FOX FACTORY HOLDING CORP
For the period ended Jan 3, 2025. Filed Feb 28, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2025 · Filed Feb 28, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-29; filed 2024-02-23.
0001424929-24-000006
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2025-01-03; filed 2025-02-28.
0001424929-25-000007
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 287 previous paragraphs and 296 current paragraphs.
225 unchanged; 59 reworded; 7 added; 2 removed; 1 previous and 5 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (7)
Current report
•our cost optimization efforts may not succeed or may be significantly delayed;
Current report
•our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation designates the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the sole and exclusive forum for certain actions and proceedings initiated by our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or employees; and
Current report
Our cost optimization efforts may not succeed or may be significantly delayed, which may impact our ability to deliver improved margins.
Current report
Due to challenges in the OEM market and broader market conditions impacting discretionary consumer spending, we implemented certain immediate and longer-term actions to strengthen our business, including aggressive cost management and strategic operational improvements. We developed a plan to adjust our business structure to operate efficiently in a number of demand environments in order to protect margins and drive significant, and consistent, free cash flow to de-lever our balance sheet. We anticipate implementing this strategy across segments will improve margins, resulting in significant annualized cost reductions to strategically position ourselves to capitalize on opportunities in the future. However, our cost optimization strategy relies on a number of factors and may distract management, slow improvements to our products and services, and limit our ability to increase production quickly if demand accelerates in the future. We may not achieve the expected benefits of the cost optimization measures on our anticipated timeline, or at all. Failure to achieve our cost optimization targets could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition.
Current report
Recently, a coalition of U.S. producers of aluminum extrusions filed a petition with U.S. trade authorities requesting the imposition of anti-dumping duties against imports of aluminum extrusions from 15 countries. Following hearings in October 2024, the U.S. International Trade Commission determined that the aluminum extrusions do not harm U.S. industry and, therefore, the U.S. Department of Commerce will not issue antidumping or countervailing duty orders for applicable countries. While we face no immediate consequences on the import of aluminum extrusions, because the U.S. producers challenged the USITC determination at the U.S. Court of International Trade and aluminum is one of the primary raw materials used in the production of our products, our operating results could be adversely impacted by the future imposition of duties on extruded aluminum.
Current report
In addition, with respect to sourcing products and raw materials from third-party suppliers in other countries, our ability to timely or successfully import such products or those made with such raw materials may be adversely affected by changes in U.S. laws. As a result, products we import into the U.S. could be held for inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (“U.S. CBP”) based on a suspicion of noncompliance. Additionally, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (“UFLPA”) empowers the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency (the “U.S. CBP”) to withhold release of items produced in whole or in part in countries or by companies included on the UFLPA entities list, creating a presumption that such goods were produced using forced labor. In January 2025, the Department of Homeland Security added to the UFLPA entity list, marking the largest single expansion of the list to date, and including a large supplier of critical minerals and one of the world’s largest textile manufacturers, both linked to forced labor practices in the People’s Republic of China. Although we do not believe that our suppliers source materials from entities included on the UFLPA for the products they sell to us or use to manufacture our products and we could be subject to penalties, fines or sanctions if any of the suppliers from which we purchase goods is found to have dealings, directly or indirectly, with entities on the ULFPA entities list. We are committed to complying with the UFLPA and have taken significant steps to assess and mitigate risks within our supply chain. Given the complexity and multi-tiered nature of global supply chains, achieving full traceability for every supplier and sub-supplier presents substantial challenges. However, we are continuously working to enhance our due diligence processes, leveraging available data and supplier engagement to ensure compliance to the fullest extent possible.
Current report
While any detentions or detainments we have experienced have not resulted in any material impact on our business to date, future detentions, as result of noncompliance or in connection with forced labor enforcement (including noncompliance by or enforcement against our suppliers and manufacturers), could result in unexpected (i) delays or rejections of products scheduled for delivery to us, which could in turn affect the timing or our ability to deliver products to our customers; (ii) supply chain disruptions and increased operating costs; (iii) damage to our customer relationships; and/or (iv) negative publicity that harms our reputation, any of which could have a material impact on our business and negatively affect our ultimate financial results.
