Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-Q

 

 

(Mark One)

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2008

OR

 

¨ 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 0-28551

 

 

NutriSystem, Inc.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   23-3012204

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

 

300 Welsh Road, Building 1, Suite 100

Horsham, Pennsylvania

  19044
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip code)

(215) 706-5300

(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 checkmark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer  x    Accelerated filer  ¨    Non-accelerated filer  ¨    Smaller reporting company  ¨

Indicate by checkmark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined by 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 November 4, 2008:

 

Common Stock, $.001 par value

  29,593,752 shares

 

 

 


Table of Contents

NUTRISYSTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX TO FORM 10-Q

 

     Page

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

  

Item 1 – Financial Statements (unaudited)

  

Consolidated Balance Sheets

   1

Consolidated Statements of Operations

   2

Consolidated Statement of Stockholders’ Equity and Comprehensive Income

   3

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

   4

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   6

Item 2 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   17

Item 3 – Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

   25

Item 4 – Controls and Procedures

   25

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

  

Item 1 – Legal Proceedings

   26

Item 1A – Risk Factors

   27

Item 2 – Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

   27

Item 3 – Defaults Upon Senior Securities

   27

Item 4 – Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

   27

Item 5 – Other Information

   27

Item 6 – Exhibits

   28

SIGNATURES

   29


Table of Contents

NUTRISYSTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

 

     September 30,
2008
    December 31,
2007
    
     (Unaudited)      

ASSETS

    

CURRENT ASSETS:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 58,049     $ 40,679

Marketable securities

     —         1,769

Receivables

     16,074       19,100

Inventories

     39,010       82,491

Prepaid income taxes

     5,004       —  

Deferred income taxes

     4,151       3,260

Other current assets

     7,536       11,585

Current assets of discontinued operation

     375       517
              

Total current assets

     130,199       159,401

FIXED ASSETS, net

     24,336       21,872

EQUITY INVESTMENT

     10,798       13,458

GOODWILL

     2,717       —  

IDENTIFIABLE INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net

     2,795       —  

OTHER ASSETS

     3,031       3,823

NON-CURRENT ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATION

     6       6
              
   $ 173,882     $ 198,560
              

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 30,475     $ 46,064

Accrued payroll and related benefits

     4,332       1,907

Income taxes payable

     —         2,482

Deferred revenue

     2,420       —  

Other accrued expenses and current liabilities

     6,965       5,535

Current liabilities of discontinued operation

     169       64
              

Total current liabilities

     44,361       56,052

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

     1,255       1,006
              

Total liabilities

     45,616       57,058
              

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 8)

    

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

    

Preferred stock, $.001 par value (5,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding)

     —         —  

Common stock, $.001 par value (100,000,000 shares authorized; shares issued – 30,928,046 at September 30, 2008 and 33,955,859 at December 31, 2007)

     30       33

Retained earnings

     128,405       141,454

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

     (169 )     15
              

Total stockholders’ equity

     128,266       141,502
              
   $ 173,882     $ 198,560
              

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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NUTRISYSTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2008     2007     2008     2007  

REVENUE

   $ 162,681     $ 188,103     $ 573,178     $ 639,578  
                                

COSTS AND EXPENSES:

        

Cost of revenue

     79,523       87,691       283,056       295,420  

Marketing

     39,165       47,514       148,449       144,737  

General and administrative

     19,471       16,871       54,475       48,379  

Depreciation and amortization

     2,484       1,520       6,170       4,130  
                                

Total costs and expenses

     140,643       153,596       492,150       492,666  
                                

Operating income from continuing operations

     22,038       34,507       81,028       146,912  

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTION LOSS

     (40 )     —         (84 )     —    

EQUITY LOSS

     (552 )     —         (2,660 )     —    

INTEREST INCOME, net

     292       1,097       734       2,986  
                                

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

     21,738       35,604       79,018       149,898  

INCOME TAXES

     8,043       13,354       29,234       56,214  
                                

Income from continuing operations

     13,695       22,250       49,784       93,684  

DISCONTINUED OPERATION (NOTE 10):

        

Loss on discontinued operation, net of income tax benefit

     (164 )     (1 )     (202 )     (19 )
                                

Net income

   $ 13,531     $ 22,249     $ 49,582     $ 93,665  
                                

BASIC INCOME PER COMMON SHARE:

        

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.46     $ 0.65     $ 1.60     $ 2.71  

Net loss from discontinued operation

     —         —         —         —    
                                

Net income

   $ 0.46     $ 0.65     $ 1.60     $ 2.71  
                                

DILUTED INCOME PER COMMON SHARE:

        

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.45     $ 0.64     $ 1.58     $ 2.64  

Net loss from discontinued operation

     —         —         (0.01 )     —    
                                

Net income

   $ 0.45     $ 0.64     $ 1.57     $ 2.64  
                                

WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING:

        

Basic

     29,709       34,219       31,076       34,621  

Diluted

     30,247       34,942       31,597       35,438  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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NUTRISYSTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited, in thousands, except share amounts)

 

     Common
Shares
    Common
Stock
    Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
    Retained
Earnings
    Total  

BALANCE, January 1, 2008

   33,512,671     $ 33     $ —       $ 15     $ 141,454     $ 141,502  

Net income

   —         —         —         —         49,582       49,582  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

   —         —         —         (184 )     —         (184 )
                  

Total comprehensive income

               49,398  

Share-based expense

   93,215       —         5,784       —         —         5,784  

Exercise of stock options

   309,884       1       818       —         —         819  

Tax benefit from stock option exercises

   —         —         1,267       —         —         1,267  

Tax benefit from dividends

   —         —         112       —         —         112  

Cash dividends - $0.175 per share

   —         —         —         —         (10,829 )     (10,829 )

Purchase and retirement of common shares

   (4,324,123 )     (4 )     (7,981 )     —         (51,802 )     (59,787 )
                                              

BALANCE, September 30, 2008

   29,591,647     $ 30     $ —       $ (169 )   $ 128,405     $ 128,266  
                                              

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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NUTRISYSTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited, in thousands)

 

     Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2008     2007  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

    

Net income

   $ 49,582     $ 93,665  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities-

    

Loss on discontinued operation

     202       19  

Depreciation and amortization

     6,170       4,130  

Share–based expense

     5,704       2,853  

Deferred income tax benefit

     (336 )     (1,183 )

Loss on disposal of fixed assets

     85       244  

Equity loss

     2,660       —    

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

    

Accrued interest income

     19       (235 )

Receivables

     3,009       2,764  

Inventories

     43,426       33,455  

Other assets

     4,442       (976 )

Accounts payable

     (15,602 )     (13,038 )

Accrued payroll and related benefits

     2,426       3,970  

Deferred revenue

     2,420       —    

Income taxes

     (7,483 )     7,813  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

     403       2,548  
                

Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations

     97,127       136,029  

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities of discontinued operations

     (95 )     14  
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     97,032       136,043  
                

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

    

Purchases of marketable securities

     —         (172,300 )

Sales of marketable securities

     1,750       162,475  

Cash paid for acquisition of a business

     (4,217 )     —    

Capital additions

     (8,540 )     (12,092 )
                

Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations

     (11,007 )     (21,917 )
                

Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations

     —         (100 )
                

Net cash used in investing activities

     (11,007 )     (22,017 )
                

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

    

Borrowings under credit facility

     35,000       —    

Repayments of borrowings under credit facility

     (35,000 )     —    

Exercise of stock options

     819       1,623  

Withholding of restricted stock for minimum tax obligations

     (246 )     —    

Tax benefit from stock option exercises

     1,267       7,381  

Tax benefit from dividends

     112       —    

Repurchase and retirement of common stock

     (59,787 )     (97,756 )

 

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Payment of dividends

     (10,829 )     —    
                

Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations

     (68,664 )     (88,752 )
                

Net cash used in financing activities of discontinued operations

     —         (150 )
                

Net cash used in financing activities

     (68,664 )     (88,902 )
                

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

     (130 )     —    
                

NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     17,231       25,124  
                

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period

     41,190       13,785  
                

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period

     58,421       38,909  
                

LESS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATION, end of period

     372       216  
                

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS OF CONTINUING OPERATIONS, end of period

   $ 58,049     $ 38,693  
                

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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NUTRISYSTEM, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited, in thousands except share and per share amounts)

1. BACKGROUND

Nature of the Business

NutriSystem, Inc. (the “Company” or “NutriSystem”) provides weight management products and services. The Company’s pre-packaged foods are sold to weight loss program participants directly via the Internet and telephone, referred to as the direct channel, through independent commissioned representatives, the field sales channel, through independent center-based distributors, the case distributor channel, and through QVC, a television shopping network. In 2007 and prior, substantially all of the Company’s revenue was generated domestically. In January 2008, the Company expanded operations into Canada.

