Campbell Reports Third Quarter Results

Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) today reported earnings from continuing operations increased to $217 million in the third quarter ended April 29, 2007 from $146 million in the prior year. Earnings per share from continuing operations for the quarter were $.55, compared with $.35 in the year-ago period.

The current quarter’s earnings from continuing operations included two items that impacted comparability. The prior period’s earnings per share also required an adjustment for comparability. These items are summarized below:

Third Quarter

2007 

2006 

(millions, except per share amounts)

Earnings

EPS

Earnings

EPS

 

Earnings from continuing operations

$

217 

$

0.55 

$

146 

$

0.35 

 

Adjustment for the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation

$

(13)

$

(0.03)

$

- 

$

- 

 

Benefit from the settlement of a bilateral advanced pricing agreement (APA) between the U.S. and Canada related to royalties

(25)

(0.06)

- 

- 

 

Pro forma use of $620 million of U.K./Ireland sale proceeds to repurchase 17 million shares

- 

- 

- 

0.02 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted earnings from continuing operations

$

179 

$

0.45*

$

146 

$

0.37 

* Does not add due to rounding.

Excluding the above-referenced items, third quarter earnings from continuing operations were $179 million compared to $146 million, an increase of 23 percent, and earnings per share in the third quarter were $.45 compared to $.37, an increase of 22 percent.

For the third quarter, net sales rose 8 percent to $1.9 billion, reflecting the following factors:

Volume and mix added 5 percent

Price and sales allowances added 2 percent

Promotional spending subtracted 1 percent

Currency added 2 percent

For the first nine months of fiscal year 2007, earnings from continuing operations were $770 million versus $671 million a year earlier. Earnings per share were $1.93 compared to $1.62 reported in the year-ago period. The items impacting comparability are summarized below:

Nine Months

2007 

2006 

(millions, except per share amounts)

Earnings

EPS

Earnings

EPS

 

Earnings from continuing operations

$

770 

$

1.93 

$

671 

$

1.62 

 

Adjustment for the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation

$

(13)

$

(0.03)

$

- 

$

- 

 

Benefit from the settlement of an APA between the U.S. and Canada

(25)

(0.06)

- 

- 

 

Gain on the sale of an idle Pepperidge Farm facility

(14)

(0.04)

- 

- 

 

Change in inventory accounting method from LIFO to average cost

- 

- 

(8)

(0.02)

 

Favorable resolution of a U.S. tax contingency related to transactions in government securities in prior periods

- 

- 

(60)

(0.14)

 

Tax expense on repatriation of earnings under the AJCA*

- 

- 

8 

0.02 

 

Pro forma use of $620 million of U.K./Ireland sale proceeds to repurchase 17 million shares

- 

- 

- 

0.06 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjusted earnings from continuing operations

$

718 

$

1.80 

$

611 

$

1.54 

* American Jobs Creation Act

After factoring in these items, earnings from continuing operations for the first nine months were $718 million compared to $611 million, an increase of 18 percent, and earnings per share were $1.80 compared to $1.54 a year ago, an increase of 17 percent.

A detailed reconciliation of the adjusted fiscal 2007 and 2006 financial information to the reported information is attached to this release.

For the first nine months of fiscal 2007, net sales were $6.3 billion, an increase of 7 percent compared with the year-ago period, reflecting the following factors:

Volume and mix added 3 percent

Price and sales allowances added 3 percent

Currency added 1 percent

Douglas R. Conant, Campbell’s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Campbell continues to deliver outstanding performance this year, with good growth across our portfolio. Our U.S. soup business was robust in the quarter and has performed well year to date, with lower sodium soups continuing to exceed our expectations in terms of consumer trial, repeat, and incrementality. Our U.S. beverage business, led by ‘V8′ vegetable juice, delivered extraordinary results and has been the company’s best-performing business this year, and Pepperidge Farm also has continued its strong performance.”

Conant continued, “We are especially pleased that we achieved these results during Campbell’s successful completion of the first phase of our SAP installation in the U.S., with several customers characterizing the implementation to date as seamless.”

Conant concluded, “Given our strong performance in the quarter, we are increasing our forecasted fiscal 2007 adjusted EPS growth from continuing operations to a range of 12 to 14 percent, from the adjusted pro forma fiscal 2006 base of $1.73.”

Other Third Quarter Highlights

Gross margin increased to 41.4 percent from 40.9 percent in the prior year with higher selling prices and productivity gains more than offsetting cost inflation.

