UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

xQuarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the Quarterly Period Ended March 31, 2015

 

¨Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the transition period from                      to                      

 

Commission File Number: 001-35973

 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC.

 

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

DELAWARE 46-1561499

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. employer

identification number)

   
125 Foss Creek Circle, Healdsburg, California 95448
(Address of principal executive offices) (zip code)

 

(707) 431-4436

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

 

Yes   x     No   ¨

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer ¨   Accelerated filer ¨
Non-accelerated filer ¨   Smaller reporting company x
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)      

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

 

Yes  ¨     No   x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the Issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class A   Number of Shares Outstanding
Common stock, $0.001 par value per share   4,010,120

 

 
 

 

TRUETT-HURST INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

FORM 10-Q

 

INDEX TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Part I. Financial Information  
  Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements: 3
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2015 (unaudited) and June 30, 2014 3
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and Nine Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 4
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 5
    Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements 6
  Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 19
  Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 25
  Item 4. Controls and Procedures 26
Part II. Other Information  
  Item 1. Legal Proceedings 27
  Item 1A. Risk Factors 27
  Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Securities and Use of Proceeds 27
  Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 27
  Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures 27
  Item 5. Other Information 27
  Item 6. Exhibits 28
  Signatures 29

 

2
 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share data)

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   Unaudited     
ASSETS          
Current assets:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $2,072   $5,567 
Accounts receivable   2,349    3,300 
Inventories   22,269    17,179 
Bulk wine deposit   1,122    1,424 
Other current assets   106    161 
Total current assets   27,918    27,631 
           
Property and equipment, net   5,811    5,553 
Goodwill   134    134 
Intangible assets, net   732    629 
Other assets, net   476    381 
Total assets  $35,071   $34,328 
           
LIABILITIES and EQUITY          
           
Current liabilities:          
Credit facilities  $8,865   $8,685 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses   4,236    3,194 
Accrual for sales returns   556    - 
Due to related parties   201    56 
Related party note   12    67 
Current maturities of long-term debt   379    333 
Total current liabilities   14,249    12,335 
           
Deferred rent liability   32    48 
Long-term debt, net of current maturities   3,345    3,527 
Total liabilities   17,626    15,910 
           
Commitments and contingencies (Note 5)          
           
Stockholders' equity          
Preferred stock, par value of $0.001 per share, 5,000,000 shares authorized and zero issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and June 30, 2014   -    - 
Class A common stock, par value of $0.001 per share, 15,000,000 authorized and 4,010,120 issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and 3,750,472 issued and outstanding at June 30, 2014   4    4 
Class B common stock, par value of $0.001 per share, 1,000 authorized and 8 issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and 9 issued and outstanding at  June 30, 2014   -    - 
Additional paid-in capital   14,516    14,057 
Accumulated deficit   (4,829)   (3,995)
Total Truett-Hurst, Inc. stockholders' equity   9,691    10,066 
Non-controlling interests   7,754    8,352 
Total equity   17,445    18,418 
Total liabilities and equity  $35,071   $34,328 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except share data)

(Unaudited)

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended   Nine-Month Periods Ended 
   March 31,   March 31, 
   2015   2014   2015   2014 
                 
Sales  $6,278   $5,280   $19,624   $16,957 
Less excise tax   (126)   (120)   (426)   (415)
Net sales   6,152    5,160    19,198    16,542 
                     
Cost of sales   3,723    3,408    12,335    10,880 
                     
Gross profit   2,429    1,752    6,863    5,662 
                     
Operating expenses:                    
Sales and marketing   1,885    1,377    5,308    3,930 
General and administrative   855    613    2,610    1,937 
Provision for loss of deposit   -    400    -    400 
Bulk wine sales, net gain   -    -    -    (1)
Loss on disposal of assets   10    -    12    - 
Total operating expenses   2,750    2,390    7,930    6,266 
Loss from operations   (321)   (638)   (1,067)   (604)
Other (expense) income:                    
Interest expense, net   (74)   (42)   (207)   (123)
Other   (68)   (56)   (154)   (26)
Total other expense   (142)   (98)   (361)   (149)
Loss before income taxes   (463)   (736)   (1,428)   (753)
Income tax expense (benefit)   2    (111)   4    (100)
Net loss before non-controlling interests   (465)   (625)   (1,432)   (653)
Net (loss) income attributable to non-controlling interest: The Wine Spies, LLC   (27)   (13)   58    (74)
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc. and H.D.D. LLC   (438)   (612)   (1,490)   (579)
Less: Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest: H.D.D. LLC   (178)   (428)   (656)   (402)
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc.  $(260)  $(184)  $(834)  $(177)
                     
Net loss per share                    
Basic and diluted  $(0.07)  $(0.06)  $(0.22)  $(0.07)
                     
Weighted average shares used in computing net loss per share:                    
Basic and diluted   3,842,798    2,936,894    3,787,014    2,704,752 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

   Nine-Month Periods Ended 
   March 31, 
   2015   2014 
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net loss before non-controlling interests  $(1,432)  $(653)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:          
Depreciation and amortization   496    394 
Stock-based compensation   458    253 
Loss (gain) on fair value of interest rate swap   98    (3)
Loss on disposal of asset   12    - 
Deferred rent   (16)   (2)
Deferred taxes   2    (100)
           
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net          
Accounts receivable   951    293 
Inventories   (5,090)   (3,962)
Bulk wine deposit   302    (1,125)
Other current assets   (43)   44 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses   1,042    (880)
Accrual for sales returns   556    - 
Net cash used in operating activities   (2,664)   (5,741)
           
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Acquisition of property and equipment   (615)   (472)
Acquisition of intangible and other assets   (240)   (180)
Proceeds from sale of assets   3    1 
Net cash used in investing activities   (852)   (651)
           
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Net proceeds (payments on) from line of credit   180    (305)
Net proceeds from related parties   90    208 
Proceeds (payments to) on long-term debt   (249)   239 
Net cash provided by financing activities   21    142 
           
Net decrease in cash   (3,495)   (6,250)
Cash at beginning of period   5,567    11,367 
Cash at end of period  $2,072   $5,117 
           
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:          
Cash paid for interest  $188   $125 
Cash paid for income taxes  $2   $2 
           
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash transactions          
Seller-financed acquisition of trademark  $170   $- 
Deferred tax asset arising from LLC unit exchange  $3,606   $2,791 
Due to related parties pursuant to tax receivable agreement  $3,245   $2,512 
Equity benefit on LLC unit exchange  $31   $279 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 1 - BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Basis of Presentation

 

The unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements include the results of Truett-Hurst, Inc. (“THI”) and its subsidiaries: H.D.D. LLC (“LLC”) and its consolidated subsidiary, The Wine Spies, LLC (“Wine Spies”) (collectively, “we,” “Truett-Hurst,” “our,” “us,” or “the Company”) and have been prepared, without audit, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with general instructions for quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and Article 8 of Regulation S-X. We consolidate the financial results of the LLC and its consolidated subsidiary, and record a non-controlling interest which represents the portion of equity ownership in the aforementioned subsidiaries that is not attributable to us.

