Appendix B may be amended by mutual agreement of both
6632
parties. The filing, prosecution and maintenance of all PATENT RIGHTS
6633
applications and patents shall be the primary responsibility of CRONKS and their
6634
law firm; provided, however, LICENSEE and its counsel shall have reasonable
6635
opportunities to advise CRONKS and shall cooperate with CRONKS in such filing,
6636
prosecution and maintenance. LICENSEE shall have the right to terminate any such
6637
patent counsel retained by CRONKS if LICENSEE has a reasonable basis for not
6638
being satisfied with such counsel's efforts, and in such event CRONKS shall
6639
select a new patent counsel (which counsel is subject to the reasonable consent
6640
of LICENSEE).
6641
6642
7.2 Payment of all fees and costs relating to the filing, prosecution
6643
and maintenance of the PATENT RIGHTS shall be the responsibility of LICENSEE.
6644
LICENSEE shall pay such fees and costs to CRONKS choice of law firm within
6645
thirty (30) days of invoicing from said law firm; late payments shall accrue
6646
interest and shall be subject to Paragraph 6.4.
6647
6648
8 - INFRINGEMENT
6649
6650
8.1 LICENSEE shall inform CRONKS, and CRONKS shall inform LICENSEE
6651
promptly in writing of any alleged infringement of the PATENT RIGHTS or other
6652
intellectual property rights with respect to which LICENSEE is granted a license
6653
hereunder by a third party and of any available evidence thereof.
6654
6655
<PAGE>
6656
6657
6658
8.2 Upon reasonable request by CRONKS or in LICENSEE's own discretion,
6659
LICENSEE shall, at its sole expense, initiate and thereafter diligently maintain
6660
reasonable efforts to prevent and abate any infringement of the PATENT RIGHTS or
6661
other intellectual property rights with respect to which LICENSEE is granted a
6662
license hereunder, including, without limitation, the initiation of an
6663
appropriate civil action for infringement and the taking of such other action as
6664
may be necessary or appropriate ("ABATEMENT EFFORTS"). In furtherance thereof,
6665
CRONKS hereby agree that LICENSEE may join CRONKS as a party plaintiff in any
6666
suit, without expense to CRONKS. LICENSEE shall indemnify CRONKS against any
6667
order for costs or legal fees that may be made against CRONKS in such
6668
proceedings. In the event that LICENSEE shall undertake the enforcement and/or
6669
defense of the PATENT RIGHTS or other intellectual property rights licensed
6670
hereunder, LICENSEE shall receive the full benefits of any action it takes
6671
pursuant to this Paragraph, including retaining all sums recovered in any suit
6672
or in settlement thereof after paying CRONKS the RUNNING ROYALTIES which shall
6673
be calculated from the amount of NET SALES, if any, asserted by LICENSEE to
6674
support any award of compensatory damages (as opposed to punitive or any other
6675
damages). In connection with the foregoing, the amount of damages awarded and
6676
received by LICENSEE on account of such infringer's sales shall be added to
6677
LICENSEE's NET SALES and paid in the CONTRACT QUARTER in which such sums are
6678
received by LICENSEE or within forty-five (45) days after the expiration of such
6679
CONTRACT QUARTER.
6680
6681
8.3 A refusal by LICENSEE to undertake ABATEMENT EFFORTS within ninety
6682
(90) days of a reasonable request made by CRONKS in accordance with Paragraph
6683
8.2 above, or to consent to allowing CRONKS to undertake such ABATEMENT EFFORTS,
6684
shall constitute a material breach of this Agreement and be grounds for
6685
termination by CRONKS in accordance with Paragraph 12.3 unless LICENSEE provides
6686
CRONKS with a reasonable business justification for its refusal in writing
6687
within said ninety (90) day period, which justification is acceptable to CRONKS.
6688
Any disagreement regarding this Paragraph 8.3 shall be subject to the dispute
6689
resolution provisions of Article 11.
6690
6691
<PAGE>
6692
6693
6694
8.4 In the event that a declaratory judgment action or defense alleging
6695
invalidity of any of the PATENT RIGHTS shall be brought against LICENSEE,
6696
CRONKS, at their option, shall have the right but not the obligation, within
6697
thirty (30) days after commencement of such action, to intervene at their sole
6698
expense.