Removed paragraphs (2)
Previous report
•growth in our sales and the mix of domestic versus export shipments from Taiwan could cause additional foreign tax credits to not be realizable, potentially reducing our income and adversely affecting our cash flows;
Previous report
Unforeseen difficulties in future expansion projects, whatever the cause, could have a material adverse effect on our business, customer relationships, financial condition, operating results, cash flow, and liquidity.
Reworded paragraphs (59)
Previous wording
•the impact of the risks associated with international geopolitical conflicts, including continuing tensions between Taiwan and China, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the Israel-Palestine conflict on the global economy, energy supplies and raw materials are uncertain, but may prove to negatively impact our business and operations;
Current wording
•the impact of the risks associated with international geopolitical conflicts is uncertain, but may prove to negatively impact our business and operations;
Previous wording
•failure to effectively compete against competitors, enhance existing products or develop, manufacture and market new products, such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, blockchain or other new approaches to data mining, that respond to consumer needs and preferences and achieve market acceptance could result in a decrease in demand for our products and negatively impact our business and financial results;
Current wording
•failure to effectively compete against competitors, enhance existing products or develop, manufacture and market new products that respond to consumer needs and preferences and achieve market acceptance could result in a decrease in demand for our products and negatively impact our business and financial results;
Previous wording
•our business depends substantially on our ability to maintain our premium brand image and to attract and retain experienced and qualified talent, including our senior management team;
Current wording
•our business depends substantially on our ability to maintain our premium brand image, the continued expansion of the market and demand for our products, and to attract and retain experienced and qualified talent;
Previous wording
•a disruption in the operations of our facilities or along our global supply chain, such as work stoppages, or delays in our planned expansion of certain facilities, including labor strikes, could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations;
Current wording
•a disruption in the operations of our facilities or along our global supply chain, such as work stoppages, labor strikes, or infrastructure issues, could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations;
Previous wording
•our business is dependent in large part on our relationships with dealers and distributors and their success and the orders we receive from our OEM customers and from their success. The loss of all or a substantial portion of our sales to any of these customers could have a material adverse impact on us and our results of operations;
Current wording
•our business is dependent in large part on our relationships with dealers and distributors and their success and the orders we receive from our OEM customers and from their success. The loss of all or a substantial portion of our sales to any of these customers, including a group of relatively small number of customers that account for a substantial portion of our sales, could have a material adverse impact on us and our results of operations;
Previous wording
•our sales could be impacted by the disruption of sales by other bike component manufacturers or if other bike component manufacturers enter into the specialty bike component market;
Current wording
•our sales could be impacted by the disruption of sales by other manufacturers or if other manufacturers enter into the specialty markets in which we operate;
Previous wording
If we inaccurately forecast demand for our products or inaccurately predict OEM and dealer destocking and restocking cycles and production schedules, we may manufacture insufficient or excess quantities or our manufacturing costs could increase, which could adversely affect our business.