In the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company committed to a plan to sell its subsidiary Slim and Tone LLC (“Slim and Tone”), a franchisor of women’s express fitness centers. This subsidiary has been treated as a discontinued operation. Accordingly, the operating results have been presented separately from continuing operations and are included in loss on discontinued operation, net of income tax in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations for all periods presented. The assets and liabilities have also been presented separately in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets (see Note 10).

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Presentation of Financial Statements

The Company’s consolidated financial statements include 100% of the assets and liabilities of NutriSystem, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The Company holds an approximately 27% interest in Zero Technologies, LLC (“Zero Water”), a manufacturer of patented water filters, and has the ability to significantly influence the operations of Zero Water (see Note 4). The investment in Zero Water is accounted for using the equity method of accounting and is classified as equity investment in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s share of Zero Water’s loss subsequent to the purchase is included in equity loss in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Interim Financial Statements

The Company’s consolidated financial statements as of September 30, 2008 and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 are unaudited and, in the opinion of management, include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of the Company’s financial position and results of operations for these interim periods. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the year ending December 31, 2008.

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities

Cash and cash equivalents include only securities having a maturity of three months or less at the time of purchase. At September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, demand accounts and money market accounts comprised all of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents. All invested cash balances are backed by the U.S. Treasury.

As of September 30, 2008, the Company did not hold any marketable securities. As of December 31, 2007, marketable securities consisted of corporate auction rate securities with original maturities in excess of 10 years. The Company’s investment policy permits investments in auction rate securities that have interest reset dates of three months or less at the time of purchase. The reset date is the date on which the underlying interest rate is revised based on a Dutch auction. Typically interest reset dates are every 35 days for these types of securities.

 

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The following summarizes cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007:

 

     Cost    Accrued
Interest
   Fair
Value

Cash and cash equivalents

        

Demand deposits

   $ 21,627    $ —      $ 21,627

Money market accounts

     36,422      —        36,422
                    

September 30, 2008

   $ 58,049    $ —      $ 58,049
                    

Cash and cash equivalents

        

Demand deposits

   $ 4,694    $ —      $ 4,694

Money market accounts

     35,985      —        35,985
                    

December 31, 2007

   $ 40,679    $ —      $ 40,679
                    

Marketable securities

        

Auction rate securities

   $ 1,750    $ 19    $ 1,769
                    

December 31, 2007

   $ 1,750    $ 19    $ 1,769
                    

At December 31, 2007, auction rate securities consisted primarily of variable interest bonds of housing agencies. These securities were sold at par value in January 2008.

Inventories

Inventories consist principally of packaged food held in the Company’s warehouse or in outside fulfillment locations. Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method.

Fixed Assets

Fixed assets are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which are generally two to seven years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the estimated useful life of the asset or the related lease term. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred, while major renewals and improvements are capitalized.

Included in fixed assets is the capitalized cost of internal-use software and website development incurred during the application development stage. Capitalized costs are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset, which is generally two to five years. Costs incurred related to planning or maintenance of internal-use software and website development are charged to expense as incurred. The net asset balance of capitalized software was $9,248 and $5,499 at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively.

Valuation of Long-Lived Assets

The Company continually evaluates whether events or circumstances have occurred that indicate that the remaining useful lives of its long-lived assets, primarily fixed assets, should be revised or that the remaining balance of such assets may not be recoverable using objective methodologies. Such methodologies include evaluations based on the discounted cash flows generated by the underlying assets or other determinants of fair value. As of September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, management believes that no reductions to the remaining useful lives or write-downs of long-lived assets are required.

 

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Foreign Currency Translation

The functional currency of the Company’s Canadian subsidiary is the Canadian dollar. Assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates as of the financial statement dates and revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the respective periods. Translation adjustments are included as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’ equity in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Realized gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are recognized as foreign currency transaction loss in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue from product sales is recognized when the earnings process is complete, which is upon transfer of title to the product. This transfer occurs upon shipment. Recognition of revenue upon shipment meets the revenue recognition criteria in that persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, shipment has occurred, the selling price is fixed and determinable and collection is reasonably assured. Customers may return unopened product within 30 days of purchase in order to receive a refund or credit. Estimated returns are accrued at the time the sale is recognized and actual returns are tracked monthly and the estimated returns reserve is adjusted monthly.

During the three months ended September 30, 2008, the Company began to sell prepaid meal program cards to a certain wholesaler on a sales test basis. Revenue from these cards is recognized when the card is redeemed online by the customer and the product is shipped. Deferred revenue consists primarily of the sale of these prepaid meal program cards.

Revenue from product sales includes amounts billed for shipping and handling and is presented net of returns and billed sales tax. Revenue from shipping and handling charges was $1,271 and $4,142 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, and $1,474 and $4,178 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively. Shipping-related costs are included in cost of revenue in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

The Company reviews the reserves for customer returns at each reporting period and adjusts them to reflect data available at that time. To estimate reserves for returns, the Company considers actual return rates in preceding periods and changes in product offerings or marketing methods that might impact returns going forward. To the extent the estimate of returns is inaccurate; the Company will adjust the reserve, which will impact the amount of product sales revenue recognized in the period of the adjustment. The provision for estimated returns for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $11,648 and $40,540, respectively, and $14,227 and $44,983 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007. The reserve for returns incurred but not received and processed was $3,428 and $2,860 at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, and has been included in other accrued expenses and current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Dependence on Suppliers

Approximately 17% and 14% of inventory purchases for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 were from two suppliers. The Company has supply arrangements with these vendors that require the Company to make minimum purchases (see Note 8). For the nine months ended September 30, 2007, these vendors supplied 25% and 10% of total purchases, respectively.

In both the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company outsourced more than 85% of its fulfillment operations to a third-party provider.

Vendor Rebates

One of the Company’s suppliers provides for rebates based on purchasing levels. The Company accounts for this rebate on an accrual basis as purchases are made at a rebate percent determined based upon the estimated total purchases from the vendor. The estimated rebate is recorded as a reduction in the carrying value of purchased inventory and is reflected in the consolidated statements of operations when the associated inventory is sold. A receivable is recorded for the estimate of the rebate earned. The rebate period is June 1 through May 31 of each year. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, we reduced cost of revenue by $983 and $3,743, respectively, as a result of these rebates. For the comparable periods of 2007, we reduced cost of revenue by $1,746 and $4,568, respectively. A receivable of $912 and $3,703 at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, has been

 

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recorded in receivables in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The actual rebate received from the vendor has historically closely matched the estimated rebate recorded and an adjustment is made to the estimate upon determination of the final rebate.

Marketing Expense

Marketing expense includes media, advertising production, marketing and promotional expenses and payroll-related expenses for personnel engaged in these activities. Media expense was $34,734 and $133,779 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, and $43,118 and $133,471 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively. Direct-mail advertising costs are capitalized if the primary purpose was to elicit sales to customers who could be shown to have responded specifically to the direct mailing and results in probable future economic benefits. The capitalized costs are amortized to expense over the period during which the future benefits are expected to be received. Typically, this period falls within 40 days of the initial direct mailing. All other advertising costs are charged to expense as incurred or the first time the advertising takes place. At September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, $220 and $15, respectively, of capitalized direct-mail advertising costs are included in other current assets and $3,047 and $4,760, respectively, of costs have been prepaid for upcoming advertisements and promotions.