 

The accompanying unaudited financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for audited financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014 filed with the SEC on September 29, 2014. We prepared the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements on the same basis as the audited financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014, and, in the opinion of management, these financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the interim periods presented. The operating results for the interim period presented are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year. Unless otherwise indicated, the notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements relate to the discussion of our continuing operations.

 

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements to conform to the current period presentation. Reclassifications had no material impact on previously reported results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

 

Quantities or results referred to as “to date” or “as of this date” mean as of March 31, 2015, unless otherwise specifically noted. References to “FY” or “fiscal year” refer to our fiscal year ending on June 30th of the designated year.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies and estimates previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014.

 

Accounting Pronouncements

 

In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-05: Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement (“ASU 2015-05”). The amendments in this update provide guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the update specifies that the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. The update further specifies that the customer should account for a cloud computing arrangement as a service contract if the arrangement does not include a software license. ASU 2015-05 will be effective for us in FY16. We are in the process of assessing the future impact of this update to the consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03: Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs (“ASU 2015-03”). The update sets forth a requirement that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs is not affected by the amendments in this update. ASU 2015-03 will be effective for us in FY16. We are in the process of assessing the future impact of this update to the consolidated financial statements.

 

We have reviewed all other recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting pronouncements and we do not believe the future adoption of any such pronouncements may be expected to cause a material impact on our financial condition or the results of our operations.

 

6
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 2 - INVENTORIES

 

Inventories consist of the following:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
         
Grapes, bulk wine, and capitalized cultural costs  $6,725   $5,499 
Bottled wine   15,059    11,285 
Bottling materials and other   485    395 
Total inventories  $22,269   $17,179 

 

 

NOTE 3 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net

 

Property and equipment consists of the following:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
         
Land and land improvements  $2,804   $2,804 
Building and improvements   1,805    1,756 
Machinery and equipment   1,757    1,233 
Vineyard development   353    353 
Vineyard equipment   327    327 
Furniture and fixtures   259    256 
Leasehold improvements   120    117 
Vehicles   93    93 
    7,518    6,939 
Less accumulated depreciation   (1,707)   (1,386)
           
Total property and equipment, net  $5,811   $5,553 

 

Total depreciation was $0.1 million and $0.3 million for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 compared to $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively.

 

NOTE 4 - INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND OTHER ASSETS, net

 

We performed our annual impairment review of goodwill, indefinite lived intangible and finite lived assets as of April 1, 2015. Under the authoritative guidance we elected to perform a qualitative assessment for our impairment testing. Based on our qualitative assessment, we concluded that it was more likely than not that the fair value of goodwill, indefinite lived intangible and finite lived assets were greater than their carrying amounts, and therefore no further testing or impairment was required. Our qualitative analysis included macroeconomic and industry and market specific considerations, financial performance indicators and measurements, and other factors. Historically, we have recorded no impairment charges.

 

7
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 4 - INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND OTHER ASSETS, net, continued

 

Intangible asset balances are summarized as follows:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Finite lives:          
Customer lists  $213   $213 
Trademarks   169    169 
Proprietary technology   95    95 
Non-compete agreement   38    38 
Patent   44    42 
    559    557 
Less accumulated amortization   (264)   (189)
           
    295    368 
Indefinite lives:          
Trademarks   437    261 
           
Total intangible assets, net  $732   $629 

 

Other assets balances are summarized as follows:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
         
Label design costs  $419   $247 
Loan fees   18    18 
Lease costs - related party   23    23 
Software   144    144 
Website design costs   58    55 
Other   1    1 
    663    488 
Less accumulated amortization   (187)   (107)
           
Total other assets, net  $476   $381 

 

Total amortization expense of intangible assets and other assets was $0.05 million and $0.2 million for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 compared to $0.04 million and $0.1 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively. The following table presents the expected future amortization expense for intangible assets and other assets at March 31, 2015:

 

Years ending June 30:
( in thousands)
2015 (remaining three months)  $59 
2016   230 
2017   162 
2018   129 
2019   83 
Thereafter   108 
      
Total future amortization expense  $771 

 

8
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 5 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Leases

 

In February 2011, we entered into a lease agreement for a tasting room and winery. The lease is for five years, commencing on March 1, 2011 and ending on February 29, 2016, and contains one option to extend for an additional period of five years. We have the right of first refusal in the event the lessor desires to sell the leased property. Beginning on September 1, 2012 and annually thereafter, tasting room and winery rent is increased by 3%. Additionally, the winery rent is increased if actual case production exceeds a specified number of cases. Current and anticipated production levels are below this minimum and as such the winery rent increase is controlled by the annual 3% increase clause. Lease expense is accounted for on a straight-line basis.

 

In October 2013, we entered into a lease agreement for administrative office space. The lease commenced on October 15, 2013 and ends on October 31, 2016, and contains three one-year renewal options with adjustment to market rents.

 

Lease payments for these facilities was $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 compared to $0.08 million and $0.2 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively. At March 31, 2015, future lease payment commitments for these facilities totaled approximately $0.3 million.

 

Credit Facilities and Notes Payable

 

Since June 30, 2014, there have been no material changes with respect to our credit facilities and/or borrowings as disclosed in the “Notes to the Financial Statements - Commitments and Contingencies” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014.

 

The credit facilities, which mature on July 31, 2015, include (a) a revolving line of credit with a maximum commitment of $9.0 million which accrues interest at 1.75% above the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”), (b) a capital equipment line with a maximum commitment of $0.5 million which carries an interest rate of 2.25% above floating One-Month LIBOR, and (c) a foreign exchange facility with a maximum commitment of $0.1 million which allows to enter into any spot or forward transaction to purchase from or sell to our bank a foreign currency. We did not use the foreign exchange facility during the three and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2015. As of March 31, 2015 we had availability under our revolving credit facility of $0.6 million. The outstanding balances on the components of the credit facilities are: 

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Credit Facilities          
Line of credit  $8,365   $8,648 
Equipment line of credit   500    37 
Total credit facilities  $8,865   $8,685 

 

The credit facilities are secured by a pledge of substantially all of our assets and availability is subject to compliance with certain covenants, including, without limitation, a minimum current assets to current liabilities ratio (measured quarterly), a debt to effective tangible net worth ratio (measured quarterly) and a debt service coverage ratio (measured annually at our fiscal year end). We were in compliance in all material aspects with all such covenants at March 31, 2015.

 

We are currently working with our lender and we believe that we will be able to renew our credit facilities prior to July 31, 2015.

 

9
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

Long-term debt consisted of the following:

 

     March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
     ( in thousands, except payments in footnotes) 
Long term debt:            
Note 1(1)   $3,022   $3,122 
Note 2(2)    33    70 
Note 3(3)    210    263 
Note 4(4)    346    405 
Note 5(5)    113    - 
Total notes payable     3,724    3,860 
Less current maturities     (379)   (333)
Total long term debt    $3,345   $3,527 

 

(1)Note payable to a bank, secured by a deed of trust on property, payable monthly with principal payments of $11,270 plus interest, matures May 31, 2022, variable interest of 2.25% above LIBOR.