Marketing and selling expenses were $336 million, an increase of 18 percent, primarily due to increased advertising in the U.S.

The tax rate was 14.6 percent compared to 29.8 percent a year ago. Excluding the impact of the APA settlement and the reversal of legal reserves, the rate would have been 22.2 percent. This adjusted quarterly tax rate reflects the reversal of income tax reserves which have been recognized in connection with the resolution of 2000 to 2004 U.S. federal income tax audits.

Other First Nine Months of Fiscal 2007 Highlights

Gross margin increased to 42.4 percent from 41.8 percent, due to higher selling prices and productivity gains, which more than offset cost inflation. The prior year’s percentage includes a $13 million benefit, or 0.2 percentage points, from a change in the method of accounting for inventory.

Marketing and selling expenses were $1.013 billion, an increase of $54 million, primarily due to increased advertising, higher selling expenses driven mainly by Godiva, and currency.

The company repurchased 26 million shares for $974 million under three programs: the program utilizing proceeds from the divestiture of the U.K. and Ireland businesses; the three-year strategic share repurchase program of $600 million announced in November 2005; and the program to offset the impact of dilution from shares issued under stock compensation plans.

Summary of Fiscal 2007 Third Quarter and Nine Month Results by Segment

U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages

Sales for U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages were $807 million in the quarter, a 13 percent increase compared with a year ago. The change in sales reflects the following factors:

Volume and mix added 11 percent

Price and sales allowances added 2 percent

Operating earnings were $182 million compared to $171 million in the year-ago period. The increase in operating earnings was due to higher volumes, partially offset by increased advertising expenses.

U.S. soup sales for the quarter increased 10 percent compared with a year ago. Further details of sales results for the quarter include the following:

Sales of all U.S. soups benefited from significant increases in advertising and more effective advertising campaigns.

Across the soup portfolio, “Campbell’s” lower sodium soups had a positive impact on sales. Trial, repeat, and incrementality continued to exceed expectations.

Sales of “Campbell’s” condensed soups were up 4 percent, with solid gains in both eating and cooking varieties. The continued focus on casserole-based advertising drove sales of cooking soups. Condensed soups continued to benefit from the innovative gravity-feed shelving systems installed at approximately 16,000 retail locations.

Sales of “Campbell’s” ready-to-serve soups were up 17 percent, on gains in both “Campbell’s Select” and “Campbell’s Chunky” soups. Increased promotional activity and advertising spending fueled double-digit gains of “Campbell’s Chunky” soups.

“Swanson” broth sales were up 17 percent, due to higher levels of advertising and strong ongoing consumer demand for aseptically-packaged broth.

Sales of “Campbell’s” convenience soup platform, which includes soups in microwaveable bowls and cups, posted solid gains.

Highlights of this segment’s other businesses include:

Beverage sales increased significantly, driven by gains of “V8″ vegetable juice and “V8 V-Fusion” juice, as well as gains in “V8 Splash” juice drinks. The debut of the “Bop” advertising campaign, a fresh take on the classic “I Could Have Had a V8″ campaign, helped drive strong results for “V8.”

Sales of “Prego” pasta sauces grew due to increased promotional activity, while sales of “Pace” Mexican sauces declined.

For the first nine months of fiscal 2007, U.S. Soup, Sauces, and Beverages sales increased 7 percent to $2.887 billion, with gains in beverages, sauces, and across all soup formats–condensed, ready-to-serve, and broth.

A breakdown of the change in sales follows:

Volume and mix added 4 percent

Price and sales allowances added 3 percent

For the nine months, soup sales increased 6 percent.

Sales of condensed soup increased 4 percent

Ready-to-serve soup sales increased 7 percent

Broth sales increased 12 percent

Operating earnings were $778 million compared to $701 million in the year-ago period. Earnings for the first nine months of fiscal 2006 included an $8 million benefit from a change in the method of accounting for inventory. The increase in operating earnings was driven by higher selling prices, increased volume, and productivity gains, which were partially offset by cost inflation.

Baking and Snacking

Sales for Baking and Snacking were $441 million in the quarter, up 5 percent compared with a year ago. A breakdown of the change in sales follows:

Volume and mix added 1 percent

Price and sales allowances added 2 percent

Promotional spending subtracted 1 percent

Currency added 3 percent

Operating earnings were $46 million compared with $35 million in the year-ago quarter. The increase in operating earnings was driven by double-digit gains at Pepperidge Farm and gains at Arnott’s.

