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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington D.C. 20549



Form 10-K

(Mark One)    

ý

 

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

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.

Or

o

 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                             to                            

Commission file number 001-10716



TRIMAS CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Delaware
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or
Organization)
  38-2687639
(IRS Employer Identification No.)

39400 Woodward Avenue, Suite 130
Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48304
(Address of Principal Executive Offices, Including Zip Code)

(248) 631-5450
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

         Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class:   Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered:
Common stock, $0.01 par value   NASDAQ

         Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o    No ý

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 and Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o    No ý

         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 ý    No o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o    No o

         Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ý

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

Large Accelerated Filer o   Accelerated Filer ý   Non-accelerated Filer o
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
  Smaller Reporting Company o

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o    No ý

         The aggregate market value of the voting common equity held by non-affiliates of the Registrant as of June 30, 2009 was approximately $59.7 million, based upon the closing sales price of the Registrant's common stock, $0.01 par value, reported for such date on the New York Stock Exchange. For purposes of this calculation only, directors, executive officers and the principal controlling shareholder or entities controlled by such controlling shareholder are deemed to be affiliates of the Registrant.

         As of March 4, 2010, the number of outstanding shares of the Registrant's common stock, $.01 par value, was 33,977,319 shares.

         Portions of the Registrant's Proxy Statement for the 2010 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated herein by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K to the extent stated herein.


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TRIMAS CORPORATION INDEX

 
   
  Page No.  

Forward-Looking Statements

    3  


PART I.


 

 

 

 

Item 1.

 

Business

    4  

Item 1A.

 

Risk Factors

    18  

Item 1B.

 

Unresolved Staff Comments

    26  

Item 2.

 

Properties

    26  

Item 3.

 

Legal Proceedings

    27  

Item 4.

 

Reserved

    27  
 

Supplementary Item.

 

Executive officers of the Company

    27  


PART II.


 

 

 

 

Item 5.

 

Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

    29  

Item 6.

 

Selected Financial Data

    31  

Item 7.

 

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

    32  

Item 7A.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

    61  

Item 8.

 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

    62  

Item 9.

 

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

    118  

Item 9A.

 

Controls and Procedures

    118  

Item 9B.

 

Other Information

    119  


PART III.


 

 

 

 

Item 10.

 

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

    120  

Item 11.

 

Executive Compensation

    120  

Item 12.

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

    120  

Item 13.

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence

    120  

Item 14.

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

    120  


PART IV.


 

 

 

 

Item 15.

 

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

    120  

Signatures

    122  

Exhibit Index

    II-1  

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Forward-Looking Statements

        This report contains forward-looking statements (as that term is defined by the federal securities laws) about our financial condition, results of operations and business. You can find many of these statements by looking for words such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate" and similar words used in this report.

        These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Because the statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on the statements, which speak only as of the date of this report.

        The cautionary statements set forth above should be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we or persons acting on our behalf may issue. We do not undertake any obligation to review or confirm analysts' expectations or estimates or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

        We disclose important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our expectations under Item 1A, "Risk Factors," and Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and elsewhere in this report. These cautionary statements qualify all forward-looking statements attributed to us or persons acting on our behalf. When we indicate that an event, condition or circumstance could or would have an adverse effect on us, we mean to include effects upon our business, financial and other condition, results of operations, prospects and ability to service our debt.

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PART I

Item 1.    Business

        We are a global manufacturer and distributor of products for commercial, industrial and consumer markets. Most of our businesses share important characteristics, including leading market shares, strong brand names, broad product offerings, established distribution networks, relatively high operating margins, relatively low capital investment requirements, product growth opportunities and strategic acquisition opportunities. We believe that a majority of our 2009 net sales were in markets in which our products enjoy the number one or number two market position within their respective product categories. In addition, we believe that in many of our businesses, we are one of only a few manufacturers in the geographic markets where we currently compete.

Our Business Segments

        Effective April 1, 2009, we realigned our reportable segments as a result of our recent management reporting and business consolidation changes. We previously reported under the following five segments: Packaging Systems, Energy Products, Industrial Specialties, RV & Trailer Products and Recreational Accessories. Following the realignment, we are principally engaged in five reportable segments: Packaging, Energy, Aerospace & Defense, Engineered Components and Cequent. Our business segments had net sales and operating profit for the year ended December 31, 2009 as follows: Packaging (net sales: $145.1 million; operating profit: $33.1 million), Energy (net sales: $148.9 million; operating profit: $12.8 million), Aerospace & Defense (net sales: $74.4 million; operating profit: $21.8 million), Engineered Components (net sales: $62.3 million; operating profit: $3.0 million), and Cequent (net sales: $373.0 million; operating profit: $4.8 million).

        In addition to our business segments as presented, we have discontinued certain lines of businesses over the past three years as follows, the results of which are presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented in the financial statements attached hereto:

        Each segment has distinctive products, distribution channels, strengths and strategies, which are described below.

Packaging

        We believe Packaging is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of specialty, highly engineered closure and dispensing systems for a range of end markets, including steel and plastic industrial and consumer packaging applications. We believe that Packaging is one of the largest manufacturers of steel and plastic industrial container closures and dispensing products in North America and also has a significant presence in Europe and other international markets. Packaging manufactures high performance, value-added products that are designed to enhance its customers' ability to store, ship, process and dispense various products in the industrial, agricultural, consumer, food, personal care and

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pharmaceutical markets. Packaging's products include steel and plastic closure caps, drum enclosures, rings and levers, and dispensing systems, such as pumps and specialty sprayers.

        Our Packaging brands, which include Rieke®, Englass®, Rieke® Italia and Stolz® are well established and recognized in their respective markets.

Competitive Strengths

        We believe Packaging benefits from the following competitive strengths:

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Strategies

        We believe Packaging has significant opportunities to grow, including:

Marketing, Customers and Distribution

        Packaging employs an internal sales force in the NAFTA and European regions, and uses third-party agents and distributors in key geographic markets, including Europe, South America and Asia. Rieke®'s agents and distributors primarily sell directly to container manufacturers and to users or fillers of containers. While the point of sale may be to a container manufacturer, Rieke®, via a "pull through" strategy, calls on the container user or filler and suggests that it specify that a Rieke® product be used on its container.

        To support its "pull-through" strategy, Rieke® offers more attractive pricing on products purchased directly from Rieke® and products where the container users or fillers specify Rieke®. Users or fillers that use or specify Rieke®'s products include industrial chemical, agricultural chemical, petroleum, paint, personal care, pharmaceutical and sanitary supply chemical companies such as BASF, Bayer, Dupont, General Electric, ICI Paints, Lucas Oil, Sherwin-Williams, and PPG, among others.

        Packaging's primary customers include Berlin Packaging, Boots, Diversey, Ecolab, Lyons Magnus, Pepsi, Pharmacia, Schering Plough, and Wings Foods as well as major container manufacturers around the world. Packaging maintains a customer service center that provides technical support as well as other technical assistance to customers to reduce overall production costs.

Competition

        Since Rieke® has a broad range of products in both closures and dispensing products, there are competitors in each of our product offerings. We do not believe that there is a single competitor that matches our entire product offering.

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        In the industrial steel closure product line, our competitors within the NAFTA market include Greif Closure Systems and Technocraft. In the industrial plastic 55-gallon drum closure line, our primary competitor is Greif Closure Systems. In the 5-gallon container closure market, our primary competitors are Greif Closure Systems, Bericap and APC. Our primary competitors in the ring and lever product line are Self Industries and Technocraft. In the dispensing product lines, our major competitors are Calmar, Aptar, Airspray and Indesco.

        In the European market, our industrial steel closure product lines compete with Greif Closure Systems and Technocraft. The industrial plastic 55-gallon drum closure lines compete with Greif Closure Systems and Mauser. The Rieke® 5-gallon container closure products compete with those of Greif Closure Systems and Bericap. Rieke®'s ring and lever products compete with those of Berger and Technocraft. Rieke®'s dispensing products compete with those of Jaycare, Calmar, WIKO and Airspray.

Energy

        We believe Energy is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of a variety of natural gas engines, compressors, gas production equipment and chemical pumps engineered at well sites for the oil and gas industry as well as metallic and non-metallic industrial sealant products and fasteners for the petroleum refining, petrochemical and other industrial markets. Our companies and brands which comprise this segment include Lamons® Gasket and Arrow® Engine.

        Lamons® manufactures and distributes metallic and nonmetallic industrial gaskets and complementary fasteners for refining, petrochemical and other industrial applications principally in the U.S. and Canada. Lamons® supplies gaskets and complementary fasteners for both industrial original equipment manufacturers and maintenance repair operations.

        Arrow® Engine manufactures specialty engines, compressors, gas production equipment, chemical pumps and engine replacement parts for use in oil and natural gas production and other industrial and commercial markets. Arrow® Engine distributes its products through a worldwide distribution network with a particularly strong presence in the U.S. and Canada.

Competitive Strengths

        We believe Energy benefits from the following competitive strengths:

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Strategies

        We believe Energy has significant opportunities to grow, including:

Marketing, Customers and Distribution

        Given the focused nature of many of our products, Energy relies upon a combination of direct sales forces and established networks of independent distributors with familiarity of the end users. The narrow end-user base of many of these products makes it possible for Energy to respond to customer-specific engineered applications and provide a high degree of customer service. Gasket sales are made directly from the factory to major customers through Lamons'® sales and service facilities in major regional markets, or through a large network of independent distributors. Lamons'® overseas sales are either through our new sales and service facilities in China and the Netherlands, Lamons'® licensees or through its many distributors. Arrow® Engine markets product through a network of distributors, many with strong ties to larger energy companies that offer a wide range of products and services in the global oil and gas industry. In many of the markets this segment serves, its companies' brand names are virtually synonymous with product applications. Significant Energy customers include BPAmoco, C.E. Franklin, Chevron, Dow, ExxonMobil, McJunkin Corporation, National Oilwell, Shearer, Weatherford Artificial Lift and Wilson Supply.

Competition

        Energy's primary competitors include Garlock (EnPro), Leader GT and Flexitallic/Siem in gaskets, CAT and Cummins in engines and engine replacement parts, and Texsteam and Williams Pumps in the chemical pump line. Approximately 60% of the products of Energy's companies are highly-engineered, non-commodity, customer-specific products and most have large shares of small markets supplied by a limited number of competitors. In a significant number of areas, value-added design, finishing,

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warehousing, packaging, distribution and after-sales service have generated strong customer loyalty. This supplements lower cost manufacturing and relevant industry experience in promoting each of our business' competitiveness.

Aerospace & Defense

        We believe Aerospace & Defense is a leading designer, manufacturer of a diverse range of products for use in focused markets within the aerospace and defense markets. This segment's products include aerospace fasteners and military munitions components to serve aircraft and weapons platforms. In general, these products are highly-engineered, customer-specific items that are sold into focused markets with few competitors.

        Aerospace & Defense's brands include Monogram™ Aerospace Fasteners which is well established and recognized in its market.

Strategies

        We believe the businesses within the Aerospace & Defense segment have significant opportunities to grow, based on the following:

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Marketing, Customers and Distribution

        Aerospace & Defenses' customers operate primarily in the aerospace and defense industries. Given the focused nature of many of our products, the Aerospace & Defense segment relies upon a combination of direct sales forces and established networks of independent distributors with familiarity of the end-users. For example, Monogram™'s aerospace fasteners are sold through internal sales personnel and independent sales representatives. Although the overall market for fasteners and metallurgical services is highly competitive, these businesses provide products and services primarily for specialized markets, and compete principally as technology, quality and service-oriented suppliers in their respective markets. Monogram™'s products are sold to manufacturers and distributors within the commercial, business and military aerospace industry, both domestic and foreign. Monogram™ works directly with aircraft manufacturers to develop and test new products and improve existing products. This close working relationship is a necessity given the critical safety nature and regulatory environment of its customers' products. The narrow end-user base of many of these products makes it possible for this segment to respond to customer-specific engineered applications and provide a high degree of customer service. Aerospace & Defenses' OEM and aftermarket customers include Airbus, Boeing, Peerless and Wesco.

Competition

        This segment's primary competitors include Cherry (PCC) and Fairchild Fasteners (Alcoa) in aerospace fasteners and General Dynamics and Medico Industries in defense products. We believe that Monogram™ is a leader in the blind bolt market with significant market share in all blind fastener product categories in which they compete. Aerospace & Defenses' companies supply highly engineered, non-commodity, customer-specific products that principally have large shares of small markets supplied by a limited number of competitors.

Engineered Components

        We believe Engineered Components is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for the transportation, storage and dispensing of compressed gases, specialty fittings for the automotive industry, precision cutting instruments for the medical industry, and specialty precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills and countersinks for the industrial metal-working market. In general, these products are highly-engineered, customer-specific items that are sold into focused markets with few competitors.

        Engineered Components' brands, including Hi-Vol™ Products, Norris Cylinder™, KEO® Cutters, Richards Micro-Tool™ and Cutting Edge TechnologiesTM are well established and recognized in their respective markets.

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Strategies

        We believe the businesses within the Engineered Components segment have significant opportunities to grow, based on the following:

Marketing, Customers and Distribution

        Engineered Components' customers operate primarily in the industrial, commercial, automotive and medical equipment industries. Given the focused nature of many of our products, the Engineered Components segment relies upon a combination of direct sales forces and established networks of independent distributors with familiarity of the end-users. For example, Hi-Vol™'s automotive fasteners are sold through internal sales personnel and independent sales representatives. Although the overall market for fasteners and metallurgical services is highly competitive, these businesses provide products and services primarily for specialized markets, and compete principally as quality and service-oriented suppliers

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in their respective markets. Hi-Vol™ sells its products to distributors and manufacturers in automotive markets. In many of the markets this segment serves, its companies' brand names are virtually synonymous with product applications. The narrow end-user base of many of these products makes it possible for this segment to respond to customer-specific engineered applications and provide a high degree of customer service. Engineered Components' OEM and aftermarket customers include Aigras, Air Liquide, Air Products, Cooper-Standard Automotive, Grainger, Honeywell, Martinrea, McMaster Carr, Medtronic, MSC Industrial, Praxair, TI Automotive and Worthington Cylinders.

Competition

        This segment's primary competitors include H&L (Chicago Rivet) and Nagano in tube nuts and fittings. Other competitors include Taylor Wharton and Worthington in cylinders; and M.A. Ford, Niagara, Whitney Tool and Magafor in precision tools. Engineered Components' companies supply highly engineered, non-commodity, customer-specific products and most have large shares of small markets supplied by a limited number of competitors.

Cequent

        We believe Cequent is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of a wide variety of high quality, custom-engineered towing and trailer products including vehicle specific wiring and hitch applications, heavy duty towing products, lighting, jacks, couplers and cargo management. These products were designed to support all Original Equipment Manufacturers and aftermarket customers within the automotive, recreational vehicle, agricultural, utility, military, marine and industrial vehicle and trailer markets. We believe that Cequent's brand names and product lines are among the most recognized and extensive in the industry.

        Cequent has positioned its product portfolio to create pricing options for entry-level through premium across all of our market channels. We believe that no other competitor features a comparable array of components and brand names.

        Our primary product categories are offered through a number of channels as described below;

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Competitive Strengths

Strategies

        We believe that Cequent has opportunities to grow, including the following:

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Marketing, Customers and Distribution

        Cequent employs a dedicated sales force in each of the primary channels, including automotive aftermarket, automotive OEM, industrial, power sports, recreational vehicle installers, and retail including: mass merchants, auto specialty, marine specialty, hardware/home centers, and catalogs. Cequent relies upon strong historical relationships, significant brand heritage and its broad product offerings to bolster its towing, trailer and accessory product sales through the OEM channel and in various aftermarket segments. Cequent is well represented in retail stores through mass merchants like Wal-Mart, hardware home centers such as Lowe's and Home Depot, and specialty auto retailers which include Pep Boys, AutoZone, Advanced Auto and CSK Auto.

Competition

        The competitive environment for towing products is highly fragmented and is characterized by numerous smaller suppliers, even the largest of which tends to focus in narrow product categories. Significant trailer competitors include Pacific Rim, Dutton-Lainson, Shelby, Ultra-Fab, Sea-Sense and Atwood. Significant electrical competitors include Hayes Brake Control Company, Hopkins Manufacturing, Peterson Industries, Grote, Optronics and Pollack. Significance towing competitors include Curt Manufacturing, Valley Towing Products, B&W, Buyers and Camco. The retail channel presents a different set of competitors that are typically not seen in our installer and distributor channels, including Masterlock, Buyers, Allied, Keeper, Bell and Axius. Cequent faces competition in the cargo management product category primarily from Thule and Yakima.

Acquisition Strategy

        We believe that our businesses have significant opportunities to grow through disciplined, strategic acquisitions. We typically seek "bolt-on" acquisitions, in which we would acquire another industry participant or product line within our industries and to enhance the strengths of our core businesses. When seeking acquisition targets, we are looking for opportunities to supplement our existing product lines, gain access to additional distribution channels, expand our geographic footprint and achieve scale and cost efficiencies.

Materials and Supply Arrangements

        Our largest raw materials purchases are for steel, copper, aluminum, polyethylene and other resins, and energy. Raw materials and other supplies used in our operations are normally available from a variety

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of competing suppliers. In addition to raw materials, we purchase a variety of components and finished products from low-cost sources in China, Taiwan and India.

        Steel is purchased primarily from steel mills and service centers with pricing contracts principally in the three to six month time frame. Changing global dynamics for steel production and supply will continue to present a challenge to our business. Polyethylene is generally a commodity resin with multiple suppliers capable of providing product. While both steel and polyethylene are readily available from a variety of competing suppliers, our business has experienced, and we believe will continue to experience, volatility in the costs of these raw materials

Employees and Labor Relations

        As of December 31, 2009, we employed approximately 3,900 people, of which approximately 27% were unionized and approximately 48% were located outside the U.S. We currently have collective bargaining agreements covering eight facilities worldwide for our continuing operations, five of which are in the U.S. In the fourth quarter of 2009, we concluded negotiations on two union collective bargaining agreements in our Cequent segment that were set to expire. Negotiations were concluded prior to the expiration dates of the collective bargaining agreements without work stoppages or strikes. There have been six contracts renegotiated in 2009 without any strikes, work stoppages or slowdowns. Employee relations have generally been satisfactory.

Seasonality and Backlog

        There is some seasonality in our Cequent segment. Sales of towing and trailer products within these business segments are generally stronger in the second and third quarters as trailer OEMs, distributors and retailers acquire product for the spring and summer selling seasons. No other operating segment experiences significant seasonal fluctuation in its business. We do not consider sales order backlog to be a material factor in our business.

Environmental Matters

        Our operations are subject to federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations pertaining to pollution and protection of the environment, health and safety, governing among other things, emissions to air, discharge to waters and the generation, handling, storage, treatment and disposal of waste and other materials, and remediation of contaminated sites. We have been named as a potentially responsible party under CERCLA, the federal Superfund law, or similar state laws at several sites requiring clean-up related to the disposal of wastes we generate. These laws generally impose liability for costs to investigate and remediate contamination without regard to fault and under certain circumstances liability may be joint and several resulting in one responsible party being held responsible for the entire obligation. Liability may also include damages to natural resources. We have entered into consent decrees relating to two sites in California along with the many other co-defendants in these matters. We have incurred substantial expenses for these sites over a number of years, a portion of which has been covered by insurance. In addition to the foregoing, our businesses have incurred and likely will continue to incur expenses to investigate and clean up existing and former company-owned or leased property, including those properties made the subject of sale-leaseback transactions for which we have provided environmental indemnities to the lessors.

        At our currently owned property located in Vernon, California, we expect to incur expenses to investigate the environmental conditions associated with historical operations of N.I. Industries and/or its tenants. Preliminary site assessment information indicates that further investigation will be necessary in order to determine whether remediation or controls will be required beyond those that had been previously approved by the governing regulatory authority, and if so, to develop an estimate of the likely costs thereof.

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        In 1992, Rieke® Packaging Systems and numerous other companies entered into a consent decree with the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and the State of Indiana under which Rieke® and the other companies agreed to remediate contaminated soil and groundwater at the Wayne Reclamation and Recycling Site near Columbia City, Indiana. Contractors for the group of companies completed construction of the remediation systems required by the consent decree in 1995, and have operated them since then under the oversight of the EPA and the State of Indiana. The remediation systems have successfully removed substantial amounts of contaminants from the soil and the groundwater; however, some contaminants remain at concentrations above the performance standards set by the consent decree, and are still being removed. Consultants to the group of companies expect that some or all of the remediation systems will be required to operate indefinitely. A 2004 report by the EPA concluded that operation of the existing systems is "protective of human health and the environment." The agreement among the companies provides that Rieke®'s share is approximately 9% of total remediation costs for the site.

        U.S. regulations pertaining to climate change continue to evolve in both the U.S. and internationally. We do not anticipate any impact that would be unique to our operations.

        We believe that our business, operations and facilities are being operated in compliance in all material respects with applicable environmental and health and safety laws and regulations, many of which provide for substantial fines and criminal sanctions for violations. Based on information presently known to us and accrued environmental reserves, we do not expect environmental costs or contingencies to have a material adverse effect on us. The operation of manufacturing plants entails risks in these areas, however, and we may incur material costs or liabilities in the future that could adversely affect us. Potentially material expenditures could be required in the future. For example, we may be required to comply with evolving environmental and health and safety laws, regulations or requirements that may be adopted or imposed in the future or to address newly discovered information or conditions that require a response.

Intangibles and Other Assets

        Our identified intangible assets, consisting of customer relationships, trademarks and trade names and technology, are recorded at approximately $164.1 million at December 31, 2009, net of accumulated amortization. The valuation of each of the identified intangibles was performed using broadly accepted valuation methodologies and techniques.

        Customer Relationships.    We have developed and maintained stable, long-term selling relationships with customer groups for specific branded products and/or focused market product offerings within each of our operating group segments. Useful lives assigned to customer relationship intangibles range from 5 to 25 years and have been estimated using historic customer retention and turnover data. Other factors considered in evaluating estimated useful lives include the diverse nature of focused markets and products of which we have significant share, how customers in these markets make purchases and these customers' position in the supply chain. We also monitor and evaluate the impact of other evolving risks including the threat of lower cost competitors and evolving technology.

        Trademarks and Trade Names.    Each of our operating groups designs and manufactures products for focused markets under various trade names and trademarks including Draw-Tite®, Reese®, Hidden Hitch®, Bulldog®, Tekonsha®, Highland "The Pro's Brand"®, Fulton®, Wesbar®, Visu-Lok®, ViseGrip® and FlexSpout®, among others. Our trademark/trade name intangibles are well-established and considered long-lived assets that require maintenance through advertising and promotion expenditures. Because it is our practice and intent to maintain and to continue to support, develop and market these trademarks/trade names for the foreseeable future, we consider our rights in these trademarks/trade names to have an indefinite life, except as otherwise dictated by applicable law.

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        Technology.    We hold a number of U.S. and foreign patents, patent applications, and unpatented or proprietary product and process oriented technologies within all five of our operating segments. We have, and will continue to dedicate, technical resources toward the further development of our products and processes in order to maintain our competitive position in the transportation, industrial and commercial markets that we serve. Estimated useful lives for our technology intangibles range from one to thirty years and are determined in part by any legal, regulatory or contractual provisions that limit useful life. For example, patent rights have a maximum limit of twenty years in the U.S. Other factors considered include the expected use of the technology by the operating groups, the expected useful life of the product and/or product programs to which the technology relates, and the rate of technology adoption by the industry.

        Quarterly, or as conditions may warrant, we assess whether the value of our identified intangibles has been impaired. Factors considered in performing this assessment include current operating results, business prospects, customer retention, market trends, potential product obsolescence, competitor activities and other economic factors. We continue to invest in maintaining customer relationships, trademarks and trade names, and the design, development and testing of proprietary technologies that we believe will set our products apart from those of our competitors.

International Operations

        Approximately 17.7% of our net sales for the year ended December 31, 2009 were derived from sales by our subsidiaries located outside of the U.S., and we may significantly expand our international operations through organic growth actions and acquisitions. In addition, approximately 20.2% of our operating net assets as of December 31, 2009 were located outside of the U.S. We operate manufacturing facilities in Australia, Thailand, Canada, China, the United Kingdom (U.K.), Italy, Germany, Netherlands and Mexico. For information pertaining to the net sales and operating net assets attributed to our international operations, refer to Note 19, "Segment Information," to the audited financial statements included herein.

        Sales outside of the U.S., particularly sales to emerging markets, are subject to various risks that are not present in sales within U.S. markets, including governmental embargoes or foreign trade restrictions such as antidumping duties, changes in U.S. and foreign governmental regulations, tariffs and other trade barriers, the potential for nationalization of enterprises, foreign exchange risk and other political, economic and social instability. In addition, there are tax inefficiencies in repatriating portions of our cash flow from non-U.S. subsidiaries.

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Item 1A.    Risk Factors

        You should carefully consider each of the risks described below, together with information included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and other documents we file with the SEC. The risks and uncertainties described below are those that we have identified as material, but are not the only risks and uncertainties facing us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently believe are immaterial may also impact our business operations, financial results and liquidity.

We have a history of net losses.

        We incurred net losses of $0.2 million, $136.2 million and $158.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The losses in 2008 and 2007 principally resulted from pre-tax, non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived impairment charges of $166.6 million and $171.2 million, respectively, included in continuing operations. The losses in 2009 and 2008 were also impacted by losses from discontinued operations of $13.0 million and $12.1 million, respectively. In addition, interest expense associated with our highly leveraged capital structure, non-cash expenses such as depreciation and amortization of intangible assets and other asset impairments also contributed to our net losses. We may continue to experience net losses in the future.

Our businesses depend upon general economic conditions and we serve some customers in highly cyclical industries; as such we are subject to the loss of sales and margins due to an economic downturn or recession.

        Our financial performance depends, in large part, on conditions in the markets that we serve in both the U.S. and global economies. Some of the industries that we serve are highly cyclical, such as the automotive, construction, industrial equipment, energy, aerospace and electrical equipment industries. We may experience a reduction in sales and margins as a result of a downturn in economic conditions or other macroeconomic factors. Lower demand for our products may also negatively affect the capacity utilization of our production facilities, which may further reduce our operating margins.

Many of the markets we serve are highly competitive, which could limit the volume of products that we sell and reduce our operating margins.

        Many of our products are sold in competitive markets. We believe that the principal points of competition in our markets are product quality and price, design and engineering capabilities, product development, conformity to customer specifications, reliability and timeliness of delivery, customer service and effectiveness of distribution. Maintaining and improving our competitive position will require continued investment by us in manufacturing, engineering, quality standards, marketing, customer service and support of our distribution networks. We may have insufficient resources in the future to continue to make such investments and, even if we make such investments, we may not be able to maintain or improve our competitive position. We also face the risk of lower-cost foreign manufacturers located in China, Southeast Asia and other regions competing in the markets for our products and we may be driven as a consequence of this competition to increase our investment overseas. Making overseas investments can be highly complicated and we may not always realize the advantages we anticipate from any such investments. Competitive pressure may limit the volume of products that we sell and reduce our operating margins.

Increases in our raw material or energy costs or the loss of critical suppliers could adversely affect our profitability and other financial results.

        We are sensitive to price movements in our raw materials supply base. Our largest material purchases are for steel, copper, aluminum, polyethylene and other resins and energy. Prices for these products fluctuate with market conditions and we have experienced sporadic increases recently. We may be unable to completely offset the impact with price increases on a timely basis due to outstanding commitments to our customers, competitive considerations or our customers' resistance to accepting such price increases

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and our financial performance may be adversely impacted by further price increases. A failure by our suppliers to continue to supply us with certain raw materials or component parts on commercially reasonable terms, or at all, could have a material adverse effect on us. To the extent there are energy supply disruptions or material fluctuations in energy costs, our margins could be materially adversely impacted.

We may be unable to successfully implement our business strategies. Our ability to realize our business strategies may be limited.

        Our businesses operate in relatively mature industries and it may be difficult to successfully pursue our growth strategies and realize material benefits therefrom. Even if we are successful, other risks attendant to our businesses and the economy generally may substantially or entirely eliminate the benefits. While we have successfully utilized some of these strategies in the past, our growth has principally come through acquisitions.

Our products are typically highly engineered or customer-driven and we are subject to risks associated with changing technology and manufacturing techniques that could place us at a competitive disadvantage.

        We believe that our customers rigorously evaluate their suppliers on the basis of product quality, price competitiveness, technical expertise and development capability, new product innovation, reliability and timeliness of delivery, product design capability, manufacturing expertise, operational flexibility, customer service and overall management. Our success depends on our ability to continue to meet our customers' changing expectations with respect to these criteria. We anticipate that we will remain committed to product research and development, advanced manufacturing techniques and service to remain competitive, which entails significant costs. We may be unable to address technological advances, implement new and more cost-effective manufacturing techniques, or introduce new or improved products, whether in existing or new markets, so as to maintain our businesses' competitive positions or to grow our businesses as desired.

We depend on the services of key individuals and relationships, the loss of which could materially harm us.

        Our success will depend, in part, on the efforts of our senior management, including our chief executive officer. Our future success will also depend on, among other factors, our ability to attract and retain other qualified personnel. The loss of the services of any of our key employees or the failure to attract or retain employees could have a material adverse effect on us.

We have substantial debt and interest payment requirements that may restrict our future operations and impair our ability to meet our obligations.

        We continue to have indebtedness that is substantial in relation to our shareholders' equity. As of December 31, 2009, we have approximately $514.6 million of outstanding debt and approximately $62.0 million of shareholders' equity. Approximately 14% of our debt bears interest at variable rates and we may experience material increases in our interest expense as a result of increases in interest rate levels generally. Our debt service payment obligations in 2009 were approximately $46.2 million and, based on amounts outstanding as of December 31, 2009. Our degree of leverage and level of interest expense may have important consequences, including:

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        Our ability to service our debt and other obligations will depend on our future operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow, and future financings may not be available to provide sufficient net proceeds, to meet these obligations or to successfully execute our business strategies. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources."

Restrictions in our debt instruments and accounts receivable facility limit our ability to take certain actions and breaches thereof could impair our liquidity.

        Our credit facility and the indenture governing our senior subordinated notes contain covenants that restrict our ability to:

        Our credit facility also requires us to comply with financial covenants relating to, among other things, interest coverage and leverage. Our accounts receivable facility contains covenants similar to those in our credit facility and includes additional requirements regarding our receivables. We may not be able to satisfy these covenants in the future or be able to pursue our strategies within the constraints of these covenants. Substantially all of our assets and the assets of our domestic subsidiaries (other than our special purpose receivables subsidiary) are pledged as collateral pursuant to the terms of our credit facility. A breach of a covenant contained in our debt instruments could result in an event of default under one or more of our debt instruments, our accounts receivable facility and our lease financing arrangements. Such breaches would permit the lenders under our credit facility to declare all amounts borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, and the commitments of such lenders to make further extensions of credit could be terminated. In addition, such breach may cause a termination of our accounts receivable facility. Each of these circumstances could materially and adversely impair our liquidity.

We have significant goodwill and intangible assets, and future impairment of our goodwill and intangible assets could have a material negative impact on our financial results.

        We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis as of October 1, and more frequently if we experience changes in our business conditions that indicate an interim test may be required, by comparing the estimated fair values with their respective carrying values. We estimate the fair value of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets utilizing a combination of a

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discounted cash flow approach, which is based upon management's operating budget and internal five-year forecast, and market-based valuation measures that consider earnings multiples (for goodwill testing) and royalty rates (for indefinite-lived intangible asset testing). We test goodwill for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units, determined using a combination of the aforementioned techniques, to its respective carrying value on our balance sheet. If carrying value exceeds fair value, then a possible impairment of goodwill exists and further evaluation is performed. We test indefinite-lived intangible assets by comparing the estimated fair value of the assets, determined based on discounted future cash flows related to the net amount of royalty expenses avoided due to the existence of the trademark or trade name, to the carrying value. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

        The utilization of a discounted cash flow approach in the impairment test for both goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets requires us to make significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. The projections also take into account several factors including current and estimated economic trends and outlook, costs of raw materials, consideration of our market capitalization in comparison to the estimated fair value of our reporting units determined using discounted cash flow analyses and other factors that are beyond our control.

        At December 31, 2009, our goodwill and intangible assets were approximately $360.4 million and represented approximately 43.6% of our total assets. Our net loss of $136.2 million and $158.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, included $166.6 million and $171.2 million, respectively of pre-tax charges for impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets in continuing operations, and $0.9 million and $17.9 million of such charges in discontinued operations in 2009 and 2008, respectively. If we experience declines in sales and operating profit or do not meet our current and forecasted operating budget, we may be subject to future goodwill impairments. In addition, while the fair value of our remaining goodwill exceeds its carrying value, significantly different assumptions regarding future performance of our businesses or significant declines in our stock price could result in additional impairment losses. Because of the significance of our goodwill and intangible assets, any future impairment of these assets could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.

We may face liability associated with the use of products for which patent ownership or other intellectual property rights are claimed.

        We may be subject to claims or inquiries regarding alleged unauthorized use of a third party's intellectual property. An adverse outcome in any intellectual property litigation could subject us to significant liabilities to third parties, require us to license technology or other intellectual property rights from others, require us to comply with injunctions to cease marketing or using certain products or brands, or require us to redesign, reengineer, or rebrand certain products or packaging, any of which could affect our business, financial condition and operating results. If we are required to seek licenses under patents or other intellectual property rights of others, we may not be able to acquire these licenses on acceptable terms, if at all. In addition, the cost of responding to an intellectual property infringement claim, in terms of legal fees and expenses and the diversion of management resources, whether or not the claim is valid, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We may be unable to adequately protect our intellectual property.