 

(2)Note payable to a bank, secured by equipment, payable monthly with principal and interest payments of $4,226, matures November 1, 2015 at 3.75% interest.

 

(3)Note payable to a bank, secured by equipment, payable monthly with principal and interest payments of $6,535, matures January 15, 2018 at 3.75% interest.

 

(4)Note payable to a bank, secured by equipment, payable monthly with principal and interest payments of $7,783, matures March 1, 2019; at 3.75% interest.

 

(5)On November 30, 2014, we acquired the unrestricted use of the Stonegate trademark in exchange for a trademark release payment which is to be made over time and is accounted for as a note payable. The note payable has three equal installments: a) within five days of November 30, 2014, b) on October 15, 2015, and c) on July 31, 2016. The note does not accrue interest outstanding on the principal. An imputed interest rate of 5.5% was assessed under GAAP and the impact was considered immaterial.

 

Long-term debt future principal and interest payments are as follows:

 

Years ending June 30:
( in thousands)
2015 (remaining three months)  $84 
2016   368 
2017   353 
2018   269 
2019   204 
Thereafter   2,446 
    3,724 
Add:  Estimated interest   768 
Total  $4,492 

 

Related Party Note

 

Other than payments, there have been no material changes with respect to our related party loan as disclosed in the “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements - Commitments and Contingencies” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014.

 

10
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 5 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES, continued

 

Related party future principal and interest payments are as follows:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands, except payments in footnotes) 
Related party note:          
Note (1) $12   $67 
Less current maturities   (12)   (67)
Total related party note  $-   $- 

 

(1)Note payable to a member for the repurchase of a certain percentage of their ownership interest in the LLC; pursuant to exercise of put right; unsecured; payable monthly in principal and interest payments of $6,245; matures in May 2015, at which time a lump sum payment for any remaining principal and interest is due; fixed interest rate of 4.5%.

 

Supply Contract

 

At March 31, 2015, total future purchase commitments for finished goods total approximately $4.0 million and are expected to be fulfilled during fiscal 2015 to 2017.

 

We enter into short and long-term contracts to supply a portion of our future grapes and bulk wine inventory requirements with third parties and related party growers. As of March 31, 2015, future minimum inventory commitments are as follows:

 

Years ending June 30:  Third Parties   Related Parties   Total 
   (in thousands) 
2015  $3,710   $273   $3,983 
2016   666    273    939 
2017   91    273    364 
2018   -    273    273 
Thereafter   -    -    - 
Total  $4,467   $1,092   $5,559 

 

Subsequent to March 31, 2015, we have entered into additional grape contracts totaling approximately $0.7 million payable during FY16 and FY17.

 

Guarantees

 

There have been no material changes with respect to our guarantees as disclosed in the “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements - Commitments and Contingencies” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014.

 

Litigation

 

From time to time, we may be subject to various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business. We are not aware of any current pending legal matters or claims, individually or in the aggregate, that are expected to have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

Exchange Agreement

 

Prior to the completion of the IPO, we entered into an exchange agreement with the existing owners of the LLC, several of whom are directors and/or officers. Under the exchange agreement, each existing owner (and certain permitted transferees thereof) may (subject to the terms of the exchange agreement), exchange their LLC Units for shares of Class A common stock of the Company on a one-for-one basis, subject to customary conversion rate adjustments for stock splits, stock dividends and reclassifications, or for cash, at our election. As a holder exchanges their LLC Units, our interest in the LLC will be correspondingly increased. During FY14, certain members exchanged 0.9 million LLC units, on a one-for-one basis, for shares of Class A common stock of the Company, under the exchange agreement.

 

11
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 5 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES, continued

 

Thus far during FY15, certain LLC members have exchanged a cumulative total of 0.2 million LLC units, on a one-for-one basis, for shares of our Class A common stock, under the exchange agreement. See Note 8 – Stockholders’ Equity for the total LLC units converted during the third quarter of FY15.

 

Tax Receivable Agreement

 

We entered into a tax receivable agreement with the LLC unit holders which provides for payment by the Company to the LLC unit holders who convert their units to shares, an amount equal to 90% of the amount of the benefit, if any, that are realized as a result of (i) increases in tax basis associated with the election effected under Section 754 of the Code, and (ii) certain other tax benefits related to our entering into the tax receivable agreement, including tax benefits attributable to payments under the tax receivable agreement. Any payments under the tax receivable agreement will depend upon whether we have taxable income to utilize the benefit.

 

We will be required to pay the counterparties to the tax receivable agreement for certain tax benefits we may claim arising in connection with current exchanges, future purchases or exchanges of LLC Units and related transactions, and the amounts we may pay could be significant.

 

H.D.D. LLC intends to make an election under Section 754 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) effective for each taxable year in which an exchange of LLC Units for shares of Class A common stock as described above occurs, which may result in an adjustment to the tax basis of the assets of H.D.D. LLC at the time of an exchange of LLC Units. As a result of these exchanges, THI will become entitled to a proportionate share of the existing tax basis of the assets of H.D.D. LLC. In addition, the purchase of LLC Units and subsequent exchanges are expected to result in increases in the tax basis of the assets of H.D.D. LLC that otherwise would not have been available.

 

Both this proportionate share and these increases in tax basis may reduce the amount of tax that THI would otherwise be required to pay in the future. These increases in tax basis may also decrease gains (or increase losses) on future dispositions of certain capital assets to the extent tax basis is allocated to those capital assets.

 

During the third quarter of FY15, we recorded deferred tax assets of $0.01 million related to the exchange of 0.09 million LLC units for an equal amount of THI Class A common stock. As of March 31, 2015, we recorded a $0.01 million long-term liability due to LLC unit holders who converted their units to shares which represents 90% of the estimated tax benefits and an immaterial amount related to the difference in the recorded deferred tax asset and computed TRA liability and recorded as an adjustment to equity. As of March 31 2015, we recorded a valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets for $0.01 million as it was determined that it was more likely than not that the tax benefits would not be realized which resulted in corresponding adjustments to the TRA liability and equity as mentioned above.

 

Generally, a maximum obligation under these contracts is not explicitly stated.  Because the specific amounts associated with these types of agreements are stated, the overall maximum amount of the obligation cannot be reasonably estimated.  Historically, we have not been required to make payments under these obligations, and no liabilities have been recorded at March 31, 2015 and June 30, 2014, for these obligations on our balance sheets.