6699
6700
8.5 In any infringement which may be instituted by LICENSEE to enforce
6701
the PATENT RIGHTS or other intellectual property rights licensed pursuant to
6702
this Agreement, CRONKS shall, at the request and expense of LICENSEE, cooperate
6703
in all respects and testify if requested and make available relevant records,
6704
papers, information, samples, specimens, and the like.
6705
6706
9 - INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE
6707
6708
9.1 LICENSEE shall at all times during the term of this Agreement and
6709
thereafter, indemnify, defend and hold CRONKS harmless from and against all
6710
claims, costs, proceedings, demands, judgments and liabilities of any kind
6711
whatsoever, including legal expenses and reasonable attorneys' fees, arising out
6712
of the death of or injury to any person or persons or out of any damage to
6713
property, resulting from the production, manufacture, sale, use lease,
6714
consumption or advertisement of the PRODUCTS.
6715
6716
9.2 CRONKS shall, jointly and severally, at all times during the term
6717
of this Agreement and thereafter, indemnify, defend and hold LICENSEE harmless
6718
from and against all claims, costs, proceedings, demands, judgments and
6719
liabilities of any kind whatsoever, including legal expenses and reasonable
6720
attorneys' fees ("CLAIMS"), arising out of the breach by CRONKS of any of their
6721
representations and warranties under Paragraphs 3.1 and 3.3 of this Agreement.
6722
Except for LICENSEE's remedy at equity for specific performance, CRONKS'
6723
liability under this Paragraph 9.2 for CLAIMS arising out of a breach by CRONKS
6724
of all representations and warranties under this Agreement other than those set
6725
forth in Paragraph 3.1 and 3.3 shall be limited to Ten Thousand Dollars
6726
($10,000). Except as otherwise expressly set forth in this Agreement, CRONKS
6727
make no representations and extend no warranties of any kind, either express or
6728
implied.
6729
6730
<PAGE>
6731
6732
6733
9.3 LICENSEE shall obtain and carry in full force and effect
6734
commercial, general liability insurance in amounts which shall protect LICENSEE
6735
and CRONKS with respect to events covered by Paragraph 9.1 above. Such insurance
6736
shall be written by a reputable insurance company and shall list CRONKS as an
6737
additional insured thereunder throughout the term of this Agreement.
6738
6739
10 - ASSIGNMENT
6740
6741
10.1 LICENSEE may assign any and all rights granted hereunder to any
6742
third party ("ASSIGNEE") upon providing CRONKS with at least thirty (30) days
6743
prior written notice.
6744
6745
11 - DISPUTE RESOLUTION
6746
6747
11.1 Except for the right of either party to apply to a court of
6748
competent jurisdiction for a temporary restraining order, a preliminary
6749
injunction, or other equitable relief to preserve the status quo or prevent
6750
irreparable harm, any and all claims, disputes or controversies arising under,
6751
out of, or in connection with the Agreement, including any dispute relating to
6752
patent enforcement, validity or infringement, which the parties shall be unable
6753
to resolve within sixty (60) days shall be mediated in good faith. The party
6754
raising such dispute shall promptly advise the other party of such claim,
6755
dispute or controversy in a writing which describes in reasonable detail the
6756
nature of such dispute. By not later than five (5) business days after the
6757
recipient has received such notice of dispute, each party shall have selected
6758
for itself a representative who shall have the authority to bind such party, and
6759
shall additionally have advised the other party in writing of the name and title
6760
of such representative. By not later than ten (10) business days after such
6761
notice of dispute, the party against whom the dispute shall be raised, shall
6762
select a mediation firm either in the area of their principal residence (in the
6763
case of CRONKS) or in the area of its principal place of business (in the case
6764
of LICENSEE) and such representatives shall schedule a date with such firm for a
6765
mediation hearing. The parties shall enter into good faith mediation and shall
6766
pay their own expenses, and shall share the costs and expenses of the mediator
6767
equally.