Current wording
•if we inaccurately forecast demand for our products or inaccurately predict destocking and restocking cycles and production schedules, we may manufacture insufficient or excess quantities or our manufacturing costs could increase;
Previous wording
•we rely on increasingly complex information systems for management of our manufacturing, distribution, sales and other functions. If our information systems fail to perform these functions adequately, if we or our vendors or commercial partners experience an interruption in our operations, or if we are impacted by cybersecurity attacks or data privacy issues, our business could suffer;
Current wording
•we rely on increasingly complex information systems for management of our various functions. If our information systems fail to perform these functions adequately, if we or our vendors or partners experience an interruption in our operations, or if we are impacted by cybersecurity attacks or data privacy issues, our business could suffer;
Previous wording
•we have grown and may continue to grow in the future through acquisitions, and we may not be able to effectively integrate businesses we acquire, or we may not be able to identify or complete any future acquisitions on favorable terms, or at all;
Current wording
•we have grown and may continue to grow through acquisitions, and we may not be able to effectively integrate businesses we acquire, or we may not be able to identify or complete future acquisitions on favorable terms, or at all;
Previous wording
•the current inflation affecting the economy and the Federal Reserve’s repeated interest rate increases in response, could negatively impact our cash flows due to higher debt costs or negatively impact our customers’ ability to finance powered vehicles or bikes that include our products;
Current wording
•the current inflation and changes in interest rates in response, could negatively impact our cash flows due to higher debt costs or negatively impact our customers’ ability to finance powered vehicles or bikes that include our products;
Previous wording
•our 2022 Credit Facility places operating restrictions on us and creates default risks, and the variable rate makes us more vulnerable to increases in interest rates;
Current wording
•our amended credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, and other named lenders (“2022 Credit Facility”) places operating restrictions on us and creates default risks, and the variable rate makes us more vulnerable to increases in interest rates;
Previous wording
•we are subject to employment practice laws and regulations, and, as such, are exposed to litigation risks, and we may incur higher employee costs in the future;
Current wording
•we are subject to employment practice laws and regulations, and, as such, are exposed to litigation risks;
Previous wording
•we cannot guarantee that our share repurchase program will be fully consummated or that it will enhance stockholder value, and the volatility of the price of our common stock could increase; and
Current wording
•we cannot guarantee that our share repurchase program will be fully consummated or that it will enhance stockholder value, and the volatility of the price of our common stock could increase;
Previous wording
The impact of the risks associated with international geopolitical conflicts—including continuing tensions between Taiwan and China, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the Israel-Palestine conflict—on the global economy, energy supplies, and raw materials is uncertain, and may prove to negatively impact our business and operations.
Current wording
The impact of the risks associated with international geopolitical conflicts—including continuing tensions between Taiwan and China, the Russian war in Ukraine, and the Israel-Palestine conflict—on the global economy, energy supplies, and raw materials is uncertain, and may prove to negatively impact our business and operations.
Previous wording
In recent years, diplomatic and trade relationships between the U.S. government and China have become increasingly frayed, and the threat of a takeover of Taiwan by China has increased. Since we have manufacturing in Taiwan and source products globally, our business, operations, and supply chains could be materially and adversely impacted by political, economic or other actions from China, or changes in China-Taiwan relations that impact Taiwan and its economy. In addition, we continue to monitor any adverse impact that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the conflict in Ukraine, and subsequent sanctions against Russia by the United States and European and Asian countries may have on the global economy, our business and operations, and our suppliers and customers. For example, a prolonged conflict may result in ongoing increased inflation, escalating energy prices and constrained availability, thereby increasing the costs of raw materials and production. To the extent that continuing political tensions may adversely affect our business, it may heighten many of the other risks described in our risk factors, such as those relating to data security, supply chain, volatility of price inputs, and market conditions; any of which could negatively affect our business and financial condition.
Current wording
In recent years, diplomatic and trade relationships between the U.S. government and China have become increasingly frayed, and the threat of a takeover of Taiwan by China has increased. Since we have manufacturing in Taiwan and source products globally, our business, operations, and supply chains could be materially and adversely impacted by political, economic or other actions from China, or changes in China-Taiwan relations that impact Taiwan and its economy. In addition, we continue to monitor any adverse impact that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the conflict in Ukraine, subsequent sanctions against Russia by the United States and European and Asian countries, and geopolitical tensions or conflict that may arise out of the new U.S. Presidential administration may have on the global economy, our business and operations, and our suppliers and customers. For example, a prolonged conflict may result in ongoing increased inflation, escalating energy prices and constrained availability, thereby increasing the costs of raw materials and production. To the extent that continuing political tensions may adversely affect our business, it may heighten many of the other risks described in our risk factors, such as those relating to data security, supply chain, volatility of price inputs, and market conditions; any of which could negatively affect our business and financial condition.