 

NOTE 6 - ACCOUNTS PAYABLE and ACCRUED EXPENSES

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses consist of the following:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Accounts payable  $2,402   $2,746 
Accrued inventory purchases   607    - 
Accrued expenses   284    107 
Bottling services   249    - 
Commission   100    163 
Distributor obligations   431    29 
Personnel   149    114 
Professional fees   14    35 
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses  $4,236   $3,194 

 

12
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 7 - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

Equity Incentive Plan

 

On February 4, 2013, we granted 0.2 million shares of restricted stock to an independent contractor who serves as our Creative Director. The award vests over three years, and had a fair value at the date of grant of $0.9 million for a 5% interest in the LLC. We record the fair value and recognize the associated expense per FASB ASC Subtopic 505-50, Equity - Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees which defines the measurement date as the earlier of the date at which the commitment for performance is reached, or the date at which the performance is complete. The grant date fair value of restricted stock awards, to non-employees, is recognized as compensation cost, on a straight-line basis over the three-year vesting period, and subject to periodic market adjustments as the underlying equity instruments vest. As of March 31, 2015, the stock was valued at $0.9 million. We recognized $0.7 million in cumulative expense and had $0.2 million of unrecognized stock compensation expense through March 31, 2015, related to the non-vested restricted stock award that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 0.85 years.

 

On December 9, 2013, we granted 0.01 million shares of restricted stock to certain directors of our company which vests over three years and has a fair value at date of grant of $0.03 million. The fair value of restricted stock, measured on the date of grant using the price of the Company’s common stock on grant date, is recognized as compensation cost on a straight-line basis over the three-year vesting period. As of December 31, 2014, we reduced the vesting term to two years to match the director’s term. As of March 31, 2015, we recognized $0.02 million in cumulative expense and had $0.01 million of unrecognized stock compensation expense related to the non-vested restricted stock award that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 0.69 years.

 

On June 25, 2014, we granted 0.2 million stock options, with the right to purchase Company Class A common shares, to our Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operations Officer. The stock options vest over four years and had a fair value at date of grant of $0.4 million. We account for our employee stock options under the fair value method of accounting using a Black-Scholes valuation model to measure stock option expense at the date of grant. The expected life assumptions for employee grants are based upon the simplified method, which averages the contractual term of the options of ten years with the average vesting term of four years for an average of six years. The risk-free interest rate is based on the expected U.S. Treasury rate over the expected life. Volatility reflects movements in our stock price over the most recent historical period equivalent to the expected life. The dividend yield assumption of zero is based upon the fact we have never paid cash dividends and presently have no intention of paying cash dividends in the future. The fair value of the stock option is recognized as compensation cost, on a straight-line basis over the four-year vesting period. As of March 31, 2015, we recognized $0.1 million in cumulative expense and had $0.3 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 3.24 years.

 

  On June 25, 2014, we granted 0.1 million shares of restricted stock units to our Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operations Officer which vest over four years and had a fair value at date of grant of $0.4 million. The grant date fair value of RSU awards is recognized as compensation cost, on a straight-line basis over the four-year vesting period. As of March 31, 2015, we recognized $0.1 million in cumulative expense and had $0.3 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 3.24 years.

 

 On November 20, 2014, during our annual stockholders meeting, our stockholders approved an amendment to our 2012 Stock Incentive Plan (“2012 Plan”), to increase the number of shares of Class A common stock reserved for issuance under the 2012 Plan by 0.7 million shares or from 0.3 million shares to 1.0 million shares.

 

On December 15, 2014, we granted 0.01 million shares of restricted stock to certain directors of our company which vested immediately upon grant and had a fair value at date of grant of $0.05 million and recognized expense as of December 31, 2014. The fair value of restricted stock was measured on grant date using the Company’s common stock price on grant date.

 

On December 15, 2014, we granted 0.01 million shares of restricted stock to certain directors of our company which vests over one year and has a fair value at date of grant of $0.06 million. The fair value of restricted stock, measured on the date of grant using the price of the Company’s common stock on grant date, is recognized as compensation cost, on a straight-line basis over the one - year vesting period. As of March 31, 2015, we recognized $0.02 million in cumulative expense and had $0.04 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 0.71 years.

 

On December 15, 2014, we granted 0.01 million shares of restricted stock to a director of our company which vests over three years and has a fair value at date of grant of $0.03 million. The fair value of restricted stock, measured on the date of grant using the price of the Company’s common stock on grant date, is recognized as compensation cost, on a straight-line basis over the one - year vesting period. As of March 31, 2015, we recognized an immaterial amount of cumulative expense and had $0.03 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense that is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.71 years.

 

13
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 7 - STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION, continued

 

A summary of our restricted stock award activity is presented below (shares and weighted grant date fair value not in thousands):

 

   Number of Shares   Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair
Value Per Share
 
Outstanding at June 30, 2014   148,928   $4.89 
Granted   35,201    3.80 
Vested   (86,800)   3.43 
Forfeited, canceled or expired   -    - 
Outstanding at March 31, 2015   97,329   $3.91 

 

The following table summarizes stock-based compensation included in our unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 and FY14, respectively:

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended   Nine-Month Periods Ended 
   March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014   March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Sales and marketing  $40   $40   $224   $224 
General and administrative   75    11    234    29 
Total stock-based compensation  $115   $51   $458   $253 

   

NOTE 8 - STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

Stockholders’ Equity

 

At our annual stockholders meeting on November 20, 2014, our stockholders approved an amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation to increase the authorized number of shares of our Class A common stock from 7.0 million shares to 15.0 million shares.

 

LLC Units

 

During the third quarter of FY15, there 0.09 million of LLC units converted for an equal amount of our Class A common stock. The following table presents the changes in the LLC units and the non-controlling interests in the LLC:

 

   Members LLC Units   THI Units   Total Units   LLC Member %   THI %   Total % 
   (share data and percentages not in thousands) 
Balance as of June 30, 2013   4,102,644    2,700,000    6,802,644    60.3%   39.7%   100%
LLC units converted FY14Q3   (815,778)   815,778    -    -12.0%   12.0%   0%
LLC units converted FY14Q4   (122,694)   122,694    -    -1.8%   1.8%   0%
Balance as of June 30, 2014   3,164,172    3,638,472    6,802,644    46.5%   53.5%   100%
                               
LLC units converted FY15Q2   (80,712)   80,712    -    -1.2%   1.2%   0%
LLC units converted FY15Q3   (92,134)   92,134    -    -1.4%   1.4%   0%
Balance as of March 31, 2015   2,991,326    3,811,318    6,802,644    43.9%   56.1%   100%

 

Until November 17, 2014, we were a controlled company because our existing owners controlled 53.2% of the voting power of our outstanding Class A common stock and 100% of the voting power of our outstanding Class B common stock and had agreed to vote their shares of common stock together as a group. As a result of a certain member terminating the voting agreement and LLC unit conversions, we are no longer a “controlled company” within the meaning of the NASDAQ Capital Marketplace rules and, thus, are required to have at least a majority of independent directors on the Nominating and Governance Committee and Compensation Committee within 90 days of the date on which we ceased being a controlled company and to have fully independent Committees and a majority of independent directors on the Board of Directors within one year of the date on which we ceased to be a controlled company. We are in compliance with the above NASDAQ Capital Market rules.