Accounting for Lease Related Expenses

Certain of the Company’s lease contracts contain rent holidays, various escalation clauses, or landlord/tenant incentives. The Company records rental costs, including costs related to fixed rent escalation clauses and rent holidays, on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Landlord/tenant incentives are recorded as leasehold improvement assets and amortized over the shorter of the economic useful life of the asset or the lease term. Tenant allowances received are recorded as deferred rent and amortized as reductions to rent expense over the lease term.

Income Taxes

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and the respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the consolidated statements of operations in the period that includes the enactment date.

Fair Value Measurements

Effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” only for its financial assets and liabilities required or permitted to be stated or disclosed at fair value. This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 does not require any new fair value measurements.

As of September 30, 2008, the Company did not carry any of its assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis and did not recognize any unrealized amounts in earnings or accumulated other comprehensive income related to changes in fair value for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008. When invested, the Company carries its marketable securities at fair value. The Company’s fair value measurement disclosure requirements are currently limited to annual fair value disclosure of its financial instruments.

Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Staff Position FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” defers the effective date to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008, and interim periods within those fiscal years, for all non financial assets and non financial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually).

Also effective January 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which permits entities to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value. Currently, the Company has not elected to treat any of its financial assets or liabilities under the fair value option.

 

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Segment Information

The Company is managed and operated as one business. The entire business is managed by a single management team that reports to the chief executive officer. Revenue consists primarily of food sales.

Earnings Per Share

Basic earnings per share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution from the exercise or conversion of securities into common stock, such as stock options and unvested restricted stock, using the treasury stock method. The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted EPS:

 

     Three Months Ended
September 30,
    Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
     2008     2007     2008     2007  
     (in thousands, except per share amounts)  

Income from continuing operations

   $ 13,695     $ 22,250     $ 49,784     $ 93,684  

Loss on discontinued operation

     (164 )     (1 )     (202 )     (19 )
                                

Net income

   $ 13,531     $ 22,249     $ 49,582     $ 93,665  
                                

Weighted average shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     29,709       34,219       31,076       34,621  

Effect of dilutive stock options and unvested restricted stock

     538       723       521       817  
                                

Diluted

     30,247       34,942       31,597       35,438  
                                

Basic income per common share:

        

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.46     $ 0.65     $ 1.60     $ 2.71  

Net loss from discontinued operation

     —         —         —         —    
                                

Net income

   $ 0.46     $ 0.65     $ 1.60     $ 2.71  
                                

Diluted income per common share:

        

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.45     $ 0.64     $ 1.58     $ 2.64  

Net loss from discontinued operation

     —         —         (0.01 )     —    
                                

Net income

   $ 0.45     $ 0.64     $ 1.57     $ 2.64  
                                

In the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, common stock equivalents from stock options and unvested restricted stock representing 716,228 and 549,015 shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from weighted average shares outstanding for diluted net income per share purposes because the effect would be anti-dilutive. In the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, common stock equivalents from stock options and unvested restricted stock representing 3,453 and 10,001 shares of common stock, respectively, were excluded from weighted average shares outstanding for diluted net income per share purposes because the effect would be anti-dilutive.

Share-Based Payment Awards

The cost of all share-based awards to employees, including grants of employee stock options and restricted stock, is recognized in the financial statements based on the fair value of the awards at grant date. The fair-value of stock option awards is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model on the date of grant. The fair value of restricted stock awards is equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant.

The fair-value of share-based awards is recognized over the requisite service period, net of estimated forfeitures. The Company relies primarily upon historical experience to estimate expected forfeitures and recognizes compensation expense on a straight-line basis from the date of grant. The Company issues new shares upon exercise of stock options or vesting of restricted stock.

 

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Cash Flow Information

The Company made payments for income taxes of $35,181 and $41,572 in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and $49 and minimal interest payments for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141R, “Business Combinations” and SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements – An Amendment of ARB No. 51.” SFAS Nos. 141R and 160 require most identifiable assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests and goodwill acquired in a business combination to be recorded at “full fair value” and require noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interests) to be reported as a component of equity, which changes the accounting for transactions with noncontrolling interest holders. Both statements are effective for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2008, and early adoption is prohibited. Accordingly, SFAS No. 141R will be applied by the Company to business combinations occurring on or after January 1, 2009. SFAS No. 160 will be applied prospectively to all noncontrolling interests, including any that arose before the effective date. The adoption of SFAS No. 160 is not expected to have any material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS No. 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in the preparation of financial statements. SFAS No. 162 is effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, “The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” The adoption of SFAS No.162 is not expected to have any material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In June 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) No. 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities.” Under the FSP, unvested share-based payment awards that contain rights to receive nonforfeitable dividends (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities, and should be included in the two-class method of computing EPS. The FSP is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and for interim periods within those years. The Company is currently evaluating whether the adoption of the FSP will have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and operating expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

3. ACQUISITION

On July 1, 2008, the Company acquired certain assets of Power Chow, LLC (d/b/a NuKitchen) (“NuKitchen”), a provider of premium, fresh prepared meals designed to promote weight management and healthy living for an initial cash outlay of $4,000, subject to $3,000 future contingent payments to the former owners, who became employees of a subsidiary of the Company on July 1, 2008. The future payments to the former owners consist of a $1,500 guaranteed payment payable for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2008 and a second $1,500 earnout payment payable for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2009 if certain financial targets for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2009 are achieved. The 2008 earnout payment is recorded in other accrued expenses and current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at September 30, 2008. Additionally, the Company incurred $217 in transaction costs to date. NuKitchen provides a full menu of fresh, restaurant-quality prepared meals delivered daily to customers and will expand the Company’s product offerings, menu selection and price points. The acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting and the operating results of the acquired business have been included in the consolidated statements of operations and cash flows from the acquisition date through September 30, 2008. Revenue of NuKitchen was $878 for the period from the date of acquisition (July 1, 2008) through September 30, 2008.

The total purchase price of $5,717 has been allocated to identifiable intangible assets ($3,000) and goodwill ($2,717).

 

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The identifiable intangible assets consist of a customer list ($500); technology ($700); and trade/brand name ($1,800).

4. EQUITY INVESTMENT

On October 11, 2007, the Company purchased 1,320,650 Series A Units from Zero Water, at a purchase price of $10.60 per Series A Unit for an aggregate purchase price of $14,258, which includes acquisition costs of $259. This represents approximately a 27% equity interest in Zero Water. This investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 an estimated loss of $552 and $2,660, respectively, was recorded for the Company’s share of Zero Water’s loss and amortization expense for the difference between the cost and the underlying equity in net assets of Zero Water at the investment date.

5. CREDIT FACILITY

On October 2, 2007, the Company executed a credit agreement with a group of lenders that provides for a $200,000 unsecured revolving credit facility with an expansion feature, subject to certain conditions, to increase the facility to $300,000 (the “Credit Facility”). During 2008, the Company drew down on the Credit Facility in the amount of $35,000. There were no amounts outstanding as of September 30, 2008.

The Credit Facility provides for interest at either a floating rate, which will be a base rate, or a Eurocurrency rate equal to the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate for the relevant term, plus an applicable margin. The base rate will be the higher of the lender’s base rate or one-half of one percent above the Federal Funds Rate. The Credit Facility is also subject to a 0.15% per annum unused fee payable quarterly. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company expensed $0 and $49 in interest, respectively, and $76 and $226, respectively, in an unused line fee.

The Credit Facility contains financial and other covenants, including a maximum leverage ratio and minimum interest coverage ratio, and includes limitations on, among other things, liens, certain acquisitions, consolidations and sales of assets. The Company may declare and pay cash dividends up to specified amounts if certain ratios are maintained and no events of default have occurred. As of September 30, 2008, the Company was in compliance with all covenants contained in the Credit Facility.