        While we believe that our patents, trademarks and other intellectual property have significant value, it is uncertain that this intellectual property or any intellectual property acquired or developed by us in the future, will provide a meaningful competitive advantage. Our patents or pending applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by competitors or rights granted thereunder may not provide meaningful proprietary protection. Moreover, competitors may infringe on our patents or successfully avoid them through design innovation. Policing unauthorized use of our intellectual property is difficult

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and expensive, and we may not be able to, or have the resources to, prevent misappropriation of our proprietary rights, particularly in countries where the laws may not protect such rights as fully as in the U.S. The cost of protecting our intellectual property may be significant and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and future results of operations.

We may incur material losses and costs as a result of product liability, recall and warranty claims that may be brought against us.

        We are subject to a variety of litigation incidental to our businesses, including claims for damages arising out of use of our products, claims relating to intellectual property matters and claims involving employment matters and commercial disputes.

        We currently carry insurance and maintain reserves for potential product liability claims. However, our insurance coverage may be inadequate if such claims do arise and any liability not covered by insurance could have a material adverse effect on our business. Although, we have been able to obtain insurance in amounts we believe to be appropriate to cover such liability to date, our insurance premiums may increase in the future as a consequence of conditions in the insurance business generally or our situation in particular. Any such increase could result in lower net income or cause the need to reduce our insurance coverage. In addition, a future claim may be brought against us that could have a material adverse effect on us. Any product liability claim may also include the imposition of punitive damages, the award of which, pursuant to certain state laws, may not be covered by insurance. Our product liability insurance policies have limits that, if exceeded, may result in material costs that could have an adverse effect on our future profitability. In addition, warranty claims are generally not covered by our product liability insurance. Further, any product liability or warranty issues may adversely affect our reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality, safe products, divert management's attention, and could have a material adverse effect on our business.

        In addition, one of our Energy segment subsidiaries is a party to lawsuits related to asbestos contained in gaskets formerly manufactured by it or its predecessors. Some of this litigation includes claims for punitive and consequential as well as compensatory damages. We are not able to predict the outcome of these matters given that, among other things, claims may be initially made in jurisdictions without specifying the amount sought or by simply stating the minimum or maximum permissible monetary relief, and may be amended to alter the amount sought. Of the 7,816 claims pending at December 31, 2009, 96 set forth specific amounts of damages (other than those stating the statutory minimum or maximum). 71 of the 96 claims sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages), 21 sought between $5.0 million and $10.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages) and 4 sought over $10.0 million (which includes compensatory and punitive damages). Solely with respect to compensatory damages, 74 of the 96 claims sought between $50,000 and $600,000, 18 sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million and 4 sought over $5.0 million. Solely with respect to punitive damages, 71 of the 96 claims sought between $0 million and $2.5 million, 20 sought between $2.5 million and $5.0 million and 5 sought over $5.0 million. Total defense costs from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009 were approximately $2.7 million and total settlement costs (exclusive of defense costs) for all asbestos cases since inception have been approximately $5.4 million through December 31, 2009. To date, approximately 50% of our costs related to defense and settlement of asbestos litigation have been covered by our primary insurance. Effective February 14, 2006, we entered into a coverage-in-place agreement with our first level excess carriers regarding the coverage to be provided to us for asbestos-related claims when our primary insurance is exhausted. The coverage-in-place agreement makes asbestos defense costs and indemnity insurance coverage available to us that might otherwise be disputed by the carriers and provides a methodology for the administration of such expenses. Nonetheless, there may be a period prior to the commencement of coverage under this agreement and following exhaustion of our primary insurance coverage during which we would be solely responsible for defense costs and indemnity payments, the duration of which would be subject to the scope of damage

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awards and settlements paid. We also may incur significant litigation costs in defending these matters in the future. We may be required to incur additional defense costs and pay damage awards or settlements or become subject to equitable remedies that could adversely affect our businesses.

Our business may be materially and adversely affected by compliance obligations and liabilities under environmental laws and regulations.

        We are subject to federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations which impose limitations on the discharge of pollutants into the ground, air and water and establish standards for the generation, treatment, use, storage and disposal of solid and hazardous wastes, and remediation of contaminated sites. We may be legally or contractually responsible or alleged to be responsible for the investigation and remediation of contamination at various sites, and for personal injury or property damages, if any, associated with such contamination. We have been named as potentially responsible parties under CERCLA (the federal Superfund law) or similar state laws in several sites requiring clean-up related to disposal of wastes we generated. These laws generally impose liability for costs to investigate and remediate contamination without regard to fault and under certain circumstances liability may be joint and several resulting in one responsible party being held responsible for the entire obligation. Liability may also include damages to natural resources. We have entered into consent decrees relating to two sites in California along with the many other co-defendants in these matters. We have incurred substantial expenses for each of these sites over a number of years, a portion of which has been covered by insurance. In addition to the foregoing, our businesses have incurred and likely will continue to incur expenses to investigate and clean up existing and former company-owned or leased property, including those properties made the subject of sale-leaseback transactions for which we have provided environmental indemnities to the lessors. Additional sites may be identified at which we are a potentially responsible party under the federal Superfund law or similar state laws. We must also comply with various health and safety regulations in the U.S. and abroad in connection with our operations.

        We believe that our business, operations and facilities are being operated in compliance in all material respects with applicable environmental and health and safety laws and regulations, many of which provide for substantial fines and criminal sanctions for violations. Based on information presently known to us and accrued environmental reserves, we do not expect environmental costs or contingencies to have a material adverse effect on us. The operation of manufacturing plants entails risks in these areas, however, and we may incur material costs or liabilities in the future that could adversely affect us. There can be no assurance that we have been or will be at all times in substantial compliance with environmental health and safety laws. Failure to comply with any of these laws could result in civil, criminal, monetary and non-monetary penalties and damage to our reputation. In addition, potentially material expenditures could be required in the future. For example, we may be required to comply with evolving environmental and health and safety laws, regulations or requirements that may be adopted or imposed in the future or to address newly discovered information or conditions that require a response.

Our growth strategy includes the impact of acquisitions. If we are unable to identify attractive acquisition candidates, successfully integrate acquired operations or realize the intended benefits of our acquisitions, we may be adversely affected.

        One of our principal growth strategies is to pursue strategic acquisition opportunities. Since our separation from Metaldyne in June 2002, we have completed eleven acquisitions. Each of these acquisitions required integration expense and actions that negatively impacted our results of operations and that could not have been fully anticipated beforehand. In addition, attractive acquisition candidates may not be identified and acquired in the future, financing for acquisitions may be unavailable on satisfactory terms and we may be unable to accomplish our strategic objectives in effecting a particular acquisition. We may encounter various risks in acquiring other companies, including the possible inability to integrate an acquired business into our operations, diversion of management's attention and

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unanticipated problems or liabilities, some or all of which could materially and adversely affect our business strategy and financial condition and results of operations.

We have significant operating lease obligations and our failure to meet those obligations could adversely affect our financial condition.

        We lease many of our manufacturing facilities and certain capital equipment. Our annualized rental expense in 2009 under these operating leases was approximately $14.7 million. A failure to pay our rental obligations would constitute a default allowing the applicable landlord to pursue any remedy available to it under applicable law, which would include taking possession of our property and, in the case of real property, evicting us. These leases are categorized as operating leases and are not considered indebtedness for purposes of our debt instruments.

We may be subject to further unionization and work stoppages at our facilities or our customers may be subject to work stoppages, which could seriously impact the profitability of our business.

        As of December 31, 2009, approximately 27% of our work force in our continuing operations was unionized under several different unions and bargaining agreements. If our unionized workers were to engage in a strike, work stoppage or other slowdown in the future, we could experience a significant disruption of our operations. In addition, if a greater percentage of our work force becomes unionized, our labor costs and risks associated with strikes, work stoppages or other slowdowns may increase.

        On July 10, 2009, we reached a mutually agreeable settlement with the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union ("Union") regarding the duration of a neutrality agreement we have with the Union. The agreement commits us to remain generally neutral in Union organizing drives through the duration of the agreement. On August 17, 2009, the Union began an organizing drive under the terms of the neutrality agreement at our facility located in Houston, Texas, which is included in our Energy segment. Since the Union obtained a simple majority of authorization cards during the organizing drive, on November 4, 2009 we recognized the Union at this facility. The recognition requires us and the Union to negotiate a first collective bargaining agreement within 180 days from the date of recognition. Under the neutrality agreement, there is no threat of strike or work slowdown during the first collective bargaining agreement.

        On December 4, 2009, we received a notice of filing petition for union representation election filed by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace workers with regard to our Engineered Components facility located in Plymouth, Massachusetts. On January 15, 2010, a vote was held according to the rules of the National Labor Relations Board. The union was unsuccessful in receiving the simple majority of the required votes; therefore, the Plymouth, Massachusetts facility remains in a union free status.

        On December 10, 2009, we received a notice of filing petition for union decertification at the Houston, Texas facility. The hearing on the petition has not yet been scheduled. The decertification petition is still pending with the National Labor Relations Board.

        Other than as described above, we are not aware of any present active union organizing drives at any of our other facilities. We cannot predict the impact of any further unionization of our workplace.

        Many of our direct or indirect customers have unionized work forces. Strikes, work stoppages or slowdowns experienced by these customers or their suppliers could result in slowdowns or closures of assembly plants where our products are included. In addition, organizations responsible for shipping our customers' products may be impacted by occasional strikes or other activity. Any interruption in the delivery of our customers' products could reduce demand for our products and could have a material adverse effect on us.

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Our healthcare costs for active employees and future retirees may exceed our projections and may negatively affect our financial results.

        We maintain a range of healthcare benefits for our active employees and a limited number of retired employees pursuant to labor contracts and otherwise. Healthcare benefits for active employees and certain retirees are provided through comprehensive hospital, surgical and major medical benefit provisions or through health maintenance organizations, all of which are subject to various cost-sharing features. Some of these benefits are provided for in fixed amounts negotiated in labor contracts with the respective unions. If our costs under our benefit programs for active employees and retirees exceed our projections, our business and financial results could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, foreign competitors and many domestic competitors provide fewer benefits to their employees and retirees, and this difference in cost could adversely impact our competitive position.

A growing portion of our sales may be derived from international sources, which exposes us to certain risks which may adversely affect our financial results and impact our ability to service debt.

        Approximately 17.7% of our net sales for the year ended December 31, 2009 were derived from sales by our subsidiaries located outside of the U.S. We may significantly expand our international operations through internal growth and acquisitions. Sales outside of the U.S., particularly sales to emerging markets, and manufacturing in non-US countries are subject to various other risks which are not present within U.S. markets, including governmental embargoes or foreign trade restrictions such as antidumping duties, changes in U.S. and foreign governmental regulations, tariffs and other trade barriers, the potential for nationalization of enterprises, foreign exchange risk and other political, economic and social instability. In addition, there are tax inefficiencies in repatriating cash flow from non-U.S. subsidiaries that could affect our financial results and reduce our ability to service debt.

Our stock price may be subject to significant volatility due to our own results or market trends.

        If our revenue, earnings or cash flows in any quarter fail to meet the investment community's expectations, there could be an immediate negative impact on our stock price. Our stock price could also be impacted by broader market trends and world events unrelated to our performance.

If we do not meet the continued listing requirements of the NASDAQ our common stock may be delisted.

        Our common stock is listed on the NASDAQ. The NASDAQ requires us to continue to meet certain listing standards, including standards related to our shareholders' equity and stock price. In instances where we do not meet the NASDAQ's continued listing standards, we may be notified by the NASDAQ and we may be required to take corrective action to meet the continued listing standards; otherwise, our common stock may be delisted from the NASDAQ. A delisting of our common stock on the NASDAQ would reduce the liquidity and market price of our common stock and the number of investors willing to hold or acquire our common stock, which could negatively impact our ability to access the public capital markets. A delisting would also reduce the value of our equity compensation plans, which could negatively impact our ability to retain key employees.

Heartland owns approximately 44% of our voting common equity.

        Heartland Industrial Partners ("Heartland") beneficially owns approximately 44% of our outstanding voting common equity. As a result, Heartland has the power to substantially influence all matters submitted to our stockholders, exercise significant influence over our decisions to enter into any corporate transaction and any transaction that requires the approval of stockholders regardless of whether other stockholders believe that any such transactions are in their own best interests. For example, Heartland could cause us to make acquisitions that increase the amount of our indebtedness, sell revenue-generating assets or cause us to undergo a "going private" transaction with it or one of its affiliates based on its

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ownership without a legal requirement of unaffiliated shareholder approval. In addition, Heartland has the power to control the election of a majority of our directors. So long as Heartland continues to own a significant amount of the outstanding shares of our common stock, it will continue to be able to strongly influence or effectively control our decisions. Its interests may differ from other stockholders and it may vote in a way with which other stockholders disagree. In addition, this concentration of ownership may have the effect of preventing, discouraging or deterring a change of control. One of our directors is the Managing Member of Heartland's general partner. Heartland also has the right to require us to file a registration statement with the SEC for purposes of registering for sale to the public some or all of the common stock of ours that it owns. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions" within this Form 10-K for further information.

Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments

        Not applicable.

Item 2.    Properties

Properties

        Our principal manufacturing facilities range in size from approximately 10,000 square feet to approximately 380,000 square feet. Except as set forth in the table below, all of our manufacturing facilities are owned. The leases for our manufacturing facilities have initial terms that expire from 2010 through 2022 and are all renewable, at our option, for various terms, provided that we are not in default under the lease agreements. Substantially all of our owned U.S. real properties are subject to liens under our amended and restated credit facility and will be subject to several liens in favor of the notes. Our executive offices are located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan under a lease through June 2015. Our buildings, have been generally well maintained, are in good operating condition and are adequate for current production requirements.

        The following list sets forth the location of our principal owned and leased manufacturing and other facilities used in continuing operations and identifies the principal operating segment utilizing such facilities, as of December 31, 2009:

Packaging
  Energy   Aerospace & Defense   Engineered Components   Cequent
United States:
Indiana:
    Auburn
    Hamilton(1)

International:
Germany:
    Neunkirchen
Mexico:
    Mexico City
United Kingdom:
    Leicester
China:
    Hangzhou(1)
  United States:
Oklahoma:
    Tulsa
Texas:
    Houston(1)

International:
Canada:
    Sarnia,
    Ontario(1)
China:
    Hangzhou(1)
  United States:
California:
    Riverbank(2)
    Commerce(1)
  United States:
Massachusetts:
    Plymouth(1)
Michigan:
    Warren(1)
    Livonia(1)
Texas:
    Longview
  United States:
Indiana:
    Goshen(1)
    Huntington(1)
    South Bend(1)
Michigan:
    Plymouth(1)
    Tekonsha(1)
Ohio:
    Solon(1)

International:
Australia:
    Dandenong,
    Victoria
    Lyndhurst,
    Victoria(1)
    Perth, Western
    Australia(1)
Canada:
    Burlington, Ontario
Mexico:
    Juarez(1)
    Reynosa
Thailand:
    Chon Buri(1)

(1)
Represents a leased facility. All such leases are operating leases.

(2)
Owned by the U.S. Government and operated by our NI Industries™ business under a facility maintenance contract.

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        During 2002 and 2003, we entered into sale-leaseback transactions with respect to twelve real properties in the U.S. and Canada. The term of these leases is between 15 and 20 years, with the right to extend. Rental payments are due monthly. All of the foregoing leases are accounted for as operating leases. In general, pursuant to the terms of each sale-leaseback transactions, we transferred title of the real property to a purchaser and, in turn, entered into separate leases with the purchaser having a basic lease term plus renewal options. With respect to the 2002 sale-leaseback transactions, which includes nine of the twelve properties, the renewal option must be exercised with respect to all, and not less than all, of the property locations.

Item 3.    Legal Proceedings

        See Note 15, "Commitments and Contingencies" included in Part II, Item 8, "Notes to Audited Consolidated Financial Statements," within this Form 10-K.

Item 4.    Reserved

Supplementary Item. Executive Officers of the Company

        The following are our executive officers as of March 4, 2010:

Name
  Age   Title

David M. Wathen

    57  

President and Chief Executive Officer

A. Mark Zeffiro

    43  

Chief Financial Officer

Joshua A. Sherbin

    46  

Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

Lynn A. Brooks

    57  

President, Packaging

Robert J. Zalupski

    50  

Vice President Finance and Treasurer

        David M. Wathen.    Mr. Wathen was appointed as our President and Chief Executive Officer and as a member of the board in January 2009. He is currently a director and member of the Audit Committee and Corporate Governance Committee of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. From 2002 until 2006, Mr. Wathen was President and Chief Executive Officer of Balfour Beatty, Inc. (US Operations) an engineering, construction and building management services company. Prior to his Balfour Beatty appointment in 2002, he served as a Principal Member of the General Partnership of QUESTOR, a private equity firm. Mr. Wathen has also held management positions with General Electric, Emerson Electric, Allied Signal, and Eaton Corporation.

        A. Mark Zeffiro.    Mr. Zeffiro was appointed our Chief Financial Officer in June 2008. Prior to joining TriMas, Mr. Zeffiro held various financial management and business positions with General Electric Company ("GE") and Black and Decker Corporation ("Black & Decker"). From 2004, during Mr. Zeffiro's four-year tenure with Black & Decker, he was Vice President of Finance for the Global Consumer Product Group and Latin America. In addition, Mr. Zeffiro was directly responsible for and functioned as general manager of the factory store business unit, a $50 million business comprising 38 factory stores and 500 personnel. In 2003-2004 Mr. Zeffiro was Chief Financial Officer of First Quality Enterprises, a private company producing consumer products for the health care market globally. He led all financial activities including funding, banking and audit. From 1988 through 2002 he held a series of operational and financial leadership positions with GE, the most recent of which was Chief Financial Officer of their medical imaging manufacturing division.

        Joshua A. Sherbin.    Mr. Sherbin was appointed our General Counsel and Secretary in March 2005, and Vice President in May 2008, prior to which he was employed as the North American Corporate Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Valeo, a diversified Tier 1 international automotive supplier headquartered in Europe. Prior to joining Valeo in 1997, Mr. Sherbin was Senior Counsel, Assistant Corporate Secretary for Kelly Services, Inc., an employment staffing company, from 1995 to 1997. From 1988 until 1995, he was an associate with Butzel Long's general business practice.

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        Lynn A. Brooks.    Mr. Brooks has been President of Packaging since July 1996. He joined Rieke® in May 1978. Prior to his current position, his responsibilities at Rieke® included Assistant Controller, Corporate Controller, and Vice President-General Manager of Rieke®. Before joining Rieke®, he served with Ernst & Young in the Toledo, Ohio and Fort Wayne, Indiana offices.

        Robert J. Zalupski.    Mr. Zalupski was appointed our Vice President, Finance and Treasurer in January 2003. He joined us as Director of Finance and Treasury in July 2002, prior to which he worked in the Detroit office of Arthur Andersen. From August 1996 through November 2001, Mr. Zalupski was a partner in the audit and business advisory services practice of Arthur Andersen providing audit, business consulting, and risk management services to both public and privately held companies in the manufacturing, defense and automotive industries. Prior to August 1996, Mr. Zalupski held various positions of increasing responsibility within the audit practice of Arthur Andersen serving public and privately held clients in a variety of industries.

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PART II

Item 5.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

        In the second quarter of 2007, we completed our initial public offering of common stock ("IPO"), issuing 12,650,000 shares at a price of $11 per share. Prior to our IPO, there was no trading market for our common stock.

        Our common stock, par value $0.01 per share, is listed for trading on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol "TRS." As of February 26, 2010, there were 604 holders of record of our common stock.

        We did not pay dividends in 2009 or 2008. Our current policy is to retain earnings to repay debt and finance our operations and acquisitions. In addition, our credit facility and the indenture governing our outstanding senior subordinated notes restrict the payment of dividends on common stock. See the discussion under Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources" and Note 12 to the Company's financial statements captioned "Long-term Debt," included in Item 8 of this report.

        The high and low sales prices per share of our common stock by quarter subsequent to our IPO, as reported on the New York Stock Exchange, in May 2007 through August 23, 2009, and as reported on the NASDAQ from August 24, 2009 through December 31, 2009, are shown below:

 
  Price range of
common stock
 
 
  High Price   Low Price  

Year Ended December 31, 2009:

             
 

4th Quarter

  $ 7.49   $ 4.23  
 

3rd Quarter

  $ 5.37   $ 2.84  
 

2nd Quarter

  $ 4.28   $ 1.81  
 

1st Quarter

  $ 2.19   $ 0.97  

Year Ended December 31, 2008:

             
 

4th Quarter

  $ 6.25   $ 1.19  
 

3rd Quarter

  $ 8.09   $ 5.53  
 

2nd Quarter

  $ 8.17   $ 5.50  
 

1st Quarter

  $ 10.07   $ 5.13  

Year Ended December 31, 2007:

             
 

4th Quarter

  $ 16.15   $ 10.22  
 

3rd Quarter

  $ 13.44   $ 11.58  
 

2nd Quarter

  $ 12.85   $ 11.70  
 

1st Quarter

    N/A     N/A  

        Please see Item 12, "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters" for securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans.

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Performance Graph

        The following graph compares the cumulative total stockholder return from the date of our IPO through December 31, 2009 for TriMas' common stock, the Russell 2000 Index and peer group(1) of companies we have selected for purposes of this comparison. We have assumed that dividends have been reinvested and returns have been weighted-averaged based on market capitalization. The graph assumes that $100 was invested in each of TriMas' common stock, the stocks comprising the Russell 2000 Index and the stocks comprising the peer group.

GRAPHIC


(1)
Includes Actuant Corporation, Carlisle Companies Inc., Crane Co., Dover Corporation, IDEX Corporation, Illinois Tool Works, Inc., Kaydon Corporation, SPX Corporation and Teleflex, Inc.

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Item 6.    Selected Financial Data

        The following table sets forth our selected historical financial data from continuing operations for the five years ended December 31, 2009. The financial data for each of the five years presented has been audited by KPMG LLP and has been derived from our audited financial statements and notes to those financial statements. The following data should be read in conjunction with Item 7. "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this report.

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007   2006   2005  
 
  (dollars and shares in thousands, except per share data)
 

Statement of Operations Data:

                               
 

Net sales

  $ 803,650   $ 1,013,820   $ 999,130   $ 948,340   $ 932,990  
 

Gross profit

    208,820     263,370     272,500     255,800     231,720  
 

Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

        (166,610 )   (171,210 )   (116,500 )    
 

Operating profit (loss)

    49,910     (69,340 )   (95,250 )   (18,800 )   81,170  
 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    12,730     (124,070 )   (161,580 )   (111,430 )   (1,250 )

Per Share Data:

                               
 

Basic:

                               
   

Continuing operations

  $ 0.38   $ (3.71 ) $ (5.67 ) $ (5.51 ) $ (0.06 )
   

Weighted average shares

    33,490     33,423     28,499     20,230     20,010  
 

Diluted:

                               
   

Continuing operations

  $ 0.37   $ (3.71 ) $ (5.67 ) $ (5.51 ) $ (0.06 )
   

Weighted average shares

    33,892     33,423     28,499     20,230     20,010  

 

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007   2006   2005  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Statement of Cash Flows Data:

                               
 

Cash flows provided by (used for)
Operating activities

  $ 83,510   $ 31,170   $ 64,970   $ 15,880   $ 29,890  
   

Investing activities

    9,130     (33,380 )   (68,910 )   (22,160 )   (16,640 )
   

Financing activities

    (87,070 )   1,320     5,140     6,150     (12,610 )

Balance Sheet Data:

                               
 

Total assets

  $ 825,780   $ 930,220   $ 1,127,990   $ 1,286,060   $ 1,428,510  
 

Total debt

    514,550     609,940     615,990     734,490     727,680  
 

Goodwill and other intangibles

    360,410     380,100     567,170     769,850     900,000  

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Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

        The statements in the discussion and analysis regarding industry outlook, our expectations regarding the performance of our business and the other non-historical statements in the discussion and analysis are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties described in Item 1A "Risk Factors." Our actual results may differ materially from those contained in or implied by any forward-looking statements. You should read the following discussion together with Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

Introduction

        We are a global manufacturer and distributor of products for commercial, industrial and consumer markets. We are principally engaged in five reportable segments: Packaging, Energy, Aerospace & Defense, Engineered Components and Cequent. In reviewing our financial results, consideration should be given to certain critical events, particularly our initial public offering in May 2007 and expenses related thereto, acquisitions and consolidation, integration and restructuring efforts in several of our business operations. Effective April 1, 2009, we realigned our reportable segments as a result of our recent management reporting and business consolidation changes. We previously reported under five segments: Packaging Systems, Energy Products, Industrial Specialties, RV & Trailer Products and Recreational Accessories. All information included in this "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" reflects this realignment.

        Key Factors and Risks Affecting Our Reported Results.    Our businesses and results of operations depend upon general economic conditions and we serve some customers in cyclical industries that are highly competitive and themselves adversely impacted by unfavorable economic conditions. During the fourth quarter of 2008, worldwide credit markets and global economic conditions deteriorated significantly, resulting in declines in demand for our products and services. These conditions have persisted during 2009, resulting in reductions in sales from comparable prior periods across all of our reportable segments and reductions in earnings in all reportable segments but Packaging. We expect that revenue and earnings will continue to trend below historical levels until the current unfavorable economic conditions improve.

        Critical factors affecting our ability to succeed include: our ability to successfully pursue organic growth through product development, cross selling and extending product-line offerings, and our ability to quickly and cost-effectively introduce new products; our ability to acquire and integrate companies or products that will supplement existing product lines, add new distribution channels, expand our geographic coverage or enable us to better absorb overhead costs; our ability to manage our cost structure more efficiently through improved supply base management, internal sourcing and/or purchasing of materials, selective outsourcing and/or purchasing of support functions, working capital management, and greater leverage of our administrative and overhead functions. If we are unable to do any of the foregoing successfully, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted.

        There is some seasonality in the businesses within our Cequent reportable segment, where sales of towing and trailering products are generally stronger in the second and third quarters, as trailer original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs"), distributors and retailers acquire product for the spring and summer selling seasons. No other reportable segment experiences significant seasonal fluctuation in its businesses. We do not consider sales order backlog to be a material factor in our business. A growing portion of our sales may be derived from international sources, which exposes us to certain risks, including currency risks.

        The demand for some of our products, particularly in the Cequent segment, is heavily influenced by consumer sentiment. We experienced decreases in sales and earnings in 2008 as a result of an uncertain credit market and interest rate environment and rising energy costs, among other things. Sales and earnings have declined further as a result of the worsening of the global economic conditions in 2009. We expect the current end market conditions in the Cequent segment will continue to remain weak and/or

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decline until the U.S. economy recovers from existing recessionary forces, employment levels increase and consumer credit availability improves, thereby increasing consumer discretionary spending.

        We are sensitive to price movements in our raw materials supply base. Our largest material purchases are for steel, copper, aluminum, polyethylene and other resins and energy. Historically, we have experienced increasing costs of steel and resin and have worked with our suppliers to manage cost pressures and disruptions in supply. We have also initiated pricing programs to pass increased steel, copper, aluminum and resin costs to customers. Although we may experience delays in our ability to implement price increases, we generally are able to recover such increased costs. Although there have been no significant disruptions in the supply of steel since 2005, we may experience disruptions in supply in the future and we may not be able to pass along higher costs associated with such disruptions to our customers in the form of price increases. We will continue to take actions as necessary to manage risks associated with increasing steel or other raw material costs. However, such increased costs may adversely impact our earnings.

        We report shipping and handling expenses, associated with certain businesses within our Cequent segment, for its sales distribution network, as an element of selling, general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statement of operations. As such, gross margins for the Cequent segment may not be comparable to other companies which include all costs related to their distribution network in cost of sales.

        We have substantial debt, interest and lease payment requirements that may restrict our future operations and impair our ability to meet our obligations and, in a rising interest rate environment, our performance may be adversely affected by our degree of leverage.

        Recent Consolidation, Integration and Restructuring Activities.    Since our separation from Metaldyne in 2002, we have undertaken significant consolidation, integration and other cost-savings programs to enhance our efficiency and achieve cost reduction opportunities which exist in our businesses. In addition to major consolidation projects, there have also been a series of ongoing initiatives to eliminate duplicative and excess manufacturing and distribution facilities, sales forces, and back office and other support functions in order to continue to optimize our cost structure in response to competitor actions and market conditions.

        In the fourth quarter of 2008, in response to the deteriorating recent economic conditions, we accelerated our Profit Improvement Plan, which included further consolidation of distribution and manufacturing activities, continued integration of certain business activities, movement of production to lower-cost environments and expansion of strategic sourcing initiatives. We have also implemented reductions in salaried headcount and in fixed and variable spending to better align the fixed cost structure of these operating segments with the reality of our current market environment and to maintain or improve operating margins. We have implemented commercial actions to protect and gain market share through continued introduction of new and innovative products and by providing superior delivery and service to our customers. Further, we also have pricing initiatives in place to recover inflationary cost increases and we are continuing actions to leverage our businesses' strong brand names. The Company has realized savings during 2009 of approximately $32 million resulting from actions taken as a part of the Profit Improvement Plan. These savings are the significant driver of the Company maintaining its gross profit margin in 2009 despite a 20% reduction in sales as compared to 2008.

        The most significant element of our Profit Improvement Plan implemented during 2009 is the restructuring of our legacy towing, trailering and electrical businesses within our Cequent reportable segment into one business, rationalizing facilities and the management team. This restructuring plan included the closure of the Mosinee, WI manufacturing facility, with the production and distribution functions previously located in Mosinee being relocated to lower-cost manufacturing facilities or to third party sourcing partners.

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        In 2008, our most significant action was the restructuring of our organizational structure within our corporate office.

        In 2007, the key action taken was the closure of Cequent's manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, with the consolidation of its operations into our Goshen, Indiana manufacturing facility.

        Key Indicators of Performance.    In evaluating our business, our management considers Adjusted EBITDA as a key indicator of financial operating performance and as a measure of cash generating capability. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change, interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, debt extinguishment costs, non-cash asset and goodwill impairment charges and write-offs and non-cash losses on sale-leaseback of property and equipment. In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, our management deems it important to consider the quality of our underlying earnings by separately identifying certain costs undertaken to improve our results, such as costs related to consolidating facilities and businesses in an effort to eliminate duplicative costs or achieve efficiencies, costs related to integrating acquisitions and restructuring costs related to expense reduction efforts. Although we may undertake new consolidation, restructuring and integration efforts in the future as a result of our acquisition activity, our management separately considers these costs in evaluating underlying business performance. Caution must be exercised in considering these items as they include substantially (but not necessarily entirely) cash costs and there can be no assurance that we will ultimately realize the benefits of these efforts. Moreover, even if the anticipated benefits are realized, they may be offset by other business performance or general economic issues.

        Management believes that consideration of Adjusted EBITDA together with a careful review of our results reported under GAAP is the best way to analyze our ability to service and/or incur indebtedness, as we are a highly leveraged company. We use Adjusted EBITDA as a key performance measure because we believe it facilitates operating performance comparisons from period to period and company to company by excluding potential differences caused by variations in capital structures (affecting interest expense), tax positions (such as the impact on periods or companies of changes in effective tax rates or net operating losses), and the impact of purchase accounting as well as depreciation and amortization expense. Because Adjusted EBITDA facilitates internal comparisons of our historical operating performance on a more consistent basis, we also use Adjusted EBITDA for business planning purposes, in measuring our performance relative to that of our competitors and in evaluating acquisition opportunities.

        In addition, we believe Adjusted EBITDA and similar measures are widely used by investors, securities analysts, ratings agencies and other interested parties as a measure of financial performance and debt-service capabilities. Our use of Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Some of these limitations are:

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        Because of these limitations, Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as a measure of discretionary cash available to us to invest in our growth. We compensate for these limitations by relying primarily on our GAAP results and using Adjusted EBITDA only supplementally. We carefully review our operating profit margins (operating profit as a percentage of net sales) at a segment level, which are discussed in detail in our year-to-year comparison of operating results.

        The following is a reconciliation of our net loss to Adjusted EBITDA and cash flows provided by operating activities for the three years ended December 31:

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net loss

  $ (220 ) $ (136,190 ) $ (158,430 )
 

Income tax benefit(1)

    (520 )   (12,610 )   (10,410 )
 

Interest expense(2)

    45,720     55,920     68,310  
 

Debt extinguishment costs

    11,400     140     7,440  
 

Impairment of property and equipment(3)

    2,340     500     3,370  
 

Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets(4)

    930     184,530     171,210  
 

Depreciation and amortization(5)

    43,940     44,070     41,350  
               

Adjusted EBITDA

  $ 103,590   $ 136,360   $ 122,840  
 

Interest paid

    (43,600 )   (52,660 )   (63,690 )
 

Taxes paid

    (8,200 )   (8,060 )   (8,660 )
 

(Gain) loss on disposition of plant and equipment(6)

    570     70     (630 )
 

Gain on extinguishment of debt

    (24,500 )   (3,880 )    
 

Receivables sales and securitization, net

    (15,550 )   (18,310 )   25,980  
 

Net change in working capital

    71,200     (22,350 )   (10,870 )
               

Cash flows provided by operating activities

  $ 83,510   $ 31,170   $ 64,970  
               

(1)
Includes income tax benefit (expense) of approximately $8.9 million, $13.1 million and ($2.9) million recorded in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, related to discontinued operations. See Note 5, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" to the financial statements attached hereto for further information.

(2)
Includes interest expense related to discontinued operations in the amounts of $0.7 million and $0.2 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

(3)
Includes asset impairments related to discontinuing operations of approximately $2.3 million in 2009.

(4)
Includes goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges of $0.9 million and $15.5 million related to discontinued operations in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

(5)
Includes depreciation and amortization related to discontinued operations in the amounts of $3.5 million, $6.5 million and $2.8 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

(6)
Includes gain on disposition of plant and equipment related to discontinued operations in the amounts of $0.3 million and $2.3 million in 2008 and 2007, respectively.