 

 

14
 

 

 TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 9 - NET LOSS PER SHARE

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per common share for three-month and nine-month periods of FY15:

 

   Three-Month Period Ended   Nine-Month Period Ended 
   March 31, 2015   March 31, 2015 
   ( in thousands, except share data) 
         
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc.  $(260)  $(834)
           
Loss Per Share          
Basic and dilutive Class A common weighted average shares   3,842,798    3,787,014 
           
Basic and diluted loss per share  $(0.07)  $(0.22)

   

Basic net loss per share is computed by dividing net loss attributable to us, by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted net loss per share is computed by giving effect to all potential dilutive common shares, including convertible LLC units and equity incentive shares. The assumed exchange of 3.0 million LLC units for Class A common stock and the vesting of 0.3 million equity incentive shares have been excluded from the diluted loss per share because they are expected to have an anti-dilutive effect.

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per common share for three-month and nine-month periods of FY14:

 

   Three-Month Period Ended   Nine-Month Period Ended 
   March 31, 2014   March 31, 2014 
   ( in thousands, except share data) 
         
Net loss attributable to Truett-Hurst, Inc.  $(184)  $(177)
           
Loss Per Share          
Basic and dilutive Class A common weighted average shares   2,936,894    2,704,752 
           
Basic and diluted loss per share  $(0.06)  $(0.07)

 

For FY14, the assumed exchange of 3.3 million LLC units for Class A common stock and the vesting of 0.2 million equity incentive shares have been excluded from the diluted loss per share because they were considered to have an anti-dilutive effect.

 

The shares of Class B common stock do not share in our earnings and therefore are not participating securities. Accordingly, basic and diluted net income per share of Class B common stock has not been presented.

 

NOTE 10 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

 

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The carrying amount reflected in the consolidated balance sheets of financial assets and liabilities, which includes cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximated their fair values due to the short term nature of these financial assets and liabilities. The carrying amount of our debt approximates its fair value.

 

In October 2012, we executed an interest rate swap obligation that was measured using observable inputs such as the LIBOR and Ten-year Treasury interest rates, and therefore has been categorized as Level 2. Level 2 is defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are observable either directly or indirectly in active markets. This derivative is not designated as a hedging instrument and has been recorded at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the fair value of this instrument have been recognized in our consolidated statements of operations in other income (expense).

 

15
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 10 - FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, continued

 

The following tables set forth our interest rate swap fair values at March 31, 2015 and at June 30, 2014:

 

   Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date  
   (in thousands) 
   Fair Value as of
March 31, 2015
   Significant Other Observable Inputs 
         (Level 2) 
Assets          
Interest rate swap (1)  $(32)  $(32)
Total  $(32)  $(32)

 

(1) Included as an offset to "Other Current Assets" in the Balance Sheet.

 

   Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date  
   (in thousands) 
   Fair Value as of
June 30, 2014
   Significant Other Observable Inputs 
         (Level 2) 
Assets          
Interest rate swap (1)  $66   $66 
Total  $66   $66 

 

(1) Included in "Other Current Assets" in the Balance Sheet. 

 

NOTE 11 - TAXES

 

The effective tax rate for both the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 was 0% due to the Company recording a full valuation allowance in each period. In the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15, we had a tax benefit of $0.1 million against which we recorded a corresponding valuation allowance. The tax provision for the current year period is based on an estimate of our annualized income tax rate. Our effective tax rate includes a rate benefit attributable to the fact our subsidiaries operate as a limited liability company which is not subject to federal or state income tax.  Accordingly, a portion of our earnings are not subject to corporate level taxes.

 

We had no unrecognized tax benefits for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 and did not incur any income tax related interest expense or penalties related to uncertain tax positions.

 

NOTE 12 - OUT-OF-DATE PRODUCT

 

In the quarter ended December 31, 2014 we established a loss contingency accrual of $0.6 million for the estimated probable loss associated with our role in dealing with out-of-date Paper Boy product.  Our estimates of that probable loss have not changed during the current quarter.  Since December 31, 2014 we have processed an immaterial amount related to return credits against the accrual.

 

NOTE 13 - SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMER INFORMATION, SEGMENT REPORTING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

 

Our primary reporting segments are identified by each distribution channel: wholesale, direct to consumer and internet. Wholesale sales include our retail exclusive brand label model and brands sold through the three-tier distribution system. Direct to consumer sales occur through our tasting rooms and wine clubs. Internet sales occur through Wine Spies and are principally comprised of brands not owned by us. Operating and other expenses are not allocated between operating segments; therefore, operating and net income information for the respective segments is not available. In addition, discreet financial information related to segment specific assets is not available. Sales and cost of sales are reported by segment.

 

16
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 13 - SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMER INFORMATION, SEGMENT REPORTING AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION, continued

 

Net Sales

 

The following table reflects net sales, cost of sales and gross margin percentage by segment:

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended   Nine-Month Periods Ended 
Net Sales  March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014   March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Wholesale  $3,532   $3,511   $11,214   $11,890 
Direct to consumer   1,176    993    3,618    3,012 
Internet   1,444    656    4,366    1,640 
Total net sales  $6,152   $5,160   $19,198   $16,542 

 

  

   Three-Month Periods Ended   Nine-Month Periods Ended 
Cost of sales  March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014   March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Wholesale  $2,450   $2,616   $8,664   $8,660 
Direct to consumer   424    385    1,321    1,189 
Internet   849    407    2,350    1,031 
Total cost of sales  $3,723   $3,408   $12,335   $10,880 

 

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended   Nine-Month Periods Ended 
Gross Margin Percentage  March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014   March 31, 2015   March 31, 2014 
Wholesale   30.6%   25.5%   22.7%   27.2%
Direct to consumer   63.9%   61.2%   63.5%   60.5%
Internet   41.2%   38.0%   46.2%   37.1%

 

Significant Customer Information:

 

The following tables set forth concentrations of wholesale sales and accounts receivable as a percent of each total:

 

   Percent of Total Net Sales   Percent of Total
Accounts Receivable
 
   Three-Month Periods Ended
March 31,
   Nine-Month Periods Ended
March 31,
   March 31, 
   2015   2014   2015   2014   2015   2014 
                         
Customer A   39%   43%   34%   32%   36%   45%
Customer B   15%   7%   24%   25%   22%   8%
Customer C   8%   6%   7%   8%   3%   3%
Customer D   5%   7%   5%   7%   2%   5%
Customer E   9%   8%   6%   7%   14%   8%
Customer F   2%   1%   3%   -    4%   2%
Customer G   1%   2%   2%   2%   3%   3%
Customer H   5%   1%   2%   2%   1%   - 
Customer I   2%   3%   1%   2%   5%   6%

 

International net sales were $0.5 million and $1.4 million for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15, compared to $0.4 million and $1.1 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively.