At September 30, 2008, the Company had $651 of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with the Credit Facility that are being amortized over the remaining term of the Credit Facility. The amount of unused Credit Facility at September 30, 2008 was $200,000. The Credit Facility can be drawn upon through October 2, 2012, at which time all amounts must be repaid.

6. CAPITAL STOCK

Common Stock

The Company issued 309,884 and 362,900 shares of common stock in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 respectively, upon the exercise of stock options and received proceeds of $819 and $1,623. Additionally, the restrictions on 57,197 and 6,524 shares of common shares issued to employees lapsed in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Also, in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 respectively, the Company issued 49,264 and 4,910 shares of common stock as compensation to board members, certain consultants and spokespersons. Costs recognized for these stock grants were $616 and $274 for the respective periods. The fair value of the common stock issued in 2008 to board members, certain consultants and spokespersons was $704. The remaining $114 will be recognized over the contractual term of the agreement as the services are provided.

In August 2006, the Company announced that its Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50,000 of its outstanding shares of common stock. In February 2007, a repurchase program of up to $200,000 of outstanding shares of common stock was authorized and in October 2007, an additional $100,000 was authorized. The stock repurchase programs from 2007 have an expiration date of March 31, 2009, and also may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice. The timing and actual number of shares repurchased depends on a variety of factors including price, corporate and regulatory requirements, alternative investment opportunities and other market conditions. In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company purchased and retired 4,324,123 shares of common stock for an aggregate cost of $59,787. The cost of the purchased shares was reflected in the accompanying statement of stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income as a reduction of common stock (equal to par value of purchased shares), additional paid-in capital (“APIC”) (equal to balance in APIC) with the excess recorded as a reduction in retained earnings. As of September 30, 2008, the Company may purchase an additional $123,069 under the existing repurchase program.

 

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Preferred Stock

The Company has authorized 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock issuable in series upon resolution of the Board of Directors. Unless otherwise required by law, the Board of Directors can, without stockholder approval, issue preferred stock in the future with voting and conversion rights that could adversely affect the voting power of the common stock. The issuance of preferred stock may have the effect of delaying, averting or preventing a change in control of the Company.

7. SHARE-BASED EXPENSE

The following table summarizes the options granted, exercised and cancelled during the nine months ended September 30, 2008:

 

     Number of
Shares
    Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
Per Share
   Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (years)
   Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

Outstanding, January 1, 2008

   924,084     $ 3.10      

Granted

   —         —        

Exercised

   (309,884 )     2.64      

Forfeited

   (10,500 )     21.59      

Expired

   —         —        
              

Outstanding, September 30, 2008

   603,700     $ 3.02    5.17    $ 9,092
                        

Exercisable, September 30, 2008

   599,367     $ 2.81    5.15    $ 9,092
                        

Expected to vest at September 30, 2008

   603,571     $ 3.01    5.17    $ 9,092
                        

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company recorded pre-tax compensation charges of $83 and $402, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations for the portion of previously granted stock option awards that vested after January 1, 2006. In the comparable period of 2007, the Company recorded pre-tax compensation charges of $380 and $1,443, respectively. There were no option grants during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 or 2007. The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 was $19 and $5,667, respectively, and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007 was $1,726 and $20,788, respectively.

 

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The Company has issued restricted stock to employees generally with terms ranging from three to five years. The fair value is equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. Expense for restricted stock is amortized ratably over the vesting period. The following table summarizes the restricted stock activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2008:

 

     Number of
Shares
    Weighted-
Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value

Nonvested, January 1, 2008

   443,188     $ 44.91

Granted

   1,016,259       17.70

Vested

   (57,197 )     54.22

Cancelled/Forfeited

   (65,851 )     33.61
        

Nonvested, September 30, 2008

   1,336,399     $ 24.38
        

The Company recorded compensation of $1,933 and $4,795, in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, and $740 and $1,268 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively, in connection with the issuance of the restricted shares. Included in the number of shares vested for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 were 13,246 shares that employees surrendered to the Company for payment of the minimum tax withholding obligations.

As of September 30, 2008, there was $26,874 of total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested share-based compensation arrangements, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.

SFAS No. 123R addresses financial instruments issued as part of share-based payment arrangements in exchange for employee services. Certain of the Company’s share-based payment arrangements were outside the scope of SFAS No. 123R and were subject to EITF Issue No. 00-19, which requires that vested stock options held by certain non-employee consultants be accounted for as liability awards. The fair value of the award is remeasured at each financial statement date until the award is settled or expires. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, the Company reduced expense by $0 and $109, respectively, based on the remeasurement of these options. In the comparable periods of 2007, the Company reduced expense by $183 and $132, respectively, for these options. Stock options to acquire 8,000 shares of common stock were exercised during 2008 resulting in the reclassification of $103 to equity. As of September 30, 2008, no options to non-employee consultants were outstanding.

8. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Commencing on October 9, 2007, several putative class actions were filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania naming NutriSystem, Inc. and certain of its officers and directors as defendants and alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The complaints purported to bring claims on behalf of a class of persons who purchased the Company’s common stock between February 14, 2007 and October 3, 2007 or October 4, 2007. The complaints alleged that the defendants issued various materially false and misleading statements relating to the Company’s projected performance that had the effect of artificially inflating the market price of its securities. These actions were consolidated in December 2007 under docket number 07-4215. On January 3, 2008, the Court appointed lead plaintiffs and lead counsel pursuant to the requirements of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and a consolidated amended complaint was filed on March 7, 2008. The consolidated amended complaint raises the same claims but alleges a class period of February 14, 2007 through February 19, 2008. The defendants filed a motion to dismiss on May 6, 2008. The plaintiffs’ opposition was filed July 7, 2008, and defendants’ reply was filed on August 6, 2008. The Court has scheduled oral argument on the motion to dismiss for November 24, 2008. The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

Commencing on October 30, 2007, two shareholder derivative suits were filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. These suits, which were nominally brought on behalf of NutriSystem, Inc., name certain of its officers and a majority of the current Board of Directors as defendants. The federal complaints allege violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and claims for breach of fiduciary duty, waste, and unjust enrichment against all defendants and insider selling against certain defendants. The complaints are based on many of the same allegations as the putative class action described above but add contentions regarding the Company’s buyback program. The two federal actions were consolidated in December 2007 under docket number 07-4565, and an amended complaint was filed on March 14, 2008 naming a majority of the

 

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current Board of Directors as defendants and certain current and former officers. Defendants filed a motion to dismiss on May 13, 2008. The plaintiffs’ opposition was filed on July 14, 2008, and defendants’ reply was filed on August 13, 2008. The Court has scheduled oral argument for November 24, 2008. A shareholder derivative action was also filed in the Common Pleas Court of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, in November 2007. Like the federal derivative action, the state court action is nominally brought on behalf of the Company and names a majority of the current Board of Directors as defendants. This action has been stayed. The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

The Company received in November 2007 correspondence from an attorney purporting to represent a NutriSystem shareholder. This correspondence requested that the Company’s Board of Directors appoint a special litigation committee to investigate unspecified breaches of fiduciary duty. The disinterested and independent board members met to discuss this issue and responded to the attorney’s correspondence. Following receipt of additional correspondence from the same attorney in February 2008, the Board of Directors was considering its response when the shareholder represented by this attorney commenced a derivative lawsuit in the Court of Common Pleas in the name of the Company against the entire current Board of Directors and certain current and former officers. The Board of Directors responded to the attorney’s correspondence. The parties have reached an agreement to stay this matter pending the disposition of the anticipated motion to dismiss the federal securities putative class action complaint. The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

On March 28, 2008, a former NutriSystem, Inc. sales representative filed a putative collective action complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, docket no. 08-1508, alleging that NutriSystem unlawfully failed to pay overtime in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The complaint purported to bring claims on behalf of a class of current and former sales representatives who were compensated by NutriSystem pursuant to a commission-based compensation plan, rather than on an hourly basis. The plaintiff filed an amended complaint on May 28, 2008, adding a state-law class claim under the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act, alleging that NutriSystem’s compensation plan also violated state law. On June 11, 2008, NutriSystem answered the amended complaint and moved to dismiss the plaintiff’s state-law class claim. On June 11, 2008, the plaintiff filed a motion to proceed as a collective action and send class members notice under the Fair Labor Standards Act claim. On July 25, 2008, the Court granted NutriSystem’s motion to dismiss with respect to the state law claim. On September 29, 2008, the Court granted Plaintiff’s motion to conditionally proceed as a class action. On October 14, 2008, Plaintiff’s counsel mailed notice to potential class members. The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

The Company is also involved in other various claims and routine litigation matters. In the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, the outcome of such matters is not anticipated to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows in future years.