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        The following details certain items relating to our consolidation, restructuring and integration efforts, the use of proceeds from our initial public offering of common stock and other items that are included in the determination of net loss under GAAP and are not added back to net loss in determining Adjusted EBITDA, but that we separately consider in evaluating our Adjusted EBITDA:

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Severance and business unit restructuring costs(a)

  $ 10,870   $ 4,910   $ 5,620  

Estimated future unrecoverable lease obligations(b)

    5,250          

Fees incurred under advisory services agreement(c)

    2,890         10,000  

Costs for early termination of operating leases(d)

            4,230  

Settlement of Canadian benefit plan liability(e)

            3,870  

Gross gain on extinguishment of debt(f)

    (29,390 )   (3,880 )    
               

  $ (10,380 ) $ 1,030   $ 23,720  
               

(a)
Principally employee severance costs associated with business unit restructuring and other cost reduction activities.

(b)
Estimate of future unrecoverable lease obligations for facilities no longer utilized, net of projected sublease recoveries.

(c)
Expenses associated with our advisory services agreement with Heartland.

(d)
Costs associated with the early termination of operating leases and purchase of underlying machinery and equipment assets.

(e)
Non-cash expense associated with a settlement of our Canadian defined benefit pension plan liability, resulting from the closure of a distribution facility in 1997, for which the ultimate resolution and related accounting for distribution of surplus assets of the plan was not approved by Canadian authorities until 2007.

(f)
Gains recognized in connection with the extinguishment of $81.2 million of our senior subordinated notes due 2012, excluding debt extinguishment costs.

Segment Information and Supplemental Analysis

        The following table summarizes financial information for our five current operating segments:

 
  Year ended December 31,  
(dollars in thousands)
  2009   As a
Percentage
of Net Sales
  2008   As a
Percentage
of Net Sales
  2007   As a
Percentage
of Net Sales
 

Net Sales:

                                     

Packaging

  $ 145,060     18.1 % $ 161,330     15.9 % $ 151,950     15.2 %

Energy

    148,930     18.5 %   213,750     21.1 %   163,470     16.4 %

Aerospace & Defense

    74,420     9.3 %   95,300     9.4 %   79,550     8.0 %

Engineered Components

    62,290     7.8 %   119,050     11.7 %   121,140     12.1 %

Cequent

    372,950     46.4 %   424,390     41.9 %   483,020     48.3 %
                           
 

Total

  $ 803,650     100.0 % $ 1,013,820     100.0 % $ 999,130     100.0 %
                           

Gross Profit:

                                     

Packaging

  $ 52,920     36.5 % $ 53,500     33.2 % $ 51,380     33.8 %

Energy

    36,940     24.8 %   59,230     27.7 %   47,600     29.1 %

Aerospace & Defense

    30,290     40.7 %   40,660     42.7 %   33,690     42.4 %

Engineered Components

    8,810     14.1 %   21,610     18.2 %   25,460     21.0 %

Cequent

    79,860     21.4 %   88,370     20.8 %   114,370     23.7 %
                           
 

Total

  $ 208,820     26.0 % $ 263,370     26.0 % $ 272,500     27.3 %
                           

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  Year ended December 31,  
(dollars in thousands)
  2009   As a
Percentage
of Net Sales
  2008   As a
Percentage
of Net Sales
  2007   As a
Percentage
of Net Sales
 

Selling, General and Administrative:

                                     

Packaging

  $ 19,630     13.5 % $ 22,400     13.9 % $ 21,490     14.1 %

Energy

    24,090     16.2 %   26,470     12.4 %   24,550     15.0 %

Aerospace & Defense

    8,490     11.4 %   8,790     9.2 %   10,210     12.8 %

Engineered Components

    5,690     9.1 %   7,350     6.2 %   7,490     6.2 %

Cequent

    69,710     18.7 %   78,090     18.4 %   84,400     17.5 %

Corporate expenses

    22,590     N/A     22,160     N/A     25,220     N/A  
                           
 

Total

  $ 150,200     18.7 % $ 165,260     16.3 % $ 173,360     17.4 %
                           

Impairment of Assets and Goodwill:

                                     

Packaging

  $     0.0 % $ 62,490     38.7 % $     0.0 %

Energy

        0.0 %       0.0 %       0.0 %

Aerospace & Defense

        0.0 %       0.0 %       0.0 %

Engineered Components

        0.0 %   19,180     16.1 %       0.1 %

Cequent

        0.0 %   85,440     20.1 %   174,580     36.1 %
                           
 

Total

  $     0.0 % $ 167,110     16.5 % $ 174,580     17.5 %
                           

Operating Profit (Loss):

                                     

Packaging

  $ 33,050     22.8 % $ (31,200 )   (19.3 )% $ 26,880     17.7 %

Energy

    12,780     8.6 %   32,740     15.3 %   22,860     14.0 %

Aerospace & Defense

    21,770     29.3 %   31,850     33.4 %   23,190     29.2 %

Engineered Components

    2,960     4.8 %   (5,140 )   (4.3 )%   17,970     14.8 %

Cequent

    4,830     1.3 %   (75,430 )   (17.8 )%   (145,430 )   (30.1 )%

Corporate expenses

    (25,480 )   N/A     (22,160 )   N/A     (40,730 )   N/A  
                           
 

Total

  $ 49,910     6.2 % $ (69,340 )   (6.8 )% $ (95,260 )   (9.5 )%
                           

Capital Expenditures:

                                     

Packaging

  $ 4,190     2.9 % $ 5,890     3.7 % $ 14,340     9.4 %

Energy

    1,860     1.2 %   5,100     2.4 %   5,590     3.4 %

Aerospace & Defense

    1,550     2.1 %   5,720     6.0 %   6,110     7.7 %

Engineered Components

    3,060     4.9 %   6,040     5.1 %   9,780     8.1 %

Cequent

    3,280     0.9 %   5,010     1.2 %   11,450     2.4 %

Corporate

    80     N/A     100     N/A     120     N/A  
                           
 

Total

  $ 14,020     1.7 % $ 27,860     2.7 % $ 47,390     4.7 %
                           

Depreciation and Amortization

                                     

Packaging

  $ 13,330     9.2 % $ 13,780     8.5 % $ 11,840     7.8 %

Energy

    2,960     2.0 %   2,790     1.3 %   2,470     1.5 %

Aerospace & Defense

    2,260     3.0 %   1,960     2.1 %   1,530     1.9 %

Engineered Components

    3,010     4.8 %   2,890     2.4 %   2,980     2.5 %

Cequent

    19,730     5.3 %   18,410     4.3 %   19,530     4.0 %

Corporate

    110     N/A     100     N/A     170     N/A  
                           
 

Total

  $ 41,400     5.2 % $ 39,930     3.9 % $ 38,520     3.9 %
                           

Adjusted EBITDA:

                                     

Packaging

  $ 45,730     31.5 % $ 45,030     27.9 % $ 38,840     25.6 %

Energy

    15,870     10.7 %   35,430     16.6 %   25,430     15.6 %

Aerospace & Defense

    24,030     32.3 %   33,810     35.5 %   24,790     31.2 %

Engineered Components

    5,990     9.6 %   17,000     14.3 %   20,930     17.3 %

Cequent

    25,280     6.8 %   28,310     6.7 %   47,960     9.9 %

Corporate income (expenses)

    2,050     N/A     (20,280 )   N/A     (43,980 )   N/A  
                           
 

Subtotal from continuing operations

  $ 118,950     14.8 % $ 139,300     13.7 % $ 113,970     11.4 %

Discontinued operations

    (15,360 )   N/A     (2,940 )   N/A     8,870     N/A  
                           
 

Total

  $ 103,590     12.9 % $ 136,360     13.5 % $ 122,840     12.3 %
                           

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Results of Operations

Year Ended December 31, 2009 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2008

        The principal factors impacting us during the year ended December 31, 2009 compared with the year ended December 31, 2008 were:

        Overall, net sales decreased approximately $210.2 million, or approximately 20.7%, to $803.7 million in 2009, as compared to $1.014 billion in 2008. Although a few of our businesses benefitted from new product introductions and new sales promotions during 2009, net sales declined in each of our five reportable segments, generally due to lower sales volumes resulting from the global economic recession. In addition, net sales were unfavorably impacted by approximately $9.6 million as a result of currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were negatively impacted by weaker foreign currencies.

        Gross profit margin (gross profit as a percentage of sales) approximated 26.0% in both 2009 and 2008, as we were able to essentially hold our gross profit margin despite the 21% reduction in sales volumes, reduced absorption of fixed costs and unfavorable currency exchange as a result of realization of savings from our cost reduction and alternate sourcing initiatives that began in the fourth quarter of 2008, with the largest impact experienced in our Packaging and Cequent segments.

        Operating profit margin (operating profit as a percentage of sales) approximated 6.2% and (6.8)% in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Operating profit increased $119.3 million in 2009 as compared to 2008. In 2008, we experienced a negative operating profit margin as a result of approximately $167.1 million in impairment of asset and goodwill charges. We did not record any similar charges in 2009. We were able to essentially hold our gross profit margin, and although selling, general and administrative expenses were higher as a percentage of sales, we lowered such costs by approximately $15.1 million compared to 2008 based on cost reduction and discretionary spend actions in response to the lower sales volumes.

        Adjusted EBITDA margin from continuing operations (Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of sales) approximated 14.8% and 13.7% in 2009 and 2008, respectively. Adjusted EBITDA decreased approximately $20.4 million in 2009 as compared to 2008. After consideration of the $167.1 million impairment of goodwill and asset charges in 2008, $25.3 million higher gross gain on debt extinguishment resulting from the repurchase of our senior subordinated notes in 2009 compared to 2008, an increase in year-over-year depreciation and amortization expense of approximately $1.5 million and approximately $0.5 million lower year-over-year expense for receivables sales and securitization, the change in Adjusted EBITDA is consistent with the change in operating profit between years.

        See below for a discussion of operating results by segment.

        Packaging.    Net sales decreased approximately $16.2 million, or 10.1%, to $145.1 million in 2009, as compared to $161.3 million in 2008. Overall, sales decreased approximately $6.6 million due to currency

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exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were negatively impacted as a result of the stronger U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies. Sales of our specialty dispensing products and new product introductions increased by approximately $16.1 million in 2009 compared to 2008, due primarily to increased sales into the personal care markets, pharmaceuticals and the food industries. Sales of our industrial closures, rings and levers decreased by approximately $25.7 million in 2009 compared to 2008, primarily as a result of the continued general economic slowdown.

        Packaging's gross profit decreased approximately $0.6 million to $52.9 million, or 36.5% of sales in 2009, as compared to $53.5 million, or 33.2% of sales in 2008. The decrease in gross profit between years is primarily attributed to lower sales volumes of our industrial products and unfavorable currency exchange. However, our gross profit margin improved 330 basis points in 2009 compared to 2008 due to the impact of the implementation of productivity projects, improved matching of resources with lower industrial sales volumes and lower costs for certain commodities due to alternate sourcing or improved internal processing.

        Packaging's selling, general and administrative expenses decreased approximately $2.8 million to $19.6 million, or 13.5% of sales in 2009, as compared to $22.4 million, or 13.9% of sales in 2008. Discretionary spending has been reduced from 2008 levels, and additional selling, general and administrative cost reduction plans have been implemented to better align the fixed cost structure with current business requirements resulting from the general economic decline.

        Packaging's operating profit increased approximately $64.3 million to $33.1 million, or 22.8% of sales in 2009, as compared to an operating loss of $31.2 million, or (19.3)% of sales, in 2008. The increase in operating profit between years is due primarily to the recognition of a $62.5 million goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge recorded in 2008. After consideration of the 2008 impairment charge, operating profit improved as compared to 2008 due to the impact of our productivity projects, alternate sourcing of commodities and reduced selling, general and administrative costs.

        Packaging's Adjusted EBITDA increased approximately $0.7 million to $45.7 million, or 31.5% of sales in 2009, as compared to $45.0 million, or 27.9% of sales in 2008, consistent with the change in operating profit between years after consideration of the $62.5 million goodwill impairment in 2008 and losses on transactions denominated in foreign currencies of approximately $0.5 million in 2009 as compared to gains on similar transactions of $0.5 million in 2008.

        Energy.    Net sales in 2009 decreased approximately $64.8 million, or 30.3%, to $148.9 million, as compared to $213.7 million in 2008. Sales of specialty gaskets and related fastening hardware decreased approximately $21.2 million as a result of reduced levels of turn-around activity at petrochemical refineries and decreased sales demand from the chemical industry, as customers continue to defer maintenance and new programs that require our replacement and specialty gaskets and hardware. Sales of slow speed and compressor engines and related products decreased by approximately $43.6 million, due to a reduction of drilling activity in North America and customers deferring completion of previously drilled wells. Sales of compression products increased slightly, as the Company continues to develop new products to add to its well-site content.

        Gross profit within Energy decreased approximately $22.3 million to $36.9 million, or 24.8% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $59.2 million, or 27.7% of sales, in 2008. Gross profit decreased approximately $18.0 million as a result of the reduction in sales levels between years. The remaining decrease in gross profit is primarily attributable to lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of the lower sales volumes.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses within Energy decreased approximately $2.4 million to $24.1 million, or 16.2% of net sales, in 2009, as compared to $26.5 million or 12.4% of net sales, in 2008. This decrease was primarily due to reduced sales commissions in our specialty gasket business, and lower compensation and other administrative costs in an effort to match spending and headcount to current production volumes in both our specialty gasket and engine businesses. These decreases were partially offset by the opening of two new branches within our specialty gasket business, one in Salt Lake City, Utah, and one in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in 2009, which has increased selling, general and administrative expenses in 2009 by approximately $0.9 million.

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        Overall, operating profit within Energy decreased approximately $19.9 million to $12.8 million, or 8.6% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $32.7 million, or 15.3% of sales, in 2008, due principally to lower sales volumes and lower absorption of fixed costs, which were partially offset by reductions in compensation and other administrative costs as a result of management actions in response to lower sales volumes.

        Energy's Adjusted EBITDA decreased $19.5 million to $15.9 million, or 10.7% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $35.4 million, or 16.6% of sales, in 2008, consistent with the decrease in operating profit between years.

        Aerospace & Defense.    Net sales in 2009 decreased approximately $20.9 million, or 21.9%, to $74.4 million, as compared to $95.3 million in 2008. Sales in our aerospace business decreased approximately $17.1 million, primarily due to lower blind-bolt fastener sales resulting from the consolidation of the distributor segment of our customer base and inventory reductions by our distribution customers, who are adjusting inventory levels in response to slowing of production levels by aircraft manufacturers and as a result of the current economic uncertainty. This decrease was partially offset by sales of new products, primarily titanium screws, of approximately $4.5 million during 2009, which increased our content on certain aircraft. Sales in our defense business decreased approximately $3.8 million. Revenue associated with managing the relocation and closure of the defense facility increased approximately $2.6 million in 2009 compared to 2008. In addition, we had approximately $1.7 million of new product sales during 2009. These increases in revenue were more than offset by a decrease in cartridge sales of approximately $8.1 million in 2009 compared with 2008, as our customer had been building its inventory throughout 2008 in advance of the relocation of the facility, which began in second quarter 2009.

        Gross profit within Aerospace & Defense decreased approximately $10.4 million to $30.3 million, or 40.7% of sales, in 2009, from $40.7 million, or 42.7% of sales, in 2008. Gross profit decreased approximately $8.9 million as a result of the decline in sales levels between years. This decrease in gross profit was also impacted by lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of lower production and/or sales levels, primarily within our aerospace business, and a less favorable product sales mix.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased approximately $0.3 million to $8.5 million, or 11.4% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $8.8 million, or 9.2% of sales, in 2008, due primarily to reduced sales commissions and expenses and discretionary spending in light of the decrease in sales levels between years.

        Operating profit within Aerospace & Defense decreased approximately $10.1 million to $21.8 million, or 29.3% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $31.9 million, or 33.4% of sales, in 2008, primarily due to lower sales volumes, lower absorption of fixed costs and a less favorable product sales mix, which were partially offset by reduced selling, general and administrative expenses.

        Aerospace & Defense's Adjusted EBITDA decreased $9.8 million to $24.0 million, or 32.3% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $33.8 million, or 35.5% of sales, in 2008, consistent with the decrease in operating profit between years.

        Engineered Components.    Net sales in 2009 decreased approximately $56.8 million, or 47.7%, to $62.3 million, as compared to $119.1 million in 2008. Sales within our specialty fittings business declined $1.3 million due to lower sales of our core tube nut products which have been significantly impacted by the continued weak domestic automotive market demand, this decrease was partially offset by new product offerings for automotive fuel systems. Sales in our industrial cylinder and precision tool cutting businesses decreased $50.6 million and $4.9 million, respectively, due primarily to the global economic recession, which significantly impacted industrial applications and products.

        Gross profit within Engineered Components decreased approximately $12.8 million to $8.8 million, or 14.1% of sales, in 2009, from $21.6 million, or 18.2% of sales, in 2008. Gross profit decreased

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approximately $10.3 million as a result of the decline in sales levels between years. This decrease in gross profit was also impacted by sales of higher-cost inventory, primarily related to steel, in excess of the businesses' ability to secure price increases and lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of lower production and/or sales levels.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased approximately $1.7 million to $5.7 million, or 9.1% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $7.4 million, or 6.2% of sales, in 2008, due primarily to lower sales commissions as a result of the decrease in sales levels between years, and reduced compensation and discretionary spending as a result of action items taken in response to the lower sales levels.

        Operating profit within Engineered Components increased approximately $8.1 million to $3.0 million, or 4.8% of sales, in 2009, as compared to a loss of $5.1 million, or (4.3)% of sales, in 2008. The increase in operating profit between years is due primarily to the recognition of a $19.2 million goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge recorded in 2008. After consideration of the 2008 impairment charge, operating profit declined primarily due to lower sales volumes, reduced absorption of fixed costs and sales of higher-cost inventory, which were partially offset by reduced sales commissions, compensation expense and discretionary spending within selling, general and administrative expenses.

        Engineered Components' Adjusted EBITDA decreased approximately $11.0 million to $6.0 million, or 9.6% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $17.0 million, or 14.3% of sales, in 2008, consistent with the change in operating profit between years after consideration of the 2008 goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge.

        Cequent.    Net sales decreased approximately $51.4 million, or 12.1%, to $373.0 million in 2009, as compared to $424.4 million in 2008. Net sales were unfavorably impacted by approximately $2.4 million of currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were negatively impacted as a result of the stronger U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies. Sales in our retail business increased approximately $1.4 million due to additional business at a few large customers and the addition of several new customers during 2009, which were partially offset by reduced sales volumes to existing retail customers due to the economic uncertainty. Sales within our performance products business (includes the legacy towing, trailering and electrical businesses) decreased by $51.2 million, due to the continued soft demand in the majority of the end markets we serve due to the current uncertain economic conditions. Sales in our Australia/Asia Pacific business, excluding the impact of currency exchange, increased approximately $0.8 million, due primarily to significant increases in sales in the second half of 2009 as compared to the first half of 2009 and 2008 levels resulting from a government incentive stimulus in Australia. The increases in sales resulting from the stimulus were mostly offset by decreases in certain original equipment manufacturer revenue and reduced sales in the first half of 2009 due to the overall global economic recession.

        Cequent's gross profit decreased approximately $8.5 million to $79.9 million, or 21.4% of sales, in 2009, from approximately $88.4 million, or 20.8% of sales, in 2008. The decline in gross profit between years was primarily due to lower sales volumes in North America resulting from the economic uncertainty, sales of higher-cost inventory in excess of the businesses' ability to secure sales price increases during the first two quarters of 2009, lower absorption of fixed costs as a result of lower production and/or sales levels and accelerated depreciation expense related to machinery and equipment in our Mosinee, WI manufacturing facility that is no longer utilized following the closure in late 2009. However, our gross profit margin improved 60 basis points in 2009 compared to 2008 due to the impact of the implementation of Profit Improvement Plan initiatives in late 2008 and early 2009, from which we began to realize increasing cost savings as we progressed through 2009 via fixed cost reductions.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased approximately $8.4 million to $69.7 million, or 18.7% of sales, in 2009, as compared to $78.1 million, or 18.4% of sales, in 2008, due primarily to reductions in salaries, sales promotions, sales commissions and other discretionary spending, all as a part of our Profit Improvement Plan to better align the spending and cost structure with the current demand

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and production levels. These decreases were partially offset by severance charges of approximately $1.6 million incurred in 2009 associated with the involuntary termination of employees located at our Mosinee, WI manufacturing facility, which was closed during the fourth quarter of 2009.

        Cequent's operating profit increased approximately $80.2 million to $4.8 million, or 1.3% of sales, in 2009, from an operating loss of $75.4 million, or (17.8)% of net sales, in 2008. The increase in operating profit between years is due primarily to the recognition of a $85.4 million goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge recorded in 2008. After consideration of this charge in 2008, the decline in operating profit between years was primarily due to lower sales volumes, sales of higher-cost inventory, lower absorption of fixed costs and costs associated with the closure of the Mosinee, WI manufacturing facility, which were partially offset by cost savings realized as a result of actions taken as part of the Profit Improvement Plan.

        Cequent's Adjusted EBITDA decreased approximately $3.0 million to $25.3 million, or 6.8% of sales, in 2009, from $28.3 million, or 6.7% of sales, in 2008. In 2009, Cequent recognized approximately $1.0 million greater gains on transactions denominated in foreign currencies as compared to 2008. In addition, depreciation expense was approximately $1.3 million higher in 2009 compared to 2008, primarily as a result of accelerated depreciation incurred in 2009 in connection with certain machinery and equipment that will no longer be utilized following the closure of the Mosinee facility. After consideration of these two items and consideration of the 2008 goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge, the change in Adjusted EBITDA is consistent with the change in operating profit between years.

        Corporate (Income) Expenses.    Corporate expenses and management fees included in operating profit and Adjusted EBITDA consist of the following:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2009   2008  
 
  (in millions)
 

Corporate operating expenses

  $ 10.7   $ 11.6  

Employee costs and related benefits

    11.7     10.4  

Management fees and expenses

    3.1     0.2  
           
 

Corporate expenses—operating loss

  $ 25.5   $ 22.2  

Receivables sales and securitization expenses

    1.7     2.6  

Gain on repurchase of bonds

    (29.4 )   (3.9 )

Depreciation

    (0.1 )   (0.1 )

Other, net

    0.2     (0.5 )
           
 

Corporate (income) expenses—Adjusted EBITDA

  $ (2.1 ) $ 20.3  
           

        Corporate expenses included in operating profit increased by approximately $3.3 million to $25.5 million in 2009, from $22.2 million in 2008. During 2009, we recorded a charge of approximately $2.9 million associated with the termination of our former chief executive officer. During 2008, we recorded a charge of approximately $1.6 million related to severance related to our corporate office restructuring. In addition, we incurred approximately $2.9 million of Heartland Industrial Partners ("Heartland") advisory services fees in connection with the debt refinancing activities in the fourth quarter of 2009. The net increase of $1.3 million in severance costs and $2.9 million in management fees and expenses was partially offset by a $0.9 million reduction in discretionary and overall spending levels in 2009. See gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt and other expense, net below for explanations for changes in receivables sales and securitization expenses and gain on repurchase of bonds.

        Interest Expense.    Interest expense decreased approximately $10.6 million, to $45.1 million in 2009 as compared to $55.7 million in 2008. The decrease in interest expense was primarily the result of a decrease

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in our effective weighted average interest rate on variable rate U.S. borrowings to approximately 3.9% during 2009, from approximately 5.3% during 2008. Partially offsetting this reduction in interest rates was an increase in our weighted-average U.S. borrowings from approximately $297.1 million in 2008 to approximately $307.8 million in 2009, as we utilized our revolving credit facility as our primary source to fund operations in 2009 (as it was our lowest cost source of borrowings), as compared to utilizing our securitization facility as the primary source of operational funding in 2008 when it was the more cost-effective alternative. In addition, we recorded approximately $5.8 million lower interest expense related to our senior subordinated notes in 2009 compared to 2008, due primarily to approximately $73.2 million of note repurchases during 2009.

        Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt.    Our net gain on extinguishment of debt increased approximately $14.3 million to a gain of $18.0 million in 2009, from a gain of $3.7 million in 2008. During the first three quarters of 2009, we retired approximately $73.2 million face value of our senior subordinated notes, resulting in a gross gain of $29.4 million, less $1.1 million in debt extinguishment costs. During the fourth quarter, we incurred approximately $10.3 million in net debt extinguishment costs related to the refinance of our credit facility and senior notes. In 2008, we recognized a $3.9 million gross gain on the repurchase of $8.0 million face value of senior subordinated notes, less $0.2 million in debt extinguishment costs.

        Other Expense, Net.    Other expense, net decreased approximately $0.5 million to $1.7 million in 2009, from $2.3 million in 2008. During 2009, we incurred approximately $2.1 million of expenses in connection with the use of our receivables securitization facility and sales of receivables to fund working capital needs and experienced approximately $0.7 million of gains on transactions denominated in foreign currencies. During 2008, we incurred approximately $2.6 million of expenses in connection with the use of our receivables securitization facility and sales of receivables to fund working capital needs and experienced approximately $0.8 million of gains on transactions denominated in foreign currencies. There were no other individually significant amounts incurred or changes in amounts incurred in either 2009 or 2008.

        Income Taxes.    The effective income tax rate for 2009 was 39.6% compared to (0.4)% for 2008. In 2009, we reported domestic and foreign pre-tax income of approximately $2.8 million and $18.3 million, respectively. In 2009, we recorded $1.1 million tax expense associated with deferred tax adjustments for prior years and tax expense of $1.7 million related to increases in valuation allowances related to our change in judgments about the effects of tax restrictions on utilizing certain deferred tax assets, including a foreign capital loss carryforward and certain state and foreign tax operating loss carryforwards. The pre-tax loss in 2008 is primarily the result of a goodwill impairment charge of $166.6 million, for which we received an income tax benefit of only $15.2 million, which significantly reduced our effective tax rate in 2008. In 2008, we also recorded a tax benefit of approximately $2.9 million primarily associated with the release of a capital loss valuation allowance.

        Discontinued Operations.    The results of discontinued operations consist of our medical device line of business and our N.I. Industries property management line of business, both of which are classified as held for sale for all periods presented, as well as our specialty laminates, jacketings and insulation tapes business, which was sold in February 2009. Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit, was $13.0 million and $12.1 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively. See Note 5, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale," to our consolidated financial statements attached herein.

Year Ended December 31, 2008 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2007

        The principal factors impacting us during the year ended December 31, 2008 compared with the year ended December 31, 2007 were:

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        Overall, net sales increased $14.7 million, or approximately 1.5%, in 2008 as compared with 2007. Of this increase, approximately $5.6 million is due to currency exchange as our reported results in U.S. dollars benefited from stronger foreign currencies. Sales increased in three of our segments due primarily to new products and increased demand, however this was substantially offset by sales decreases in our other two segments primarily due to weak end market demand.

        Gross profit margin (gross profit as a percentage of sales) approximated 26.0% and 27.3% for 2008 and 2007, respectively. The overall decline in gross profit margin is primarily due to increases in raw material and commodity costs that were not fully recoverable through sales price increases, less favorable product mix, and lower absorption of fixed costs due to weak end market demand, offset slightly by increased sales.

        Operating profit (loss) margin (operating profit (loss) as a percentage of sales) approximated (6.8)% and (9.5)% in 2008 and 2007, respectively. Operating profit increased approximately $25.9 million, to an operating loss of $69.3 million in 2008, compared to an operating loss of $95.3 million in 2007. In 2008, we recorded a non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $166.6 million in our Packaging, Engineered Components and Cequent segments. In 2007, we recorded a non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $171.2 million in our Cequent segment. In addition to these impairment charges, during 2007, we utilized proceeds from our IPO to fund a $10.0 million fee to Heartland for agreeing to a contractual settlement of its right to receive a $4.0 million annual fee under its advisory services agreement and $4.2 million of costs and expenses related to the early termination of operating leases. In 2007, we also recorded approximately $9.0 million related to the closure of our Huntsville, Ontario, Canada facility within our Cequent segment and a non-cash settlement of a benefit plan liability of approximately $3.9 million in our Packaging segment.

        Adjusted EBITDA margin (Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of sales) approximated 13.7% and 11.4% in 2008 and 2007, respectively. Adjusted EBITDA increased approximately $25.3 million in 2008 compared to 2007. After consideration of the $166.6 million non-cash goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges, $2.8 million of increases in depreciation expense, and the $3.4 million Huntsville facility impairment charge, the change in Adjusted EBITDA was consistent with the change in operating profit.

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        See below for a discussion of operating results by segment.

        Packaging.    Net sales increased $9.4 million, or approximately 6.2%, to $161.3 million in 2008, as compared to $151.9 million in 2007. Overall, approximately $2.1 million of the increase in sales was due to favorable currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were positively impacted as a result of stronger foreign currencies. In addition, sales of our specialty dispensing products and new product introductions increased approximately $7.3 million and sales of our industrial closures remained relatively flat year over year.

        Packaging's gross profit increased approximately $2.1 million to $53.5 million, or 33.2% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $51.4 million, or 33.8% of sales, in 2007. The increase in gross profit between years was primarily attributed to higher sales levels, but was partially offset by increased raw material and commodity costs which, while recovered, were not recovered at cost plus a normal gross profit margin.

        Packaging's selling, general and administrative costs increased approximately $0.9 million to $22.4 million, or 13.9% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $21.5 million, or 14.1% of sales, in 2007. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to increased spending to support sales growth initiatives.

        Packaging's operating profit (loss) decreased $58.1 million to $(31.2) million, or (19.3)% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $26.9 million, or 17.7% of sales, in 2007. The decrease in operating profit was due primarily to the recognition of a $62.5 million non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment in 2008, which was partially offset by a non-cash charge in 2007 that did not recur in 2008 of $3.9 million related to settlement of a defined benefit plan liability resulting from the closure of a distribution facility. The remaining change between years was due to increased profit due to higher sales levels, which was partially offset by increased selling, general and administrative costs incurred to support sales growth initiatives.

        Packaging's Adjusted EBITDA increased $6.2 million to $45.0 million, or 27.9% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $38.8 million, or 25.6% of sales, in 2007. After consideration of the $62.5 million non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge in 2008 and an increase in depreciation expense of $1.8 million in 2008 as compared to 2007, the change in Adjusted EBITDA was consistent with the change in operating profit (loss).

        Energy.    Net sales for 2008 increased $50.3 million, or 30.8%, to $213.8 million, as compared to $163.5 million in 2007. Sales of specialty gaskets and related fastening hardware increased approximately $15.5 million as compared to 2007 as a result of increased demand from customers with whom we have global supply agreements, continued penetration in our fastening hardware product line and increased demand for replacement parts as refineries continued to operate at capacity for most of the year. Sales of slow speed and compressor engines and related products increased approximately $34.8 million in 2008 as compared to 2007, as higher commodity prices drove a robust drilling and completion market. Our engine business also benefited from investments made in prior years to develop compression and gas production equipment products, which contributed about 10% of the year-on-year growth.

        Gross profit within Energy increased $11.6 million to $59.2 million, or 27.7% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $47.6 million, or 29.1% of sales in 2007. While the increase in sales volume contributed $4.8 million to gross profit in our specialty gasket business, this increase was partially offset by a combined approximately $2.8 million of increased costs related to imported materials, an unfavorable product sales mix and the launch of a new branch in the Netherlands. Gross profit increased by $9.6 million in our engine business in 2008 as compared to 2007, approximately $8.6 million of which was driven by the increase in sales volumes year over year. The remainder of the increase resulted from production efficiencies realized with higher, predictable volumes in 2008 as compared to 2007, which was partially offset by higher costs of imported components.

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        Selling, general and administrative expenses within Energy increased $1.9 million to $26.5 million, or 12.4% of net sales, in 2008, as compared to $24.6 million, or 15.0% of net sales, in 2007. This change is comprised of an increase of approximately $3.0 million in compensation and commission expenses in support of increased sales in both businesses in this group and severance and other charges associated with the separation of the former Energy, Aerospace & Defense and Engineered Components Group President in the second quarter of 2008, which were partially offset by lower legal costs associated with the defense of asbestos claims.

        Overall, operating profit within Energy increased $9.8 million to $32.7 million, or 15.3% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $22.9 million, or 14.0% of sales, in 2007. This increase is due principally to higher sales volumes and other operational improvements, which were partially offset by increases in the costs of imported materials and components and compensation expenses.

        Energy's Adjusted EBITDA increased $10.0 million to $35.4 million, or 16.6% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $25.4 million, or 15.6% of sales, in 2007, consistent with the improvement in operating profit between years.

        Aerospace & Defense.    Net sales in 2008 increased $15.8 million, or approximately 19.8%, to $95.3 million, from $79.6 million in 2007. Net sales in 2008 increased 16.9% in our aerospace fastener business as compared to 2007, as we continued to benefit from share gains as well as strong market demand. Net sales grew 29.8% in our defense business, primarily as our customers continued to build-up their inventory of cartridge cases in advance of the closure of the army munitions plant.

        Gross profit within Aerospace & Defense increased $7.0 million to $40.7 million, or 42.7% of sales, in 2008, from $33.7 million, or 42.4% of sales, in 2007. Gross profit increased approximately $6.2 million at our aerospace fastener business, approximately $4.6 million of which was attributable to higher sales in 2008 and $1.6 million from improved operating leverage and efficiencies. Gross profit also increased at our defense business by $0.8 million, primarily as a result of incremental sales volume.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $1.4 million to $8.8 million, or 9.2% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $10.2 million, or 12.8% of sales, in 2007. The businesses in this segment largely held their investment in sales resources and product development flat in 2008, and benefited by approximately $0.9 million from the curtailment of a postretirement benefit pension plan.

        Overall, operating profit within Aerospace & Defense increased $8.7 million to $31.9 million, or 33.4% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $23.2 million, or 29.2% of sales, in 2007, primarily due to higher sales levels in our aerospace and defense businesses.