 

17
 

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands)

(Unaudited)

 

NOTE 14 - SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

We have evaluated all subsequent event activity through the issue date of these condensed consolidated financial statements and concluded that other than as disclosed herein no additional subsequent events have occurred that would require recognition in the condensed consolidated financial statements or disclosure in the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

18
 

 

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

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and other parts of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, regarding our strategy, future operations, financial position, prospects, plans, opportunities, and objectives constitute “forward-looking statements.” The words “may,” “will,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “potential,” or “continue” and similar types of expressions identify such statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. These statements are based upon information that is currently available to us and or management’s current expectations, speak only as of the date hereof, and are subject to risks and uncertainties. We expressly disclaim any obligation, except as required by federal securities laws, or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change or expectations with regard thereto or to reflect any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such forward-looking statement is based, in whole or in part. Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to, a reduction in the supply of grapes and bulk wine available to us; significant competition; any change in our relationships with retailers which could harm our business; we may not achieve or maintain profitability in the future; the loss of key employees; a reduction in our access to, or an increase in the cost of, the third-party services we use to produce our wine; credit facility restrictions on our current and future operations; failure to protect, or infringement of, trademarks and proprietary rights; these factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. Risks that may affect our operating results include, but are not limited to, those discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014 filed with the Securities Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 29, 2014. Readers should carefully review the risk factors described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2014 and in other documents that we file from time to time with the SEC.

 

The unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements include the results of Truett-Hurst, Inc. and its subsidiaries: H.D.D. LLC (“LLC”) and its consolidated subsidiary, The Wine Spies, LLC (“Wine Spies”) (collectively, “we,” “Truett-Hurst,” “our,” “us,” or “the Company”) and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the general instruction for quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q and Article 8 of Regulation S-X. The disclosures do not include all the information necessary for audited financial statements in accordance with GAAP.  These unaudited interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014 filed with the SEC on September 29, 2014. In the opinion of our management, all adjustments, which include normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. Unless otherwise indicated, the notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements relate to the discussion of our continuing operations. Our condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all of our accounts, including those of our controlled subsidiaries and the portion of equity in a consolidated subsidiary that is not attributable to us, directly or indirectly, is presented as non-controlling interests.

 

Quantities or results referred to as “to date” or “as of this date” mean as of March 31, 2015, unless otherwise specifically noted. References to “FY” or “fiscal year” refer to our fiscal year ending on June 30th of the designated year.

 

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements to conform to the current period presentation. Reclassifications had no material impact on previously reported results of operations, financial position or cash flows.

 

OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS

 

We produce and sell wines from $7 to $50 per bottle. The wine we make generally comes from grapes purchased from California based growers. In addition we purchase semi-finished bulk wine on the spot market and under contract. On a more limited basis, we also purchase finished goods from both foreign and domestic producers. We are headquartered in Sonoma County, California with tasting rooms in the Dry Creek and Russian River valleys. Our wines include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon and are sold via three distinct distribution channels: three-tier, direct to consumer and internet. We own, design and develop our brands, including those developed and sold on a retailer exclusive basis. Our brands are differentiated and marketed with innovative packaging and label designs.

 

Wine in our three-tier channel are sold to distributors with programs available to the broad market (domestic and international) or to specific retailers on an exclusive basis. Through our retailer exclusive brand model we work collaboratively with our retail partners to develop innovative brands which resonate with their customers, to increase consumer store traffic and to grow sales. Our retail exclusive model allows us to own the brands we create, which we believe differentiates us from the traditional private label model, and allows us the option of expanding the brands into national and international markets, thereby further building our brand equity. Our direct to consumer channel consists of sales through our tasting rooms, wine clubs and via the internet.

 

19
 

 

RECENT TRENDS AND EVENTS

 

Per Wines and Vines “March 2015” data, Rabobank “Global Report Q2 2015” and the EJ Gallo’s (“EJ”) “Top Ten Snapshots of the American Wine Consumer”, noteworthy trends for the wine industry include:

 

·The value of direct-to-consumer shipments from U.S. wineries in March rose 19% from the March 2014 value, and the 12-month growth rate was 14%.
·The U.S. wine market continued to expand in 2014. Value growth accelerated at a faster pace, with growth coming entirely in the above $9 per bottle range.
·California wine grape production fell by an estimated 10% in 2014, to 3.9 million tons, however availability of bulk wine is ample.
·Younger drinkers are seemingly unbound by traditions that have often governed wine. Of those surveyed:
o66 percent mix wine with fruit or fruit juice
o51 percent make a wine cocktail
o48 percent mix wine with other cocktail mixers like club soda
o46 percent drink wine over ice
o27 percent occasionally even drink wine in a cup with a straw

 

We believe we can continue to grow our business by relying on our competitive strengths, which include our experienced and knowledgeable team, our relationships with the world’s top wine distributors and retailers, and our innovative approach to distribution and brand development. Our business strategy includes: (i) developing innovative products; (ii) building national brands within our existing brand portfolio; (iii) expanding our retail base and distribution channels; (iv) growing our direct to consumer and internet businesses; and (v) developing new ways to engage current and prospective customers to distribute our wines.

 

We anticipate our net sales will increase as our existing products and brands gain further acceptance in the marketplace and through our scheduled introduction of new brands and packaging. We expect our cost of goods sold and operating expenses to continue to increase as sales and revenue increase in order to achieve and maintain future profitability. However, we expect to see operating expenses decline as a percentage of net sales as we begin to generate and exploit operating leverage.

 

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

 

In September 2014, we announced that Kroger would be launching Truett Hurst’s California Winecraft project during our fourth quarter of FY15. As of March 31, 2015, we have completed our first production of the California Winecraft product and are on schedule to fulfill the initial orders during the fourth quarter as previously disclosed.

 

As described in Note 12 of our consolidated financial statements in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for period ended December 31, 2014, we established a loss contingency accrual of $0.6 million for the estimated probable loss associated with our role in dealing with out-of-date Paper Boy product.  While we have worked with our distributors and retailers during the third quarter to finalize a settlement of these issues we do not yet have a final agreement. Despite not having a final agreement, our estimates of the probable loss have not changed during the current quarter and since December 31, 2014 we have processed an immaterial amount related to return credits against the accrual.

 

SEASONAL TRENDS

 

Our sales have historically followed a cyclical trend, with sales being typically higher after a product launch and higher during holidays, especially around the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year holidays.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Factors Affecting Our Operating Results

 

Our net sales are affected by advertising, discounts and promotions, merchandising, packaging and in the wholesale segment, the availability of display space at our retailer customers, all of which have a significant impact on consumers’ buying decisions. Continued growth of our net sales and profits will depend, substantially, on the continued popularity of our new and existing brands, our ability to effectively manage our sales by channel, and our ability to maintain sufficient product supply to meet expected growth in demand.

 

Our cost of sales for the wholesale and direct to consumer segments includes wine-related inputs, such as grapes and semi-finished bulk wine, bottling materials, such as bottles, capsules, corks and labeling materials, labor and overhead expenses, including inbound and outbound freight, and barrel depreciation.  The internet segment cost of sales is comprised of finished cased wine.

 

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Comparison of the Three-Month Periods and Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 2015 and 2014

 

Net Sales

 

The following table compares net sales by distribution channel:

 

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
           Increase   %           Increase   % 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   Change   2015   2014   (Decrease)   Change 
                                 
Wholesale  $3,532   $3,511   $21    1%  $11,214   $11,890   $(676)   -6%
Direct to consumer   1,176    993    183    18%   3,618    3,012    606    20%
Internet   1,444    656    788    120%   4,366    1,640    2,726    166%
Total net sales  $6,152   $5,160   $992    19%  $19,198   $16,542   $2,656    16%

 

Wholesale net sales increased by 1% and decreased by 6% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY15 compared to the same prior-year’s periods, respectively. Both periods in FY15 were impacted by the lack of availability of paper bottles to support sales of our Paper Boy brand, where both periods in FY14 contained Paper Boy sales. Additionally, net sales for the nine-month period of FY15 were impacted by the loss contingency accrual of $0.6 million posted in second quarter of FY15.