6768
6769
<PAGE>
6770
6771
6772
11.2 If the representatives of the parties have not been able to
6773
resolve the dispute within fifteen (15) business days after such mediation
6774
hearing, then any and all claims or controversies arising under, out of, or in
6775
connection with this Agreement, including any dispute relating to patent
6776
validity or infringement, shall be resolved by final and binding arbitration to
6777
be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the event that the dispute is raised
6778
or initiated by LICENSEE against CRONKS, or held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in
6779
the event that the dispute is raised or initiated by CRONKS against LICENSEE, in
6780
either case using a single neutral arbitrator, acceptable to both parties, but
6781
otherwise employing the rules of the American Arbitration Association, or the
6782
Patent Arbitration Rules if applicable, then prevailing. The arbitrator shall in
6783
all cases and for all purposes apply the law set forth in Paragraph 14.1 and
6784
have no power to add to, subtract from or modify any of the terms or conditions
6785
of this Agreement, nor to award punitive damages. Any award rendered in such
6786
arbitration may be enforced by either party in all state or federal courts
6787
located in Pennsylvania or in Minnesota to whose jurisdiction and venue for such
6788
purposes CRONKS and LICENSEE each hereby irrevocably consent and submit.
6789
6790
11.3 Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Article shall be
6791
construed to waive any rights or timely performance of any obligations existing
6792
under this Agreement.
6793
6794
12 - TERMINATION
6795
6796
12.1 If LICENSEE shall cease to carry on its business, or enters into
6797
bankruptcy voluntarily or involuntarily, this Agreement shall terminate upon
6798
written notice by CRONKS.
6799
6800
12.2 Should LICENSEE fail to make any payment whatsoever due and
6801
payable to CRONKS hereunder, CRONKS shall have the right to terminate this
6802
Agreement effective on thirty (30) days' written notice, unless LICENSEE shall
6803
make all such payments to CRONKS within said thirty (30) day period. Upon the
6804
expiration of the thirty (30) day period, if LICENSEE shall not have made all
6805
such payments to CRONKS, the rights, privileges and license granted hereunder
6806
shall automatically terminate.
6807
6808
<PAGE>
6809
6810
6811
12.3 Upon any material breach or default of this Agreement by LICENSEE
6812
(including, but not limited to, breach or default under Paragraph 4.3), other
6813
than those occurrences set out in Paragraphs 12.1 and 12.2 hereinabove, which
6814
shall always take precedence in that order over any material breach or default
6815
referred to in this Paragraph 12.3, CRONKS shall have the right to terminate
6816
this Agreement and the rights, privileges and license granted hereunder
6817
effective on ninety (90) days' written notice to LICENSEE. Such termination
6818
shall become automatically effective unless LICENSEE shall have cured any such
6819
material breach or default prior to the expiration of the ninety (90) day
6820
period.
6821
6822
12.4 LICENSEE may in its sole discretion terminate this Agreement at
6823
any time, for any reason, by giving CRONKS at least sixty (60) days prior
6824
written notice in which event such license shall terminated upon the effective
6825
date stated in any such notice; provided, however, that LICENSEE shall, except
6826
as otherwise set forth in and contemplated by Paragraph 12.5 below, do all of
6827
the following:
6828
6829
(a) Cease making, using, selling, offering for sale, and importing
6830
all PRODUCTS;
6831
6832
(b) Cancel and terminate all sublicense agreements between
6833
LICENSEE and all of LICENSEE's sublicensees; and
6834
6835
(c) Render all required payments of fees, and earned royalties,
6836
and MINIMUM ROYALTIES to CRONKS.
6837
6838
12.5 Upon termination of this Agreement by LICENSEE in accordance with
6839
Paragraph 12.4, LICENSEE and any sublicensee thereof may, for a period of one
6840
(1) year after the effective date of such termination, sell all PRODUCTS, and
6841
complete the PRODUCTS in the process of manufacture at the time of such
6842
termination or for which a written contract exists for the purchase of material
6843
or for the sale of the PRODUCTS, and sell the same, provided that LICENSEE shall
6844
make the payments to CRONKS as required by Paragraph 5, 7 or 8 of this Agreement
6845
and shall submit the reports required by Paragraph 6 hereof.
6846
6847
<PAGE>
6848
6849
6850
12.6 Upon termination of this Agreement for any reason, nothing herein
6851
shall be construed to release either party from any obligation that matured
6852
prior to the effective date of such termination; and Paragraphs 1, 6, 9, 10, 11,
6853
12.5, 12.6 and 14 shall survive any such termination.
6854
6855
12.7 Upon termination of this Agreement for any reason, any sublicensee
6856
not then in default shall have the right to seek a license from CRONKS and
6857
CRONKS agree to negotiate such licenses in good faith under reasonable terms and
6858
conditions.