        Aerospace & Defense's Adjusted EBITDA increased $9.0 million to $33.8 million, or 35.5% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $24.8 million, or 31.2% of sales, in 2007. The change in Adjusted EBITDA was consistent with the change in operating profit.

        Engineered Components.    Net sales in 2008 decreased $2.1 million, or approximately 1.7%, to $119.1 million, from $121.1 million in 2007. Sales within our industrial gas cylinders and specialty cutting tools remained essentially flat year over year. Sales within our specialty fittings business declined approximately 16.8% in 2008 as compared to 2007 due to the severe decline in the domestic automotive end market.

        Gross profit within Engineered Components decreased $3.9 million to $21.6 million, or 18.2% of sales, in 2008, from $25.5 million, or 21.0% of sales, in 2007. Gross profit was flat to lower across the businesses in this segment, which were unfavorably impacted by 2008 material cost increases in excess of the businesses' ability to secure price increases and a significant decline in industrial demand in the fourth quarter of 2008, most notably in our specialty fittings business.

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        Selling, general and administrative expenses remained relatively flat in 2008, decreasing $0.1 million to $7.4 million, or 6.2% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $7.5 million, or 6.2% of sales, in 2007. The businesses in this segment largely held their investment in sales resources and product development flat in 2008.

        Overall, operating profit within Engineered Components decreased $23.1 million to ($5.1) million or (4.3)%, in 2008, as compared to $18.0 million, or 14.8% of sales, in 2007, primarily due to the $19.2 million non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge in 2008, in addition to higher commodity costs not fully recovered and declines in industrial demand, most notably within our specialty fittings business.

        Engineered Components' Adjusted EBITDA decreased $3.9 million to $17.0 million, or 14.3% of sales, in 2008, as compared to $20.9 million, or 17.3% of sales, in 2007. After consideration of the $19.2 million non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge in 2008, the change in Adjusted EBITDA was consistent with the change in operating profit.

        Cequent.    Net sales decreased $58.6 million, or 12.1%, to $424.4 million in 2008, from $483.0 million in 2007. Net sales were favorably impacted by approximately $3.5 million of currency exchange, as our reported results in U.S. dollars were positively impacted as a result of stronger foreign currencies. In addition, this segment benefited from $4.7 million in higher sales in 2008 in our Australian legacy business and from the acquisition of Parkside Towbars, which was completed in the first quarter of 2008. However, these amounts were more than offset by the decrease in sales within our performance products business of approximately $45.1 million in 2008 as compared to 2007, as increases in sales of new products were more than offset by declines in sales to the installer, distributor and original equipment channels due to continued weak end-market demand and low consumer confidence resulting from uncertain economic conditions. Sales in our retail business declined $19.9 million in 2008 as compared 2007 due to the combination of lower sales volumes as a result of the current economic uncertainty and changes in certain customer promotional programs and one-time product pipeline fills that did not recur in 2008.

        Cequent's gross profit decreased $26.0 million to $88.4 million, or 20.8% of net sales in 2008, from $114.4 million, or 23.7% of net sales, in 2007. Of the decrease in gross profit between years, approximately $13.9 million was attributed to the decline in sales volumes between periods. Gross profit between years further decreased by approximately $12.1 million of operating inefficiencies and lower absorption of fixed costs resulting from reduced manufacturing activity in response to lower demand and a less favorable product sales mix. The impact of increasing commodity and higher freight costs was largely offset by pricing initiatives and cost savings realized as a result of the closure of our Huntsville, Ontario, Canada facility, which was closed in the fourth quarter of 2007.

        Cequent's selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $6.3 million to $78.1 million, or 18.4% of sales in 2008, from $84.4 million, or 17.5% of sales in 2007. The decrease between years was due primarily to reductions in selling and distribution expenses in our performance products business as a result of further consolidation of our warehouse and distribution network. In addition, our discretionary spending was reduced in 2008 commensurate with the decline in sales in our installer and distributor channels and we lowered our promotional spending in our retail business. This decrease was partially offset by $1.6 million in higher spending within our Australian business, including spending within our Parkside Towbars business acquired in January 2008 and to support growth initiatives in Thailand.

        Cequent's operating loss was $75.4 million in 2008, compared to an operating loss of $145.4 million in 2007. In 2008, we recognized a non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $85.4 million due to continued declines in the fair value of this business, compared to a non-cash goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge in 2007 of $174.6 million. The remaining incremental operating loss of $19.2 million is primarily the result of the decline in sales between years, operating inefficiencies from reduced manufacturing activity in response to the lower demand, and a less favorable sales mix.

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        Cequent's Adjusted EBITDA decreased $19.7 million to $28.3 million, or 6.7% of net sales in 2008, from $48.0 million, or 9.9% of net sales in 2007 which, after considering the impact of the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges in 2008 and 2007, is consistent with the decline in operating profit between years.

        Corporate Expenses.    Corporate expenses and management fees included in operating profit and Adjusted EBITDA consist of the following:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2008   2007  
 
  (in millions)
 

Corporate operating expenses

  $ 11.6   $ 14.8  

Employee costs and related benefits

    10.4     9.6  

Costs for early termination of operating leases

        4.2  

Management fees and expenses

    0.2     12.1  
           
 

Corporate expenses—operating loss

  $ 22.2   $ 40.7  

Receivables sales and securitization expenses

    2.6     4.1  

Gain on repurchase of bonds

    (3.9 )    

Depreciation

    (0.1 )   (0.1 )

Other, net

    (0.5 )   (0.7 )
           
 

Corporate expenses—Adjusted EBITDA

  $ 20.3   $ 44.0  
           

        Corporate expenses included in our operating loss decreased by approximately $18.5 million to $22.2 million in 2008, from $40.7 million in 2007, primarily due to the impact of the use of IPO proceeds in 2007, including payment of a $10.0 million termination fee to Heartland for agreeing to a contractual settlement of its right to receive a $4.0 million annual fee under its advisory services agreement and $4.2 million of costs and expenses related to the early termination of operating leases. Additionally, we incurred higher-than-normal professional fees expense in 2007 in support of our efforts to fully document and complete initial testing associated with the requirements of Sarbanes-Oxley. Employee costs and related benefits increased by approximately $0.8 million to $10.4 million in 2008, from $9.6 million in 2007, primarily due to approximately $1.6 million of severance charges incurred in connection with our corporate office restructuring during the second quarter of 2008, which were partially offset by the benefit of having fewer employees during the second half of 2008. Receivables sales and securitization expenses decreased approximately $1.5 million in 2008 as compared to 2007, due primarily to an approximate 2.4% decrease in the weighted average securitization rate from 2007 to 2008. In addition, during the fourth quarter of 2008, we repurchased $8.0 million face value of our senior subordinated notes, resulting in a $3.9 million gain.

        Interest Expense.    Interest expense decreased approximately $12.6 million to $55.7 million in 2008, from $68.3 million in 2007. Approximately $5.0 million of the reduction in interest expense is a result of the retirement of $100.0 million senior subordinated notes in June 2007 with our IPO proceeds. The decrease is also a result of a decrease in our weighted-average U.S. variable-rate on U.S. borrowings of 5.4% in 2008, from 7.8% in 2007. Weighted-average borrowings on U.S. variable-rate debt were approximately flat year-over-year.

        Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt.    Our net gain on extinguishment of debt increased approximately $11.1 million to a gain of $3.7 million in 2008, from a loss of $7.4 million in 2007. In 2008, we recognized a $3.9 million gross gain on the repurchase of $8.0 million face value of senior subordinated notes, less $0.2 million in debt extinguishment costs, while in 2007 we incurred approximately $7.4 million of debt extinguishment costs in connection with the retirement of $100.0 million senior subordinated notes in June 2007 with our IPO proceeds.

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        Other Expense, Net.    Other expense, net decreased approximately $1.6 million to $2.3 million in 2008, from $3.9 million in 2007. The decrease is principally due a $1.5 million decrease in costs related to receivable sales and securitization expenses resulting from an approximate 2.4% decrease in the weighted average securitization rate from 2007 to 2008.

        Income Taxes.    The effective income tax rate for 2008 was (0.4)% compared with 7.6% for 2007. In 2008, we reported domestic and foreign pre-tax loss of approximately $91.5 million and $32.1 million, respectively. The pre-tax loss in 2008 is primarily the result of a goodwill and intangible asset impairment charge of $166.6 million, for which we received an income tax benefit of only $15.2 million, which significantly reduced our effective tax rate in 2008. In 2008, we also recorded a $2.9 million tax benefit associated with the release valuation allowances related to our change in judgments about the effects of tax restrictions on utilizing certain deferred tax assets, primarily a capital loss carryforward. The pre-tax loss in 2007 is primarily the result of a goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charge of $171.2 million, for which we recorded an income tax benefit of only $11.3 million. In 2007, we also recorded a $1.4 million tax benefit associated change in statutory tax rates and tax law. The Company reduced its net deferred income tax liabilities for the tax law changes that were signed into effect during 2007. In addition, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $1.0 million against certain state NOL's during 2007.

        Discontinued Operations.    The results of discontinued operations consist of our medical device line of business and our N.I. Industries property management line of business, both of which are classified as held for sale for all periods presented, as well as our specialty laminates, jacketings and insulation tapes business, which was sold in February 2009. The results of operations also include certain non-operating charges related to our industrial fastening businesses post-sale. Loss from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit, was $12.1 million in 2008, as compared to income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense, of $3.2 million in 2007. See Note 5, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale," to our consolidated financial statements included herein.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

        Cash provided by operating activities in 2009 was approximately $83.5 million, as compared to $31.2 million in 2008. Significant changes in cash flows provided by operating activities and the reasons for such changes are as follows:

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        Net cash provided by investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2009 was approximately $9.1 million, as compared to net cash used of $33.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. During 2009, we generated approximately $23.2 million of cash from business and asset dispositions, primarily related to the sale of our specialty laminates, jacketings and insulation tapes line of business. We also incurred approximately $14.1 million in capital expenditures to support certain of our growth initiatives, most notably in our Packaging segment. We decreased our capital expenditure spending levels from 2008 ($29.2 million) and historical levels (typically around 3% of net sales) in response to the current economic recession, choosing to utilize cash to pay down long-term debt. In 2008, we paid approximately $3.2 million for the acquisition of Parkside Towbars, net of cash acquired, and paid approximately $3.4 million of additional purchase price in connection with earn-out clauses related to prior year acquisitions. We also received approximately $2.4 million in cash related to asset dispositions in 2008.

        Net cash used by financing activities in 2009 was approximately $87.1 million, as compared to net cash provided by financing activities of approximately $1.3 million for 2008. During the first three quarters of 2009, we used approximately $43.8 million of available cash to retire $73.2 million face value of our 97/8% senior subordinated notes due 2012 via open market purchases. During the fourth quarter of 2009, we refinanced our long-term debt, amending and extending our credit facility, retiring our senior subordinated notes and issuing new senior secured notes, paying approximately $16.7 million in fees and expenses for the entire refinance. In conjunction with our debt refinance, we reduced the total amount of senior notes outstanding by approximately $11.6 million. In addition, in both 2009 and 2008, we relied upon our revolving credit facility as the primary source of funding our working capital requirements, as it was our lowest cost source of borrowing. We reduced our borrowings on our revolving credit facilities in 2009 by approximately $10.1 million, due primarily to lower cash requirements, as compared with increasing borrowings by approximately $10.0 million in 2008 in support of our increased inventory levels as compared to 2007.

        Although we have reported a net loss from continuing operations in 2008 and 2007, and had lower Adjusted EBITDA in four of our operating segments in 2009 compared to 2008, each of our operating segments was profitable before consideration of non-cash impairments and generated positive cash flows from operations. Beginning in the second half of 2008, we were impacted by the significant decline in the financial markets, continued uncertainty and lack of availability in the credit markets, and the economic recession in the U.S. and other major global economies. These impacts were most notable in our Cequent

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reportable segment, whose end markets are more sensitive to declining consumer confidence and lack of credit availability, which impacted discretionary consumer spending. Although we experienced a continued decline in end markets in 2009 in all of our reportable segments, which has resulted in lower reported sales (20.7% reduction in 2009 compared to 2008) in all reportable segments and reduced earnings in all segments but Packaging, our businesses remain profitable before consideration of non-cash impairment charges and continue to generate positive cash flows from operations.

        As more fully described in our "Key Factors and Risks Affecting our Reported Results," in response to the expected continuation of these end market conditions, we accelerated our Profit Improvement Plan, principally via restructuring within our Cequent segment, with the movement of production to lower-cost environments and the expansion of strategic sourcing initiatives. We also took actions to reduce fixed and variable spending and fixed headcount, and implemented reductions in working capital and capital expenditures in order to improve cash flows and lower our long-term debt. Our businesses also implemented commercial actions to protect and gain our market share through continued introduction of new and innovative products and by providing superior delivery and service to our customers. We believe that the actions we have implemented to-date and our future plans to reduce costs and generate additional cash flows have and will continue to substantially mitigate the impacts of declining consumer confidence, lack of credit availability and the economic recession.

        Our Packaging and Cequent reportable segments experienced higher sales in the fourth quarter of 2009 than in the fourth quarter of 2008, signaling that these end markets may be stabilizing and allowing for more optimism for the future than in late 2008. We expect to continue to have challenges in all of our segments until the US economy recovers from existing recessionary forces, employment levels increase and consumer credit availability improves. However, we continue to improve our businesses' alignment with the current economic environment, focusing on working capital reductions and cost savings and productivity initiatives as a part of our Profit Improvement Plan, while still allowing for capital spending on strategic growth projects where prudent.

        During the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company amended and restated its credit facilities. Prior to the amendment and restatement, the credit facilities consisted of a $90.0 million revolving credit facility, a $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility and a $260.0 million term loan facility, of which $252.2 million was outstanding. Under the amended and restated credit facilities, the revolving credit facility was reduced to $78.0 million, while the supplemental revolving credit facility and term loan facility remained at $60.0 million and $252.2 million, respectively (collectively, the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement or "ARCA"). Under the ARCA, the Company extended the maturity of $70.0 million of its revolving credit facility until December 15, 2013, and the maturity of $226.3 million of its term loan until December 15, 2015. The maturity date of $8.0 million of its revolving credit facility and the $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility remained at August 2, 2011, and the maturity date of $25.9 million of its term loan remained at August 2, 2013. At December 31, 2009, approximately $251.6 million was outstanding on the term loan and $5.1 million was outstanding on the revolving credit facilities. Under the ARCA, up to $25.0 million of our revolving credit facility in the aggregate is available in 2010 to be used for one or more permitted acquisitions subject to certain conditions and other outstanding borrowings and issued letters of credit.

        Amounts drawn under our revolving credit facilities fluctuate daily based upon our working capital and other ordinary course needs. Availability under our revolving credit facilities depends upon, among other things, compliance with our credit agreement's financial covenants. Our credit facilities contain negative and affirmative covenants and other requirements affecting us and our subsidiaries, including among others: restrictions on incurrence of debt (except for permitted acquisitions and subordinated indebtedness), liens, mergers, investments, loans, advances, guarantee obligations, acquisitions, asset dispositions, sale-leaseback transactions, hedging agreements, dividends and other restricted junior

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payments, stock repurchases, transactions with affiliates, restrictive agreements and amendments to charters, by-laws, and other material documents. The terms of our credit agreement require us and our subsidiaries to meet certain restrictive financial covenants and ratios computed quarterly, including a leverage ratio (total consolidated indebtedness plus outstanding amounts under the accounts receivable securitization facility over consolidated EBITDA, as defined), interest expense coverage ratio (consolidated EBITDA, as defined, over cash interest expense, as defined) and a capital expenditures covenant. The most restrictive of these financial covenants are the leverage ratio and interest expense coverage ratio. Our permitted leverage ratio under the ARCA is 4.50 to 1.00 as of December 31, 2009, 5.00 to 1.00 for January 1, 2010 to March 31, 2010, 5.25 to 1.00 for April 1, 2010 to June 30, 2010, 5.00 to 1.00 for July 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010, 4.75 to 1.00 for January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2011, 4.50 to 1.00 for July 1, 2011 to September 30, 2011, 4.25 to 1.00 for October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012, 4.00 to 1.00 for October 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013 and 3.25 to 1.00 from July 1, 2013 and thereafter. Our actual leverage ratio was 3.68 to 1.00 at December 31, 2009. Our permitted interest expense coverage ratio under the ARCA is 2.20 to 1.00 as of December 31, 2009, 2.30 to 1.00 for January 1, 2010 to March 31, 2010, 2.15 to 1.00 for April 1, 2010 to June 30, 2010, 2.00 to 1.00 for July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011, 2.25 to 1.00 for July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012, 2.40 to 1.00 for July 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012, 2.50 to 1.00 for January 1, 2013 to September 30, 2013 and 2.75 to 1.00 for October 1, 2013 and thereafter. Our actual interest expense coverage ratio was 3.13 to 1.00 at December 31, 2009. At December 31, 2009, we were in compliance with our financial covenants.

        The following is a reconciliation of net loss, as reported, which is a GAAP measure of our operating results, to Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined in our credit agreement, for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 
  Year ended
December 31, 2009
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net loss, as reported

  $ (220 )

Bank stipulated adjustments:

       
 

Interest expense, net (as defined)

    45,720  
 

Income tax benefit(1)

    (520 )
 

Depreciation and amortization

    43,940  
 

Extraordinary non-cash charges(2)

    3,270  
 

Monitoring fees(3)

    2,890  
 

Interest equivalent costs(4)

    1,530  
 

Non-cash expenses related to stock option grants(5)

    1,370  
 

Other non-cash expenses or losses

    3,570  
 

Non-recurring expenses or costs for cost savings projects(6)

    10,940  
 

Debt extinguishment costs(7)

    11,400  
 

Negative EBITDA from discontinued operations(8)

    3,720  
 

Permitted dispositions(9)

    12,130  
       
 

Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined

  $ 139,740  
       

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  December 31, 2009  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Total long-term debt

  $ 514,550  

Aggregate funding under the receivables securitization facility

     
       

Total Consolidated Indebtedness, as defined

  $ 514,550  
       

Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined

  $ 139,740  

Actual leverage ratio

    3.68 x
       

Covenant requirement

    4.50 x
       

Interest expense, as reported

    45,720  

Interest equivalent costs from receivables financing

    1,530  

Interest income

    (310 )

Noncash amounts attributable to amortization of financing costs

    (2,240 )
       

Total Consolidated Cash Interest Expense, as defined

  $ 44,700  
       

Consolidated Bank EBITDA, as defined

  $ 139,740  

Actual interest expense ratio

    3.13 x
       

Covenant requirement

    2.20 x
       

(1)
Amount includes tax (expense) benefits associated with discontinued operations.

(2)
Non-cash charges associated with tangible and intangible asset impairments, including goodwill.

(3)
Represents management fees and expenses paid to Heartland and/or its affiliates pursuant to the Heartland Advisory Agreement.

(4)
Interest-equivalent costs associated with the Company's receivables securitization facility.

(5)
Non-cash expenses resulting from the grant of restricted shares of common stock and common stock options.

(6)
Non-recurring costs and expenses relating to cost savings projects, including restructuring and severance expenses, not to exceed $32,000,000 in the aggregate, subsequent to October 1, 2009.

(7)
Costs incurred in connection with amending and restating our credit facilities, issuance of our 93/4% senior secured notes and the retirement of our 97/8%senior subordinated notes.

(8)
Not to exceed $10,000,000 in any fiscal year.

(9)
EBITDA from permitted dispositions, as defined.

        Three of our international businesses are also parties to loan agreements with banks, denominated in their local currencies.

        In the United Kingdom, we are party to a revolving debt agreement with a bank in the amount of £1.0 million, At December 31, 2009, the balance outstanding under this agreement, which is secured by a letter of credit under our credit facilities, was approximately $0.8 million at an interest rate of 2.5%.

        In Australia, we are party to a debt agreement with a bank in the amount of $23.0 million Australian dollars which expires December 31, 2010. At December 31, 2009, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $11.7 million at an interest rate of 6.6%. Borrowings under this arrangement are secured by substantially all the assets of our local business which is also subject to financial and reporting covenants. Financial covenants include a capital adequacy ratio (tangible net worth over total tangible assets) and an interest coverage ratio (EBIT over gross interest cost) and we were in compliance with such covenants at December 31, 2009. In addition to the financial covenants there are other financial

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restrictions such as: restrictions on dividend payments, U.S. parent loan repayments, negative pledge and undertakings with respect to related entities.

        During the fourth quarter of 2009, we re-paid in full the $1.9 million balance outstanding under a loan agreement with a bank in Italy.

        Another important source of liquidity is our $75.0 million accounts receivable facility, under which we have the ability to sell eligible accounts receivable to a third-party multi-seller receivables funding company. Through December 28, 2009, we were party to a 364-day accounts receivable facility through TSPC, Inc. ("TSPC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, to sell trade accounts receivable of substantially all of our domestic business operations. On December 29, 2009, we entered into a new three year accounts receivable facility through TSPC. This facility replaced our existing 364-day facility, which was due in February 2010. Our new three year facility increased the level of committed funding from $55.0 million to $75.0 million. As of December 31, 2009, we had no amounts funded under the facility with $32.1 million available but not utilized.

        At December 31, 2009, our available revolving credit capacity of $138.0 million under our credit facility was reduced by approximately $31.2 million of letters of credit outstanding as of that date. The letters of credit are used for a variety of purposes, including support of certain operating lease agreements, vendor payment terms and other subsidiary operating activities, and to meet various states' requirements to self-insure workers' compensation claims, including incurred but not reported claims. After consideration of outstanding letters of credit and $5.1 million outstanding under our revolving credit facility at December 31, 2009, we had $101.7 million of revolving credit capacity available, in addition to $32.1 million of available liquidity under our accounts receivable facility discussed above. However, after consideration of our leverage covenant, we had aggregate available funding under our revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities of $114.3 million at December 31, 2009.

        Our available revolving credit capacity under our credit facility, after consideration of approximately $31.2 million in letters of credit outstanding related thereto, is approximately $106.8 million, while our available liquidity under our accounts receivable securitization facility ranges from $38.0 million to $75.0 million, depending on the level of our receivables outstanding at a given point in time during the year. We rely upon our cash flow from operations and available liquidity under our revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities to fund our debt service obligations and other contractual commitments, working capital and capital expenditure requirements. Generally, we use available liquidity under these facilities to fund capital expenditures and daily working capital requirements during the first half of the year, as we experience some seasonality in our Cequent operating segment. Sales of towing and trailering products within this segment are generally stronger in the second and third quarters, as original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), distributors and retailers acquire product for the spring and summer selling seasons. None of our other operating segments experience any significant seasonal fluctuations in their respective businesses. During the second half of the year, the investment in working capital is reduced and amounts outstanding under our credit and securitization facilities are paid down. At the end of each quarter, we generally use cash on hand to pay down amounts outstanding under our revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities.

        Cash management related to our revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities is centralized. We monitor our cash position and available liquidity on a daily basis and forecast our cash needs on a weekly basis within the current quarter and on a monthly basis outside the current quarter over the remainder of the year. Our business and related cash forecasts are updated monthly. Given aggregate available funding under our revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities of $114.3 million at December 31, 2009, after consideration of the aforementioned leverage restrictions, and based on forecasted cash sources and requirements inherent in our business plans, we believe that our liquidity and capital resources, including anticipated cash flows from operations, will be sufficient to meet our debt service, capital expenditure and other short-term and long-term obligation needs for the foreseeable future.

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        During the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company issued $250.0 million principal amount of 93/4% senior secured notes due 2017 ("Senior Notes") at a discount of $5.0 million. The Senior Notes were issued in a private placement under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The net proceeds of the offering of approximately $239.7 million, together with $29.3 million of cash on hand, were used to repurchase $256.5 million principal amount of the Company's 97/8% senior subordinated notes due 2012 ("Sub Notes"), to pay tender costs and expenses related to repurchase of the Sub Notes, and to pay fees and expenses related to issuance of the Senior Notes. The tender costs, fees and expenses for both the Sub Notes and Senior Notes amounted to approximately $12.5 million, of which $6.5 million were deferred as debt issuance costs in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and $6.0 million were included as a reduction in the net gain on extinguishment of debt line item in the accompanying statement of operations. Interest on the Senior Notes accrues at the rate of 9.75% per annum and is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15.

        The Senior Notes are general senior secured obligations of the Company and are pari passu in right of payment with all existing and future indebtedness of the Company that is not subordinated in right of payment to the Senior Notes.

        Prior to December 15, 2012, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the principal amount of Senior Notes at a redemption price equal to 109.750% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable redemption date plus additional interest, if any, with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings, provided that at least 65% of the original principal amount of Senior Notes issued remains outstanding after such redemption, and provided further that each such redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of closing of each such equity offering.

        During the first three quarters of 2009, the Company utilized approximately $43.8 million of cash on hand to retire $73.2 million of face value of Sub Notes, resulting in a net gain of approximately $28.3 million, after considering non-cash debt extinguishment costs of $1.1 million.

        Principal payments required under our amended and restated credit facility term loan are: $0.7 million due each calendar quarter through September 30, 2015; $24.9 million due August 2, 2013 relative to term loan amounts not extended, and; $211.7 million due on December 15, 2015.

        Our credit facility is guaranteed on a senior secured basis by us and all of our domestic subsidiaries, other than our special purpose receivables subsidiary, on a joint and several basis. In addition, our obligations and the guarantees thereof are secured by substantially all the assets of us and the guarantors.

        Our exposure to interest rate risk results from variable rates under our credit facility. Borrowings under our credit facility bear interest at various rates some of which are subject to a 2% LIBOR-floor, as more fully described in Note 12, "Long-term Debt," to the accompanying 2009 consolidated financial statements.

        At December 31, 2009, LIBOR approximated .25%. Based on our variable rate-based borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2009, and after consideration of the 2% LIBOR-floor applicable to $53.8 million of our supplemental revolving credit facility and $225.7 million of our term loan, a 1% increase in the per annum interest rate for borrowings under our U.S. and foreign credit facilities would increase our interest expense by approximately $ 0.5 million annually. The impact of a further decrease in LIBOR on our annual interest expense would not be material.

        In February 2008, the Company had entered into a interest rate swap agreement to fix the LIBOR-based variable portion of its interest rate on $125.0 million notional amount of its term loan facility at 2.73%. In January 2009, the company entered into two additional interest rate swap agreements. The first of these swaps was effective in January 2009 and fixed the LIBOR-based variable portion of the interest rate on $75.0 million notional amount of its term loan facility at 1.39% through January 2011. The second of these swaps was effective in October 2009 upon the maturity of the February 2008 interest rate swap, and fixed the LIBOR-based variable portion of the interest rate on $125.0 million notional amount of its

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term loan facility at 1.91% through July 2011. The Company formally designated these swap agreements as cash flow hedges upon entry into the contracts and expected them to be highly effective in offsetting fluctuations in the designated interest payments resulting from changes in the benchmark interest rate. However, upon the Company's amendment and restatement of its credit facilities, the Company determined that these interest rate swaps were no longer effective economic hedges due to the imposition of a LIBOR floor in the determination of the variable interest rate and de-designated the hedges.

        We have other cash commitments related to leases. We account for these lease transactions as operating leases and annual rent expense for continuing operations related thereto approximated $14.7 million. We expect to continue to utilize leasing as a financing strategy in the future to meet capital expenditure needs and to reduce debt levels.

        In addition to rent expense from continuing operations, we also have approximately $2.3 million in annual future lease obligations related to businesses that have been discontinued, of which approximately 61% relates to the facility for the former specialty laminates, jacketings and insulation tapes line of business (which extends through 2024), 33% relates to the Wood Dale facility in the former industrial fastening business (which extends through 2022) and 6% relates to the facility in our medical device line of business (which extends through 2012).

Market Risk

        We conduct business in various locations throughout the world and are subject to market risk due to changes in the value of foreign currencies. We do not currently use derivative financial instruments to manage these risks. The functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries are the local currency in the country of domicile. We manage these operating activities at the local level and revenues and costs are generally denominated in local currencies; however, results of operations and assets and liabilities reported in U.S. dollars will fluctuate with changes in exchange rates between such local currencies and the U.S. dollar.

Common Stock

        We voluntarily transferred our stock exchange listing in the U.S. from The New York Stock Exchange to the NASDAQ Global MarketSM effective August 24, 2009. Our stock continues to trade under the symbol "TRS".

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        Through December 28, 2009, we were party to a 364-day accounts receivable facility to sell, on an ongoing basis, the trade accounts receivable of certain business operations to our wholly-owned, bankruptcy-remote, special purpose subsidiary, TSPC. Subject to certain conditions, TSPC could from time to time sell an undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool of domestic receivables, up to approximately $55.0 million, to a third party multi-seller receivables funding company, or conduit. The proceeds of the sale were less than the face amount of accounts receivable sold by an amount that approximated the cost of funds under the facility which was equal to a commercial paper-based rate plus a usage fee of 4.5%. On December 29, 2009, we entered into a new three year accounts receivable facility through TSPC. This facility replaced our existing 364-day facility, which was due in February 2010. Our new three year facility is an important source of liquidity and increased the level of committed funding from $55.0 million to $75.0 million, at a cost of funds equal to LIBOR plus a usage fee of 3.25%. As of December 31, 2009, we had no amounts funded under the facility and $32.1 million available but not utilized, based on eligible receivables and before consideration of leverage restrictions. Effective January 1, 2010, based on changes in the accounting literature governing receivables sales, we believe that any amounts funded under facility will be on-balance sheet. In future periods, if we are unable to renew or replace this facility, it could materially and adversely affect our liquidity.

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Commitments and Contingencies

        Under various agreements, we are obligated to make future cash payments in fixed amounts. These include payments under our long-term debt agreements, rent payments required under operating lease agreements for 19 facilities and certain capital equipment, our allocable share of certain compensation and benefit obligations to Metaldyne and principal and interest obligations on our senior secured term loan and Senior Notes. Interest on the extended term loans is based on LIBOR plus 400 basis points per annum with a 2.00% LIBOR floor, and interest on the non-extended term loans is based on LIBOR plus 225 basis points, which equaled 6.0% and 2.5%, at December 31, 2009, respectively. These rates were used to estimate our future interest obligations with respect to the term loan included in the table below.

        The following table summarizes our expected fixed cash obligations over various future periods related to these items as of December 31, 2009.

 
  Payments Due by Periods (dollars in thousands)  
 
  Total   Less than
One Year
  1 - 3 Years   3 - 5 Years   More than
5 Years
 

Contractual cash obligations:

                               

Long-term debt

  $ 519,570   $ 20,390   $ 5,390   $ 30,110   $ 463,680  

Lease obligations

    135,860     15,850     29,290     24,050     66,670  

Benefit obligations

    5,860     350     700     710     4,100  

Interest obligations:

                               
 

Term loan

    77,650     14,100     27,760     26,230     9,560  
 

Senior secured notes

    194,610     24,380     48,750     48,750     72,730  
                       
   

Total contractual obligations

  $ 933,550   $ 75,070   $ 111,890   $ 129,850   $ 616,740  
                       

        As of December 31, 2009, we had a $78.0 million revolving credit facility (subsequently increased to $83.0 million on January 13, 2010), a $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility and a $75.0 million accounts receivable facility. Throughout the year, outstanding balances under these facilities fluctuate and we incur additional interest (or, in the case of the accounts receivable facility, interest-like charges) obligations on such variable outstanding debt.

        As of December 31, 2009, we are contingently liable for standby letters of credit totaling $31.2 million issued on our behalf by financial institutions under our credit facilities. These letters of credit are used for a variety of purposes, including to support certain operating lease agreements, vendor payment terms and other subsidiary operating activities, and to meet various states' requirements to self-insure workers' compensation claims, including incurred but not reported claims.

Credit Rating

        We and certain of our outstanding debt obligations are rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's. On December 19, 2009, Moody's assigned a rating of Caa1 to our senior secured notes, improved the outlook from negative to stable, and affirmed our corporate family and senior secured credit rating at B3 and B1, respectively. On December 16, 2009, Standard & Poor's assigned a rating of B- to our senior secured notes, affirmed our credit facilities and corporate credit ratings of BB and B+ respectively, but maintained a negative outlook. If our credit ratings were to decline, our ability to access certain financial markets may become limited, the perception of us in the view of our customers, suppliers and security holders may worsen and as a result, we may be adversely affected.

Outlook

        Although 2009 represented a period of very weak global economic activity as a result of the recession in the United States and other major markets around the world, we were able to accomplish several

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significant initiatives that were critical to reducing costs in our businesses, improving our liquidity and strengthening our capital structure, including:

        Although we anticipate 2010 will again be a challenging year, we believe the actions completed in 2009 position us for even more profitable future growth and place us in a better competitive position by enabling strategies focused on reduced cycle times and securing our position as best cost producer. Among our top priorities for 2010 are continuing to identify and execute on cost savings and productivity initiatives, to grow revenue via new products and expand our core products in non-U.S. markets, to continue to reduce our debt leverage and to increase our available liquidity. The refinance of our debt structure in 2009 significantly pushed out debt maturities and modified financial covenants to improve operating flexibility, providing additional liquidity to execute on these business strategies. However, significant deterioration in general economic conditions would adversely impact our anticipated revenue growth and financial performance.