 

Direct to consumer net sales increased 18% and 20% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY15 compared to same prior-year’s period. The increase in direct to consumer net sales was due to increased wine club membership and tasting room traffic.

 

Internet net sales increased 120% and 166% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY15 compared to the same prior-year’s period. Internet net sales increase was attributable to expansion of our customer reach through a partnership model and increased website traffic. We have experienced significant percentage increases in recent periods for internet sales. In the future, we expect that the pace of additional internet sales increases will moderate or decline as we evaluate new partners and continue efforts to grow organically.

 

International net sales were $0.5 million and $1.4 million in the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15, compared to $0.4 million and $1.1 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively.

 

We record sales discounts and depletion allowances as a reduction of sales.  For the third quarter and first nine-months of FY15, sales discounts and depletion allowances totaled $1.0 million and $2.8 million compared to $0.3 million and $0.6 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively.

 

Cost of Sales

 

The following table compares cost of sales by distribution channel:

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
           Increase   %           Increase   % 
   2015   2014   (Decrease)   Change   2015   2014   (Decrease)   Change 
                                 
Wholesale  $2,450   $2,616   $(166)   -6%  $8,664   $8,660   $4    0%
Direct to consumer   424    385    39    10%   1,321    1,189    132    11%
Internet   849    407    442    109%   2,350    1,031    1,319    128%
Total cost of sales  $3,723   $3,408   $315    9%  $12,335   $10,880   $1,455    13%

 

Cost of sales increase for the third quarter and nine-months of FY15 was attributable to the related increase in sales. The nine-month period was impacted by an inventory write down in the second quarter of FY15 the majority of which was attributed to writing off out-of-date Paper Boy inventory of $0.2 million.  Total cost of sales increase was 9% and 13% compared to net sales increase of 19% and 16% for the third quarter and nine-months of FY15, respectively.

 

Gross Profit Margin

 

The following table compares gross profit margins by distribution channel:

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
Gross Margin Percentage  2015   2014   2015   2014 
Wholesale   30.6%   25.5%   22.7%   27.2%
Direct to consumer   63.9%   61.2%   63.5%   60.5%
Internet   41.2%   38.0%   46.2%   37.1%

 

As noted above, in future periods, we anticipate that increases in our internet sales will be more modest; however, we do not anticipate that reduced internet sales levels will have a significant effect on overall gross margins. With the introduction of our canned ready-to-drink wine coolers, we anticipate that in upcoming periods, our wholesale gross margins may be reduced as a result of the relative lower margins (compared to our wines) associated with the canned wine products.

 

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Sales and Marketing

 

Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of non-production personnel costs, advertising and other marketing promotions. Sales and marketing expenses consist of the following:

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   2015   2014   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
   2015   2014   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
Sales and marketing  $1,885   $1,377   $508    37%  $5,308   $3,930   $1,378    35%
                                         
Percentage of net sales   30.6%   26.7%   3.9%        27.6%   23.8%   3.8%     

 

Sales and marketing expense increased 37% and 35% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY15, respectively. A significant portion (approximately two-thirds) of the increase in each period is due to variable expenses associated with our internet net sales (i.e., shipping, credit card transaction fees and sales commissions). We have also had incremental investment in sales personnel, travel and entertainment, and brand related programming, promotions and incentives.

 

General and Administrative

 

General and administrative expenses include the costs associated with our administrative staff and other expenses related to our non-manufacturing functions. General and administrative expenses consist of the following:

 

   Three-Month Periods Ended March 31,   Nine-Month Periods Ended March 31, 
   2015   2014   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
   2015   2014   Increase
(Decrease)
   %
Change
 
   (in thousands, except percentages)   (in thousands, except percentages) 
General and administrative  $855   $613   $242    40%  $2,610   $1,937   $673    35%
                                         
Percentage of net sales   13.9%   11.9%   2.0%        13.6%   11.7%   1.9%     

 

General and administrative expense increased 40% and 35% in the third quarter and nine-months of FY15, respectively. These increases are due to increased investment in back office infrastructure and personnel including non-cash stock compensation expense. We have also experienced higher professional fees in the third quarter and the nine-months of FY15.

 

Interest Expense

 

Interest expense and loan fee expense was $0.07 million and $0.2 million for the three-month and nine-month periods of FY15 compared to $0.04 million and $0.1 million for the same prior-year periods of FY14, respectively.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

General

 

Our primary sources of available cash are from operations, our credit facilities and equity offerings. Our primary cash needs are to fund working capital requirements, including costs associated with (i) the development, release and sale of new brands, (ii) capital expenditures for barrels and other equipment to facilitate increased production, (iii) the repayment of our indebtedness (interest and principal payments) and (iv) operating expenses. Working capital is needed for our wholesale and direct to consumer segments which are supported by grapes (grown or purchased), semi-finished bulk wine (purchased under contract or on the spot market), and on a limited basis finished goods procured from international and domestic sources. The actual wine programs and segments in which the grapes and bulk wine will be used are not known until our winemaker has completed the winemaking process. It is not possible to accurately assign inventory costs to each segment because the bottled inventory may be sold in multiple segments. The following table compares the working capital and cash on hand for the defined periods:

 

   March 31,   June 30,   2015 to 2014 
   2015   2014   Inc (Dec)   % 
   (in thousands, except percentages) 
Working capital  $13,669   $15,296   $(1,627)   (11)%
Cash  $2,072   $5,567   $(3,495)   (63)%

 

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Our credit facilities, which mature on July 31, 2015, include (a) a revolving line of credit with a maximum commitment of $9.0 million which accrues interest at 1.75% above the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) (b) a capital equipment line with a maximum commitment of a $0.5 million which carries an interest rate of 2.25% above floating One-Month LIBOR and (c) a foreign exchange facility with a maximum commitment of $0.1 million which allows us to enter into any spot or forward transaction to purchase from or sell to our bank a foreign currency. As of March 31, 2015, we had availability of $0.6 million on our revolving line of credit. We did not use the foreign exchange facility during the three and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2015. The outstanding balances on the components of the credit facilities are:

 

   March 31, 2015   June 30, 2014 
   ( in thousands) 
Credit Facilities          
Line of credit  $8,365   $8,648 
Equipment line of credit   500    37 
Total credit facilities  $8,865   $8,685 

 

The credit facilities are collateralized by substantially all of our assets and access to availability is subject to compliance with certain covenants, including, without limitation, a minimum current assets to current liabilities ratio (measured quarterly), a debt to effective tangible net worth ratio (measured quarterly) and a debt service coverage ratio (measured annually at our fiscal year end). We were in compliance in all material aspects with all such covenants at March 31, 2015.