Further details of sales results include the following:

Sales of “Pepperidge Farm” cookies and crackers increased, driven by another quarter of double-digit growth of “Goldfish” crackers. “Goldfish” crackers continued to benefit from strong sales of 100-calorie packs and expanded distribution of single-serve packages, along with higher levels of advertising. Gains in “Goldfish” crackers were partially offset by declines in cookies.

Pepperidge Farm bakery sales grew in the quarter mainly driven by ongoing consumer demand for whole grain breads, as well as the continued growth of sandwich rolls.

Arnott’s sales increased due to currency. Excluding currency, sales decreased as Arnott’s faced a challenging competitive environment.

For the first nine months of fiscal 2007, sales increased 5 percent to $1.379 billion. Operating earnings increased to $191 million compared to $125 million in the year-ago period. Earnings for the first nine months of fiscal 2006 included a $5 million benefit from a change in the method of accounting for inventory, while earnings for the first nine months of fiscal 2007 included a $23 million gain from the sale of an idle Pepperidge Farm facility. Operating earnings results were driven by double-digit gains at Pepperidge Farm and gains at Arnott’s.

International Soup and Sauces

Sales for International Soup and Sauces were $340 million in the quarter, up 6 percent compared with a year ago.

A breakdown of the change in sales follows:

Volume and mix added 1 percent

Price and sales allowances added 2 percent

Promotional spending subtracted 2 percent

Currency added 5 percent

Operating earnings were $43 million, flat with the year-ago period. Operating earnings performance was driven by currency, offset by declines in the Canadian business.

Sales increased in Europe due to currency, gains from the launch of new flavor varieties of wet soup in France, and increased condiment sales.

For the first nine months of fiscal 2007, sales increased 10 percent to $1.090 billion. Operating earnings were $150 million compared to $139 million in the prior-year period. Operating earnings increased due to currency and gains in Canada and Mexico, partially offset by higher expenses to establish Campbell’s businesses in Russia and China, and lower earnings in Europe due to increased spending to support new products.

Other

The balance of the portfolio includes the Godiva Chocolatier business worldwide and the Away From Home business in the U.S. and Canada.

Sales were $280 million in the quarter, up 3 percent compared with the same period a year ago.

A breakdown of the change in sales follows:

Volume and mix added 2 percent

Price and sales allowances added 2 percent

Increased promotional spending subtracted 1 percent

Operating earnings were $23 million compared to $27 million in the same period a year ago. Operating earnings performance was driven by declines at Godiva due to increased marketing expenses to support new products in Asia and North America.

Further details include the following:

Godiva Chocolatier sales increased, driven mainly by double-digit gains in Asia. North American sales rose slightly, with internet sales increasing double digits and same-store sales up slightly. A winter storm in the Northeast adversely impacted sales on Valentine’s Day, which is typically Godiva’s single biggest sales day of the year.

Away From Home sales grew modestly, driven by growth of frozen and canned soups, as well as beverages.

For the first nine months of fiscal 2007, sales increased 4 percent to $917 million. Operating earnings were $119 million compared to $122 million in the prior-year period. Operating earnings were driven by lower earnings at Godiva due to increased marketing expenses to support new products.

Non-GAAP Financial Information

A reconciliation of the adjusted fiscal 2007 and 2006 financial information to the reported information is attached to this release and can also be found on the company’s website at www.campbellsoupcompany.com in the “Investor Center” section.

Conference Call

The company will host a conference call to discuss these results on May 21, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time. U.S. participants may access the call at 1-866-206-5917 and non-U.S. participants at 1-703-639-1106. Participants should call at least five minutes prior to the starting time. The passcode is “Campbell Soup” and the conference leader is Len Griehs. The call will also be broadcast live over the Internet at www.campbellsoupcompany.com and can be accessed by clicking on the “Webcast” banner. A recording of the call will be available approximately two hours after it is completed through midnight May 25, 2007 at 1-888-266-2081 or 1-703-925-2533. The access code is 452106.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains “forward-looking statements” which reflect the company’s current expectations about its future plans and performance, including statements concerning the impact of marketing investments and strategies, pricing, share repurchase, new product introductions and innovation, cost-saving initiatives, quality improvements, and portfolio strategies, including divestitures, on sales, earnings, and margins. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions and estimates which could be inaccurate and which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could vary materially from those anticipated or expressed in any forward-looking statement made by the company. Please refer to the company’s most recent Form 10-K and subsequent filings for a further discussion of these risks and uncertainties. The company disclaims any obligation or intent to update the forward-looking statements in order to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

Reporting Segments

Campbell Soup Company earnings results are reported for the following segments:

U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages includes the following retail businesses: “Campbell’s” brand condensed and ready-to-serve soups, “Swanson” broth and canned poultry businesses, “Prego” pasta sauce, “Pace” Mexican sauce, “Campbell’s Chunky” chili, “Campbell’s” canned pasta, gravies and beans, “Campbell’s Supper Bakes” meal kits, “V8″ vegetable juices, “V8 Splash” juice beverages, and “Campbell’s” tomato juice.