The Company has entered into supply agreements with various food vendors. The majority of these agreements provide for annual pricing, annual purchase commitments, as well as exclusivity in the production of certain products, with terms of five years or less. One agreement also provides rebates if certain volume thresholds are exceeded. The Company anticipates it will meet all annual purchase commitments.

9. INCOME TAXES

The Company recorded income taxes at an estimated annual effective income tax rate applied to income before income taxes of 37.0% in both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008. In both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, the Company recorded income taxes at an estimated annual effective income tax rate applied to income before income taxes of 37.5%. In all periods, the estimated annual effective income tax rate differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state income taxes. The Company offsets taxable income for state tax purposes with net operating loss carryforwards. At December 31, 2007, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $14,400 for state tax purposes. For state tax purposes, there is a limitation on the amount of net operating loss carryforwards that can be utilized in a given year to offset state taxable income and management believes that some of the net operating loss carryforwards will be subject to this annual limit in 2008. State net operating losses will begin to expire in 2020. The Company adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48 effective January 1, 2007 and the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of September 30, 2008 was $1,165. The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective income tax rate is approximately $757. Based on the projected level of future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the deferred tax assets.

 

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10. DISCONTINUED OPERATION

In the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company committed to a plan to sell its subsidiary, Slim and Tone. In accordance with SFAS No. 144, this subsidiary has been treated as a discontinued operation. Accordingly, the operating results of this discontinued operation have been presented separately from continuing operations for all periods presented. The Company expects to sell Slim and Tone by December 31, 2008. Slim and Tone had revenues of $46 and $235 and pre-tax losses of $260 and $321 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively. In the comparable periods of 2007, Slim and Tone had revenues of $180 and $621 and pre-tax losses of $3 and $32, respectively. Income tax benefits of $96 and $119 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively, reduced the loss on discontinued operation to $164 and $202, respectively. In the comparable periods of 2007, income tax benefits of $2 and $13, respectively, reduced the loss on discontinued operation to $1 and $19, respectively.

 

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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Except for the historical information contained herein, this Report on Form 10-Q contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Words such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “continue,” or similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Our actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include those set forth in “Item 1A—Risk Factors” as disclosed in our Form 10-K filed on February 29, 2008 with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, there is no assurance that the results in the forward-looking statements will be achieved.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the financial information included elsewhere in this Report on Form 10-Q.

Background

We provide weight management products and services. Our pre-packaged foods are sold to weight loss program participants directly via the Internet and telephone, referred to as the direct channel, through independent commissioned representatives, the field sales channel, through independent center-based distributors, the case distributor channel, and through QVC, a television shopping network. In 2007 and prior, substantially all of our revenue was generated domestically. In January 2008, we expanded operations into Canada.

Revenue consists primarily of food sales. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008, the direct channel accounted for 93% of total revenue compared to 6% for QVC and 1% for the other channels. We incur significant marketing expenditures to support our brand. We believe that our brand is continuing to gain awareness as we continue our purchases of media in all media channels. New media channels are tested on a continuous basis and we consider our media mix to be diverse. We market our weight management system through television, print, direct mail, Internet and public relations.

We manage our business using detailed operating and financial metrics that focus on customer profitability and behavior. These metrics include, but are not limited to, the number of customer starts, each customer’s time on the program, customer acquisition costs, revenue per customer and reactivation revenue rates. Additionally, we evaluate all investments in the business on a return on investment projection. We have recently sought to improve the online experience with the member section of our website which, we believe, should provide a more valuable, effective and interactive experience and increase the level of weight loss support that we offer with our program to our customers.

In December 2007, we launched NutriSystem Advanced, a new weight-loss and health and wellness platform that replaced NutriSystem Nourish, which was our core weight loss program since 2004. We believe this program to be easier and healthier than NutriSystem Nourish and will aid in our reactivation efforts as it gives our lapsed customers a reason to try our program again.

In the fourth quarter of 2007, we committed to a plan to sell our subsidiary, Slim and Tone, a franchisor of women’s express fitness centers. In accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” this subsidiary has been treated as a discontinued operation. Accordingly, the operating results of this discontinued operation have been presented separately from continuing operations. Slim and Tone had revenues of $46 and $235 and pre-tax losses of $260 and $321 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008, respectively. In the comparable periods of 2007, Slim and Tone had revenues of $180 and $621 and pre-tax losses of $3 and $32, respectively.

We are still seeing a challenging environment in 2008, with some consumers reducing spending. Operating in this environment will require a flexible business model. We believe our core product offering and brand not only remain healthy but continue to show strength. We will continue to focus on reactivation revenue and will adapt our marketing to support this growing revenue stream. We will also look to develop new programs to focus on increasing revenue per customer and extending a customer’s length of stay. A new maintenance program is in development to extend the paying relationships beyond the initial weight loss phase and we are expecting to expand into a frozen line of entrees to supplement the basic meal plan and provide more variety and choices. In June 2008, we completed our conversion to a new ecommerce platform. This should enable us to gain critical insights into real-time web

 

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performance, marketing effectiveness and conversion rates while also providing the infrastructure to support our customers. To address the current economic challenges, we are testing a number of new offers and value enhancements to give our customers a better reason to try our program. Additionally, we are launching new creative marketing as well as featuring new celebrity spokespersons and will continue to manage our media spend to optimize profitability and to ensure we are capitalizing on all efficiencies.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2 of the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Management develops, and changes periodically, these estimates and assumptions based on historical experience and on various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The accounting estimates we consider critical include reserves for returns, vendor rebates, excess and obsolete inventory and income taxes. These critical accounting estimates are discussed with our audit committee quarterly.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, we did not make any material change to our critical accounting policies.

Results of Operations

Revenue and expenses consist of the following components:

Revenue. Revenue consists primarily of food sales. Food sales include sales of food, supplements, shipping and handling charges billed to customers and sales credits and adjustments, including product returns. No revenue is recorded for food products provided to customers at no charge as part of promotions.

Cost of Revenue. Cost of revenue consists primarily of the cost of the products sold, including the compensation related to fulfillment, the costs of outside fulfillment, incoming and outgoing shipping costs, charge card fees and packing material. Cost of products sold includes products provided at no charge as part of promotions and the non-food materials provided with customer orders. Cost of revenue also includes the fees paid to independent distributors and sales commissions.

Marketing Expense. Marketing expense includes media, advertising production, marketing and promotional expenses and payroll-related expenses for personnel engaged in these activities. We follow the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Statement of Position 93-7, “Reporting on Advertising Costs.” Internet advertising expense is recorded based on either the rate of delivery of a guaranteed number of impressions over the advertising contract term or on a cost per customer acquired, depending upon the terms. Direct-mail advertising costs are capitalized if the primary purpose was to elicit sales to customers who could be shown to have responded specifically to the advertising and results in probable future economic benefits. The capitalized costs are amortized to expense over the period during which the future benefits are expected to be received. All other advertising costs are charged to expense as incurred.

 

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General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses consist of compensation for administrative, information technology, counselors (excluding commissions) and customer service personnel, share-based payment arrangements, facility expenses, website development costs, professional service fees and other general corporate expenses.