Impact of New Accounting Standards

        In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued amended guidance related to the transfer of financial assets. The new guidance, listed under Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 860, "Transfers and Servicing," requires more information about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and where companies have continuing exposure to the risk related to transferred financial assets. ASC Topic 860 eliminates the concept of a qualifying special purpose entity, changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets and requires additional disclosure. This standard will be effective for our first quarter of 2010. When this standard is adopted, we anticipate that amounts outstanding under our receivables securitization facility will be on-balance sheet and included in receivables, net and long-term debt in our consolidated balance sheet. We had $0 million and $20.0 million outstanding under our receivables securitization facility as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

        In June 2009, the FASB issued amended guidance related to consolidation of variable interest entities. The new guidance, listed under ASC Topic 810, "Consolidation," changes how a reporting entity determines when a variable interest entity should be consolidated. It also requires additional disclosures about its involvement with variable interest entities and any significant changes in risk exposure due to that involvement. This standard is effective for our interim and annual periods ending after January 1, 2010. We are currently assessing the impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

        In December 2008, the FASB issued amended guidance relating to the disclosure of employers' postretirement benefit plan assets. The new guidance, which is now part of ASC Topic 715, "Compensation—Retirement Benefits," requires more detailed disclosures about employers' pension plan assets. New disclosures include additional information on investment strategies, major categories of plan assets, concentrations of risk within plan assets and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets. We adopted the new guidance in the fourth quarter of 2009 by expanding our disclosures in Note 17 in the accompanying financial statements.

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Critical Accounting Policies

        The following discussion of accounting policies is intended to supplement the accounting policies presented in our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this Form 10K. Certain of our accounting policies require the application of significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating financial estimates. By their nature, these judgments are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. These judgments are based on our historical experience, our evaluation of business and macroeconomic trends, and information from other outside sources, as appropriate.

        Receivables.    Receivables are presented net of allowances for doubtful accounts of approximately $5.7 million at December 31, 2009. We monitor our exposure for credit losses and maintain adequate allowances for doubtful accounts. We determine these allowances based on our historical write-off experience and/or specific customer circumstances and provide such allowances when amounts are reasonably estimable and it is probable a loss has been incurred. We do not have concentrations of accounts receivable with a single customer or group of customers and do not believe that significant credit risk exists due to our diverse customer base. Trade accounts receivable of substantially all domestic business operations may be sold, on an ongoing basis, to TSPC.

        Depreciation and Amortization.    Depreciation is computed principally using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Annual depreciation rates are as follows: buildings and buildings/land improvements, 10 to 40 years, and machinery and equipment, 3 to 15 years. Capitalized debt issuance costs are amortized over the underlying terms of the related debt securities. Customer relationship intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 5 to 25 years, while technology and other intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 1 to 30 years.

        Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Definite-Lived Intangible Assets.    We review, on at least a quarterly basis, the financial performance of each business unit for indicators of impairment. In reviewing for impairment indicators, we also consider events or changes in circumstances such as business prospects, customer retention, market trends, potential product obsolescence, competitive activities and other economic factors. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying value of an asset group exceeds the future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that asset group. The impairment loss recognized is the amount by which the carrying value of the asset group exceeds its fair value.

        Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangibles.    We test goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis as of October 1, by comparing the estimated fair value of each of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets to the respective carrying value on our balance sheet. More frequent evaluations may be required if we experience changes in our business climate or as a result of other triggering events that take place. If carrying value exceeds fair value, a possible impairment exists and further evaluation is performed.

        For the purposes of the goodwill impairment test, one of our five operating segments, Cequent, is considered a reporting unit because the individual businesses within this segment have similar economic characteristics, including their products, services, customers, and distribution. The eight businesses which comprise our remaining four operating segments are considered separate reporting units for purposes of the impairment test. These businesses are less similar in their economic characteristics and have discrete financial information available which management regularly reviews for purposes of evaluating performance.

        We estimate the fair value of our reporting units utilizing a combination of three valuation techniques: discounted cash flow (Income Approach), market comparable method (Market Approach) and market capitalization (Direct Market Data Method). The Income Approach is based on management's operating budget and internal five-year forecast. This approach utilizes forward-looking assumptions and projections, but considers factors unique to each of our businesses and related long-range plans that may not be comparable to other companies and that are not yet publicly available. The Market Approach considers

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potentially comparable companies and transactions within the industries where our reporting units participate, and applies their trading multiples to our reporting units. This approach utilizes data from actual marketplace transactions, but reliance on its results is limited by difficulty in identifying companies that are specifically comparable to our reporting units, considering the diversity of our businesses, their relative sizes and levels of complexity. We also use the Direct Market Data Method by comparing our book value and the estimates of fair value of the reporting units to our market capitalization as of and at dates near the annual testing date. Management uses this comparison as additional evidence of the fair value of the Company, as its market capitalization may be suppressed by other factors such as the control premium associated with a controlling shareholder, the Company's high degree of leverage, and the limited float of our common stock. Management evaluates and weights the results based on a combination of the Income and Market Approaches, and, in situations where the Income Approach results differ significantly from the Market and Direct Market Data Approaches, management re-evaluates and adjusts, if necessary, its assumptions.

        The Income Approach requires us to calculate the present value of estimated future cash flows. In making this calculation, management makes significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. The projections also include significant assumptions related to including current and estimated economic trends and outlook, costs of raw materials, consideration of our market capitalization as compared to the estimated fair values of our reporting units determined using the Income Approach and other factors which are beyond management's control.

        We utilize the estimates of fair value determined under the Income Approach as the basis for our indefinite-lived intangible asset testing. Management utilizes the royalty relief method to estimate the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets, basing the estimate on discounted future cash flows related to the net amount of royalty expenses avoided due to the existence of the trademark or tradename. Management then compares the estimated fair value to the carrying value. If carrying value exceeds fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

        Prior to 2008, our accounting policy was to conduct the annual impairment test as of December 31st; however, effective in the second quarter of 2008, we changed our accounting policy to conduct the annual impairment test as of October 1st, with the testing to be conducted during the fourth quarter of each year. This change is preferable as it provides us additional time to complete the required testing and evaluate the results prior to the year-end closing and reporting activities and better enables us to comply with required reporting dates as an accelerated filer. The change in impairment test dates had no impact on our financial results or financial position for any period presented.

        Future declines in sales and/or operating profit, declines in our stock price, or other changes in our business or the markets for our products could result in further impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets.

        Pension and Postretirement Benefits Other than Pensions.    Annual net periodic expense and accrued benefit obligations recorded with respect to our defined benefit plans are determined on an actuarial basis. We determine assumptions used in the actuarial calculations which impact reported plan obligations and expense, considering trends and changes in the current economic environment in determining the most appropriate assumptions to utilize as of our measurement date. Annually, we review the actual experience compared to the most significant assumptions used and make adjustments to the assumptions, if warranted. The healthcare trend rates are reviewed with the actuaries based upon the results of their review of claims experience. Discount rates are based upon an expected benefit payments duration analysis and the equivalent average yield rate for high-quality fixed-income investments. Pension benefits are funded through deposits with trustees and the expected long-term rate of return on fund assets is based upon actual historical returns modified for known changes in the market and any expected change in investment policy. Postretirement benefits are not funded and our policy is to pay these benefits as they

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become due. Certain accounting guidance, including the guidance applicable to pensions, does not require immediate recognition of the effects of a deviation between actual and assumed experience or the revision of an estimate. This approach allows the favorable and unfavorable effects that fall within an acceptable range to be netted.

        Income Taxes.    We compute income taxes using the asset and liability method, whereby deferred income taxes using current enacted tax rates are provided for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities and for operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We determine valuation allowances based on an assessment of positive and negative evidence on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis and record a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount more likely than not to be realized. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

        Derivative Financial Instruments.    Derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value on the balance sheet as either assets or liabilities. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives which qualify for hedge accounting is recorded in other comprehensive income and is recognized in the statement of operations when the hedged item affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of a hedge is recognized in income immediately. We have historically entered into interest rate swaps to hedge cash flows associated with variable rate debt.

        Other Loss Reserves.    We have other loss exposures related to environmental claims, asbestos claims and litigation. Establishing loss reserves for these matters requires the use of estimates and judgment in regard to risk exposure and ultimate liability. We are generally self-insured for losses and liabilities related principally to workers' compensation, health and welfare claims and comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability. Generally, we are responsible for up to $0.5 million per occurrence under our retention program for workers' compensation, between $0.3 million and $2.0 million per occurrence under our retention programs for comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability, and have a $0.3 million per occurrence stop-loss limit with respect to our self-insured group medical plan. We accrue loss reserves up to our retention amounts based upon our estimates of the ultimate liability for claims incurred, including an estimate of related litigation defense costs, and an estimate of claims incurred but not reported using actuarial assumptions about future events. We accrue for such items in accordance with the Contingencies Topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification when such amounts are reasonably estimable and probable. We utilize known facts and historical trends, as well as actuarial valuations in determining estimated required reserves. Changes in assumptions for factors such as medical costs and actual experience could cause these estimates to change significantly.

Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

        In the normal course of business, we are exposed to market risk associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, commodity prices, insurable risks due to property damage, employee and liability claims, and other uncertainties in the financial and credit markets, which may impact demand for our products. We are also subject to interest risk as it relates to long-term debt, for which we have historically and plan to prospectively employ derivative instruments such as interest rate swaps to mitigate the risk of variable interest rates. See Item 7. "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for details about our primary market risks, and the objectives and strategies used to manage these risks. Also see Note 12, "Long-term Debt," in the notes to the financial statements for additional information.

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Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Shareholders
TriMas Corporation:

        We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of TriMas Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we also have audited the financial statement schedule in the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K. These consolidated financial statements and the financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and the financial statement schedule based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of TriMas Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

        We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), TriMas Corporation's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 4, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Detroit, Michigan
March 4, 2010

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TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Balance Sheet

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  December 31,  
 
  2009   2008  

Assets

 

Current assets:

             
 

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 9,480   $ 3,910  
 

Receivables, net

    93,380     104,760  
 

Inventories

    141,840     188,900  
 

Deferred income taxes

    24,320     16,970  
 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    6,500     7,430  
 

Assets of discontinued operations held for sale

    4,250     32,030  
           
   

Total current assets

    279,770     354,000  

Property and equipment, net

    162,220     176,850  

Goodwill

    196,330     202,280  

Other intangibles, net

    164,080     177,820  

Other assets

    23,380     19,270  
           
   

Total assets

  $ 825,780   $ 930,220  
           

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

 

Current liabilities:

             
 

Current maturities, long-term debt

  $ 20,390   $ 10,360  
 

Accounts payable

    92,840     111,810  
 

Accrued liabilities

    65,750     66,340  
 

Liabilities of discontinued operations

    1,070     1,340  
           
   

Total current liabilities

    180,050     189,850  

Long-term debt

    494,160     599,580  

Deferred income taxes

    42,590     51,650  

Other long-term liabilities

    47,000     34,240  
           
   

Total liabilities

    763,800     875,320  
           

Preferred stock $0.01 par: Authorized 100,000,000 shares;
Issued and outstanding: None

         

Common stock, $0.01 par: Authorized 400,000,000 shares;
Issued and outstanding: 33,895,503 and 33,620,410 shares
at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively

    330     330  

Paid-in capital

    528,370     527,000  

Accumulated deficit

    (510,380 )   (510,160 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income

    43,660     37,730  
           
   

Total shareholders' equity

    61,980     54,900  
           
   

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 825,780   $ 930,220  
           

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

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TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Statement of Operations

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  

Net sales

  $ 803,650   $ 1,013,820   $ 999,130  

Cost of sales

    (594,830 )   (750,450 )   (726,630 )
               
 

Gross profit

    208,820     263,370     272,500  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    (150,200 )   (165,260 )   (173,350 )

Estimated future unrecoverable lease obligations

    (5,250 )        

Fees incurred under advisory services agreement

    (2,890 )       (10,000 )

Costs for early termination of operating leases

            (4,230 )

Settlement of Canadian benefit plan liability

            (3,870 )

Net loss on dispositions of property and equipment

    (570 )   (340 )   (1,720 )

Impairment of property and equipment

        (500 )   (3,370 )

Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

        (166,610 )   (171,210 )
               
 

Operating profit (loss)

    49,910     (69,340 )   (95,250 )
               

Other expense, net:

                   
 

Interest expense

    (45,070 )   (55,740 )   (68,310 )
 

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt

    17,990     3,740     (7,440 )
 

Other expense, net

    (1,750 )   (2,260 )   (3,870 )
               
   

Other expense, net

    (28,830 )   (54,260 )   (79,620 )
               

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax benefit (expense)

    21,080     (123,600 )   (174,870 )

Income tax benefit (expense)

    (8,350 )   (470 )   13,290  
               

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    12,730     (124,070 )   (161,580 )

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit (expense)

    (12,950 )   (12,120 )   3,150  
               

Net loss

  $ (220 ) $ (136,190 ) $ (158,430 )
               

Earnings (loss) per share—basic:

                   

Continuing operations

    0.38     (3.71 )   (5.67 )

Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit

    (0.39 )   (0.36 )   0.11  
               

Net loss per share

  $ (0.01 ) $ (4.07 ) $ (5.56 )
               

Weighted average common shares—basic

    33,489,659     33,422,572     28,498,678  
               

Earnings (loss) per share—diluted:

                   

Continuing operations

    0.37     (3.71 )   (5.67 )

Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit

    (0.38 )   (0.36 )   0.11  
               

Net loss per share

  $ (0.01 ) $ (4.07 ) $ (5.56 )
               

Weighted average common shares—diluted

    33,892,170     33,422,572     28,498,678  
               

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

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TriMas Corporation

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

(Dollars in thousands)

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

                   

Net loss

  $ (220 ) $ (136,190 ) $ (158,430 )

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities, net of acquisition impact:

                   
 

Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

    930     184,530     171,210  
 

Impairment of property and equipment

    2,340     500     3,370  
 

(Gain) loss on dispositions of property and equipment

    570     70     (630 )
 

Depreciation

    29,050     28,430     25,870  
 

Amortization of intangible assets

    14,890     15,640     15,480  
 

Amortization of debt issue costs

    2,240     2,450     2,700  
 

Deferred income taxes

    (5,950 )   (19,690 )   (9,480 )
 

(Gain) loss on extinguishment of debt

    (24,500 )   (3,740 )   2,500  
 

Non-cash compensation expense

    580     1,040     550  
 

Net proceeds from (reductions in) sale of receivables and receivables securitization

    (15,550 )   (18,310 )   25,980  
 

(Increase) decrease in receivables

    30,400     (480 )   (15,670 )
 

(Increase) decrease in inventories

    51,780     (8,740 )   (25,080 )
 

Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets

    7,010     3,490     12,540  
 

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities

    (11,440 )   (13,930 )   13,690  
 

Other, net

    1,380     (3,900 )   370  
               
   

Net cash provided by operating activities, net of acquisition impact

    83,510     31,170     64,970  
               

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                   
 

Capital expenditures

    (14,060 )   (29,170 )   (34,730 )
 

Acquisition of leased assets

            (29,960 )
 

Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired

        (6,650 )   (13,540 )
 

Net proceeds from disposition of businesses and other assets

    23,190     2,440     9,320  
               
   

Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

    9,130     (33,380 )   (68,910 )
               

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                   
 

Proceeds from sale of common stock in connection with the Company's initial public offering, net of issuance costs

            126,460  
 

Repayments of borrowings on senior credit facilities

    (4,840 )   (5,070 )   (4,940 )
 

Proceeds from borrowings on term loan facilities

        490      
 

Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities

    802,820     576,990     508,540  
 

Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities

    (812,910 )   (566,970 )   (524,920 )
 

Retirement of senior subordinated notes

    (300,390 )   (4,120 )   (100,000 )
 

Proceeds on borrowings on senior secured notes

    244,980          
 

Debt refinance fees and expenses

    (16,730 )        
               
   

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    (87,070 )   1,320     5,140  
               

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

                   
 

Increase (decrease) for the year

    5,570     (890 )   1,200  
 

At beginning of year

    3,910     4,800     3,600  
               
   

At end of year

  $ 9,480   $ 3,910   $ 4,800  
               
 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

                   
   

Cash paid for interest

  $ 43,600   $ 52,660   $ 63,690  
               
   

Cash paid for income taxes

  $ 8,200   $ 8,060   $ 8,660  
               

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

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TriMas Corporation
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  Common
Stock
  Paid-In
Capital
  Accumulated
Deficit
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
  Total  

Balances, December 31, 2006

  $ 210   $ 399,070   $ (215,220 ) $ 48,720   $ 232,780  

Comprehensive income (loss):

                               
 

Net loss

            (158,430 )       (158,430 )
 

Foreign currency translation

                8,900     8,900  
 

Defined pension and postretirement pension plans amortization of actuarial losses (net of tax of $0.6 million)

                1,020     1,020  
                               

Total comprehensive loss

                    (148,510 )
                               

Net proceeds from the Company's initial

                               
 

public offering of common stock (Note 4)

    120     126,340             126,460  

Non-cash compensation expense

        550             550  

Effects of accounting change regarding pension and post-retirement plans measurement dates pursuant to SFAS No. 158 (net of tax of $0.1 million)

            (200 )       (200 )

Cumulative impact of change in accounting for benefit plans (net of tax of $1.2 million)

                (2,470 )   (2,470 )

Cumulative impact of change in accounting for uncertainties in income taxes

            (120 )         (120 )
                       

Balances at December 31, 2007

  $ 330   $ 525,960   $ (373,970 ) $ 56,170   $ 208,490  

Comprehensive income (loss):

                               
 

Net loss

            (136,190 )       (136,190 )
 

Foreign currency translation

                (17,810 )   (17,810 )
 

Defined pension and postretirement pension plans (net of tax of $0.04 million) (Note 17)

                90     90  
 

Change in fair value of cash flow hedge (net of tax of $0.4 million) (Note 13)

                (720 )   (720 )
                               

Total comprehensive loss

                    (154,630 )
                               

Non-cash compensation expense

        1,040             1,040  
                       

Balances at December 31, 2008

  $ 330   $ 527,000   $ (510,160 ) $ 37,730   $ 54,900  
                       

Comprehensive income (loss):

                               
 

Net loss

            (220 )       (220 )
 

Foreign currency translation

                7,620     7,620  
 

Defined pension and postretirement pension plans (net of tax of $0.5 million) (Note 17)

                (750 )   (750 )
 

Changes in fair value of cash flow hedges (net of tax of $0.6 million) (Note 13)

                (940 )   (940 )
                               

Total comprehensive income

                    5,710  
                               

Reclassification of compensation expense to be paid in restricted shares of common stock (Note 18)

        790             790  

Non-cash compensation expense

        580             580  
                       

Balances at December 31, 2009

  $ 330   $ 528,370   $ (510,380 ) $ 43,660   $ 61,980  
                       

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

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Basis of Presentation

        TriMas Corporation ("TriMas" or the "Company"), and its consolidated subsidiaries, is a global manufacturer and distributor of products for commercial, industrial and consumer markets. The Company is principally engaged in five business segments with diverse products and market channels. Packaging offers a broad spectrum of closure and dispensing solutions in industrial and consumer packaging applications. Energy is a manufacturer and distributor of a variety of engines, engine replacement parts and specialty gaskets for the oil and gas industry, petrochemical and industrial markets. Aerospace & Defense designs and manufactures a diverse range of industrial products for use in focused markets within the aerospace and defense markets. Engineered Components designs and manufactures a diverse range of industrial products for use in focused markets within the industrial, automotive and medical equipment markets. Cequent is a manufacturer and distributor of custom-engineered towing, trailering and electrical products. See Note 19, "Segment Information," for further information on each of the Company's business segments.

2. New Accounting Pronouncements

        In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued amended guidance related to the transfer of financial assets. The new guidance, listed under Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 860, "Transfers and Servicing," requires more information about transfers of financial assets, including securitization transactions, and where companies have continuing exposure to the risk related to transferred financial assets. ASC Topic 860 eliminates the concept of a qualifying special purpose entity, changes the requirements for derecognizing financial assets and requires additional disclosure. This standard will be effective for the Company's first quarter of 2010. When this standard is adopted, the Company anticipates that amounts outstanding under its receivables securitization facility will be on-balance sheet and included in receivables, net and long-term debt in its consolidated balance sheet. The Company had $0 million and $20.0 million outstanding under its receivables securitization facility as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

        In June 2009, the FASB issued amended guidance related to consolidation of variable interest entities. The new guidance, listed under ASC Topic 810, "Consolidation," changes how a reporting entity determines when a variable interest entity should be consolidated. It also requires additional disclosures about its involvement with variable interest entities and any significant changes in risk exposure due to that involvement. This standard is effective for the Company's interim and annual periods ending after January 1, 2010. The Company is currently assessing the impact of this standard on its consolidated financial statements.

        In December 2008, the FASB issued amended guidance relating to the disclosure of employers' postretirement benefit plan assets. The new guidance, which is now part of ASC Topic 715, "Compensation—Retirement Benefits," requires more detailed disclosures about employers' pension plan assets. New disclosures include additional information on investment strategies, major categories of plan assets, concentrations of risk within plan assets and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets. The Company adopted the new guidance in the fourth quarter of 2009 by expanding its disclosures in Note 17 herein.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

        Principles of Consolidation.    The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts and transactions of TriMas and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. Significant intercompany transactions have been eliminated.

        Use of Estimates.    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management of the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements. Such estimates and assumptions also affect the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the carrying amount of property and equipment, goodwill and other intangibles, valuation allowances for receivables, inventories and deferred income tax assets, valuation of derivatives, estimated future unrecoverable lease costs, reserves for legal and product liability matters and assets and obligations related to employee benefits. Actual results may differ from such estimates and assumptions.

        Cash and Cash Equivalents.    The Company considers cash on hand and on deposit and investments in all highly liquid debt instruments with initial maturities of three months or less to be cash and cash equivalents.

        Receivables.    Receivables are presented net of allowances for doubtful accounts of approximately $5.7 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008. The Company monitors its exposure for credit losses and maintains allowances for doubtful accounts based upon the Company's best estimate of probable losses inherent in the accounts receivable balances. The Company does not believe that significant credit risk exists due to its diverse customer base.

        Sales of Receivables.    The Company may, from time to time, sell certain of its receivables to third parties. Sales of receivables are recognized at the point in which the receivables sold are transferred beyond the reach of the Company and its creditors, the purchaser has the right to pledge or exchange the receivables and the Company has surrendered control over the transferred receivables.

        Inventories.    Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, with cost determined using the first-in, first-out method. Direct materials, direct labor and allocations of variable and fixed manufacturing-related overhead are included in inventory cost.

        Property and Equipment.    Property and equipment additions, including significant improvements, are recorded at cost. Upon retirement or disposal of property and equipment, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is included in the accompanying statement of operations. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense as incurred.

        Depreciation and Amortization.    Depreciation is computed principally using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Annual depreciation rates are as follows: buildings and buildings/land improvements, 10 to 40 years, and machinery and equipment, 3 to 15 years. Capitalized debt issuance costs are amortized over the underlying terms of the related debt securities. Customer relationship intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 5 to 25 years, while technology and other intangibles are amortized over periods ranging from 1 to 30 years.

        Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Definite-Lived Intangible Assets.    The Company reviews, on at least a quarterly basis, the financial performance of each business unit for indicators of impairment. In

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)


reviewing for impairment indicators, the Company also considers events or changes in circumstances such as business prospects, customer retention, market trends, potential product obsolescence, competitive activities and other economic factors. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying value of an asset group exceeds the future net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that asset group. The impairment loss recognized is the amount by which the carrying value of the asset group exceeds its fair value.

        Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangibles.    The Company tests goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment on an annual basis by comparing the estimated fair value of each of its reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets to the respective carrying value on the balance sheet. More frequent evaluations may be required if the Company experiences changes in its business climate or as a result of other triggering events that take place. If carrying value exceeds fair value, a possible impairment exists and further evaluation is performed.

        For the purposes of the goodwill impairment test, one of the Company's five operating segments, Cequent, is considered a reporting unit because the individual businesses within this segment have similar economic characteristics, including their products, services, customers, and distribution. The eight businesses which comprise the Company's remaining four operating segments are considered separate reporting units for purposes of the impairment test. These businesses are less similar in their economic characteristics and have discrete financial information available which management regularly reviews for purposes of evaluating performance.

        The Company estimates the fair value of its reporting units utilizing a combination of three valuation techniques: discounted cash flow (Income Approach), market comparable method (Market Approach) and market capitalization (Direct Market Data Method). The Income Approach is based on management's operating budget and internal five-year forecast. This approach utilizes forward-looking assumptions and projections, but considers factors unique to each of the Company's businesses and related long-range plans that may not be comparable to other companies and that are not yet publicly available. The Market Approach considers potentially comparable companies and transactions within the industries where the Company's reporting units participate, and applies their trading multiples to the Company's reporting units. This approach utilizes data from actual marketplace transactions, but reliance on its results is limited by difficulty in identifying companies that are specifically comparable to the Company's reporting units, considering the diversity of the Company's businesses, their relative sizes and levels of complexity. The Company also uses the Direct Market Data Method by comparing its book value and the estimates of fair value of the reporting units to the Company's market capitalization as of and at dates near the annual testing date. Management uses this comparison as additional evidence of the fair value of the Company, as its market capitalization may be suppressed by other factors such as the control premium associated with a controlling shareholder, the Company's high degree of leverage, and the limited float of the Company's common stock. Management evaluates and weights the results based on a combination of the Income and Market Approaches, and, in situations where the Income Approach results differ significantly from the Market and Direct Market Data Approaches, management re-evaluates and adjusts, if necessary, its assumptions.

        The Income Approach requires the Company to calculate the present value of estimated future cash flows. In making this calculation, management makes significant estimates regarding future revenues and expenses, projected capital expenditures, changes in working capital and the appropriate discount rate. The projections also include significant assumptions related to including current and estimated economic

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)


trends and outlook, costs of raw materials, consideration of the Company's market capitalization as compared to the estimated fair values of the Company's reporting units determined using the Income Approach and other factors which are beyond management's control.

        The Company utilizes the estimates of fair value determined under the Income Approach as the basis for its indefinite-lived intangible asset testing. Management utilizes the royalty relief method to estimate the fair value of its indefinite-lived intangible assets, basing the estimate on discounted future cash flows related to the net amount of royalty expenses avoided due to the existence of the trademark or tradename. Management then compares the estimated fair value to the carrying value. If carrying value exceeds fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

        Prior to 2008, the Company's accounting policy was to conduct the annual impairment test as of December 31st; however, effective in the second quarter of 2008, the Company changed its accounting policy to conduct the annual impairment test as of October 1st, with the testing to be conducted during the fourth quarter of each year. This change is preferable as it provides the Company additional time to complete the required testing and evaluate the results prior to the year-end closing and reporting activities and better enables the Company to comply with required reporting dates as an accelerated filer. The change in impairment test dates had no impact on the Company's financial results or financial position for any period presented.

        Future declines in sales and/or operating profit, declines in the Company's stock price, or other changes in the Company's business or the markets for its products could result in further impairments of goodwill and other intangible assets.

        Self-insurance.    The Company is generally self-insured for losses and liabilities related to workers' compensation, health and welfare claims and comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability. The Company is generally responsible for up to $0.5 million per occurrence under its retention program for workers' compensation, between $0.3 million and $2.0 million per occurrence under its retention programs for comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability, and has a $0.3 million per occurrence stop-loss limit with respect to its self-insured group medical plan. Total insurance limits under these retention programs vary by year for comprehensive general, product and vehicle liability and extend to the applicable statutory limits for workers' compensation. Reserves for claims losses, including an estimate of related litigation defense costs, are recorded based upon the Company's estimates of the aggregate liability for claims incurred using actuarial assumptions about future events. Changes in assumptions for factors such as medical costs and actual experience could cause these estimates to change.

        Pension Plans and Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions.    Annual net periodic pension expense and benefit liabilities under defined benefit pension plans are determined on an actuarial basis. Assumptions used in the actuarial calculations have a significant impact on plan obligations and expense. Annually, the Company reviews the actual experience compared to the more significant assumptions used and makes adjustments to the assumptions, if warranted. The healthcare trend rates are reviewed with the actuaries based upon the results of their review of claims experience. Discount rates are based upon an expected benefit payments duration analysis and the equivalent average yield rate for high-quality fixed-income investments. Pension benefits are funded through deposits with trustees and the expected long-term rate of return on fund assets is based upon actual historical returns modified for known changes in the market and any expected change in investment policy. Postretirement benefits are not funded and it is the Company's policy to pay these benefits as they become due.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Revenue Recognition.    Revenues from product sales, except products shipped on a consignment basis, are recognized when products are shipped or services are provided to customers, the customer takes ownership and assumes risk of loss, the sales price is fixed and determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Net sales is comprised of gross revenues less estimates of expected returns, trade discounts and customer allowances, which include incentives such as cooperative advertising agreements, volume discounts and other supply agreements in connection with various programs. Such deductions are recorded during the period the related revenue is recognized. For products shipped on a consignment basis, revenue is recognized when the customer provides notice of end product use or sale.

        Cost of Sales.    Cost of sales includes material, labor and overhead costs incurred in the manufacture of products sold in the period. Material costs include raw material, purchased components, outside processing and inbound freight costs. Overhead costs consist of variable and fixed manufacturing costs, wages and fringe benefits, and purchasing, receiving and inspection costs.

        Selling, General and Administrative Expenses.    Selling, general and administrative expenses include the following: costs related to the advertising, sale, marketing and distribution of our products, shipping and handling costs, amortization of customer intangible assets, costs of finance, human resources, legal functions, executive management costs and other administrative expenses.

        Shipping and Handling Expenses.    Freight costs are included in cost of sales and shipping and handling expenses, including those of Cequent's distribution network, are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations. Shipping and handling costs were $3.1 million, $4.4 million and $4.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

        Advertising and Sales Promotion Costs.    Advertising and sales promotion costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising costs were approximately $4.8 million, $6.9 million and $7.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations.

        Research and Development Costs.    Research and development ("R&D") costs are expensed as incurred. R&D expenses were approximately $0.9 million, $1.3 million and $1.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and are included in cost of sales in the accompanying statement of operations.

        Income Taxes.    The Company computes income taxes using the asset and liability method, whereby deferred income taxes using current enacted tax rates are provided for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax basis of assets and liabilities and for operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The Company determines valuation allowances based on an assessment of positive and negative evidence on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis and records a valuation allowance to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount more likely than not to be realized. The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. The Company records interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Foreign Currency Translation.    The financial statements of subsidiaries located outside of the United States are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which they operate as the functional currency. Net foreign currency transaction gains (losses) were approximately $0.7 million, $0.8 million and $(0.2) million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and are included in other expense, net in the accompanying statement of operations. When translating into U.S. dollars, income and expense items are translated at average monthly exchange rates and assets and liabilities are translated at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Translation adjustments resulting from translating the functional currency into U.S. dollars are deferred as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income in the statement of shareholders' equity.

        Derivative Financial Instruments.    The Company records all derivative financial instruments at fair value on the balance sheet as either assets or liabilities, and changes in their fair values are immediately recognized in earnings if the derivatives do not qualify as effective hedges. If a derivative is designated as a fair value hedge, then changes in the fair value of the derivative are offset against the changes in the fair value of the underlying hedged item. If a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, then the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized as a component of other comprehensive income until the underlying hedged item is recognized in earnings or the forecasted transaction is no longer probable of occurring. The Company formally documents hedging relationships for all derivative transactions and the underlying hedged items, as well as its risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking the hedge transactions. See Note 13, "Derivative Instruments," for further information on the Company's financial instruments.

        Fair Value of Financial Instruments.    The Company accounts for its financial instruments at fair value. In accounting for and disclosing the fair value of these instruments, the Company uses the following hierarchy:

        Valuation of the interest rate swaps and foreign currency forward contracts are based on the income approach which uses observable inputs such as interest rate yield curves and forward currency exchange rates.

        The carrying value of financial instruments reported in the balance sheet for current assets and current liabilities approximates fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The Company's term loan traded at 95.5% and 58.0% of par value as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The Company's senior secured notes traded at approximately 98.5% of par value as of December 31, 2009 and the Company's senior subordinated notes traded at approximately 51.5% of par value as of December 31, 2008. The valuation of the term loan, senior secured notes and senior subordinated notes was determined based on Level 2 inputs.

        Earnings Per Share.    Net earnings are divided by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year to calculate basic earnings per share. Diluted earnings per share are calculated to give

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)


effect to stock options and other stock-based awards. The calculation of diluted earnings per share included 64,882 restricted shares for the year ended December 31, 2009. For the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, no restricted shares were included in the computation of net income (loss) per share because to do so would be anti-dilutive. Options to purchase 1,285,344, 1,596,213 and 2,000,481 shares of common stock were outstanding at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The calculation of diluted earnings per share included 337,629 options to purchase share of common stock for the year ended December 31, 2009; however, for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, no options to purchase shares of common stock were included the computation of net income (loss) per share because to do so would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented.

        Stock-based Compensation.    The Company recognizes compensation expense related to equity awards based on their fair values as of the grant date.

        Other Comprehensive Income.    The Company refers to other comprehensive income as revenues, expenses, gains and losses that under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States are included in comprehensive income but are excluded from net earnings as these amounts are recorded directly as an adjustment to stockholders' equity. Other comprehensive income is comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments, amortization of prior service costs and unrecognized gains and losses in actuarial assumptions, and changes in unrealized gains and losses on derivatives.

        The components of accumulated other comprehensive income as of December 31 are as follows:

 
  2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Foreign currency translation adjustments

  $ 51,350   $ 43,720  

Unrecognized prior service cost and unrecognized loss in actuarial assumptions

    (6,030 )   (5,270 )

Unrealized loss on derivatives

    (1,660 )   (720 )
           

Accumulated other comprehensive income

  $ 43,660   $ 37,730  
           

        Reclassifications.    Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation.