Baking and Snacking includes the following businesses: “Pepperidge Farm” cookies, crackers, breads and frozen products in U.S. retail, “Arnott’s” biscuits in Australia and Asia Pacific, and “Arnott’s” salty snacks in Australia.

International Soup and Sauces includes the soup, sauce and beverage businesses outside of the United States, including Canada, Europe, Mexico, Latin America, and the Asia Pacific region.

Other includes the Godiva Chocolatier business worldwide and the Away From Home business in the U.S. and Canada.

About Campbell Soup Company

Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high quality foods and simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, vegetable-based beverages, and premium chocolate products, with annual revenues in excess of $7.3 billion. Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,”"Pepperidge Farm,”"Arnott’s,”"V8,” and “Godiva.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.campbellsoupcompany.com.

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY CONSOLIDATED

STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (unaudited)

(millions, except per share amounts)

 

 

THREE MONTHS ENDED

April 29,

April 30,

2007 

2006 

 

Net sales

$

1,868 

$

1,728 

 

Costs and expenses

Cost of products sold

1,094 

1,021 

Marketing and selling expenses

336 

284 

Administrative expenses

135 

147 

Research and development expenses

26 

26 

Other expenses / (income)

 

(4)

 

2 

Total costs and expenses

 

1,587 

 

1,480 

 

Earnings before interest and taxes

281 

248 

Interest, net

 

27 

 

40 

Earnings before taxes

254 

208 

 

Taxes on earnings

 

37 

 

62 

 

Earnings from continuing operations

217 

146 

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

- 

 

20 

Net earnings

$

217 

$

166 

 

Per share – basic

Earnings from continuing operations

$

.57 

$

.36 

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

- 

 

.05 

Net earnings

$

.57 

$

.41 

 

Dividends

$

.20 

$

.18 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding – basic

 

384 

 

406 

 

 

Per share – assuming dilution

Earnings from continuing operations

$

.55 

$

.35 

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

- 

 

.05 

Net earnings

$

.55 

$

.40 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding – assuming dilution

 

395 

 

413 

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a pre-tax non-cash benefit of $20 ($13 after tax or $.03 per share) from the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation. The benefit is included in Administrative expenses.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a tax benefit of $22 resulting from the favorable settlement of a bilateral advance pricing agreement between the United States and Canada related to royalties. In connection with the settlement, the company reduced net interest expense by $4 ($3 after tax). The aggregate impact on earnings from continuing operations was $25, or $.06 per share.

Certain reclassifications were made to prior year financial statements.

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY CONSOLIDATED

STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (unaudited)

(millions, except per share amounts)

 

 

NINE MONTHS ENDED

April 29,

April 30,

2007 

2006 

 

Net sales

$

6,273 

$

5,889 

 

Costs and expenses

Cost of products sold

3,616 

3,428 

Marketing and selling expenses

1,013 

959 

Administrative expenses

425 

415 

Research and development expenses

77 

74 

Other expenses / (income)

 

(22)

 

1 

Total costs and expenses

 

5,109 

 

4,877 

 

Earnings before interest and taxes

1,164 

1,012 

Interest, net

 

107 

 

109 

Earnings before taxes

1,057 

903 

 

Taxes on earnings

 

287 

 

232 

 

Earnings from continuing operations

770 

671 

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

23 

 

51 

Net earnings

$

793 

$

722 

 

Per share – basic

Earnings from continuing operations

$

1.99 

$

1.64 

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

.06 

 

.13 

Net earnings

$

2.05 

$

1.77 

 

Dividends

$

.60 

$

.54 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding – basic

 

387 

 

408 

 

 

Per share – assuming dilution

Earnings from continuing operations

$

1.93 

$

1.62 

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

.06 

 

.12 

Net earnings

$

1.99 

$

1.74 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding – assuming dilution

 

398 

 

414 

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a pre-tax non-cash benefit of $20 ($13 after tax or $.03 per share) from the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation. The benefit is included in Administrative expenses.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a tax benefit of $22 resulting from the favorable settlement of a bilateral advance pricing agreement between the United States and Canada related to royalties. In connection with the settlement, the company reduced net interest expense by $4 ($3 after tax). The aggregate impact on earnings from continuing operations was $25, or $.06 per share.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recognized a pre-tax gain of $23 ($14 after tax or $.04 per share) from the sale of an idle manufacturing facility. The gain is included in Other expenses / (income).