 

We are currently working with our lender and we believe that we will be able to renew our credit facilities prior to July 31, 2015.

 

We believe that our cash position, net cash provided by operating activities in coming periods, and availability under our current credit facilities will be adequate to finance working capital and operations needs for at least the next twelve months. We may, however, require additional liquidity as we continue to execute our business strategy. We anticipate that to the extent that we require additional liquidity, it will be funded through the incurrence of indebtedness, additional equity financings or a combination of these potential sources of liquidity, although no assurance can be given that such forms of capital will be available to us at all, or if available, on terms which are acceptable to us at such time.

 

Cash Flows

 

Operating Activities

 

Net cash used in operating activities decreased $3.0 million to $2.7 million from $5.7 million for the nine-month periods of FY15 and FY14, respectively. The difference is due primarily to changes in working capital with an increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses of $1.0 million in FY15 of versus a decline of $1.0 million in FY14 and a larger reduction in accounts receivable in FY15 than FY14. The increase in inventories in FY15 was higher than in FY14; however, wine deposits declined in FY15 versus increasing in FY 14. Inventories and bulk wine deposits taken together increased less in FY15 than in FY14 with increases of $4.8 million and $5.1 million respectively.

 

Investing Activities

 

Net cash used in investing activities increased $0.2 million to $0.9 million compared to $0.7 million for the nine-month periods of FY15 and FY14, respectively.  The change is attributable to an increase in property and equipment purchases and intangibles and other assets.

 

Financing Activities

 

Net cash provided by financing activities decreased $0.1 million to $0.02 million for the nine-month period of FY15. The change was primarily due to the decreased in long-term debt.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

 

As a “smaller reporting company”, we are not required to provide tabular disclosure obligations. Our primary sources of indebtedness are loans provided by our bank. Since June 30, 2014, there have been no material changes with respect to our loans or guarantees as disclosed in the “Notes to the Financial Statements - Commitments and Contingencies” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014. We were in compliance in all material aspects with all covenants at March 31, 2015.

 

Concentration of Credit Risk and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We maintain our cash with highly rated credit institutions. Although we try to limit the amount of credit exposure with any one financial institution, we do in the normal course of business maintain cash balances in excess of federally insured limits.

 

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Our accounts receivable consists primarily of trade receivables from customers. We review accounts receivable regularly and make estimates for an allowance when there is doubt as to the collectability of individual balances. Our accounts receivable credit risk is not concentrated within any one geographic area. As of March 31, 2015, two customers represented 58% of our accounts receivable balance, individually 36% and 22% of the total accounts receivable. We believe our accounts receivable credit risk exposure is limited and we have not experienced material charge offs.

 

We lease a winery, tasting room facility, office space and certain office equipment. We enter into short and long-term contracts to supply a portion of our future grapes and bulk wine inventory requirements with third parties and related party growers. The following table presents future minimum inventory commitments as of March 31, 2015:

 

Years ending June 30:  Third Parties   Related Parties   Total 
   (in thousands) 
2015  $3,710   $273   $3,983 
2016   666    273    939 
2017   91    273    364 
2018   -    273    273 
Thereafter   -    -    - 
Total  $4,467   $1,092   $5,559 

 

Subsequent to March 31, 2015, we have entered into additional grape contracts totaling approximately $0.7 million payable during FY16 and FY17.

 

At March 31, 2015, total future purchase commitments for finished goods total approximately $4.0 million and are expected to be fulfilled during fiscal 2015 to 2017.

 

We do not have off-balance sheet risks related to foreign exchange contracts, option contracts or other foreign hedging arrangements.

 

Effects of Inflation and Changing Prices

 

Our results of operations and financial condition have not been materially affected by inflation and changing prices. We intend to pass along rising costs through increased selling prices, subject to normal competitive conditions. There can be no assurances, however, that we will be able to pass along rising costs through increased selling prices effectively. In addition, we continue to identify on-going cost savings initiatives.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

There have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies and estimates previously disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014.

 

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

 

In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2015-05: Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement (“ASU 2015-05”). The amendments in this update provide guidance to customers about whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the update specifies that the customer should account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. The update further specifies that the customer should account for a cloud computing arrangement as a service contract if the arrangement does not include a software license. ASU 2015-05 will be effective for us in FY16. We are in the process of assessing the future impact of this update to the consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03: Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs (“ASU 2015-03”). The update sets forth a requirement that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability, consistent with debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs is not affected by the amendments in this update. ASU 2015-03 will be effective for us in FY16. We are in the process of assessing the future impact of this update to the consolidated financial statements.

 

We have reviewed all other recently issued, but not yet effective, accounting pronouncements and we do not believe the future adoption of any such pronouncements may be expected to cause a material impact on its financial condition or the results of its operations.

 

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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

We are a smaller reporting company as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act and are not required to provide the information required under this Item.

 

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ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, our management has evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective and provide reasonable assurance, as of the end of the period covered by this report, that information required to be disclosed by us in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and were effective to provide reasonable assurance that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely discussions regarding required disclosure.

 

Changes to Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the three-month and nine-month periods ended March 31, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls

 

A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, cannot provide absolute assurance due to its inherent limitations: it is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human or other failures. A control system also can be circumvented in various ways, including, without limitation, by collusion or improper management override. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of such limitations, disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting cannot prevent or detect all misstatements, including, without limitation, unintentional errors or fraud. Because these inherent limitations are known features of the financial reporting process, it is possible to design and implement process safeguards to reduce such risk, however, such risk cannot be completely eliminated. As such, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent or detect all misstatements, including without limitation, unintentional errors and fraud.

 

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

We may be subject to various litigation matters arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time.  However, we are not aware of any current pending legal matters or claims, individually or in the aggregate, that are expected to have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

 

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.

 

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2014 filed with the SEC on September 29, 2014 and the factor set forth below, all of which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results. These described risks are not the only risks facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and/or operating results.

 

Risks Related to Our Class A Common Stock

 

Our low share price and small market capitalization may preclude certain institutional investors from holding our stock.

 

During the past year, our common stock has traded for significant periods of time at below $5 per share, which is the minimum share price at which certain institutional investors are willing to own a stock. A smaller pool of potential investors for our stock may decrease demand for the shares, resulting in a lower prices for our common stock than might otherwise prevail.  As a result of the foregoing, investors may not be able to resell their shares at or above the price they paid for such shares.

  

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

None

 

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

 

Not Applicable

 

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not Applicable

 

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Not Applicable

 

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ITEM 6. EXHIBITS.

 

31.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
31.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.1 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
32.2 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
   
101.INS XBRL Instance Document
   
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
   
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
   
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
   
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
   
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Healdsburg, State of California, on the 15th day of May, 2015.

 

TRUETT-HURST, INC.    
     
/s/ Phillip L. Hurst   May 15, 2015 
     

Phillip L. Hurst

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

   
     
/s/ Paul Forgue   May 15, 2015 
     

Paul Forgue

Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operations Officer

(Principal Financial/Accounting Officer)

   

 

29