Equity Loss. Equity loss consists of our share of the earnings or losses of our equity interests including any amortization expense for the difference between the cost and the underlying equity in net assets of the equity interest at the date of investment. We hold an approximate 27% interest in Zero Technologies, LLC (“Zero Water”) and have the ability to significantly influence the operations of Zero Water. The investment in Zero Water is accounted for using the equity method of accounting.

Interest Income, Net. Interest income, net consists of interest income earned on cash balances and marketable securities, net of interest expense.

Income Taxes. We are subject to corporate level income taxes and record a provision for income taxes based on an estimated annual effective income tax rate for the year.

Overview of the Direct Channel

In both the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the direct channel represented 93% of our revenue. Net sales through the direct channel were $150.5 million and $532.1 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $175.1 million and $595.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively. The decrease is primarily attributable to the decline in customer starts due to the weakening economy. Revenue is primarily generated through customer starts and customer ordering behavior, including length of time on our program and the diet program selection. Critical to increasing customer starts is our ability to deploy marketing dollars while maintaining marketing effectiveness. Factors influencing our marketing effectiveness include the quality of the advertisements, promotional activity by our competitors, as well as the price and availability of appropriate media.

Overview of Distribution via a Television Home Shopping Network

We distribute our proprietary prepackaged food through QVC, a television home shopping network. In both the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, this channel represented 6% of our revenue. On the QVC network, we reach a large audience in a 50 minute infomercial format that enables us to fully convey the benefits of the NutriSystem diet programs. Under the terms of our agreement, QVC viewers purchase NutriSystem products directly from QVC and are not directed to the NutriSystem website. Retail prices (including shipping and handling) offered on QVC to consumers are similar to prices offered on the website. We generate a lower gross margin (as a percent of revenue) on sales through QVC relative to the direct channel, but QVC sales require no incremental advertising and marketing expense and, management believes, exposure on QVC raises consumer awareness of the NutriSystem brand. Net sales through QVC were $11.0 million and $36.6 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $11.2 million and $37.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively. QVC sales are a function of the number of shows and the sales per minute on each show. Sales remained consistent for the three months ended September 30, 2008 versus the comparable period of 2007, which we attribute to our introduction of NutriSystem Advanced in April 2008 to the QVC channel. Sales decreased slightly for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 versus the comparable period of 2007 due to the slower than expected sales in first half of the first quarter.

 

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Three Months Ended September 30, 2008 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2007

 

     Three Months Ended September 30,  
     2008     2007     $ Change     % Change  
     (in thousands)  

REVENUE

   $ 162,681     $ 188,103     $ (25,422 )   (14 )%
                          

COSTS AND EXPENSES:

        

Cost of revenue

     79,523       87,691       (8,168 )   (9 )%

Marketing

     39,165       47,514       (8,349 )   (18 )%

General and administrative

     19,471       16,871       2,600     15 %

Depreciation and amortization

     2,484       1,520       964     63 %
                          

Total costs and expenses

     140,643       153,596       (12,953 )   (8 )%
                          

Operating income from continuing operations

     22,038       34,507       (12,469 )   (36 )%

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTION LOSS

     (40 )     —         (40 )   NM  

EQUITY LOSS

     (552 )     —         (552 )   NM  

INTEREST INCOME, net

     292       1,097       (805 )   (73 )%
                          

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

     21,738       35,604       (13,866 )   (39 )%

INCOME TAXES

     8,043       13,354       (5,311 )   (40 )%
                          

Income from continuing operations

     13,695       22,250       (8,555 )   (38 )%

LOSS ON DISCONTINUED OPERATION, net

     (164 )     (1 )     (163 )   NM  
                          

Net income

   $ 13,531     $ 22,249     $ (8,718 )   (39 )%
                          

% of revenue

        

Gross margin

     51.1 %     53.4 %    

Marketing

     24.1 %     25.3 %    

General and administrative

     12.0 %     9.0 %    

Operating income from continuing operations

     13.5 %     18.3 %    

Revenue. Revenue decreased to $162.7 million in the third quarter of 2008 from $188.1 million for the third quarter of 2007. The revenue decrease resulted primarily from a decrease in customer starts due to the weakening economy, which was partially offset by the improvement in revenue per customer. The improvement in revenue per customer resulted from customers staying on the program longer. The direct channel accounted for 92% of total revenue in the third quarter of 2008 compared to 7% for QVC and 1% for other channels. In the third quarter of 2007, the direct channel accounted for 93% of total revenue compared to 6% for QVC and 1% for other channels.

Costs and Expenses. Cost of revenue decreased to $79.5 million in the third quarter of 2008 from $87.7 million in the third quarter of 2007. Gross margin as a percent of revenue decreased to 51.1% in the third quarter of 2008 from 53.4% for the third quarter of 2007. The decrease in gross margin was primarily attributable to increased food costs. We are continuing to experience pressure on gross margins but are focusing on these costs and are working on a full supply chain optimization effort. In addition, we increased prices on October 1, 2008 to help mitigate these pressures.

Marketing expense decreased to $39.2 million in the third quarter of 2008 from $47.5 million in the third quarter of 2007. Marketing expense as a percent of revenue decreased to 24.1% in the third quarter of 2008 from 25.3% for the third quarter of 2007. This percentage decreased from the comparable quarter of 2007 but has improved significantly from 31.1% in the first quarter of 2008 as a result of finding the right mix of media channels and offers that deliver the appropriate levels of profitability in the current

 

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economic environment. Substantially all marketing spending during the quarter promoted the direct business, and the decrease in marketing is primarily attributable to decreased spending for advertising media ($8.4 million) which offset higher production of television advertising ($588,000). In total, media spending was $34.7 million in the third quarter of 2008 and $43.1 million in the third quarter of 2007.

General and administrative expenses increased to $19.5 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared to $16.9 million in the third quarter of 2007. General and administrative expense as a percent of revenue increased to 12.0% in the third quarter of 2008 from 9.0% for the third quarter of 2007. The increase in spending is due to increased professional and outside services expenses ($1.7 million) in part for maintenance and support of our ecommerce website and increased non-cash expense for share-based compensation ($1.2 million) due to the hiring and promotion of several executive officers. The comparable period of 2007 also included transaction costs ($578,000) for an acquisition that we ultimately did not pursue.

Equity Loss. In October 2007, we purchased an approximate 27% equity interest in Zero Water, a manufacturer of patented water filters. This investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and an estimated loss of $552,000 was recorded for our share of Zero Water’s loss and the amortization expense for the difference between cost and the underlying equity in net assets of Zero Water.

Interest Income, Net. Interest income, net, decreased to $292,000 in the third quarter of 2008 compared to $1.1 million in the third quarter of 2007. The decrease in interest income, net, is due to lower cash and marketable securities balances and lower interest rates as excess cash was invested in bank and money market accounts during 2008 as compared to marketable securities during 2007.

Income Taxes. In the third quarter of 2008, we recorded income tax expense of $8.0 million, which reflects an estimated annual effective income tax rate of 37.0%. In the third quarter of 2007, we recorded income tax expense of $13.4 million, which reflected an estimated annual effective income tax rate of 37.5%. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily due to lower state income taxes due to the apportionment of income to states with lower tax rates.

Net Income. Net income decreased to $13.5 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared to $22.2 million in the third quarter of 2007. The decrease in net income is primarily due to the decrease in revenue and higher food costs.