In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company changed the method of accounting for certain U.S. inventories from the LIFO method to the average cost method. The impact of the change was reflected as a one-time non-cash pre-tax benefit of $13 ($8 after tax or $.02 per share).

In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company recorded a non-cash tax benefit of $47 resulting from the favorable resolution of a U.S. tax contingency related to a prior period. In addition, the company reduced interest expense and accrued interest payable by $21 and adjusted deferred tax expense by $8 ($13 after tax). The aggregate non-cash impact of the settlement on earnings from continuing operations was $60, or $.14 per share.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, incremental tax expense of $8 (or $.02 per share) was recorded related to earnings repatriated from non-U.S. subsidiaries under the provision of the American Jobs Creation Act.

Certain reclassifications were made to prior year financial statements.

 

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY CONSOLIDATED

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF SALES AND EARNINGS (unaudited)

(millions, except per share amounts)

 

 

THREE MONTHS ENDED

April 29,

April 30,

Percent

Sales

2007 

2006 

Change

Contributions:

U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages

$

807 

$

713 

13%

Baking and Snacking

441 

422 

5%

International Soup and Sauces

340 

322 

6%

Other

 

280 

 

271 

3%

Total sales

$

1,868 

$

1,728 

8%

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings

Contributions:

U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages

$

182 

$

171 

6%

Baking and Snacking

46 

35 

31%

International Soup and Sauces

43 

43 

0%

Other

 

23 

 

27 

-15%

Total operating earnings

294 

276 

7%

Unallocated corporate expenses

 

(13)

 

(28)

 

Earnings before interest and taxes

281 

248 

13%

Interest, net

(27)

(40)

Taxes on earnings

 

(37)

 

(62)

 

Earnings from continuing operations

217 

146 

49%

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

- 

 

20 

Net earnings

$

217 

$

166 

31%

 

Per share – assuming dilution

Earnings from continuing operations

$

.55 

$

.35 

57%

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

- 

 

.05 

Net earnings

$

.55 

$

.40 

 

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a pre-tax non-cash benefit of $20 ($13 after tax or $.03 per share) from the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation. The benefit is included in Unallocated corporate expenses.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a tax benefit of $22 resulting from the favorable settlement of a bilateral advance pricing agreement between the United States and Canada related to royalties. In connection with the settlement, the company reduced net interest expense by $4 ($3 after tax). The aggregate impact on earnings from continuing operations was $25, or $.06 per share.

 

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY CONSOLIDATED

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF SALES AND EARNINGS (unaudited)

(millions, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

NINE MONTHS ENDED

April 29,

April 30,

Percent

Sales

2007 

2006 

Change

Contributions:

U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages

$

2,887 

$

2,701 

7%

Baking and Snacking

1,379 

1,309 

5%

International Soup and Sauces

1,090 

995 

10%

Other

 

917 

 

884 

4%

Total sales

$

6,273 

$

5,889 

7%

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings

Contributions:

U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages

$

778 

$

701 

11%

Baking and Snacking

191 

125 

53%

International Soup and Sauces

150 

139 

8%

Other

 

119 

 

122 

-2%

Total operating earnings

1,238 

1,087 

14%

Unallocated corporate expenses

 

(74)

 

(75)

 

Earnings before interest and taxes

1,164 

1,012 

15%

Interest, net

(107)

(109)

Taxes on earnings

 

(287)

 

(232)

 

Earnings from continuing operations

770 

671 

15%

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

23 

 

51 

Net earnings

$

793 

$

722 

10%

 

Per share – assuming dilution

Earnings from continuing operations

$

1.93 

$

1.62 

19%

Earnings from discontinued operations

 

.06 

 

.12 

Net earnings

$

1.99 

$

1.74 

 