6859
6860
13 - PAYMENTS, NOTICES AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS
6861
6862
13.1 Any payments, notices or other communications pursuant to this
6863
Agreement shall be sufficiently made or given on the date of mailing if sent to
6864
such party by first class mail, addressed to it at its address below, or as it
6865
shall otherwise designate by written notice given to the other party:
6866
6867
In the case of CRONKS:
6868
6869
Peter Cronk
6870
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
6871
[CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT REQUESTED]
6872
6873
In the case of LICENSEE:
6874
6875
Daniel E. Cohen, M.D.
6876
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
6877
CNS, Inc.
6878
4400 West 78th Street
6879
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55435
6880
6881
With a copy to:
6882
6883
Patrick Delaney, Esq.
6884
Lindquist & Vennum P.L.L.P.
6885
4200 IDS Center
6886
80 South Eighth Street
6887
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402
6888
6889
<PAGE>
6890
6891
6892
14 - MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
6893
6894
14.1 All disputes arising out of or related to this Agreement, or the
6895
performance, enforcement, breach or termination hereof, and any remedies
6896
relating thereto, shall be construed, governed, interpreted and applied in
6897
accordance with the internal laws of the State of Minnesota U.S.A., (without
6898
regard to the laws of conflicts), except that questions affecting the
6899
construction and effect of any patent outside the United States shall be
6900
determined by the law of the country in which the patent shall have been
6901
granted.
6902
6903
14.2 The parties hereto acknowledge that this Agreement sets forth the
6904
entire Agreement and understanding of the parties hereto as to the subject
6905
matter hereof, and shall not be subject to any change or modification except by
6906
the execution of a written instrument signed by the parties.
6907
6908
14.3 The provisions of this Agreement are severable, and in the event
6909
that any provisions of this Agreement shall be determined to be invalid or
6910
unenforceable under any controlling body of the law, such invalidity or
6911
unenforceability shall not in any way affect the validity or enforceability of
6912
the remaining provisions hereof.
6913
6914
14.4 LICENSEE agrees to mark the PRODUCTS sold in the United States
6915
with the applicable United States patent numbers. All PRODUCTS shipped to or
6916
sold in other countries shall be marked in such a manner as to conform with the
6917
patent laws and practice of the country of manufacture or sale.
6918
6919
14.5 The failure of either party to assert a right hereunder or to
6920
insist upon compliance with any term or condition of this Agreement shall not
6921
constitute a waiver of that right or excuse a similar subsequent failure to
6922
perform any such term or condition by the other party.
6923
6924
14.6 Neither party shall be responsible for any delay or failure in the
6925
performance of any obligation hereunder due to strikes, lockouts, fires, floods,
6926
acts of God, embargoes, wars, riots, or act or order of any government or
6927
governmental agency; provided, however, that nothing set forth in this Paragraph
6928
14.6 shall be construed to relieve LICENSEE of the requirement that it pay
6929
MINIMUM ROYALTIES hereunder.
6930
6931
<PAGE>
6932
6933
6934
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have duly executed this Agreement the
6935
day and year set forth below.
6936
6937
for: CRONKS for: CNS, Inc.
6938
6939
6940
By: By
6941
Peter Cronk Daniel E. Cohen, M.D.
6942
Chairman and Chief
6943
Executive Officer
6944
6945
Date: Date:
6946
6947
6948
By:
6949
Kristen Cronk
6950
6951
Date:
6952
6953
<PAGE>
6954
6955
6956
APPENDIX A
6957
6958
PATENT RIGHTS on the EFFECTIVE DATE
6959
6960
UNITED STATES PATENT RIGHTS U.S. Patent No. 5,706,800, issued January 13,
6961
1998 and entitled "Medical Nasal Dilator"
6962
6963
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08/942,797
6964
filed on October 2, 1997, and entitled "Improved
6965
Medicated Nasal Dilator"
6966
6967
U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 09/099,825
6968
filed on June 18, 1998, and entitled,
6969
"Adhesively Applied External Nasal Strips and
6970
Dilators Containing Medications and Fragrances".
6971
6972
FOREIGN PATENT RIGHTS
6973
6974
Non-PCT
6975
6976
South African Patent Application Serial No. 98/0144, filed on January 8, 1998,
6977
and entitled "Medicated Nasal Dilator".