4. Initial Public Offering

        During the second quarter of 2007, the Company completed the sale of 12,650,000 shares of common stock to the public pursuant to an effective registration statement at a price of $11.00 per share. Gross proceeds from the common stock offering were $139.2 million. Net proceeds from the offering, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions of $9.7 million and offering expenses of $3.0 million,

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4. Initial Public Offering (Continued)


totaled approximately $126.5 million. The net proceeds of $126.5 million, together with approximately $10.1 million of cash on hand and revolving credit borrowings, were utilized as follows (in thousands):

Retirement of senior subordinated notes

  $ 100,000  

Call premium associated with retirement of senior subordinated notes

    4,940  

Advisory services agreement termination fee

    10,000  

Early termination of operating leases and acquisition of underlying machinery and equipment

    21,680  
       

  $ 136,620  
       

        In connection with the common stock offering and the use of proceeds therefrom, the Company incurred the following costs and expenses which are included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2007 (in thousands):

Advisory services agreement termination fee

  $ 10,000  

Call premium associated with retirement of senior subordinated notes

    4,940  

Costs for early termination of operating leases

    4,230  

Non-cash write-off of deferred financing fees and accretion of unamortized discount and premium associated with retirement of senior subordinated notes

    2,500  
       

  $ 21,670  
       

5. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale

        During the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company committed to a plan to exit its medical device line of business which was part of the Engineered Components operating segment. The Company recognized an impairment charge of approximately $3.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2009, primarily to write-down the value of its property and equipment and customer relationship intangible assets to their estimated fair values. The Company also recorded a charge of approximately $0.4 million related to severance benefits for approximately 40 employees to be involuntarily terminated as a result of this action. In addition, in the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company recognized an impairment charge of approximately $5.6 million as a part of the Company's annual goodwill impairment test to fully-impair the recorded goodwill of the medical device business.

        During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company entered into a binding agreement to sell certain assets within its specialty laminates, jacketings and insulation tapes line of business, which was part of the Packaging operating segment. The Company recognized an impairment charge of approximately $12.3 million in December 2008 to write-down the value of goodwill and intangible assets to fair value in this business and recorded a charge of approximately $1.8 million related to severance benefits for approximately 125 employees to be terminated upon completion of the sale. The sale was completed in February 2009 for cash proceeds of approximately $21.0 million. The Company's manufacturing facility is subject to a lease agreement expiring in 2024 that was not assumed by the purchaser of the business. During first quarter 2009, upon the cease use date of the facility, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge of approximately $10.7 million for future lease obligations on the facility, net of estimated sublease recoveries.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

5. Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale (Continued)

        During the fourth quarter of 2007, the Company committed to a plan to sell its rocket launcher and property management line of business, both of which were part of the Engineered Components operating segment. The Company sold the assets of the rocket launcher business in December 2007 for cash proceeds of approximately $3.1 million, and recognized a gain on sale of approximately $2.3 million. As of December 31, 2009, the property management line of business was not yet sold. However, the Company continues to actively market the business and has adjusted its sales price expectations, consistent with changes in the current economic conditions. As such, the Company continues to report the property management business as discontinued operations and assets held for sale for all periods presented.

        The assets and liabilities of the Wood Dale, IL operating location that was part of the Company's discontinued industrial fastening business were sold in December 2006, but purchaser did not assume the lease agreement for the facility that expires in 2022. During the fourth quarters of 2008 and 2007, the Company re-evaluated its estimate of unrecoverable future obligations and recorded charges of $3.7 million and $3.6 million, respectively. The facility remains available for sublease as of December 31, 2009.

        The results of the aforementioned businesses are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

        Results of discontinued operations are summarized as follows:

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net sales

  $ 13,500   $ 64,920   $ 82,590  
               

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income tax (expense) benefit

  $ (21,820 ) $ (25,200 ) $ 6,030  

Income tax (expense) benefit

    8,870     13,080     (2,880 )
               

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax (expense) benefit

  $ (12,950 ) $ (12,120 ) $ 3,150  
               

        Assets and liabilities of the discontinued operations are summarized as follows:

 
  2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Receivables, net

  $ 200   $ 680  

Inventories

        7,800  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

        8,710  

Property and equipment, net

    4,050     14,840  
           
 

Total assets

  $ 4,250   $ 32,030  
           

Accounts payable

  $ 150   $ 90  

Accrued liabilities and other

    920     1,250  
           
 

Total liabilities

  $ 1,070   $ 1,340  
           

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

6. Facility Closures

        In March 2009, the Company announced plans to close its manufacturing facility in Mosinee, Wisconsin, moving production and distribution functions currently in Mosinee to lower-cost manufacturing facilities or to third-party sourcing partners. As of December 31, 2009, the Company completed the move and ceased operations in Mosinee. During the fourth quarter of 2009, upon the cease use date of the facility, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge within its Cequent segment of approximately $5.3 million for future lease obligations on the facility, net of estimated lease recoveries. During 2009, the Company recorded charges of approximately $1.8 million, primarily related to cash costs for severance benefits for approximately 160 employees to be involuntarily terminated as part of the closure. As of December 31, 2009, the Company had paid approximately $1.3 million of severance benefits, with the remaining $0.5 million expected to be paid by the end of 2010.

        In addition, the Company incurred pre-tax, non-cash charges of approximately $2.6 million in 2009, related to accelerated depreciation expense as a result of shortening the expected useful lives on certain machinery and equipment assets that the Company no longer utilizes following the closure (see Note 10).

        In October 2007, the Company announced plans to close its manufacturing facility in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada and consolidate its operations into the Company's Goshen, Indiana manufacturing facility. These actions were substantially complete as of December 31, 2007. As a result of these actions, the Company recorded a pre-tax charge within its Cequent segment of approximately $9.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2007, of which approximately $5.6 million related to cash costs incurred as a part of the closure, primarily relating to severance benefits to approximately 160 employees terminated as a part of the closure. The remaining $3.4 million of the pre-tax charge related to impairment of assets recorded to reduce the book value of the building and building improvements and certain machinery and equipment assets that the Company no longer utilized as a result of the closure to management's estimate of net realizable value (see Note 10).

        In addition, the Company incurred approximately $0.7 million of costs and expenses in 2008 resulting from completion of the consolidation into the Goshen facility, including severance and other benefits for approximately 10 key employees who remained with the Company to assist in finalizing the closure.

7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

        The Company conducted its annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test as of October 1, 2009. For purposes of this test, the Company gave equal weight to the Income and Market Approaches, while utilizing the Direct Market Data Approach for additional evidence of fair value. Significant management assumptions used under the Income Approach were weighted average costs of capital ranging from 13.0% - 16.0% and estimated residual growth rates ranging from 0% - 2.0%. In considering the weighted average cost of capital for each reporting unit, management considered the level of risk inherent in the cash flow projections based on historical attainment of its projections and current market conditions. Upon completion of its annual test in 2009, the Company determined that each of its reporting units with recorded goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets passed the Step I impairment test, with the estimated fair value of each of these reporting units exceeding the carrying value by more than 20%. In addition, a 1% reduction in residual growth rate combined with a 1% increase in the

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7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Continued)


weighted average cost of capital would not have changed the conclusions reached under the Step I impairment test.

        In completing its annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test as of October 1, 2008, the Company contemplated its significant decline in its stock price during the fourth quarter of 2008, when the Company's market capitalization fell below the recorded value of its consolidated net assets. The reduced market capitalization reflected, in part, the impact to the Company's businesses of weakening market demand and declining order intake as a result of the economic recession in the US and other major global economies, the significant decline in the financial markets, and continued uncertainty and lack of availability in the credit markets. The decline in the Company's market capitalization was reflective of an overall market view that the value of the Company had declined significantly, particularly in relation to the Cequent reporting unit. Considering the uncertainty as to how long these end market conditions would persist and the related impacts on the Company's businesses, management reduced projections of future cash flows and added risk premiums as appropriate to reduce the values of its reporting units overall consistent with the decline in the Company's market capitalization subsequent to October 1st.

        Upon completion of its annual test in 2008, the Company determined that six of its reporting units failed Step I of the impairment test, requiring a Step II test to determine the amount, if any, of an impairment charge. Based on the results of Step II testing, the Company recorded pre-tax goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges in the fourth quarter of 2008 of $76.1 million and $8.8 million, respectively, in its Cequent reporting unit, and $58.7 million and $3.8 million, respectively, in a reporting unit within the Company's Packaging segment. The Company recorded a pre-tax goodwill impairment charge in the fourth quarter of 2008 of $19.2 million in certain reporting units within its Engineered Components segment.

        In completing its annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment test as of December 31, 2007, the Company's Step I testing indicated that the carrying value of its Cequent reporting unit exceeded its estimated fair value. Based on the results of Step II testing, the Company recorded pre-tax goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges in the fourth quarter of 2007 of $159.6 million and $11.6 million, respectively, in its Cequent reporting unit.

        Future declines in sales and operating profit or further declines in the Company's stock price may result in additional goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairments.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Continued)

        Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 
  Packaging   Energy   Aerospace &
Defense
  Engineered
Components
  Cequent   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Balance, December 31, 2007

  $ 180,770   $ 46,050   $ 43,540   $ 19,180   $ 75,650   $ 365,190  
 

Goodwill from acquisitions

                    710     710  
 

Impairment charge

    (58,660 )           (19,180 )   (76,110 )   (153,950 )
 

Foreign currency translation and other

    (8,350 )   (1,070 )           (250 )   (9,670 )
                           

Balance, December 31, 2008

  $ 113,760   $ 44,980   $ 43,540   $   $   $ 202,280  
                           
 

Purchase accounting adjustments

    (740 )   (5,990 )   (2,410 )           (9,140 )
 

Foreign currency translation and other

    2,440     750                 3,190  
                           

Balance, December 31, 2009

  $ 115,460   $ 39,740   $ 41,130   $   $   $ 196,330  
                           

        In 2009, the Company identified a balance sheet gross-up of goodwill and deferred tax liabilities in the amount of $9.1 million and $8.0 million, respectively, which were incorrectly established in purchase accounting for business combinations occurring prior to 2004. Management corrected the affected accounts in 2009, which resulted in a non-cash charge to income tax expense of $1.1 million.

        The gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization of the Company's other intangibles as of December 31, 2009 and 2008 are summarized below. The Company amortizes these assets over periods ranging from 1 to 30 years.

 
  As of December 31, 2009   As of December 31, 2008  
Intangible Category by Useful Life
  Gross Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Gross Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Customer relationships:

                         
 

5 - 12 years

  $ 24,710   $ (18,290 ) $ 24,370   $ (15,970 )
 

15 - 25 years

    154,610     (61,250 )   154,610     (53,010 )
                   

Total customer relationships

    179,320     (79,540 )   178,980     (68,980 )
                   

Technology and other:

                         
 

1 - 15 years

    25,800     (22,060 )   25,570     (19,890 )
 

17 - 30 years

    42,120     (16,640 )   42,000     (14,700 )
                   

Total technology and other

    67,920     (38,700 )   67,570     (34,590 )
                   

Trademark/Trade names (indefinite life)

    35,080         34,840      
                   

  $ 282,320   $ (118,240 ) $ 281,390   $ (103,570 )
                   

        Amortization expense related to technology and other intangibles was approximately $4.2 million, $3.9 million, and $4.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and is

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7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Continued)


included in cost of sales in the accompanying statement of operations. Amortization expense related to customer intangibles was approximately $10.5 million, $10.5 million, and $10.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and is included in selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying statement of operations.

        Estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years beginning after December 31, 2009 is as follows: 2010—$13.6 million, 2011—$12.7 million, 2012—$12.5 million , 2013—$10.9 million and 2014—$10.7 million.

8. Receivables Facility

        Through December 28, 2009, TriMas was party to a 364-day accounts receivable facility through TSPC, Inc. ("TSPC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, to sell trade accounts receivable of substantially all of the Company's domestic business operations. Under this facility, TSPC, from time to time, was able to sell an undivided fractional ownership interest in the pool of receivables up to approximately $55.0 million to a third party multi-seller receivables funding company. The net proceeds of the sale of receivables are less than the face amount of accounts receivable sold by an amount that approximates the purchaser's financing costs. The cost of funds under this facility consisted of a commercial paper-based rate plus a usage fee of 4.5%, 1.05% and 1.35% in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and a fee on the unused portion of the facility of 2.25%, 0.5% and 0.5% during 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The amount of such costs incurred under this facility aggregated to $1.2 million, $2.3 million and $3.9 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and such amounts are included in other expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

        The costs of funds incurred are determined by calculating the estimated present value of the receivables sold compared to their carrying amount. The estimated present value factor is based on historical collection experience and a discount rate based on a commercial paper-based rate plus the usage fee discussed above and is computed in accordance with the terms of the securitization agreement. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, the costs of funds under the facility were based on an average liquidation period of the portfolio of approximately 1.2 months and an average discount rate of 2.5%, 2.1% and 3.0%, respectively.

        On December 29, 2009, the Company entered into a new three year accounts receivable facility through TSPC. This facility replaced the Company's existing 364-day facility, which was due in February 2010. The Company's new three year facility increased the level of committed funding from $55.0 million to $75.0 million. The discount rate used in the present value factor is based on 3-month LIBOR rather than a commercial paper-based rate and the related usage fee was reduced from 4.5% to a range of 2.75% - 3.5%, dependent upon the Company's earnings to debt leverage, as defined. At December 31, 2009, such rate was 3.25%. The fee on the unused portion of the facility was reduced from 2.25% to a range of 0.5% - 1.0%, dependent on the amount of the facility not drawn. The Company incurred approximately $1.3 million in fees and expenses to complete the new facility which expires on December 29, 2012. The Company did not sell any receivables under the new facility during December 2009.

        As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the Company's funding under the facility was $0 and $20.0 million, respectively, with an additional $32.1 million and $30.9 million, respectively, available but not utilized. The Company had pledged receivables of approximately $79.5 million in support of the $20.0 million of

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8. Receivables Facility (Continued)


outstanding funding as of December 31, 2008. The pledged receivables are included in receivables in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

        In addition, the Company from time to time may sell an undivided interest in accounts receivable under factoring arrangements at three of its European subsidiaries. As of December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the Company's funding under these arrangements was approximately $4.5 million and $3.2 million, respectively. Sales of the European subsidiaries' accounts receivable were sold at a discount from face value of approximately 1.9%, 2.2% and 2.2%, at December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Costs associated with the Company's European factoring arrangements were approximately $0.3 million, $0.4 million and $0.3 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and are included in other expense, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.

9. Inventories

        Inventories consist of the following components:

 
  December 31,
2009
  December 31,
2008
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Finished goods

  $ 95,420   $ 119,980  

Work in process

    16,270     23,250  

Raw materials

    30,150     45,670  
           
 

Total inventories

  $ 141,840   $ 188,900  
           

10. Property and Equipment, Net

        Property and equipment consists of the following components:

 
  December 31,
2009
  December 31,
2008
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Land and land improvements

  $ 2,380   $ 4,920  

Buildings

    44,810     44,140  

Machinery and equipment

    283,710     273,930  
           

    330,900     322,990  

Less: Accumulated depreciation

    168,680     146,140  
           
 

Property and equipment, net

  $ 162,220   $ 176,850  
           

        Depreciation expense was approximately $26.7 million, $25.5 million and $24.2 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, of which $23.8 million, $21.8 million and $19.6 million, respectively, is included in cost of sales in the accompanying statement of operations, and $2.9 million, $3.7 million and $4.6 million, respectively, is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

10. Property and Equipment, Net (Continued)

        In 2009, in connection with the closure of the Mosinee facility (see Note 6), the Company recorded accelerated depreciation expense of approximately $2.6 million, which is included in the $23.8 million of depreciation expense recorded in cost of sales. This charge related to shortening the expected useful lives on certain machinery and equipment.

        In 2008, the Company recorded an impairment charge of approximately $0.5 million to the write-down of the net book value of certain machinery and equipment within the Cequent segment to net realizable value.

        In 2007, in connection with the closure of the Huntsville facility (see Note 6), the Company recorded an impairment charge of approximately $3.4 million. This charge related to the write-down of the net book value of building and building improvements and certain machinery and equipment within the Cequent segment to net realizable value.

11. Accrued Liabilities

 
  December 31,
2009
  December 31,
2008
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Self-insurance

  $ 10,840   $ 13,620  

Vacation, holiday and bonus

    14,720     14,760  

Other

    40,190     37,960  
           
 

Total accrued liabilities

  $ 65,750   $ 66,340  
           

12. Long-term Debt

        The Company's long-term debt consists of the following:

 
  December 31,
2009
  December 31,
2008
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

U.S. bank debt

  $ 256,680   $ 262,580  

Non-U.S. bank debt and other

    12,890     18,220  

93/4% senior secured notes, due December 2017

    244,980      

97/8% senior subordinated notes, due June 2012

        329,140  
           

    514,550     609,940  

Less: Current maturities, long-term debt

    20,390     10,360  
           
 

Long-term debt

  $ 494,160   $ 599,580  
           

        During the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company amended and restated its credit facilities. Prior to the amendment and restatement, the credit facilities consisted of a $90.0 million revolving credit facility, a $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility and a $260.0 million term loan facility, of which $252.2 million was outstanding. Under the amended and restated credit facilities, the revolving credit facility was reduced to $78.0 million, while the supplemental revolving credit facility and term loan facility remained at $60.0 million and $252.2 million, respectively (collectively, the Amended and Restated

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12. Long-term Debt (Continued)

Credit Agreement or "ARCA"). Under the ARCA, the Company extended the maturity of $70.0 million of its revolving credit facility until December 15, 2013, and the maturity of $226.3 million of its term loan until December 15, 2015. The maturity date of $8.0 million of its revolving credit facility and the $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility remained at August 2, 2011, and the maturity date of $25.9 million of its term loan remained at August 2, 2013. Under the ARCA, the Company may refinance its extended term loan and/or its $60.0 million deposit-linked supplemental revolving credit facility within one year by paying 2% prepayment premium. If such refinance takes place within two years, the prepayment premium is reduced to 1%. The Company pays no prepayment premium if the refinance takes place after two years. The interest rate margins on the Company's extended revolving credit facility increased from the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 1.75% to LIBOR plus 4.00% per annum and on the extended term loan facility from LIBOR plus 2.25% to LIBOR plus 4.00% per annum with a 2.00% LIBOR floor. The Company is also able to issue letters of credit, not to exceed $65.0 million in aggregate, against its revolving credit facility commitments. At December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, the Company had letters of credit of approximately $31.2 million and $34.1 million, respectively, issued and outstanding. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings was 3.9% and 5.4% at December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.

        At December 31, 2009, the Company had $5.1 million outstanding under its revolving credit facility and had an additional $101.7 million potentially available after giving effect to approximately $31.2 million of letters of credit issued and outstanding. However, including availability under its accounts receivable facility and after consideration of leverage restrictions contained in the ARCA, the Company had $114.3 million of capacity available to it for general corporate purposes under its revolving credit and accounts receivable facilities.

        The bank debt is an obligation of the Company and its subsidiaries. Although the terms of the ARCA do not restrict the Company's subsidiaries from making distributions to it in respect of its 93/4% senior secured notes, it does contain certain other limitations on the distribution of funds from TriMas Company LLC, the principal subsidiary, to the Company. The restricted net assets of the guarantor subsidiaries, of approximately $270.4 million and $339.4 million at December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively, are presented in the financial information in Note 22, "Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Consolidating Financial Information." The ARCA also contains various negative and affirmative covenants and other requirements affecting the Company and its subsidiaries, including: restrictions on incurrence of debt, except for permitted acquisitions and subordinated indebtedness, liens, mergers, investments, loans, advances, guarantee obligations, acquisitions, asset dispositions, sale-leaseback transactions, hedging agreements, dividends and other restricted junior payments, stock repurchases, transactions with affiliates, restrictive agreements and amendments to charters, by-laws, and other material documents. The ARCA also requires the Company and its subsidiaries to meet certain restrictive financial covenants and ratios computed quarterly, including a leverage ratio (total consolidated indebtedness plus outstanding amounts under the accounts receivable securitization facility over consolidated EBITDA, as defined), interest expense ratio (consolidated EBITDA, as defined, over cash interest expense, as defined) and a capital expenditures covenant. The Company was in compliance with its covenants at December 31, 2009.

        Principal payments required under the ARCA term loan are: $0.7 million due each calendar quarter through September 30, 2015, with $24.9 million due on September 30, 2013 and $211.7 million due on December 15, 2015.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. Long-term Debt (Continued)

        In the United Kingdom, the Company's subsidiary is party to a revolving debt agreement which is secured by a letter of credit under the ARCA. At December 31, 2009, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $0.8 million at an interest rate of 2.5%. At December 31, 2008, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $0.3 million at an interest rate of 3.5%.

        In Australia, the Company's subsidiary is party to a debt agreement which matures December 31, 2010 and is secured by substantially all the assets of the subsidiary. At December 31, 2009, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $11.7 million at an average interest rate of approximately 6.6%. At December 31, 2008, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $15.3 million at an average interest rate of approximately 5.9%.

        During the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company's subsidiary in Italy paid-in-full its outstanding balance under a loan agreement. At December 31, 2008, the balance outstanding under this agreement was approximately $2.2 million at an interest rate of 3.6%.

        During the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company issued $250.0 million principal amount of 93/4% senior secured notes due 2017 ("Senior Notes") at a discount of $5.0 million. The Senior Notes were issued in a private placement under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The net proceeds of the offering, approximately $239.7 million, together with $29.3 million of cash on hand, were used to repurchase $256.5 million principal amount of the Company's 97/8% senior subordinated notes due 2012 ("Sub Notes"), for tender costs and expenses related thereto, and to pay fees and expenses related to the Notes. The tender costs, fees and expenses for both the Senior Notes and Sub Notes amounted to approximately $12.5 million, of which $6.5 million were deferred as debt issuance costs in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and $6.0 million were included as a reduction in the net gain on extinguishment of debt line item in the accompanying statement of operations. Interest on the Senior Notes accrues at the rate of 9.75% per annum and is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15.

        The Notes are general senior secured obligations of the Company, and are pari passu in right of payment with all existing and future indebtedness of the Company that is not subordinated in right of payment to the Senior Notes.

        Prior to December 15, 2012, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the principal amount of Senior Notes at a redemption price equal to 109.750% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the applicable redemption date plus additional interest, if any, with the net cash proceeds of one or more equity offerings, provided that at least 65% of the original principal amount of Senior Notes issued remains outstanding after such redemption, and provided further that each such redemption occurs within 90 days of the date of closing of each such equity offering. Prior to December 15, 2013, the Company may redeem all or a part of the Senior Notes, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed plus the applicable "make whole premium", accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, to the date of such redemption After December 15, 2013, the Company may redeem all or a part of the Senior Notes at the redemption prices (expressed as percentages of principal amount) set forth below plus accrued and unpaid interest on the Senior Notes redeemed to the applicable

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. Long-term Debt (Continued)


redemption date, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on December 15 of the years indicated below:

Year
  Percentage  

2013

    104.875 %

2014

    102.438 %

2015

    100.000 %

        During the first three quarters of 2009, the Company utilized approximately $43.8 million of cash on hand to retire $73.2 million of face value of Sub Notes, resulting in a net gain of approximately $28.3 million, after considering non-cash debt extinguishment costs of $1.1 million. During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company utilized approximately $4.1 million of cash on hand to retire $8.0 million of face value of Sub Notes, resulting in a net gain of approximately $3.7 million after considering non-cash debt extinguishment costs of $0.2 million.

        During the second quarter of 2007, the Company utilized approximately $104.9 million of the proceeds from its initial public offering of common stock to retire $100.0 million of face value of Old Notes, paying a $4.9 million call premium to effect the retirement.

        The Notes indenture contains negative and affirmative covenants and other requirements that are comparable to those contained under the ARCA. At December 31, 2009, the Company was in compliance with all such covenant requirements.

        The Company's unamortized debt issuance costs approximated $13.5 million and $7.4 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and are included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. These amounts consist primarily of legal, accounting and other transaction advisory fees as well as facility fees paid to the lenders. The Company's unamortized discount on the Senior Notes was $5.0 million at December 31, 2009. The Company's unamortized discount on the Sub Notes was $1.0 million and the unamortized premium was $0.3 million at December 31, 2008. Debt issuance costs and the discount on the Senior Notes are amortized using the interest method over the terms of the underlying debt instruments to which these amounts relate. Amortization expense for these items was approximately $2.2 million, $2.5 million and $2.7 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, and is included in interest expense in the accompanying statement of operations. In addition, the Company incurred non-cash debt extinguishment costs of approximately $4.9 million, $0.2 million and $2.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

        Future maturities of the face value of long-term debt at December 31, 2009 are as follows:

Year Ending December 31:
  (dollars
in thousands)
 

2010

  $ 20,390  

2011

    2,740  

2012

    2,650  

2013

    27,510  

2014

    2,600  

Thereafter

    463,680  
       
 

Total

  $ 519,570  
       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

13. Derivative Instruments

        In February 2008, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement effective April 2008 to fix the LIBOR-based variable portion of the interest rate on $125.0 million notional amount of its term loan facility at 2.73% through October 2009. In January 2009, the Company entered into two additional interest rate swap agreements. The first of these swaps was effective in January 2009 and fixed the LIBOR-based variable portion of the interest rate on $75.0 million notional amount of its term loan facility at 1.39% through January 2011. The second of these swaps was effective in October 2009 upon the maturity of the February 2008 interest rate swap, and fixed the LIBOR-based variable portion of the interest rate on $125.0 million notional amount of its term loan facility at 1.91% through July 2011. The Company formally designated these swap agreements as cash flow hedges upon entry into the contracts and expected them to be highly effective in offsetting fluctuations in the designated interest payments resulting from changes in the benchmark interest rate. However, upon the Company's amendment and restatement of its credit facilities in the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company determined that these interest rate swaps were no longer effective economic hedges due to the imposition of a LIBOR floor in the determination of the variable interest rate.

        Up to the date of the credit facility refinance, the Company had utilized hedge accounting, which allows for the effective portion of the interest rate swaps to be recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet. At the date of the credit facility refinance, the Company had $1.7 million (net of tax of $1.1 million) of unrealized loss in accumulated other comprehensive income related to the interest rate swaps, which, due to the swaps no longer being effective hedges, was frozen and all subsequent changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps will be recorded directly to interest expense in the statement of operations. The previously-effective amount frozen in accumulated other comprehensive income will be amortized into earnings over the period in which the originally hedged transactions would have affected earnings. For the year ended December 31, 2009, approximately $0.1 million of unrealized loss from accumulated other comprehensive income was amortized into earnings as interest expense after the Company discontinued hedge accounting. Over the next twelve months, the Company expects approximately $1.4 million of unrealized loss in accumulated other comprehensive income to be amortized into earnings as interest expense.

        In addition, as of December 31, 2009, the Company held a foreign exchange forward contract with a notional value of 55.5 million Mexican pesos and a foreign exchange forward contract with a notional value of £6.5 million. These foreign exchange forward contracts have not been designated as hedging instruments.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

13. Derivative Instruments (Continued)

        As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, the fair value carrying amounts of the Company's derivative instruments are recorded as follows:

 
   
  Asset Derivatives   Liability Derivatives  
 
  Balance Sheet Caption   December 31,
2009
  December 31,
2008
  December 31,
2009
  December 31,
2008
 
 
   
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

                             
 

Interest rate contracts

  Accrued liabilities   $   $   $   $ 1,160  
                       

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

      $   $   $   $ 1,160  
                       

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

                             
 

Interest rate contracts

  Accrued liabilities   $   $   $ 1,700   $  
 

Interest rate contracts

  Other long-term liabilities             660      
 

Foreign exchange contracts

  Accrued liabilities             150      
                       

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

      $   $   $ 2,510   $  
                       

Total derivatives

      $   $   $ 2,510   $ 1,160  
                       

        Fair value measurements and the fair value hierarchy level for the Company's assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2009, are shown below:

 
   
  December 31, 2009  
Description
  Frequency   Asset /
(Liability)
  Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
  Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
 
   
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest rate swaps

  Recurring   $ (2,360 ) $   $ (2,360 ) $  

Foreign currency forward contracts

  Recurring   $ (150 ) $   $ (150 ) $  

 

 
   
  December 31, 2008  
Description
  Frequency   Asset /
(Liability)
  Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
  Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
 
   
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Interest rate swaps

  Recurring   $ (1,160 ) $   $ (1,160 ) $  

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

13. Derivative Instruments (Continued)

        The effect of derivative instruments on the consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 is summarized as follows:

 
  Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized
in AOCI on Derivative
(Effective Portion, net of tax)
   
  Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassifed
from AOCI in to Earnings
 
 
  As of December 31,   Location of Loss
Reclassified from
AOCI into Earnings
(Effective Portion)
  Year ended December 31  
 
  2009   2008   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
   
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

                             
 

Interest rate contracts

  $ (1,660 ) $ (720 ) Interest expense   $ (2,880 ) $ 250  

 

 
  Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in
Earnings on Derivative
   
 
  Year ended December 31   Location of Gain
(Loss) Recognized in
Earnings on
Derivative
 
  2009   2008
 
  (dollars in thousands)
   

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

               
 

Interest rate contracts

  $ 420   $   Interest expense
 

Foreign exchange contracts

    (150 )     Other expense, net

14. Leases

        TriMas leases certain equipment and plant facilities under non-cancelable operating leases. Rental expense for TriMas totaled approximately $14.7 million in 2009, $15.5 million in 2008 and $17.0 million in 2007.

        Minimum payments for operating leases having initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year at December 31, 2009, including approximately $2.3 million annually related to discontinued operations, are summarized below:

Year Ending December 31:
  (dollars
in thousands)
 

2010

  $ 15,850  

2011

    15,170  

2012

    14,120  

2013

    12,700  

2014

    11,350  

Thereafter

    66,670  
       
 

Total

  $ 135,860  
       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. Commitments and Contingencies

        A civil suit was filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California in December 1988 by the United States of America and the State of California against more than 180 defendants, including TriMas, for alleged release into the environment of hazardous substances disposed of at the Operating Industries, Inc. site in California. This site served for many years as a depository for municipal and industrial waste. The plaintiffs have requested, among other things, that the defendants clean up the contamination at that site. Consent decrees have been entered into by the plaintiffs and a group of the defendants, including TriMas, providing that the consenting parties perform certain remedial work at the site and reimburse the plaintiffs for certain past costs incurred by the plaintiffs at the site. The Company estimates that its share of the clean-up costs will not exceed $500,000, for which the Company has insurance proceeds. Plaintiffs had sought other relief such as damages arising out of claims for negligence, trespass, public and private nuisance, and other causes of action, but the consent decree governs the remedy. Based upon the Company's present knowledge and subject to future legal and factual developments, the Company does not believe that this matter will have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

        As of December 31, 2009, the Company was a party to approximately 955 pending cases involving an aggregate of approximately 7,816 claimants alleging personal injury from exposure to asbestos containing materials formerly used in gaskets (both encapsulated and otherwise) manufactured or distributed by certain of our subsidiaries for use primarily in the petrochemical refining and exploration industries. The following chart summarizes the number of claimants, number of claims filed, number of claims dismissed, number of claims settled, the average settlement amount per claim and the total defense costs, excluding amounts reimbursed under the Company's primary insurance, at the applicable date and for the applicable periods:

 
  Claims
pending at
beginning of
period
  Claims filed
during
period
  Claims
dismissed
during
period
  Claims
settled
during
period
  Average
settlement
amount per
claim during
period
  Total defense
costs during
period
 

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2007

    10,551     619     1,484     142   $ 9,243   $ 4,982,000  

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2008

    9,544     723     2,668     75   $ 1,813   $ 3,448,000  

Fiscal year ended December 31, 2009

    7,524     586     254     40   $ 4,644   $ 2,652,000  

        In addition, the Company acquired various companies to distribute its products that had distributed gaskets of other manufacturers prior to acquisition. The Company believes that many of the pending cases relate to locations at which none of its gaskets were distributed or used.

        The Company may be subjected to significant additional asbestos-related claims in the future, the cost of settling cases in which product identification can be made may increase, and the Company may be subjected to further claims in respect of the former activities of its acquired gasket distributors. The Company is unable to make a meaningful statement concerning the monetary claims made in the asbestos cases given that, among other things, claims may be initially made in some jurisdictions without specifying the amount sought or by simply stating the requisite or maximum permissible monetary relief, and may be amended to alter the amount sought. The large majority of claims do not specify the amount sought. Of the 7,816 claims pending at December 31, 2009, 96 set forth specific amounts of damages (other than those stating the statutory minimum or maximum). 71 of the 96 claims sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages), 21 sought between $5.0 million and $10.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages) and 4

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. Commitments and Contingencies (Continued)


sought over $10.0 million in total damages (which includes compensatory and punitive damages). Solely with respect to compensatory damages, 74 of the 96 claims sought between $50,000 and $600,000, 18 sought between $1.0 million and $5.0 million and 4 sought over $5.0 million. Solely with respect to punitive damages, 71 of the 96 claims sought between $0 and $2.5 million, 20 sought between $2.5 million and $5.0 million and 5 sought over $5.0 million. In addition, relatively few of the claims have reached the discovery stage and even fewer claims have gone past the discovery stage.

        Total settlement costs (exclusive of defense costs) for all such cases, some of which were filed over 20 years ago, have been approximately $5.4 million. All relief sought in the asbestos cases is monetary in nature. To date, approximately 50% of the Company's costs related to settlement and defense of asbestos litigation have been covered by its primary insurance. Effective February 14, 2006, the Company entered into a coverage-in-place agreement with its first level excess carriers regarding the coverage to be provided to the Company for asbestos-related claims when the primary insurance is exhausted. The coverage-in-place agreement makes asbestos defense costs and indemnity insurance coverage available to the Company that might otherwise be disputed by the carriers and provides a methodology for the administration of such expenses. Nonetheless, there may be a period prior to the commencement of coverage under this agreement and following exhaustion of the Company's primary insurance coverage during which the Company would be solely responsible for defense costs and indemnity payments, the duration of which would be subject to the scope of damage awards and settlements paid.

        Based on the settlements made to date and the number of claims dismissed or withdrawn for lack of product identification, the Company believes that the relief sought (when specified) does not bear a reasonable relationship to its potential liability. Based upon the Company's experience to date and other available information (including the availability of excess insurance), the Company does not believe that these cases will have a material adverse effect on its financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

        The Company is subject to other claims and litigation in the ordinary course of business, but does not believe that any such claim or litigation will have a material adverse effect on its financial position and results of operations or cash flows.