 

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Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2007

 

     Nine Months Ended September 30,  
     2008     2007     $ Change     % Change  
     (in thousands)  

REVENUE

   $ 573,178     $ 639,578     $ (66,400 )   (10 )%
                          

COSTS AND EXPENSES:

        

Cost of revenue

     283,056       295,420       (12,364 )   (4 )%

Marketing

     148,449       144,737       3,712     3 %

General and administrative

     54,475       48,379       6,096     13 %

Depreciation and amortization

     6,170       4,130       2,040     49 %
                          

Total costs and expenses

     492,150       492,666       (516 )   NM  
                          

Operating income from continuing operations

     81,028       146,912       (65,884 )   (45 )%

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTION LOSS

     (84 )     —         (84 )   NM  

EQUITY LOSS

     (2,660 )     —         (2,660 )   NM  

INTEREST INCOME, net

     734       2,986       (2,252 )   (75 )%
                          

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

     79,018       149,898       (70,880 )   (47 )%

INCOME TAXES

     29,234       56,214       (26,980 )   (48 )%
                          

Income from continuing operations

     49,784       93,684       (43,900 )   (47 )%
                          

LOSS ON DISCONTINUED OPERATION, net

     (202 )     (19 )     (183 )   (963 )%
                          

Net income

   $ 49,582     $ 93,665     $ (44,083 )   (47 )%
                          
% of revenue         

Gross margin

     50.6 %     53.8 %    

Marketing

     25.9 %     22.6 %    

General and administrative

     9.5 %     7.6 %    

Operating income from continuing operations

     14.1 %     23.0 %    

Revenue. Revenue decreased to $573.2 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from $639.6 million for the comparable period of 2007. The revenue decrease resulted primarily from a decrease in customer starts due to the weakening economy, which was partially offset by the improvement in revenue per customer. The direct channel accounted for 93% of total revenue in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007 compared to 6% for QVC and 1% for other channels.

Costs and Expenses. Cost of revenue decreased to $283.1 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from $295.4 million in the comparable period of 2007. Gross margin as a percent of revenue decreased to 50.6% in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from 53.8% for the comparable period of 2007. The decrease in gross margin was primarily attributable to increased food and freight costs. We are continuing to experience pressure on gross margins but are focusing on these costs and are working on a full supply chain optimization effort. In addition, we increased prices on October 1, 2008 to help mitigate these pressures.

 

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Marketing expense increased to $148.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from $144.7 million in the comparable period of 2007. Marketing expense as a percent of revenue increased to 25.9% in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from 22.6% for the comparable period of 2007. We invested more marketing dollars early in 2008 to maintain our position in a competitive media environment and to support the launch of NutriSystem Advanced. Towards the latter half of the first quarter and in the second and third quarters of 2008, we were able to reallocate resources to find the right mix of media channels and offers that deliver the appropriate levels of profitability. Substantially all marketing spending during the period promoted the direct business, and the increase in marketing is primarily attributable to increased spending for advertising media ($303,000); the production of television advertising ($2.6 million); and higher compensation and benefits costs ($872,000). In total, media spending was $133.8 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and $133.5 million in the comparable period of 2007.

General and administrative expenses increased to $54.5 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $48.4 million in the comparable period of 2007. General and administrative expense as a percent of revenue increased to 9.5% in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 from 7.6% for the comparable period of 2007. The increase in spending is due to increased professional and outside services expenses ($4.3 million) in part for maintenance and support of our ecommerce website and increased non-cash expense for share-based compensation ($2.9 million) due to the hiring and promotion of several executive officers. The comparable period of 2007 also included transaction costs ($578,000) for an acquisition that we ultimately did not pursue.

Equity Loss. In October 2007, we purchased an approximate 27% equity interest in Zero Water, a manufacturer of patented water filters. This investment is accounted for under the equity method of accounting and an estimated loss of $2.7 million was recorded for our share of Zero Water’s loss and the amortization expense for the difference between cost and the underlying equity in net assets of Zero Water.

Interest Income, Net. Interest income, net, decreased to $734,000 in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $3.0 million in the comparable period of 2007. The decrease in interest income, net, is due to lower cash and marketable securities balances and lower interest rates as excess cash was invested in bank and money market accounts during 2008 as compared to marketable securities during 2007.

Income Taxes. In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, we recorded income tax expense of $29.2 million, which reflects an estimated annual effective income tax rate of 37.0%. In the nine months ended September 30, 2007, we recorded income tax expense of $56.2 million, which reflected an estimated annual effective income tax rate of 37.5%. The decrease in the effective tax rate was primarily due to lower state income taxes due to the apportionment of income to states with lower tax rates.

Net Income. Net income decreased to $49.6 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2008 compared to $93.7 million in the comparable period of 2007. The decrease in net income is primarily due to the decrease in revenue, higher food and freight costs and less efficient advertising and marketing spending.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

As of September 30, 2008, our principal commitments consisted of obligations under supply agreements with food vendors, an agreement with our outside fulfillment provider, a capital lease, operating leases and employment contracts. Although we have no material commitments for capital expenditures, we anticipate continuing requirements for capital expenditures consistent with anticipated growth in operations, infrastructure and personnel.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, there were no items that significantly impacted our commitments and contingencies as disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2007, as included in our Form 10-K. In addition, we have no off-balance sheet financing arrangements.

Liquidity, Capital Resources and Other Financial Data

At September 30, 2008, we had net working capital of $85.8 million, compared to net working capital of $103.3 million at December 31, 2007. Cash and cash equivalents at September 30, 2008 were $58.0 million, an increase of $17.3 million from the balance of $40.7 million at December 31, 2007. Additionally, we had $1.8 million invested in marketable securities at December 31, 2007. We had no investments in marketable securities as of September 30, 2008. In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, we

 

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used $59.8 million to repurchase 4.3 million shares of our common stock. Our principal sources of liquidity during this period were cash flows from operations. We have a $200.0 million unsecured revolving credit agreement with a group of lenders, which is committed until October 2, 2012 with an expansion feature, subject to certain conditions, to increase the facility to $300.0 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2008, we drew down $35.0 million against this facility but, as of September 30, 2008, no amounts were outstanding. We currently have no off-balance sheet financing arrangements.

In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, we generated a cash flow of $97.0 million from operating activities, a decrease of $39.0 million from 2007. The decrease in cash flow from operations is primarily attributable to the decline in net income. Net changes in operating assets and liabilities increased cash flow from operations by $33.1 million in 2008, with changes due to the reduction in inventories ($43.4 million) and in accounts payable ($15.6 million). We anticipate building inventory during the fourth quarter of 2008 for the 2009 diet season.

In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, net cash used by investing activities was $11.0 million, primarily due to capital expenditures of $8.5 million and the acquisition of NuKitchen, which offset the cash received from the sales of marketable securities. We are continuing to invest in our ecommerce platform and web initiatives which will allow us to enhance our sales efforts and be more efficient in testing and in offering new promotional programs.

In the nine months ended September 30, 2008, net cash used in financing activities consisted of the repurchase of 4.3 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $59.8 million and the payment of dividends of $10.8 million, which was partially offset by the tax benefit from stock option exercises and cash receipts from the exercise of common stock options.

In August 2006, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50 million of our outstanding shares of common stock. In February 2007, a repurchase program of up to $200 million of our outstanding shares of common stock was authorized and, in October 2007, an additional $100 million was authorized. The stock repurchase programs from 2007 have an expiration date of March 31, 2009 and also may be limited or terminated by the Board of Directors at any time without prior notice. The repurchased shares have been retired.

On July 1, 2008, we acquired certain assets of NuKitchen, a provider of premium, fresh prepared meals designed to promote weight management and healthy living for an initial cash outlay of $4.0 million, subject to certain future contingent payments to the former owners, who became employees of one of our subsidiaries on July 1, 2008. The future payments to the former owners consist of a $1.5 million guaranteed payment payable for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2008 and a second $1.5 million earnout payment payable for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2009 if certain financial targets for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2009 are achieved. The 2008 earnout payment is recorded in other accrued expenses and current liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at September 30, 2008. Additionally, we incurred $217,000 in transaction costs to date. We commenced our operational transition of NuKitchen during the fourth quarter of 2008.

In July 2008, management approved plans to close two of the Company’s distribution centers to improve efficiency in the Company’s supply chain. One distribution center was closed during the three months ended September 30, 2008 and the second is expected to close during the three months ending December 31, 2008. During the three months ended September 30, 2008, the Company recorded $356,000 of expense for these closings. These charges are included in general and administrative in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and were primarily for transportation costs to transfer inventory to remaining distributions centers and fixed asset impairments.