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a pre-tax non-cash benefit of $20 ($13 after tax or $.03 per share) from the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation. The benefit is included in Unallocated corporate expenses.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a tax benefit of $22 resulting from the favorable settlement of a bilateral advance pricing agreement between the United States and Canada related to royalties. In connection with the settlement, the company reduced net interest expense by $4 ($3 after tax). The aggregate impact on earnings from continuing operations was $25, or $.06 per share.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recognized a pre-tax gain of $23 ($14 after tax or $.04 per share) from the sale of an idle manufacturing facility in the Baking and Snacking segment.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company changed the method of accounting for certain U.S. inventories from the LIFO method to the average cost method. The impact of the change was reflected as a one-time non-cash pre-tax benefit of $13 ($8 after tax or $.02 per share). The pre-tax benefit is reflected as follows: U.S. Soup, Sauces and Beverages – $8 and Baking and Snacking – $5.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company recorded a non-cash tax benefit of $47 resulting from the favorable resolution of a U.S. tax contingency related to a prior period. In addition, the company reduced interest expense and accrued interest payable by $21 and adjusted deferred tax expense by $8 ($13 after tax). The aggregate non-cash impact of the settlement on earnings from continuing operations was $60, or $.14 per share.

In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, incremental tax expense of $8 (or $.02 per share) was recorded related to earnings repatriated from non-U.S. subsidiaries under the provision of the American Jobs Creation Act.

 

CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY CONSOLIDATED

BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited)

(millions)

 

 

 

April 29,

April 30,

2007 

2006 

 

Current assets

$

1,694 

$

1,922 

 

Plant assets, net

1,978 

1,944 

 

Intangible assets, net

2,466 

3,085 

 

Other assets

616 

301 

 

 

Total assets

$

6,754 

$

7,252 

 

 

Current liabilities

$

1,964 

$

2,626 

 

Long-term debt

2,123 

1,904 

 

Nonpension postretirement benefits

273 

276 

 

Other liabilities

777 

666 

 

Shareowners’ equity

1,617 

1,780 

 

 

Total liabilities and shareowners’ equity

$

6,754 

$

7,252 

 

 

Total debt

$

2,616 

$

2,947 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

$

274 

$

530 

 

Net debt

$

2,342 

$

2,417 

 

Reconciliation of GAAP and Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Third Quarter Ended April 29, 2007

Campbell Soup Company uses certain non-GAAP financial measures as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission in certain communications. These non-GAAP financial measures are measures of performance not defined by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and should be considered in addition to, not in lieu of, GAAP reported measures.

Net Debt

The company believes that net debt is a non-GAAP measure that provides additional meaningful comparisons between current results and prior period results and a useful perspective on the financial condition of the business. Interest income earned on cash and cash equivalents partially offsets interest expense on debt. Cash and cash equivalents are available to repay outstanding debt upon maturity.

The table below summarizes information on total debt and cash and cash equivalents:

(millions)

April 29, 2007

April 30, 2006

 

Current notes payable

$

493 

$

1,043 

Long-term debt

 

2,123 

 

1,904 

Total debt

$

2,616 

$

2,947 

 

Less: Cash and cash equivalents

 

(274)

 

(530)

Net debt

$

2,342 

$

2,417 

Items Impacting Earnings From Continuing Operations

The company believes that financial information excluding a change in accounting method and other transactions not considered to be part of the ongoing business improves the comparability of year-to-year results. Consequently, the company believes that investors may be able to better understand its earnings results if these transactions are excluded from the results.

The following change in accounting method, certain tax matters and other transactions impacted earnings from continuing operations:

(1) In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a pre-tax non-cash benefit of $20 million ($13 million after tax or $.03 per share) from the reversal of legal reserves due to favorable results in litigation.

(2) In the third quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a tax benefit of $22 million resulting from the settlement of a bilateral advance pricing agreement (“APA”) between the United States and Canada related to royalties. In addition, the company reduced net interest expense by $4 million ($3 million after tax). The aggregate impact on earnings from continuing operations was $25 million, or $.06 per share.

(3) In the second quarter of fiscal 2007, the company recorded a pre-tax gain of $23 million ($14 million after tax or $.04 per share) associated with the sale of an idle manufacturing facility.

(4) In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company changed the method of determining the cost of certain U.S. inventories from the LIFO method to the average cost method. As a result, the company recorded a $13 million pre-tax ($8 million after tax or $.02 per share) benefit from the change in accounting method.

(5) In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company recorded a non-cash tax benefit of $47 million resulting from the favorable resolution of a U.S. tax contingency related to a prior period. In addition, the company reduced interest expense and accrued interest payable by $21 million and adjusted deferred tax expense by $8 million ($13 million after tax). The aggregate non-cash impact of the settlement on earnings from continuing operations was $60 million, or $.14 per share.