16. Related Parties

        In connection with the Company's reorganization in June 2002, TriMas assumed approximately $37.0 million of liabilities and obligations of Metaldyne Corporation ("Metaldyne"), mainly comprised of contractual obligations to former TriMas employees, tax related matters, benefit plan liabilities and reimbursements to Metaldyne for normal course payments made on TriMas' behalf. The remaining contractual obligations to Metaldyne of approximately $6.0 million and $5.8 million at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, are classified as accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.

        On January 11, 2007, Metaldyne merged into a subsidiary of Asahi Tec Corporation ("Asahi") whereby Metaldyne became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Asahi. In connection with the consummation of the merger, Metaldyne dividended the 4,825,587 shares of the Company's common stock that it owned on a pro rata basis to the holders of Metaldyne's common stock at the time of such dividend. As a result of the merger, Metaldyne and the Company are no longer related parties. In addition, as a result of the merger, it has been asserted that Metaldyne may be obligated to accelerate funding and payment of actuarially

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

16. Related Parties (Continued)


determined amounts owing to seven former Metaldyne executives under a supplemental executive retirement plan ("SERP"). Under the stock purchase agreement between Metaldyne and Heartland Industrial Partners ("Heartland"), TriMas is required to reimburse Metaldyne, when billed, for its allocated portion of the amounts due to certain Metaldyne SERP participants, as defined. At December 31, 2009, TriMas has accrued an estimated liability to Metaldyne on its reported balance sheet of approximately $4.9 million (included in the remaining $6.0 million of contractual obligations above). However, if Metaldyne is required to accelerate funding of the SERP liability, TriMas may be obligated to reimburse Metaldyne up to approximately $7.3 million, which could result in future charges to the Company's statement of operations of up to $2.4 million. The Company continues to review the validity of these assertions.

        Additionally, on May 28, 2009, Metaldyne and its U.S. subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions in the United States Bankruptcy Court under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. On February 23, 2010, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court confirmed the reorganization plan of Metaldyne and its U.S. subsidiaries. The Company is evaluating the impact of Metaldyne's reorganization plans on its estimated SERP obligations to Metaldyne.

        Subject to certain limited exceptions, Metaldyne and TriMas retained separate liabilities associated with the respective businesses following the reorganization in June 2002. Accordingly, the Company will indemnify and hold Metaldyne harmless from all liabilities associated with TriMas and its subsidiaries and the respective operations and assets, whenever conducted, and Metaldyne will indemnify and hold harmless Heartland and TriMas harmless from all liabilities associated with Metaldyne and its subsidiaries (excluding TriMas and its subsidiaries) and their respective operations and assets, whenever conducted. In addition, TriMas agreed with Metaldyne to indemnify one another for its allocated share (42.01% with respect to TriMas and 57.99% with respect to Metaldyne) of liabilities not readily associated with either business, or otherwise addressed including certain costs related to other matters intended to effectuate other provisions of the agreement. These indemnification provisions survive indefinitely and are subject to a $50,000 deductible.

        In connection with the Company's initial public offering of common stock in the second quarter of 2007, the Company paid Heartland $10.0 million to terminate its existing advisory services agreement, under which Heartland had provided services such as monitoring of business plans, strategic direction, development of projections, financial review, management and other restructuring and reorganization efforts, assistance with investor relations and other matters. The advisory services had been provided for an annual fee of $4.0 million plus expenses. Fees under the service agreement for the partial year January 1, 2007 through the date of the initial public offering were approximately $2.1 million. Fees and expenses charged under Heartland's advisory agreement are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations. In addition, subject to the approval, on a case-by-case basis, by the disinterested members of the Company's Board of Directors, Heartland retained its right to earn a fee not to exceed 1% of the transaction value for services provided in connection with certain future financings, acquisitions and divestitures by the Company, During 2009, Heartland charged the Company approximately $2.9 million for services rendered in connection with the Company's debt refinancing activities.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

17. Employee Benefit Plans

        The Company provides a defined contribution profit sharing plan for the benefit of substantially all the Company's domestic salaried and non-union hourly employees. The plan contains both contributory and noncontributory profit sharing arrangements, as defined. Aggregate charges included in the accompanying statement of operations under this plan for both continuing and discontinued operations were approximately $4.2 million, $4.9 million and $4.9 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively. The Company's foreign and union hourly employees participate in defined benefit pension plans.

        The Company provides postretirement medical and life insurance benefits, none of which are pre-funded, for certain of its active and retired employees.

        Plan assets, expenses and obligations for pension and postretirement benefit plans disclosed herein include both continuing and discontinued operations.

        Net periodic pension and postretirement benefit costs recorded in the Company's statement of operations for defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans include the following components:

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2007   2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Service cost

  $ 530   $ 470   $ 570   $   $ 90   $ 90  

Interest cost

    1,620     1,490     1,660     100     420     420  

Expected return on plan assets

    (1,610 )   (1,560 )   (2,060 )            

Amortization of prior-service cost

    10             (260 )        

Settlement/curtailment (gain)/loss

            3,870     (90 )   (1,600 )    

Amortization of net (gain)/loss

    310     280     470     (30 )   30     100  
                           
 

Net periodic benefit cost

  $ 860   $ 680   $ 4,510   $ (280 ) $ (1,060 ) $ 610  
                           

        In 2009 and 2007, the Company settled obligations outstanding under certain of its postretirement benefit plans, resulting in the recognition of previously deferred gains of approximately $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively. In 2008, the Company's post-retirement benefit obligation decreased approximately $4.1 million due to amendments and/or curtailments of certain of the Company's plans, resulting in recognition of an approximate $1.6 million gain.

        In 2007, the Company's Packaging segment recognized a non-cash defined benefit pension settlement loss of approximately $3.9 million related to a plan for certain employees previously located at a distribution facility in Canada that was closed in 1997. The closure of the facility resulted in a partial windup of the plan. However, Canadian law did not specify how to distribute surplus assets related to partial windups of benefit plans. This issue has been resolved in the Canadian court system and, the Company's plan was approved by the Canadian regulatory authorities in November 2007, at which time the Company recorded the settlement loss.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

17. Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

        The estimated net actuarial loss and prior service cost for the defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans that is expected to be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost in 2010 is $0.1 million.

        Actuarial valuations of the Company's defined benefit pension and postretirement plans were prepared as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. Weighted-average assumptions used in accounting for the U.S. defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans are as follows:

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2007   2009   2008   2007  

Discount rate for obligations

    6.125 %   6.375 %   6.75 %   5.25 %   6.65 %   6.375 %

Discount rate for benefit costs

    6.375 %   6.75 %   6.00 %   6.65 %   6.375 %   5.75 %

Rate of increase in compensation levels

    N/A     N/A     N/A     N/A     N/A     N/A  

Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets

    8.25 %   8.50 %   8.50 %   N/A     N/A     N/A  

        The Company historically utilized an above-median bond yield curve as the basis for its domestic discount rate for its pension and postretirement benefit plans. In 2008, the Company changed its basis for the discount rate from an above-median bond yield curve to a high-quality (Aa) corporate bond yield curve. Management believes this change removes the impact of including increased required corporate bond yields (potentially considered in the above-median curve) resulting from the economic downturn that began in the fourth quarter of 2008 that do not necessarily reflect the general trend in high-quality interest rates.

        Actuarial valuations of the Company's non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans were prepared as of December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. Weighted-average assumptions used in accounting for the non-U. S. defined benefit pension plans are as follows:

 
  Pension Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2007  

Discount rate for obligations

    5.90 %   6.70 %   5.80 %

Discount rate for benefit costs

    6.70 %   5.80 %   5.30 %

Rate of increase in compensation levels

    4.20 %   4.15 %   3.65 %

Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets

    7.30 %   8.55 %   8.55 %

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

17. Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

        The following provides a reconciliation of the changes in the Company's defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans' projected benefit obligations and fair value of assets for each of the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 and the funded status as of December 31, 2009 and 2008:

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations

                         

Benefit obligations at January 1

  $ (24,500 ) $ (27,780 ) $ (1,830 ) $ (6,880 )

Service cost

    (530 )   (470 )       (90 )

Interest cost

    (1,620 )   (1,490 )   (100 )   (420 )

Participant contributions

    (50 )   (50 )       (50 )

Actuarial gain (loss)

    (1,300 )   370     240     910  

Benefit payments

    1,830     1,450     100     590  

Curtailment/terminations

        (150 )   90     4,110  

Change in foreign currency

    (1,080 )   3,620          
                   

Projected benefit obligations at December 31

  $ (27,250 ) $ (24,500 ) $ (1,500 ) $ (1,830 )
                   
 

Accumulated benefit obligations at December 31

  $ (26,460 ) $ (23,860 ) $ (1,500 ) $ (1,830 )
                   

 

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Changes in Plan Assets

                         

Fair value of plan assets at January 1

  $ 15,110   $ 21,010   $   $  

Actual return on plan assets

    1,960     (3,080 )        

Employer contributions

    1,640     2,040     100     540  

Participant contributions

    50     50         50  

Benefit payments

    (1,830 )   (1,450 )   (100 )   (590 )

Change in foreign currency

    1,060     (3,460 )        
                   
 

Fair value of plan assets at December 31

  $ 17,990   $ 15,110   $   $  
                   

 

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Funded Status

                         

Plan assets less than projected benefits at

                         
 

December 31

  $ (9,250 ) $ (9,390 ) $ (1,500 ) $ (1,830 )

Unrecognized prior-service cost

    170     170     (2,070 )   (2,330 )

Unrecognized net loss/(gain)

    11,380     10,340     (390 )   (180 )
                   
 

Net asset (liability) recognized at December 31

  $ 2,300   $ 1,120   $ (3,960 ) $ (4,340 )
                   

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17. Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

 

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Components of the Net Asset Recognized

                         

Prepaid benefit cost

  $ 940   $ 770   $   $  

Current liabilities

    (390 )   (400 )   (480 )   (570 )

Noncurrent liabilities

    (9,800 )   (9,760 )   (1,030 )   (1,260 )

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    11,550     10,510     (2,460 )   (2,510 )
                   
 

Net asset (liability) recognized at December 31

  $ 2,300   $ 1,120   $ (3,970 ) $ (4,340 )
                   

 

 
  Pension Benefit   Postretirement Benefit  
 
  2009   2008   2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Plans with Benefit Obligation Exceeding Plan Assets

                         

Benefit obligation

  $ (25,620 ) $ (23,180 ) $ (1,500 ) $ (1,830 )

Plan assets

    15,490     13,020          
                   
 

Benefit obligation in excess of plan assets

  $ (10,130 ) $ (10,160 ) $ (1,500 ) $ (1,830 )
                   

        The assumptions regarding discount rates and expected return on plan assets can have a significant impact on amounts reported for benefit plans. A 25 basis point change in benefit obligation discount rates or 50 basis point change in expected return on plan assets would have the following affect:

 
  December 31, 2009
Benefit Obligation
  2009 Expense  
 
  Pension   Postretirement
Benefit
  Pension   Postretirement
Benefit
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Discount rate

                         

25 basis point increase

  $ (790 ) $ (20 ) $ (60 ) $  

25 basis point decrease

    820     20     60      

Expected return on assets

                         

50 basis point increase

    N/A     N/A   $ (110 )   N/A  

50 basis point decrease

    N/A     N/A     110     N/A  

        The Company expects to make contributions of approximately $1.9 million to fund its pension plans and $0.5 million to fund its postretirement benefit payments during 2010.

        The Company's overall investment goal is to provide for capital growth with a moderate level of volatility by investing assets in targeted allocation ranges. Specific long term investment goals include total investment return, diversity to reduce volatility and risk, and to achieve an asset allocation profile that reflects the general nature and sensitivity of the plans' liabilities. Investment goals are established after a comprehensive review of current and projected financial statement requirements, plan assets and liability structure, market returns and risks as well as special requirements of the plans. The Company reviews

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investment goals and actual results annually to determine whether stated objectives are still relevant and the continued feasibility of achieving the objectives.

        The actual weighted average asset allocation of the Company's domestic and foreign pension plans' assets at December 31, 2009 and 2008 and target allocations by class, were as follows:

 
  Domestic Pension   Foreign Pension  
 
  Target   Actual   Target   Actual  
 
  2009   2009   2008   2009   2009   2008  

Equity securities

    50% – 70%     57 %   49 %   50% – 60%     39 %   43 %

Debt securities

    30% – 50%     38 %   44 %   40% – 50%     61 %   57 %

Cash

    —         5 %   7 %   —         0 %   0 %
                           
 

Total

    100%     100 %   100 %   100%     100 %   100 %
                           

        Actual allocations to each asset vary from target allocations due to periodic investment strategy changes, market value fluctuations and the timing of benefit payments and contributions. Amounts allocated to equity securities typically comprise the largest percentage of the asset allocation as they are projected to have the greatest rate of return on a long-term basis. The expected long-term rate of return for both the domestic and foreign plans' total assets is based on the expected return of each of the above categories, weighted based on the target allocation for each class. Actual allocation is reviewed regularly and rebalancing investments to their targeted allocation range is performed when deemed appropriate.

        In managing the plan assets, the Company reviews and manages risk associated with the funded status risk, interest rate risk, market risk, liquidity risk and operational risk. Investment policies reflect the unique circumstances of the respective plans and include requirements designed to mitigate these risks by including quality and diversification standards.

        The following table summarizes the level under the fair value hierarchy (see Note 3) that the Company's pension plan assets are measured on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2009:

 
  Total   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3  

Equity Securities

                         
 

Investment funds

  $ 7,260   $ 3,150   $ 4,110   $  
 

Common stock

    4,000         4,000      

Fixed Income Securities

                         
 

Investment funds

    3,280         3,280      
 

Government bonds

    820     820          
 

Government agencies

    750     750          
 

Corporate bonds

    850     850          
 

Other(a)

    490     90     400      

Cash and Cash Evquivalents

                         
 

Money market funds

    160     160          
 

Short term investment funds

    380         380      
                   

Total

  $ 17,990   $ 5,820   $ 12,170   $  
                   

(a)
Comprised of mortgage-backed and asset backed securities.

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17. Employee Benefit Plans (Continued)

        The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:

 
  Pension
Benefit
  Postretirement
Benefit
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

2010

  $ 1,480   $ 480  

2011

    1,660     220  

2012

    1,720     140  

2013

    1,790     110  

2014

    1,850     80  

Years 2015-2019

    10,410     320  

        The assumed health care cost trend rate used for purposes of calculating the Company's postretirement benefit obligation in 2009 was 10.0% for pre-65 plan participants and 10.0% for post-65 plan participants, decreasing to an ultimate rate in 2018 of 5.0%. A one-percentage point change in the assumed health care cost trend would have the following effects:

 
  One Percentage-Point Increase   One Percentage-Point Decrease  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Effect on total service and interest cost

  $ 10   $  

Effect on postretirement benefit obligation

    80     (70 )

18. Equity Awards

        The TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan (the "2006 Plan") provides for the issuance of equity-based incentives in various forms for up to an aggregate of 1,435,877 shares of the Company's common stock, of which up to 500,000 shares may be granted as incentive stock options. In general, stock options and stock appreciation rights have a fungible ratio of one-to-one (one granted option/appreciation right counts as one share against the aggregate available to issue), while other forms of equity grants, including restricted shares of common stock, have a fungible ratio of two-to-one.

        In 2009, the Company granted 578,000 stock options to certain key employees and non-employee directors, each of which may be used to purchase one share of the Company's common stock. These stock options have a ten year life, vest ratably over three years from date of grant, have exercise prices ranging from $1.01 to $1.38 and had a weighted-average fair value at grant date of $0.47. The fair value of these options at the grant date was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following weighted-average assumptions: expected life of 6 years, risk-free interest rate of 2.01% and expected volatility of 40%.

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        Information related to stock options at December 31, 2009 is as follows:

 
  Number of
Stock Options
  Weighted Average
Option Price
  Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
(Years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 

Outstanding at January 1, 2009

      $              
 

Granted

    578,000     1.14              
 

Exercised

                     
 

Cancelled

    (24,000 )   1.01              
                   

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

    554,000   $ 1.14     9.1   $ 3,117,040  
                   

        Also in 2009, the Company offered certain employees the voluntary option to convert a portion of their performance based cash bonus into restricted stock awards. As a part of this offering, the Company granted 131,810 restricted shares of its common stock, which vest ratably over an approximate four month period from the date of grant, and are subject to a service condition that employee remains with the Company through the vesting period and performance conditions that are identical to the cash bonus criteria. For employees that elected this option, the Company made an additional grant to each employee totaling 57,810 restricted shares. This secondary grant vests ratably over an approximate sixteen month period and is subject to the same performance conditions as the restricted shares converted from the cash bonus and requires the employee to remain with the Company through the vesting period. The performance conditions assumed in these restricted stock grants were met as of December 31, 2009. As of the date of grant, the Company reclassified accrued liabilities of approximately $0.5 million related to cash compensation expense recognized prior to the date of grant to paid in capital, as the amount was to be paid in restricted shares of stock rather than in cash.

        In 2008, the Company granted 391,000 restricted shares of its common stock to certain employees, which vest ratably over three years from date of grant but are contingent upon certain service and performance conditions. Of the 391,000 restricted shares granted, 111,500 shares are subject to a service provision, where the only condition to the share vesting is that the employee remains with the Company for the vesting period. The remaining 279,500 shares granted were subject to both a service provision (same as above) and a performance provision. These shares were to vest in the same manner as the service provision grants only if the Company attained and/or exceeds a certain EBITDA target for the year ended December 31, 2008, or would otherwise be cancelled. The Company did not meet or exceed this EBITDA target, resulting in the cancellation of all outstanding restricted shares containing the performance provision.

        In 2007, the Company granted 390,610 restricted shares of its common stock to certain employees, which vest ratably over three years from date of grant, but were contingent upon certain service and performance conditions. Of the 390,610 shares granted, 145,750 shares were subject to a service provision, where the only condition to the share vesting was that the employee remained with the Company for the vesting period. The remaining 244,860 shares granted were subject to both a service provision (same as above) and a performance provision, where these shares would vest in the same manner as the service provision-only grants if the Company attained and/or exceeded a certain EBITDA target for the year ended December 31, 2007, or would otherwise be cancelled. The Company did not meet or exceed this

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EBITDA target, resulting in the cancelation of all outstanding restricted shares containing the performance provision.

        Information related to restricted shares at December 31, 2009 is as follows:

 
  Number of
Unvested
Restricted
Shares
  Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
  Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 

Outstanding at January 1, 2009

    160,908   $ 8.89              
 

Granted

    189,620     5.20              
 

Vested

    (58,983 )   9.15              
 

Cancelled

    (39,608 )   9.29              
                   

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

    251,937   $ 5.99     0.6   $ 1,705,613  
                   

        The Company recognized approximately $0.4 million, $0.9 million and $0.3 million of stock-based compensation expense related to the 2006 Plan during the year ended December 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 respectively. The stock-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations.

        As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, there was approximately $0.9 million and $0.7 million, respectively, of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted shares that is expected to be recorded over a weighted-average period of 0.6 years and 1.4 years, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, there was approximately $0.1 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options that is expected to be recorded over a weighted-average period of 1.5 years.

        The TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan (the "2002 Plan"), provides for the issuance of equity-based incentives in various forms, of which a total of 1,786,123 shares have been approved for issuance under the Plan.

        In 2009, the Company granted 552,500 stock options to certain employees, each of which may be used to purchase one share of the Company's common stock. These stock options have a ten year life, vest ratably over three years from date of grant, have exercise prices ranging from $1.01 to $1.61 and had a weighted-average fair value at grant date of $0.43. The fair value of these options at the grant date was estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model using the following weighted-average assumptions: expected life of 6 years, risk-free interest rate of 2.22% and expected volatility of 40%.

        Prior to 2009, the Company had granted stock options to certain employees, with the options having a ten year life and at exercise prices ranging from $20 to $23. Of these options, eighty percent vest ratably over three years from the date of grant, while the remaining twenty percent vest after seven years from the date of grant or on an accelerated basis over three years based upon achievement of specified performance targets, as defined in the 2002 Plan. The options become exercisable upon the later of: (1) the normal vesting schedule as described above, or (2) upon the occurrence of a qualified public equity offering as defined in the Plan, one half of the vested options become exercisable 180 days following such public equity offering (November 14, 2007), and the other one half of vested options become exercisable on the first anniversary following consummation of such public offering (May 14, 2008).

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        As of December 31, 2009, the Company has 1,285,344 stock options outstanding, each of which may be used to purchase one share of the Company's common stock. The options have a 10-year life and the exercise prices range from $1.01 to $23.00. As of December 31, 2009, 723,424 stock options were exercisable under the 2002 Plan.

        A summary of the status of the Company's stock options as of December 31, 2009, and changes during the year then ended, is presented below:

 
  Number of
Options
  Weighted
Average
Option Price
  Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 

Outstanding at January 1, 2009

    1,596,213   $ 20.92              
 

Granted

    552,500     1.02              
 

Exercised

    (4,013 )   1.01              
 

Cancelled

    (859,356 )   19.40              
                   

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

    1,285,344   $ 13.45     6.3   $ 2,943,236  
                   

        Also in 2009, the Company offered certain employees the voluntary option to convert a portion of their performance based cash bonus into restricted stock awards. As a part of this offering, the Company granted 85,010 restricted shares of its common stock, which vest ratably over an approximate four month period from the date of grant, and are subject to a service condition that employee remains with the Company through the vesting period and performance conditions that are identical to the cash bonus criteria. For employees that elected this option, the Company made an additional grant to each employee totaling 45,030 restricted shares. This secondary grant vests ratably over an approximate sixteen month period and is subject to the same performance conditions as the restricted shares converted from the cash bonus and requires the employee to remain with the Company through the vesting period. The performance conditions assumed in these restricted stock grants were met as of December 31, 2009. As of the date of grant, the Company reclassified accrued liabilities of approximately $0.3 million related to cash compensation expense recognized prior to the date of grant to paid in capital, as the amount was to be paid in restricted shares of stock rather than in cash.

        Information related to restricted shares at December 31, 2009 is as follows:

 
  Number of
Unvested
Restricted
Shares
  Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
  Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life (Years)
  Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
 

Outstanding at January 1, 2009

      $              
 

Granted

    130,040     5.20              
 

Vested

                     
 

Cancelled

    (3,090 )   5.20              
                   

Outstanding at December 31, 2009

    126,950   $ 5.20     0.5   $ 859,452  
                   

        The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense related to 2002 Plan of approximately $0.2 million, $0.1 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007,

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respectively. The stock-based compensation expense is included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying statement of operations.

        The fair value of options which vested during the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 was $0.3 million, and $0.7 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2009, the Company had $0.1 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options that is expected to be recorded over a weighted average period of 1.4 years. As of December 31, 2009 there was approximately $0.5 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested restricted shares that is expected to be recorded over a weighted-average period of 0.6 years.

19. Segment Information

        TriMas' reportable operating segments are business units that provide unique products and services. Each operating segment is independently managed, requires different technology and marketing strategies and has separate financial information evaluated regularly by the Company's chief operating decision maker in determining resource allocation and assessing performance. Effective April 1, 2009, the Company realigned its reportable segments as a result of its recent management reporting and business consolidation changes. The Company previously reported under five segments: Packaging Systems, Energy Products, Industrial Specialties, RV & Trailer Products and Recreational Accessories. Following the realignment, the Company reports the following five segments: Packaging, Energy, Aerospace & Defense, Engineered Components, and Cequent. Segment information included in all notes has been revised to conform to this current structure and presentation.

        TriMas groups its operating segments into five reportable segments, described below. Within these operating segments, there are no individual products or product families for which reported revenues accounted for more than 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues.

        Packaging—Steel and plastic closure caps, drum enclosures, rings and levers, and dispensing systems for industrial and consumer markets.

        Energy—Natural gas engines, compressors, gas production equipment and chemical pumps engineered at well sites for the oil and gas industry as well as metallic and non-metallic industrial sealant products and fasteners for the petroleum refining, petrochemical and other industrial markets.

        Aerospace & Defense—Highly engineered specialty fasteners and screws for the commercial and military aerospace industries and military munitions components for the defense industry.

        Engineered Components—High-pressure and low-pressure cylinders for the transportation, storage and dispensing of compressed gases, specialty fittings for the automotive industry, precision cutting instruments for the medical industry and specialty precision tools such as center drills, cutters, end mills and countersinks for the industrial metal-working market.

        Cequent—Custom-engineered towing, trailering and electrical products including trailer couplers, winches, jacks, trailer brakes and brake control solutions, lighting accessories and roof racks for the recreational vehicle, agricultural/utility, marine, automotive and commercial trailer markets, functional vehicle accessories and cargo management solutions including vehicle hitches and receivers, sway controls, weight distribution and fifth-wheel hitches, hitch-mounted accessories, and other accessory components.

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        The Company's management uses Adjusted Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA") as a primary indicator of financial operating performance and as a measure of cash generating capability. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before cumulative effect of accounting change and before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, debt extinguishment costs, non-cash asset and goodwill impairment charges and write-offs and non-cash losses on sale-leaseback of property and equipment. For purposes of this Note, the Company defines operating net assets as total assets less current liabilities.

        Segment activity is as follows:

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net Sales

                   

Packaging

  $ 145,060   $ 161,330   $ 151,950  

Energy

    148,930     213,750     163,470  

Aerospace & Defense

    74,420     95,300     79,550  

Engineered Components

    62,290     119,050     121,140  

Cequent

    372,950     424,390     483,020  
               
 

Total

  $ 803,650   $ 1,013,820   $ 999,130  
               

Impairment Charges

                   

Packaging

  $   $ 62,490   $  

Energy

             

Aerospace & Defense

             

Engineered Components

        19,180      

Cequent

        85,440     174,580  
               
 

Total

  $   $ 167,110   $ 174,580  
               

Operating Profit (Loss)

                   

Packaging

  $ 33,050   $ (31,200 ) $ 26,880  

Energy

    12,780     32,740     22,860  

Aerospace & Defense

    21,770     31,850     23,190  

Engineered Components

    2,960     (5,140 )   17,970  

Cequent

    4,830     (75,430 )   (145,430 )

Corporate expenses

    (25,480 )   (22,160 )   (40,730 )
               
 

Total

  $ 49,910   $ (69,340 ) $ (95,260 )
               

Capital Expenditures

                   

Packaging

  $ 4,190   $ 5,890   $ 14,340  

Energy

    1,860     5,100     5,590  

Aerospace & Defense

    1,550     5,720     6,110  

Engineered Components

    3,060     6,040     9,780  

Cequent

    3,280     5,010     11,450  

Corporate

    80     100     120  
               
 

Total

  $ 14,020   $ 27,860   $ 47,390  
               

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  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Depreciation and Amortization

                   

Packaging

  $ 13,330   $ 13,780   $ 11,840  

Energy

    2,960     2,790     2,470  

Aerospace & Defense

    2,260     1,960     1,530  

Engineered Components

    3,010     2,890     2,980  

Cequent

    19,730     18,410     19,530  

Corporate

    110     100     170  
               
 

Total

  $ 41,400   $ 39,930   $ 38,520  
               

Operating Net Assets

                   

Packaging

  $ 259,890   $ 271,780   $ 355,460  

Energy

    105,090     118,440     100,880  

Aerospace & Defense

    71,760     77,880     76,910  

Engineered Components

    35,180     44,920     59,770  

Cequent

    169,420     224,940     329,110  

Corporate

    1,210     (28,280 )   (42,480 )
               
 

Subtotal from continuing operations

    642,550     709,680     879,650  

Discontinued operations

    3,180     30,690     44,810  
               
   

Total operating net assets

    645,730     740,370     924,460  
               
   

Current liabilities

    180,050     189,850     203,530  
               
   

Consolidated assets

  $ 825,780   $ 930,220   $ 1,127,990  
               

Adjusted EBITDA

                   

Packaging

  $ 45,730   $ 45,030   $ 38,840  

Energy

    15,870     35,430     25,430  

Aerospace & Defense

    24,030     33,810     24,790  

Engineered Components

    5,990     17,000     20,930  

Cequent

    25,280     28,310     47,960  

Corporate income (expenses)

    2,050     (20,280 )   (43,980 )
               
 

Subtotal from continuing operations

    118,950     139,300     113,970  

Discontinued operations

    (15,360 )   (2,940 )   8,870  
               
   

Total

  $ 103,590   $ 136,360   $ 122,840  
               

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        The following is a reconciliation of the Company's Adjusted EBITDA to net loss:

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Net loss

  $ (220 ) $ (136,190 ) $ (158,430 )
 

Income tax benefit(a)

    (520 )   (12,610 )   (10,410 )
 

Interest expense(b)

    45,720     55,920     68,310  
 

Debt extinguishment costs

    11,400     140     7,440  
 

Impairment of property and equipment(c)

    2,340     500     3,370  
 

Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets(d)

    930     184,530     171,210  
 

Depreciation and amortization(e)

    43,940     44,070     41,350  
               

Adjusted EBITDA, total company

  $ 103,590   $ 136,360   $ 122,840  
 

Adjusted EBITDA, discontinued operations

    (15,360 )   (2,940 )   8,870  
               

Adjusted EBITDA, continuing operations

  $ 118,950   $ 139,300   $ 113,970  
               

(a)
Includes income tax benefit (expense) of approximately $8.8 million, $13.1 million and ($2.9) million recorded in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively, related to discontinued operations. See Note 5, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale" to the financial statements attached hereto for further information.

(b)
Includes interest expense related to discontinued operations in the amounts of $0.7 million and $0.2 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

(c)
Includes asset impairments related to discontinuing operations of approximately $2.3 million in 2009.

(d)
Includes goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges of $0.9 million and $15.5 million related to discontinued operations in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

(e)
Includes depreciation and amortization related to discontinued operations in the amounts of $3.5 million, $6.5 million and $2.8 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

        The following table presents the Company's revenues for each of the years ended December 31 and operating net assets at each year ended December 31, attributed to each subsidiary's continent of domicile.

103


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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. Segment Information (Continued)


Other than Australia, there was no single non-U.S. country for which revenue and net assets were material to the combined revenues and net assets of the Company taken as a whole.

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  Sales   Operating Net
Assets
  Sales   Operating Net
Assets
  Sales   Operating Net
Assets
 
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Non-U.S.

                                     
 

Europe

  $ 53,270   $ 64,240   $ 59,840   $ 60,770   $ 61,080   $ 96,700  
 

Australia

    63,500     24,380     65,740     19,540     59,150     28,220  
 

Asia

    3,200     23,000     2,260     19,120     9,430     13,240  
 

South America

        (40 )       10         (120 )
 

Other North America

    22,460     18,870     41,830     14,510     45,580     31,900  
                           

Total non-U.S

    142,430     130,450     169,670     113,950     175,240     169,940  

U.S.

                                     
 

Continuing operations

    661,220     512,100     844,150     595,730     823,890     709,710  
 

Discontinued operations(a)

        3,180         30,690         44,810  
                           

Total U.S. 

    661,220     515,280     844,150     626,420     823,890     754,520  
                           

Total Company

  $ 803,650   $ 645,730   $ 1,013,820   $ 740,370   $ 999,130   $ 924,460  
                           

(a)
See Note 5, "Discontinued Operations and Assets Held for Sale."

        The Company's export sales approximated $76.1 million, $122.2 million and $121.5 million in 2009, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

20. Income Taxes

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2009   2008   2007  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense:

                   

Domestic

  $ 2,820   $ (91,500 ) $ (181,510 )

Foreign

    18,260     (32,100 )   6,640  
               
 

Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense

  $ 21,080   $ (123,600 ) $ (174,870 )
               

Current income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations:

                   

Federal

  $ 310   $ 450   $ (40 )

State and local

    320     350     370  

Foreign

    5,320     6,120     4,270  

Deferred expense (benefit):

                   

Federal

    5,790     (3,670 )   (13,100 )

State and local

    (3,710 )   (290 )   (2,290 )

Foreign

    320     (2,490 )   (2,500 )
               
 

Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations

  $ 8,350   $ 470   $ (13,290 )
               

104


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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

20. Income Taxes (Continued)

        The components of deferred taxes at December 31, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 
  2009   2008  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Deferred tax assets:

             

Inventories

  $ 7,200   $ 6,230  

Accounts receivable

    2,440     1,750  

Accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities

    28,250     25,550  

Tax loss and credit carryforwards

    31,430     36,010  
           

Gross deferred tax asset

    69,320     69,540  

Valuation allowances

    (6,120 )   (4,240 )
           
 

Net deferred tax asset

    63,200     65,300  
           

Deferred tax liabilities:

             

Property and equipment

    (14,640 )   (20,570 )

Goodwill and other intangible assets

    (61,500 )   (79,030 )

Other, principally deferred income

    (5,330 )   (380 )
           
 

Gross deferred tax liability

    (81,470 )   (99,980 )
           
 

Net deferred tax liability

  $ (18,270 ) $ (34,680 )
           

        As of December 31, 2009 and 2008, net deferred taxes are classified in the accompanying balance sheet as follows:

 
  2009   2008  
 
  Current   Long-term   Total   Current   Long-term   Total  
 
  (dollars in thousands)
 

Deferred tax assets

  $ 24,610   $ 38,590   $ 63,200   $ 17,130   $ 48,170   $ 65,300  

Deferred tax liabilities

    (290 )   (81,180 )   (81,470 )   (160 )   (99,820 )   (99,980 )
                           

Net deferred taxes

  $ 24,320   $ (42,590 ) $ (18,270 ) $ 16,970   $ (51,650 ) $ (34,680 )
                           

        The following is a reconciliation of tax computed at the U.S. federal statutory rate to income tax expense (benefit) allocated to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:

 
  2009   2008   2007  

U.S. federal statutory rate

    35 %   35 %   35 %

Tax at U.S. federal statutory rate

  $ 7,380   $ (43,260 ) $ (61,210 )

State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit

    (2,200 )   260     (1,490 )

Differences in statutory foreign tax rates

    (390 )   (680 )   (780 )

Change in tax rate/law

            (1,370 )

Goodwill impairment and adjustments

    1,120     43,920     49,630  

Controlled foreign corporation income

    180     2,290      

Non-deductible expenses

    260     350     460  

Valuation allowance

    1,660     (2,870 )   1,040  

Other, net

    340     460     430  
               

Income tax expense (benefit)

  $ 8,350   $ 470   $ (13,290 )
               

105


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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

20. Income Taxes (Continued)

        As of December 31, 2009, the Company has unused U.S. federal net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards of approximately $73.3 million. These NOL carryforwards will expire between the years of 2022 and 2028. In addition, the Company has recorded a deferred tax asset of $5.8 million in relation to various state operating loss carryforwards. Significantly all of the deferred tax assets related to state tax loss carryforwards expire between 2016 – 2028.