6978
6979
PCT
6980
6981
PCT Application Serial No. US98/01513, filed on January 28, 1998, and entitled
6982
"Medical Nasal Dilator" (designating Europe, China, Canada, Brazil, Australia,
6983
Japan).
6984
6985
<PAGE>
6986
6987
6988
APPENDIX B
6989
6990
PCT DESIGNATED FOREIGN COUNTRIES
6991
6992
Foreign countries in which PATENT RIGHTS shall be filed, prosecuted and
6993
maintained in accordance with Article 7:
6994
6995
1. Europe: Italy, Portugal, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain and France;
6996
2. Canada;
6997
3. Brazil;
6998
4. Australia;
6999
5. China; and
7000
6. Japan.
7001
7002
</TEXT>
7003
</DOCUMENT>
7004
<DOCUMENT>
7005
<TYPE>EX-21.1
7006
<SEQUENCE>7
7007
<DESCRIPTION>SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT
7008
<TEXT>
7009
7010
7011
Exhibit 21.1
7012
7013
7014
SUBSIDIARIES
7015
7016
7017
CNS International, Inc.
7018
7019
CNS FSC, Inc.
7020
7021
</TEXT>
7022
</DOCUMENT>
7023
<DOCUMENT>
7024
<TYPE>EX-23.1
7025
<SEQUENCE>8
7026
<DESCRIPTION>INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT
7027
<TEXT>
7028
7029
7030
Exhibit 23.1
7031
7032
7033
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT
7034
7035
The Board of Directors
7036
CNS, Inc.
7037
7038
We consent to incorporation by reference in the registration statements Nos.
7039
333-60017, 33-29454, 33-42971 and 33-59719 on Form S-8 of CNS, Inc. of our
7040
report dated January 20, 2000, relating to the consolidated balance sheets of
7041
CNS, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1999, and 1998, and the related
7042
consolidated statements of operations, stockholders' equity and comprehensive
7043
income, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended
7044
December 31, 1999, which report is included in the December 31, 1999, annual
7045
report on Form 10-K of CNS, Inc.
7046
7047
/s/ KMPG LLP
7048
7049
7050
Minneapolis, Minnesota
7051
March 28, 2000
7052
7053
</TEXT>
7054
</DOCUMENT>
7055
<DOCUMENT>
7056
<TYPE>EX-27
7057
<SEQUENCE>9
7058
<DESCRIPTION>FINANCIAL DATA SCHEDULE
7059
<TEXT>
7060
7061
<TABLE> <S> <C>
7062
7063
7064
<ARTICLE> 5
7065
7066
<S> <C>
7067
<PERIOD-TYPE> 12-MOS
7068
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> DEC-31-1999
7069
<PERIOD-START> JAN-01-1999
7070
<PERIOD-END> DEC-31-1999
7071
<CASH> 859,852
7072
<SECURITIES> 37,997,409
7073
<RECEIVABLES> 11,369,815
7074
<ALLOWANCES> 0
7075
<INVENTORY> 4,905,449
7076
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 61,935,669
7077
<PP&E> 3,738,059
7078
<DEPRECIATION> 1,728,000
7079
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 65,336,835
7080
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 11,752,761
7081
<BONDS> 0
7082
<PREFERRED-MANDATORY> 0
7083
<PREFERRED> 0
7084
<COMMON> 192,946
7085
<OTHER-SE> 53,391,128
7086
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 65,336,835
7087
<SALES> 46,050,208
7088
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 46,050,208
7089
<CGS> 18,358,435
7090
<TOTAL-COSTS> 46,387,608
7091
<OTHER-EXPENSES> 0
7092
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
7093
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
7094
<INCOME-PRETAX> (15,857,489)
7095
<INCOME-TAX> (2,101,138)
7096
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (13,756,351)
7097
<DISCONTINUED> 0
7098
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
7099
<CHANGES> 0
7100
<NET-INCOME> (13,756,351)
7101
<EPS-BASIC> (.89)
7102
<EPS-DILUTED> (.89)
7103
7104
7105
</TABLE>
7106
</TEXT>
7107
</DOCUMENT>
7108
</SEC-DOCUMENT>
7109
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7110
7111