(6) In the first quarter of fiscal 2006, the company recorded incremental tax expense of $8 million ($.02 per share) associated with the repatriation of earnings under the American Jobs Creation Act (“AJCA”).

The tables below reconcile financial information, presented in accordance with GAAP, to financial information excluding the impact of a change in accounting method, certain tax matters and other transactions:

(millions, except per share amounts)

Third Quarter

Apr. 29,2007

 

Apr. 30,2006

% Change 

 

Earnings before interest and taxes, as reported

$

281 

$

248 

Deduct: Reversal of legal reserves (1)

 

(20)

 

- 

Adjusted Earnings before interest and taxes

$

261 

$

248 

5%

 

Interest, net, as reported

$

27 

$

40 

Add: Reduction in interest expense related to the settlement the APA (2)

 

4 

 

- 

Adjusted Interest, net

$

31 

$

40 

 

Adjusted Earnings before taxes

$

230 

$

208 

11%

 

Taxes on earnings, as reported

$

37 

$

62 

Deduct: Tax impact of reversal of legal reserves (1)

(7)

- 

Deduct: Tax impact of reduction of interest expense related to settlement of the APA (2)

(1)

- 

Add: Tax benefit from settlement of the APA (2)

 

22 

 

- 

Adjusted Taxes on earnings

$

51 

$

62 

Adjusted effective income tax rate

22.2%

29.8%

 

Earnings from continuing operations, as reported

$

217 

$

146 

Deduct: Net adjustment related to reversal of legal reserves (1)

(13)

- 

Deduct: Net benefit from settlement of the APA (2)

 

(25)

 

- 

Adjusted Earnings from continuing operations

$

179 

$

146 

23%

 

Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations, as reported

$

0.55 

$

0.35 

Deduct: Net adjustment related to reversal of legal reserves (1)

(0.03)

- 

Deduct: Net benefit from settlement of the APA (2)

 

(0.06)

 

- 

Adjusted Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations*

$

0.45 

$

0.35 

29%

* The sum of the individual per share amounts does not equal due to rounding.

(millions, except per share amounts)

Year-to-Date

Apr. 29,2007

 

Apr. 30,2006

% Change 

 

Earnings before interest and taxes, as reported

$

1,164 

$

1,012 

Deduct: Reversal of legal reserves (1)

(20)

- 

Deduct: Gain on sale of an idle manufacturing facility (3)

(23)

- 

Deduct: Impact of change in inventory accounting method (4)

 

- 

 

(13)

Adjusted Earnings before interest and taxes

$

1,121 

$

999 

12%

 

Interest, net, as reported

$

107 

$

109 

Add: Reduction in interest expense related to the settlement of the APA (2)

4 

- 

Add: Reduction in interest expense related to the favorable resolution of tax contingency (5)

 

- 

 

21 

Adjusted Interest, net

$

111 

$

130 

 

Adjusted Earnings before taxes

$

1,010 

$

869 

16%

 

Taxes on earnings, as reported

$

287 

$

232 

Deduct: Tax impact of reversal of legal reserves (1)

(7)

- 

Deduct: Tax impact of reduction of interest expense related to settlement of the APA (2)

(1)

- 

Add: Tax benefit from settlement of the APA (2)

22 

- 

Deduct: Tax impact of gain on sale of an idle manufacturing facility (3)

(9)

- 

Deduct: Tax impact of change in inventory accounting method (4)

- 

(5)

Add: Adjustment to tax expense related to the favorable resolution of tax contingency (5)

- 

39 

Deduct: Incremental tax expense associated with the repatriation of earnings under the AJCA (6)

 

- 

 

(8)

Adjusted Taxes on earnings

$

292 

$

258 

Adjusted effective income tax rate

28.9%

29.7%

 

Earnings from continuing operations, as reported

$

770 

$

671 

Deduct: Net adjustment related to reversal of legal reserves (1)

(13)

- 

Deduct: Net benefit from settlement of the APA (2)

(25)

- 

Deduct: Gain on sale of an idle manufacturing facility (3)

(14)

- 

Deduct: Impact of change in inventory accounting method (4)

- 

(8)

Deduct: Net adjustment to taxes and interest expense related to the favorable resolution of tax contingency (5)

- 

(60)

Add: Incremental tax expense associated with the repatriation of earnings under the AJCA (6)

 

- 

 

8 

Adjusted Earnings from continuing operations

$

718 

$

611 

18%

 

Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations, as reported

$

1.93 

$

1.62 

Deduct: Net adjustment related to reversal of legal reserves (1)

(0.03)

- 

Deduct: Net benefit from settlement of the APA (2)

(0.06)

- 

Deduct: Gain on sale of an idle manufacturing facility (3)

(0.04)

- 

Deduct: Impact of change in inventory accounting method (4)

- 

(0.02)

Deduct: Net adjustment to taxes and interest expense related to the favorable resolution of tax contingency (5)

- 

(0.14)

Add: Incremental tax expense associated with the repatriation of earnings under the AJCA (6)

 

- 

 

0.02 

Adjusted Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations

$

1.80 

$

1.48 

22%

Pro Forma Impact of Use of Proceeds from Sale of Businesses

In August 2006, the company completed the sale of its businesses in the United Kingdom and Ireland for £460 million or approximately $870 million and announced that approximately $620 million of the net proceeds would be used to repurchase shares. To improve the comparability of results, the following table illustrates the pro forma impact had 17 million shares been repurchased and eliminated from shares outstanding in the prior year:

(millions, except per share amounts)

Third Quarter

Apr. 29,2007

 

Apr. 30,2007

% Change 

 

Adjusted Earnings from continuing operations

$

179 

$

146 

23%

 

Adjusted Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations

$

0.45 

$

0.35 

29%

 

Weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution, as reported

395 

413 

Deduct: Pro forma impact of shares repurchased

 

- 

 

(17)

Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution

 

395 

 

396 

 

 

Adjusted Pro forma Diluted earnings per share — continuing operations

$

0.45 

$

0.37 

22%

(millions, except per share amounts)

Year-to-Date

Apr. 29,2007

 

Apr. 30,2006

% Change 

 

Adjusted Earnings from continuing operations

$

718 

$

611 

18%

 

Adjusted Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations

$

1.80 

$

1.48 

22%

 

Weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution, as reported

398 

414 

Deduct: Pro forma impact of shares repurchased

 

- 

 

(17)

Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution

 

398 

 

397 

 

 

Adjusted Pro forma Diluted earnings per share — continuing operations

$

1.80 

$

1.54 

17%

Adjusted Pro Forma Fiscal 2006 Earnings Per Share From Continuing Operations

The following table illustrates the reconciliation of reported results to adjusted results excluding the impact of certain changes in accounting method and other transactions, and the pro forma impact of utilizing the net proceeds from the sale of the businesses in the United Kingdom and Ireland to repurchase shares. In addition to items that impacted Earnings from continuing operations in the nine-month period ended April 30, 2006, the following items impacted the full year ended July 30, 2006:

(7) In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, the company recorded additional tax expense of $4 million associated with the repatriation of earnings under the AJCA. The total expense recognized for the full year was $13 million ($.03 per share).

(8) In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, the company recorded a non-cash tax benefit of $14 million ($.03 per share) from the anticipated use of higher levels of foreign tax credits, which could be utilized as a result of the sale of the company’s United Kingdom and Ireland businesses.

(millions)

Year Ended

July 30, 2006

Earnings from continuing operations, as reported

$

755 

Deduct: Impact of change in inventory accounting method (4)

(8)

Deduct: Net adjustment to taxes and interest expense related to the favorable resolution of tax contingency (5)

(60)

Add: Incremental tax expense associated with the repatriation of earnings under the AJCA (7)

13 

Deduct: Adjustment to tax expense related to the use of foreign tax credits (8)

 

(14)

Adjusted Earnings from continuing operations

$

686 

 

 

Year Ended

July 30, 2006

Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations, as reported

$

1.82 

Deduct: Impact of change in inventory accounting method (4)

(0.02)

Deduct: Net adjustment to taxes and interest expense related to the favorable resolution of tax contingency (5)

(0.14)

Add: Incremental tax expense associated with the repatriation of earnings under the AJCA (7)

0.03 

Deduct: Adjustment to tax expense related to the use of foreign tax credits (8)

 

(0.03)

Adjusted Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations

$

1.66 

 

 

(millions, except per share amounts)

Year Ended

July 30, 2006

 

Adjusted Earnings from continuing operations

$

686 

 

Adjusted Diluted earnings per share – continuing operations

$

1.66 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution, as reported

414 

Deduct: Pro forma impact of shares repurchased

 

(17)

Pro forma weighted average shares outstanding — assuming dilution

 

397 

 

 

Adjusted Pro forma Diluted earnings per share — continuing operations

$

1.73