        The Company has recorded net valuation allowances against certain deferred tax assets of $6.1 and $4.2 million as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. The increase in valuation allowance of $1.9 million during 2009 is primarily related to certain state and foreign tax operating loss and capital loss carryforwards. The Company has not recorded a valuation allowance for its U.S. federal deferred tax assets as, based on projected future taxable income expected to be generated primarily by the reversal of existing U.S. federal deferred tax liabilities, as well as future domestic taxable income, the Company believes it is more likely than not that all of the U.S. federal deferred tax assets will be realized.

        During 2007, several tax jurisdictions in which the Company does business reduced its tax rate and/or changed its tax law. Accordingly, the Company reduced its net deferred income tax liabilities in those jurisdictions to reflect the lower tax rates, resulting in a decrease to consolidated income tax expense. The Company's tax benefit associated with the change in tax rates and/or tax law during 2007 is approximately $1.4 million.

        In general, it is the practice and intention of the Company to reinvest the earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries in those operations. As of December 31, 2009, the Company has not made a provision for U.S. or additional foreign withholding taxes on approximately $118.4 million of the excess of the amount for financial reporting over the tax basis of investments in foreign subsidiaries that are essentially permanent in duration. Generally, such amounts become subject to U.S. taxation upon remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of deferred tax liability related to investments in these foreign subsidiaries.

        The Company had approximately $5.4 million and $6.3 million of unrecognized tax benefits ("UTB's") as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. If recognized, $4.9 million and $5.7 million of the unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2009 and 2008 respectively, net of any U.S. federal benefit, would impact the Company's effective tax rate.

        The Company has recognized a tax benefit of approximately $0.1 million in the years ended in December 31, 2009 and 2008, and $0 million in year ended December 31, 2007, respectively.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

20. Income Taxes (Continued)

        A reconciliation of the change in the UTB balance for the years ended December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008 is as follows (in thousands):

 
  Unrecognized
Tax Benefits
  Accrued
Interest &
Penalties
 

Balance at December 31, 2007

  $ 6,740   $ 1,060  
           

Tax positions related to current year:

             
 

Additions

    30     10  

Tax positions related to prior years:

             
 

Additions

    40     20  
 

Reductions

    (370 )   (60 )

Settlements

    (50 )   (40 )

Lapses in the statutes of limitations

    (100 )   (50 )
           

Balance at December 31, 2008

  $ 6,290   $ 940  
           

Tax positions related to current year:

             
 

Additions

        80  

Tax positions related to prior years:

           
 

Additions

    100     10  
 

Reductions

    (470 )    

Settlements

    (180 )   (40 )

Lapses in the statutes of limitations

    (320 )   (130 )
           

Balance at December 31, 2009

  $ 5,420   $ 860  
           

        The Company is subject to U.S. federal and certain non-U.S. and state and local income tax examinations for tax years 2002 through 2009. There are currently one state and two foreign income tax examinations in process. The Company does not believe that the results of these examinations will have a significant impact on the Company's tax position or its effective tax rate.

        Management monitors changes in tax statutes and regulations and the issuance of judicial decisions to determine the potential impact to uncertain income tax positions and is not aware of, nor does it anticipate, any material subsequent events that could have a significant impact on the Company's financial position during the next twelve months.

107


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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

21. Summary Quarterly Financial Data

 
  As of December 31, 2009  
 
  First Quarter   Second Quarter   Third Quarter   Fourth Quarter  
 
  (unaudited, dollars in thousands)
 

Net sales

  $ 201,720   $ 207,870   $ 202,970   $ 191,090  

Gross profit

    46,460     50,180     58,200     53,980  

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    4,620     9,830     7,150     (8,870 )

Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

    (8,300 )   (840 )   (1,320 )   (2,490 )

Net income (loss)

    (3,680 )   8,990     5,830     (11,360 )

Earnings (loss) per share—basic:

                         
 

Continuing operations

  $ 0.14   $ 0.29   $ 0.21   $ (0.26 )
 

Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit

    (0.25 )   (0.02 )   (0.04 )   (0.08 )
                   
   

Net income (loss) per share

  $ (0.11 ) $ 0.27   $ 0.17   $ (0.34 )
                   

Weighted average shares—basic

    33,459,502     33,485,317     33,496,634     33,516,104  
                   

Earnings (loss) per share—diluted:

                         
 

Continuing operations

  $ 0.14   $ 0.29   $ 0.20   $ (0.26 )
 

Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit

    (0.25 )   (0.02 ) $ (0.04 )   (0.08 )
                   
   

Net income (loss) per share

  $ (0.11 ) $ 0.27   $ 0.16   $ (0.34 )
                   

Weighted average shares—diluted

    33,487,526     33,656,242     34,007,846     33,516,104  
                   

108


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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

21. Summary Quarterly Financial Data (Continued)

 

 
  As of December 31, 2008  
 
  First Quarter   Second Quarter   Third Quarter   Fourth Quarter  
 
  (unaudited, dollars in thousands)
 

Net sales

  $ 261,700   $ 280,800   $ 259,160   $ 212,160  

Gross profit

    69,340     75,840     68,990     49,200  

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    7,420     9,810     8,540     (149,840 )

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income taxes

    450     (360 )   (220 )   (11,990 )

Net income (loss)

    7,870     9,450     8,320     (161,830 )

Earnings (loss) per share—basic:

                         
 

Continuing operations

  $ 0.22   $ 0.29   $ 0.26   $ (4.48 )
 

Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit

    0.01     (0.01 )   (0.01 )   (0.35 )
                   
   

Net income (loss) per share

  $ 0.23   $ 0.28   $ 0.25   $ (4.83 )
                   

Weighted average shares—basic

    33,409,500     33,409,500     33,420,560     33,450,444  
                   

Earnings (loss) per share—diluted:

                         
 

Continuing operations

  $ 0.22   $ 0.29   $ 0.26   $ (4.48 )
 

Discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit

    0.01     (0.01 )   (0.01 ) $ (0.35 )
                   
   

Net income (loss) per share

  $ 0.23   $ 0.28   $ 0.25   $ (4.83 )
                   

Weighted average shares—diluted

    33,409,770     33,445,067     33,469,027     33,450,444  
                   

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements

        Under an indenture dated December 29, 2009, TriMas Corporation, the parent company ("Parent"), issued 93/4% senior secured notes due 2017 in a total principal amount of $250.0 million (face value). The net proceeds of the offering were used, together with other available cash, to repurchase the Company's outstanding 97/8% senior subordinated notes due 2012 pursuant to a cash tender offer. The outstanding Notes are guaranteed by substantially all of the Company's domestic subsidiaries ("Guarantor Subsidiaries"). All of the Guarantor Subsidiaries are 100% owned by the Parent and their guarantee is full, unconditional, joint and several. The Company's non-domestic subsidiaries and TSPC, Inc. have not guaranteed the Notes ("Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries"). The Guarantor Subsidiaries have also guaranteed amounts outstanding under the Company's Credit Facility.

        The accompanying supplemental guarantor condensed, consolidating financial information is presented using the equity method of accounting for all periods presented. Under this method, investments in subsidiaries are recorded at cost and adjusted for the Company's share in the subsidiaries' cumulative results of operations, capital contributions and distributions and other changes in equity. Elimination entries relate primarily to the elimination of investments in subsidiaries and associated intercompany balances and transactions.

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)


Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheet
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  December 31, 2009  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Consolidated
Total
 

Assets

                               

Current assets:

                               
 

Cash and cash equivalents

  $   $ 300   $ 9,180   $   $ 9,480  
 

Trade receivables, net

        76,690     16,690         93,380  
 

Receivables, intercompany

            3,550     (3,550 )    
 

Inventories

        115,030     26,810         141,840  
 

Deferred income taxes

    5,400     23,450     870     (5,400 )   24,320  
 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    80     4,820     1,600         6,500  
 

Assets of discontinued operations held for sale

        4,250             4,250  
                       
   

Total current assets

    5,480     224,540     58,700     (8,950 )   279,770  

Investments in subsidiaries

    270,370     110,500         (380,870 )    

Property and equipment, net

        112,810     49,410         162,220  

Goodwill

        148,220     48,110         196,330  

Intangibles and other assets

    31,240     175,190     5,720     (24,690 )   187,460  
                       
   

Total assets

  $ 307,090   $ 771,260   $ 161,940   $ (414,510 ) $ 825,780  
                       

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

                               

Current liabilities:

                               
 

Current maturities, long-term debt

  $   $ 7,870   $ 12,520   $   $ 20,390  
 

Accounts payable, trade

        72,040     20,800         92,840  
 

Accounts payable, intercompany

        3,550         (3,550 )    
 

Accrued liabilities

    130     55,850     9,770         65,750  
 

Liabilities of discontinued operations

        1,070             1,070  
                       
   

Total current liabilities

    130     140,380     43,090     (3,550 )   180,050  

Long-term debt

    244,980     249,180             494,160  

Deferred income taxes

        66,920     5,760     (30,090 )   42,590  

Other long-term liabilities

        44,410     2,590         47,000  
                       
   

Total liabilities

    245,110     500,890     51,440     (33,640 )   763,800  
                       
   

Total shareholders' equity

    61,980     270,370     110,500     (380,870 )   61,980  
                       
   

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 307,090   $ 771,260   $ 161,940   $ (414,510 ) $ 825,780  
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)


Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheet
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  December 31, 2008  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Consolidated
Total
 

Assets

                               

Current assets:

                               
 

Cash and cash equivalents

  $   $ 340   $ 3,570   $   $ 3,910  
 

Trade receivables, net

        91,300     13,460         104,760  
 

Receivables, intercompany

            4,090     (4,090 )    
 

Inventories

        165,540     23,360         188,900  
 

Deferred income taxes

        16,250     720         16,970  
 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

        6,280     1,150         7,430  
 

Assets of discontinued operations held for sale

        32,030             32,030  
                       
   

Total current assets

        311,740     46,350     (4,090 )   354,000  

Investments in subsidiaries

    339,350     96,240         (435,590 )    

Property and equipment, net

        128,430     48,420         176,850  

Goodwill

        157,360     44,920         202,280  

Intangibles and other assets

    46,080     188,080     3,930     (41,000 )   197,090  
                       
   

Total assets

  $ 385,430   $ 881,850   $ 143,620   $ (480,680 ) $ 930,220  
                       

Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

                               

Current liabilities:

                               
 

Current maturities, long-term debt

  $   $ 4,960   $ 5,400   $   $ 10,360  
 

Accounts payable, trade

        95,240     16,570         111,810  
 

Accounts payable, intercompany

        4,090         (4,090 )    
 

Accrued liabilities

    1,390     57,320     7,630         66,340  
 

Liabilities of discontinued operations

        1,340             1,340  
                       
   

Total current liabilities

    1,390     162,950     29,600     (4,090 )   189,850  

Long-term debt

    329,140     258,070     12,370         599,580  

Deferred income taxes

        88,670     3,980     (41,000 )   51,650  

Other long-term liabilities

        32,810     1,430         34,240  
                       
   

Total liabilities

    330,530     542,500     47,380     (45,090 )   875,320  
                       
   

Total shareholders' equity

    54,900     339,350     96,240     (435,590 )   54,900  
                       
   

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity

  $ 385,430   $ 881,850   $ 143,620   $ (480,680 ) $ 930,220  
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Operations
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  Year ended December 31, 2009  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Total  

Net sales

  $   $ 622,290   $ 229,120   $ (47,760 ) $ 803,650  

Cost of sales

        (458,040 )   (184,550 )   47,760     (594,830 )
                       
 

Gross profit

        164,250     44,570         208,820  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    (1,250 )   (127,100 )   (21,850 )       (150,200 )

Estimated future unrecoverable lease obligations

        (5,250 )           (5,250 )

Fees incurred under advisory services agreement

        (2,890 )           (2,890 )

Gain (loss) on dispositions of property and equipment

        (820 )   250         (570 )
                       
 

Operating income

    (1,250 )   28,190     22,970         49,910  

Other expense, net:

                               
 

Interest expense

    (28,880 )   (15,150 )   (1,040 )       (45,070 )
 

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt

    19,170     (1,180 )           17,990  
 

Other, net

        1,030     (2,780 )       (1,750 )
                       

Income (loss) before income tax (expense) benefit and equity in net income of subsidiaries

    (10,960 )   12,890     19,150         21,080  

Income tax (expense) benefit

    3,840     (6,160 )   (6,030 )       (8,350 )

Equity in net income of subsidiaries

    6,900     13,120         (20,020 )    
                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    (220 )   19,850     13,120     (20,020 )   12,730  

Loss from discontinued operations

        (12,950 )           (12,950 )
                       

Net income (loss)

  $ (220 ) $ 6,900   $ 13,120   $ (20,020 ) $ (220 )
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)


Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Operations
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  Year ended December 31, 2008  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Total  

Net sales

  $   $ 820,940   $ 237,780   $ (44,900 ) $ 1,013,820  

Cost of sales

        (605,250 )   (190,100 )   44,900     (750,450 )
                       
 

Gross profit

        215,690     47,680         263,370  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

        (141,800 )   (23,460 )       (165,260 )

Gain (loss) on dispositions of property and equipment

        (590 )   250         (340 )

Impairment of assets

        (500 )           (500 )

Impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

        (117,900 )   (48,710 )       (166,610 )
                       
 

Operating loss

        (45,100 )   (24,240 )       (69,340 )

Other expense, net:

                               
 

Interest expense

    (34,990 )   (19,090 )   (1,660 )       (55,740 )
 

Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt

    3,740                 3,740  
 

Other, net

        2,940     (5,200 )       (2,260 )
                       

Loss before income tax (expense) benefit and equity in net loss of subsidiaries

    (31,250 )   (61,250 )   (31,100 )       (123,600 )

Income tax (expense) benefit

    10,940     (8,500 )   (2,910 )       (470 )

Equity in net loss of subsidiaries

    (115,880 )   (34,010 )       149,890      
                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations

    (136,190 )   (103,760 )   (34,010 )   149,890     (124,070 )

Loss from discontinued operations

        (12,120 )           (12,120 )
                       

Net loss

  $ (136,190 ) $ (115,880 ) $ (34,010 ) $ 149,890   $ (136,190 )
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)


Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Operations
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  Year ended December 31, 2007  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Total  

Net sales

  $   $ 814,380   $ 237,760   $ (53,010 ) $ 999,130  

Cost of sales

        (586,840 )   (192,800 )   53,010     (726,630 )
                       
 

Gross profit

        227,540     44,960         272,500  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

        (145,350 )   (28,000 )       (173,350 )

Fees incurred under advisory services agreement

        (10,000 )           (10,000 )

Costs for early termination of operating leases

        (4,230 )           (4,230 )

Settlement of Canadian benefit plan liability

            (3,870 )       (3,870 )

Gain (loss) on dispositions of property and equipment

        (3,150 )   1,430         (1,720 )

Impairment of assets

            (3,370 )       (3,370 )

Impairment of goodwill

        (154,840 )   (16,370 )       (171,210 )
                       
 

Operating loss

        (90,030 )   (5,220 )       (95,250 )

Other expense, net:

                               
 

Interest expense

    (38,710 )   (26,740 )   (2,860 )       (68,310 )
 

Loss on extinguishment of debt

    (7,440 )               (7,440 )
 

Other, net

    3,530     (5,980 )   (1,420 )       (3,870 )
                       

Loss before income tax (expense) benefit and equity in net income (loss) of subsidiaries

    (42,620 )   (122,750 )   (9,500 )       (174,870 )

Income tax (expense) benefit

    11,710     2,580     (1,000 )       13,290  

Equity in net loss of subsidiaries

    (127,520 )   (10,500 )       138,020      
                       

Income from continuing operations

    (158,430 )   (130,670 )   (10,500 )   138,020     (161,580 )

Income from discontinued operations

        3,150             3,150  
                       

Net loss

  $ (158,430 ) $ (127,520 ) $ (10,500 ) $ 138,020   $ (158,430 )
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)

Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  For the Year Ended December 31, 2009  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Total  

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

                               
 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

  $ (28,060 ) $ 72,820   $ 38,750   $   $ 83,510  
                       

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                               
 

Capital expenditures

        (11,120 )   (2,940 )       (14,060 )
 

Net proceeds from disposition of businesses and other assets

        22,470     720         23,190  
                       
     

Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

        11,350     (2,220 )       9,130  
                       

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                               
 

Repayments of borrowings on senior credit facilities

        (2,600 )   (2,240 )       (4,840 )
 

Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities

        798,120     4,700         802,820  
 

Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities

        (801,500 )   (11,410 )       (812,910 )
 

Retirement of senior subordinated notes

    (300,390 )               (300,390 )
 

Proceeds on borrowings on senior secured notes

    244,980                 244,980  
 

Debt refinance fees and expenses

    (11,450 )   (5,280 )           (16,730 )
 

Intercompany transfers (to) from subsidiaries

    94,920     (72,950 )   (21,970 )        
                       
     

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    28,060     (84,210 )   (30,920 )       (87,070 )
                       

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

                               
 

Increase (decrease) for the period

        (40 )   5,610         5,570  
   

At beginning of period

        340     3,570         3,910  
                       
   

At end of period

  $   $ 300   $ 9,180   $   $ 9,480  
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)


Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  For the Year Ended December 31, 2008  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Total  

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

                               
 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

  $ (33,340 ) $ 43,440   $ 21,070   $   $ 31,170  
                       

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                               
 

Capital expenditures

        (22,990 )   (6,180 )       (29,170 )
 

Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired

        (3,790 )   (2,860 )       (6,650 )
 

Net proceeds from disposition of businesses and other assets

        490     1,950         2,440  
                       
     

Net cash used for investing activities

        (26,290 )   (7,090 )       (33,380 )
                       

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                               
 

Repayments of borrowings on senior credit facilities

        (2,600 )   (2,470 )       (5,070 )
 

Proceeds from borrowings on term loan facilities

            490         490  
 

Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities

        568,640     8,350         576,990  
 

Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities

        (560,500 )   (6,470 )       (566,970 )
 

Retirement of senior subordinated notes

    (4,120 )               (4,120 )
 

Intercompany transfers (to) from subsidiaries

    37,460     (22,900 )   (14,560 )        
                       
     

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    33,340     (17,360 )   (14,660 )       1,320  
                       

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

                               
 

Decrease for the period

        (210 )   (680 )       (890 )
   

At beginning of period

        550     4,250         4,800  
                       
   

At end of period

  $   $ 340   $ 3,570   $   $ 3,910  
                       

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TRIMAS CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. Supplemental Guarantor Condensed Combining and Consolidating Financial Statements (Continued)


Supplemental Guarantor
Condensed Financial Statements
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
(Dollars in thousands)

 
  For the Year Ended December 31, 2007  
 
  Parent   Guarantor   Non-Guarantor   Eliminations   Total  

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

                               
 

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

  $ (38,570 ) $ 82,730   $ 20,810   $   $ 64,970  
                       

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:

                               
 

Capital expenditures

        (26,610 )   (8,120 )       (34,730 )
 

Acquisition of leased assets

        (29,960 )           (29,960 )
 

Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired

        (13,540 )           (13,540 )
 

Net proceeds from disposition of businesses and other assets

        9,320             9,320  
                       
     

Net cash used for investing activities

        (60,790 )   (8,120 )       (68,910 )
                       

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

                               
 

Proceeds from sale of common stock in connection with the Company's initial public offering, net of issuance costs

    126,460                 126,460  
 

Repayments of borrowings on senior credit facilities

        (2,600 )   (2,340 )       (4,940 )
 

Proceeds from borrowings on revolving credit facilities

        498,590     9,950         508,540  
 

Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities

        (512,630 )   (12,290 )       (524,920 )
 

Retirement of senior subordinated notes

    (100,000 )               (100,000 )
 

Intercompany transfers (to) from subsidiaries

    12,110     (5,210 )   (6,900 )        
                       
     

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

    38,570     (21,850 )   (11,580 )       5,140  
                       

Cash and Cash Equivalents:

                               
 

Increase for the period

          90     1,110         1,200  
   

At beginning of period

        460     3,140         3,600  
                       
   

At end of period

  $   $ 550   $ 4,250   $   $ 4,800  
                       

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Item 9.    Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

        Not applicable.

Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures

        As of December 31, 2009, an evaluation was carried out by management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, (the "Exchange Act")) pursuant to Rule 13a-15 of the Exchange Act. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed only to provide reasonable assurance that they will meet their objectives. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that as of December 31, 2009, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that they would meet their objectives.

        Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with United States generally accepted accounting principles and reflect management's judgments and estimates concerning events and transactions that are accounted for or disclosed.

        Management is also responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The Company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that pertain to the Company's ability to record, process, summarize, and report reliable financial data. Management recognizes that there are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any internal control and effective internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. Additionally, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting may vary over time.

        In order to ensure that the Company's internal control over financial reporting is effective, management regularly assesses such controls and did so most recently for its financial reporting as of December 31, 2009. Management's assessment was based on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management asserts that the Company has maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009.

        KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who audited the Company's consolidated financial statements, has also audited the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, as stated in their report below.

The Board of Directors and Shareholders
TriMas Corporation:

        We have audited TriMas Corporation's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). TriMas Corporation's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's

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Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

        We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

        Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

        In our opinion, TriMas Corporation maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2009, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

        We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of TriMas Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2009, and our report dated March 4, 2010 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Detroit, Michigan
March 4, 2010

        There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2009 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B.    Other Information

        Not applicable.

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PART III

Item 10.    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

        The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the Company's fiscal year end of December 31, 2009.

        The Company's Code of Ethics and Business Conduct is applicable to its directors, officers and employees. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is available on the "Investors" portion of the Company's website under the "Corporate Governance" link. The Company's website address is www.trimascorp.com.

Item 11.    Executive Compensation

        The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the Company's fiscal year end of December 31, 2009.

Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

        The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the Company's fiscal year end of December 31, 2009.

Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence

        The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the Company's fiscal year end of December 31, 2009.

Item 14.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services

A. Audit Fees

        The information required by this item is incorporated by reference to our definitive proxy statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after the Company's fiscal year end of December 31, 2009.


PART IV

Item 15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) Listing of Documents

(1)   Financial Statements

        The Company's Financial Statements included in Item 8 hereof, as required at December 31, 2009 and December 31, 2008, and for the periods ended December 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, consist of the following:

Balance Sheet
Statement of Operations
Statement of Cash Flows
Statement of Shareholders' Equity
Notes to Financial Statements

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(2)   Financial Statement Schedules

        Financial Statement Schedule of the Company appended hereto, as required for the periods ended December 31, 2009, December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2007, consists of the following:

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

        All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required, or the information is otherwise included in the financial statements or the notes thereto.

(3)   Exhibits

        See Exhibit Table at the end of this Report.

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SIGNATURE

        Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

    TRIMAS CORPORATION
(Registrant)

DATE: March 4, 2010

 

BY:

 

/s/ DAVID M. WATHEN

Name: David M. Wathen
Title: 
President and Chief Executive Officer

        Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Name
 
Title
 
Date

 

 

 

 

 
/s/ DAVID M. WATHEN

David M. Wathen
  President and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer) and Director
  March 4, 2010

/s/ A. MARK ZEFFIRO

A. Mark Zeffiro

 

Chief Financial Officer (Principal
Financial Officer and Principal
Accounting Officer)

 

March 4, 2010

/s/ SAMUEL VALENTI III

Samuel Valenti III

 

Chairman of the Board of Directors

 

March 4, 2010

/s/ MARSHALL A. COHEN

Marshall A. Cohen

 

Director

 

March 4, 2010

/s/ RICHARD M. GABRYS

Richard M. Gabrys

 

Director

 

March 4, 2010

/s/ EUGENE A. MILLER

Eugene A. Miller

 

Director

 

March 4, 2010

/s/ DANIEL P. TREDWELL

Daniel P. Tredwell

 

Director

 

March 4, 2010

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SCHEDULE II
PURSUANT TO ITEM 15(a)(2)
OF FORM 10-K VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED
DECEMBER 31, 2009, 2008 AND 2007

 
   
  ADDITIONS    
   
 
DESCRIPTION
  BALANCE
AT
BEGINNING
OF PERIOD
  CHARGED
TO
COSTS AND
EXPENSES
  CHARGED
(CREDITED)
TO OTHER
ACCOUNTS(A)
  DEDUCTIONS(B)   BALANCE
AT END
OF PERIOD
 

Allowance for doubtful accounts deducted from accounts receivable in the balance sheet

                               

Year Ended December 31, 2009

  $ 5,670,000   $ 1,830,000   $   $ 1,810,000   $ 5,690,000  
                       

Year Ended December 31, 2008

  $ 5,170,000   $ 1,440,000   $ (60,000 ) $ 880,000   $ 5,670,000  
                       

Year Ended December 31, 2007

  $ 5,610,000   $ 100,000   $ (240,000 ) $ 300,000   $ 5,170,000  
                       

(A)
Allowance of companies acquired, and other adjustments, net.

(B)
Deductions, representing uncollectible accounts written-off, less recoveries of amounts written-off in prior years.

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Item 15.    Exhibits.

Exhibits Index:

 
   
3.1(l)   Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of TriMas Corporation.
3.2(l)   Second Amended and Restated By-laws of TriMas Corporation.
4.1(a)   Indenture relating to the 97/8% senior subordinated notes, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TriMas Corporation, each of the Guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York as Trustee, (including Form of Note as Exhibit).
4.2(c)   Supplemental Indenture dated as of March 4, 2003.
4.3(d)   Second Supplemental Indenture dated as of May 9, 2003.
4.4(e)   Third Supplemental Indenture dated as of August 6, 2003.
4.5(p)   Fourth Supplemental Indenture dated as of February 28, 2008.
4.6   Fifth Supplemental Indenture dated as of January 26, 2009.
4.7(ac)   Sixth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 29, 2009.
4.8(ac)   Indenture relating to the 97/5% senior secured notes dated as of December 29, 2009, among TriMas Corporation, the Guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee.
10.1(a)   Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of May 17, 2002 by and among Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Company LLC.
10.2(a)   Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement, dated as of July 19, 2002 by and among TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.
10.3(j)   Amendment No. 1 to Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement dated as of August 31, 2006.
10.4(i)   Credit Agreement dated as of June 6, 2002, as amended and restated as of August 2, 2006 among TriMas Corporation, TriMas Company LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, and Comerica Bank, as Syndication Agent.
10.5(ab)   Credit Agreement dated as of June 6, 2002, as amended and restated as of August 2, 2006, as further amended and restated as of December 16, 2009, among TriMas Corporation, TriMas Company LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, Comerica Bank, as Syndication Agent and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., as Lead Arranger and Bookrunner.
10.6(ac)   Credit Agreement dated as of June 6, 2002, as amended and restated as of August 2, 2006, as further amended and restated as of December 16, 2009, as further amended and restated as of January 13, 2010, among TriMas Corporation, TriMas Company LLC, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, Comerica Bank, as Syndication Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., as Lead Arranger and Bookrunner.
10.7(a)   Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TriMas Corporation, the Sellers party thereto and TSPC, Inc., as Purchaser.
10.8(w)   Amendment No. 1 as of February 13, 2009 to Receivables Purchase Agreement.
10.9(a)   Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of June 6, 2002, by and among TSPC, Inc., as Transferor, TriMas Corporation, individually, as Collection Agent, TriMas Company LLC, individually as Guarantor, the CP Conduit Purchasers, Committed Purchasers and Funding Agents party thereto, and JPMorgan Chase Bank as Administrative Agent.
10.10(k)   Amendment dated as of June 3, 2005, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.
10.11(h)   Amendment dated as of July 5, 2005, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.
10.12(n)   Amendment dated as of December 31, 2007, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.

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10.13(o)   Amendment dated as of February 22, 2008, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.
10.14(w)   Amendment dated as of February 13, 2009, to Receivables Transfer Agreement.
10.15(p)   TriMas Receivables Facility Amended and Restated Fee Letter dated February 22, 2008.
10.16(w)   TriMas Receivables Facility Amended and Restated Fee Letter dated February 13, 2009.
10.17(ac)   Amended and Restated Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 29, 2009, among TriMas Corporation, the Sellers named therein and TSPC, Inc. as Purchaser.
10.18(ac)   Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of December 29, 2009, among TSPC, Inc., as Transferor, TriMas Corporation, as Collection Agent, TriMas Company LLC, as Guarantor, the persons party thereto from time to time as Purchasers and Wachovia Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent.
10.19(a)   Lease Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated as of June 21, 2002, by and among Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C., TriMas Company LLC and the Guarantors named therein.
10.20(a)   TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.21(t)   First Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.22(t)   Second Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.23(t)   Third Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.24(t)   Fourth Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.25(d)   Asset Purchase Agreement among TriMas Corporation, Metaldyne Corporation and Metaldyne Company LLC dated May 9, 2003, (including Exhibit A—Form of Sublease Agreement).
10.26(f)   2003 Form of Stock Option Agreement.
10.27(s)   2008 Annual Value Creation Program.
10.28(t)   409A Amendment to TriMas Corporation Annual Value Creation Plan effective September 10, 2008.
10.29(g)   Form of Indemnification Agreement.
10.30(j)   Amendment No. 1 to Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 31, 2006 by and among Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.
10.31(s)   Amendment No. 2 to Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 27, 2006 by and among Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P., TriMas Corporation and Metaldyne Corporation.
10.32(j)   Advisory Agreement, dated June 6, 2002 between Heartland Industrial Partners, L.P. and TriMas Corporation.
10.33(k)   First Amendment to Advisory Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2006 between Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C. and TriMas Corporation.
10.34(k)   Second Amendment to Advisory Agreement, dated as of November 1, 2006 between Heartland Industrial Group, L.L.C. and TriMas Corporation.
10.35(k)   Management Rights Agreement.
10.36(aa)   Executive Severance/Change of Control Policy
10.37(m)   TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.38(m)   First Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.39(m)   Second Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.40(t)   Third Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan.
10.41(t)   Fourth Amendment to the TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan
10.42(q)   Separation Agreement dated April 10, 2008.

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10.43(r)   Letter Agreement dated April 28, 2008.
10.44(s)   Letter Agreement dated July 1, 2008.
10.45(z)   ISDA 2002 Master Agreement between JPMorgan Chase Bank, N. A. and TriMas Company LLC dated as of January 29, 2009.
10.46(t)   Interest Rate Swap Transaction letter Agreement between JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and TriMas Company, LLC effective as of April 29, 2008.
10.47   Interest Rate Swap Transaction letter Agreement between JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and TriMas Company, LLC effective as of January 28, 2009.
10.48   Interest Rate Swap Transaction letter Agreement between JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and TriMas Company, LLC effective as of October 28, 2009.
10.49(w)   Asset Purchase Agreement between Lamtec Corporation, Compac Corporation and TriMas Company LLC dated as of December 8, 2008.
10.50(u)   Offer Letter from TriMas Corporation to David M. Wathen dated as of January 12, 2009.
10.51(v)   Separation Agreement dated as of January 13, 2009.
10.52(y)   Separation Agreement dated as of March 5, 2009.
10.53(x)   TriMas Corporation Long Term Equity Incentive Plan Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement.
10.54(y)   2009 TriMas Incentive Compensation Plan.
10.55(aa)   Flexible Cash Allowance Policy.
10.56   TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Agreement—2009 Additional Grant.
10.57   TriMas Corporation 2006 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Agreement—2009 162(m) Conversion Grant.
10.58   TriMas Corporation 2002 Long Term Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Agreement—2009 Conversion and Additional Grants.
12.1   Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
21.1   TriMas Corporation Subsidiary List.
23.1   Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
31.1   Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2   Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.1   Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2   Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

(a)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed on October 4, 2002 (File No. 333-100351).
(b)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 2 to our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed on January 28, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).
(c)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 31, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).
(d)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Registration Statement on Form S-4, filed June 9, 2003 (File No. 333-105950).
(e)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 14, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).
(f)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 12, 2003 (File No. 333-100351).

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(g)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 3 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1/A, filed on June 29, 2004 (File No. 333-113917).
(h)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on July 6, 2005 (File No. 333-100351).
(i)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on August 3, 2006 (File No. 333-100351).
(j)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 1 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on September 19, 2006 (File No. 333-136263).
(k)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with Amendment No. 3 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1, filed on January 18, 2007 (File No. 333-136263).
(l)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, filed on August 3, 2007 (File No. 333-100351).
(m)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Registration Statement on Form S-8, filed on August 31, 2007 (File No. 333-145815).
(n)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on January 4, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(o)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on February 26, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(p)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 13, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(q)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on April 10, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(r)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on June 2, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(s)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 7, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(t)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 10, 2008 (File No. 001-10716).
(u)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on January 14, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(v)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K Report filed on February 5, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(w)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on February 17, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(x)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on March 6, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(y)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on March 10, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(z)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 10, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(aa)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on December 10, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(ab)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on December 17, 2009 (File No. 001-10716).
(ac)
Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with our Form 8-K filed on January 15, 2010 (File No. 001-10716).

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