The Board of Directors also declared quarterly dividends of $0.175 per share, which were paid on May 15, 2008 and August 15, 2008. The next quarterly dividend of $0.175 per shares is payable November 17, 2008 to shareholders of record as of November 7, 2008. Although the Company intends to continue to pay regular quarterly dividends, the declaration and payment of future dividends are discretionary and will be subject to quarterly determination by the Board of Directors following its review of the Company’s financial performance.

 

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Seasonality

Typically in the weight loss industry, revenue is strongest in the first calendar quarter and lowest in the fourth calendar quarter. We believe our business experiences seasonality, driven by the predisposition of dieters to initiate a diet and the price and availability of certain media.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We believe that we are not subject to any material risks arising from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, equity prices or other market changes that affect market risk instruments. We do not have any variable interest debt outstanding at September 30, 2008 and have cash and cash equivalents at that date of $58.0 million. As such, a change in interest rates of 1 percentage point would not have a material impact on our operating results and cash flows. We have recently expanded internationally into Canada but believe we have low exposure to changes in foreign exchange rates at this point.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures. The Securities and Exchange Commission defines the term “disclosure controls and procedures” to mean a company’s controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. Based on the evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures by our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures at the end of the period covered by this report were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Commission’s rules and forms, and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding disclosure.

(b) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. No change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) occurred during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Commencing on October 9, 2007, several putative class actions were filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania naming NutriSystem, Inc. and certain of its officers and directors as defendants and alleging violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The complaints purported to bring claims on behalf of a class of persons who purchased the Company’s common stock between February 14, 2007 and October 3, 2007 or October 4, 2007. The complaints alleged that the defendants issued various materially false and misleading statements relating to the Company’s projected performance that had the effect of artificially inflating the market price of its securities. These actions were consolidated in December 2007 under docket number 07-4215. On January 3, 2008, the Court appointed lead plaintiffs and lead counsel pursuant to the requirements of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and a consolidated amended complaint was filed on March 7, 2008. The consolidated amended complaint raises the same claims but alleges a class period of February 14, 2007 through February 19, 2008. The defendants filed a motion to dismiss on May 6, 2008. The plaintiffs’ opposition was filed July 7, 2008, and defendants’ reply was filed on August 6, 2008. The Court has scheduled oral argument on the motion to dismiss for November 24, 2008. The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

Commencing on October 30, 2007, two shareholder derivative suits were filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. These suits, which were nominally brought on behalf of NutriSystem, Inc., name certain of its officers and a majority of the current Board of Directors as defendants. The federal complaints allege violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and claims for breach of fiduciary duty, waste, and unjust enrichment against all defendants and insider selling against certain defendants. The complaints are based on many of the same allegations as the putative class action described above but add contentions regarding the Company’s buyback program. The two federal actions were consolidated in December 2007 under docket number 07-4565, and an amended complaint was filed on March 14, 2008 naming a majority of the current Board of Directors as defendants and certain current and former officers. Defendants filed a motion to dismiss on May 13, 2008. The plaintiffs’ opposition was filed on July 14, 2008, and defendants’ reply was filed on August 13, 2008. The Court has scheduled oral argument for November 24, 2008. A shareholder derivative action was also filed in the Common Pleas Court of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, in November 2007. Like the federal derivative action, the state court action is nominally brought on behalf of the Company and names a majority of the current Board of Directors as defendants. This action has been stayed. The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

The Company received in November 2007 correspondence from an attorney purporting to represent a NutriSystem shareholder. This correspondence requested that the Company’s Board of Directors appoint a special litigation committee to investigate unspecified breaches of fiduciary duty. The disinterested and independent board members met to discuss this issue and responded to the attorney’s correspondence. Following receipt of additional correspondence from the same attorney in February 2008, the Board of Directors was considering its response when the shareholder represented by this attorney commenced a derivative lawsuit in the Court of Common Pleas in the name of the Company against the entire current Board of Directors and certain current and former officers. The Board of Directors responded to the attorney’s correspondence. The parties have reached an agreement to stay this matter pending the disposition of the anticipated motion to dismiss the federal securities putative class action complaint. The Company believes that the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

On March 28, 2008, a former NutriSystem, Inc. sales representative filed a putative collective action complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, docket no. 08-1508, alleging that NutriSystem unlawfully failed to pay overtime in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act. The complaint purported to bring claims on behalf of a class of current and former sales representatives who were compensated by NutriSystem pursuant to a commission-based compensation plan, rather than on an hourly basis. The plaintiff filed an amended complaint on May 28, 2008, adding a state-law class claim under the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act, alleging that NutriSystem’s compensation plan also violated state law. On June 11, 2008, NutriSystem answered the amended complaint and moved to dismiss the plaintiff’s state-law class claim. On June 11, 2008, the plaintiff filed a motion to proceed as a collective action and send class members notice under the Fair Labor Standards

 

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Act claim. On July 25, 2008, the Court granted NutriSystem’s motion to dismiss with respect to the state law claim. On September 29, 2008, the Court granted Plaintiff’s motion to conditionally proceed as a class action. On October 14, 2008, Plaintiff’s counsel mailed notice to potential class members. The Company believes the claims are without merit and intends to defend the litigation vigorously.

The Company is also involved in other various claims and routine litigation matters. In the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, the outcome of such matters is not anticipated to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows in future years.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the factors disclosed in Item 1A. Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The following table provides information relating to our purchases of our common stock during the quarter ended September 30, 2008:

 

Period

   Total Number of
Shares Purchased
   Average Price
Paid per Share
   Total Number of Shares
Purchased as Part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
   Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased Under
the Plans or Programs

July 1 – July 31, 2008

   1,023,400    14.88    1,023,400    $ 123,068,588

August 1 – August 31, 2008

   —      —      —      $ 123,068,588

September 1 – September 30, 2008

   —      —      —      $ 123,068,588

(1) In August 2006, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $50 million of our outstanding shares of common stock in open-market transactions on the Nasdaq National Market. Additionally, in February 2007, a repurchase program of up to $200 million of outstanding shares of common stock was authorized and, in October 2007, an additional $100 million of outstanding shares of common stock was authorized The timing and actual number of shares repurchased depend on a variety of factors including price, corporate and regulatory requirements, alternative investment opportunities and other market conditions. The stock repurchase programs from 2007 have an expiration date of March 31, 2009 and also may be limited or terminated at any time without prior notice.

(2) During the period July 1, 2008 through September 30, 2008, 12,336 shares were surrendered by employees to the Company for payment of the minimum tax withholding obligations.

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

None

 

Item 5. Other Information

None

 

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Item 6. Exhibits

 

10.1    Employment Agreement dated October 20, 2008 between NutriSystem, Inc. and Monica Woo, the Company’s Executive Vice President eCommerce and Chief Marketing Officer
10.2    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated October 21, 2008 between NutriSystem, Inc. and David Clark, the Company’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
31.1    Certifying Statement of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2    Certifying Statement of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1    Certifying Statement of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 1350 of Title 18 of the United States Code
32.2    Certifying Statement of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 1350 of Title 18 of the United States Code

 

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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.

 

NutriSystem, Inc.    
BY:  

/S/ Joseph M. Redling

    November 7, 2008
  Joseph M. Redling    
  Chief Executive Officer    
  (principal executive officer)    
BY:  

/S/ David D. Clark

    November 7, 2008
  David D. Clark    
  Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary    
  (principal financial and accounting officer)    

 

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Exhibit Index

 

No.

  

Description

10.1    Employment Agreement dated October 20, 2008 between NutriSystem, Inc. and Monica Woo, the Company’s Executive Vice President eCommerce and Chief Marketing Officer
10.2    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated October 21, 2008 between NutriSystem, Inc. and David Clark, the Company’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
31.1    Certifying Statement of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2    Certifying Statement of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1    Certifying Statement of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 1350 of Title 18 of the United States Code
32.2    Certifying Statement of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 1350 of Title 18 of the United States Code

 

30