Previous wording
We depend on a limited number of suppliers for certain products and components. If our current suppliers—particularly, the minority of those that are “single-source” suppliers—cannot timely fulfill orders, or if we are required to transition to other suppliers, we could experience significant production delays or disruption to our business. We define a single-source supplier as a supplier from which we purchase all of a particular raw material or input used in our manufacturing operations, although other suppliers are available from which to purchase the same raw material or input of an equivalent substitute. For the majority of our products, we do not maintain long-term supply contracts with our suppliers and instead purchase these components on a purchase order basis. As a result, we cannot force suppliers to sell us the necessary components we use to manufacture our products, and we could face significant supply disruptions should they refuse to do so. As the majority of our bike component manufacturing occurs in Taiwan, we could experience difficulties locating qualified suppliers geographically closer to these facilities. Furthermore, such suppliers could experience difficulties in providing us with some or all of the materials we require, which could result in disruptions in our manufacturing operations. Similarly, all non-wood products sold by Marucci and wheels sold by Custom Wheel House are sourced from third-party suppliers, which could risk supply-chain challenges if those third-party suppliers are unable to fulfill production quotas. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted if we experience difficulties with our suppliers or manufacturing delays caused by our suppliers, whether in connection with our manufacturing operations in the U.S. or in Taiwan.
Current wording
We depend on a limited number of suppliers for certain products and components. If our current suppliers—particularly, the minority of those that are “single-source” suppliers—cannot timely fulfill orders, or if we are required to transition to other suppliers, we could experience significant production delays or disruption to our business. We define a single-source supplier as a supplier from which we purchase all of a particular raw material or input used in our manufacturing operations, although other suppliers are available from which to purchase the same raw material or input of an equivalent substitute. For the majority of our products, we do not maintain long-term supply contracts with our suppliers and instead purchase these components on a purchase order basis. As a result, we cannot force suppliers to sell us the necessary components we use to manufacture our products, and we could face significant supply disruptions should they refuse to do so. As the majority of our bike component manufacturing occurs in Taiwan, we could experience difficulties locating qualified suppliers geographically closer to these facilities. Furthermore, such suppliers could experience difficulties in providing us with some or all of the materials we require, which could result in disruptions in our manufacturing operations. Similarly, all non-wood products sold by Marucci and wheels sold by Custom Wheel House are sourced from third-party suppliers, which could risk supply-chain challenges if those third-party suppliers are unable to fulfill production quotas. Our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely impacted if we experience difficulties with our suppliers or manufacturing delays caused by our suppliers.
Previous wording
Product development requires significant financial, technological, and other resources. While we expended approximately $53.2 million, $56.2 million and $46.6 million for our research and development efforts in fiscal years 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, there can be no assurance that this level of investment in research and development will be sufficient in the future to maintain our competitive advantage in product innovation, which could cause our business, financial condition or results of operations to suffer.
Current wording
Product development requires significant financial, technological, and other resources. While we expended approximately $60.3 million, $53.2 million and $56.2 million for our research and development efforts in fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, there can be no assurance that this level of investment in research and development will be sufficient in the future to maintain our competitive advantage in product innovation, which could cause our business, financial condition or results of operations to suffer.
Previous wording
New products and technologies are important to operating our business. We may encounter competitive risks related to the adoption and application of new technology, such as artificial intelligence, by our competitors and other established market participants (for example, through disintermediation) start-up companies and others. We must consider developing and implementing technology solutions and technical expertise among our employees that anticipate and keep pace with rapid changes in technology, industry standards, client preferences and control standards. We may not be successful in anticipating or responding to these developments on a timely and cost-effective basis, and our ideas may not be accepted in the marketplace. Additionally, the effort to gain technological expertise and develop new technologies in our business may require us to incur significant expenses. Our technological development projects may also not deliver the benefits we expect once they are completed or may be replaced or become obsolete more quickly than expected, which could result in the accelerated recognition of expenses. If we are unable develop or implement new technologies as quickly as our competitors, or if our competitors develop more cost-effective technologies or product offerings, we could experience a material adverse effect on business, financial condition or results of operations. Our investments in new products and services may not generate the expected returns, which could hinder our ability to generate organic growth in the future.
Current wording
New products and technologies are important to operating our business. We may encounter competitive risks related to the adoption and application of new technology, such as artificial intelligence, by our competitors and other established market participants (for example, through disintermediation) start-up companies and others. We must consider developing and implementing technology solutions and technical expertise among our employees that anticipate and keep pace with rapid changes in technology, industry standards, client preferences and control standards. We may not be successful in anticipating or responding to these developments on a timely and cost-effective basis, and our ideas may not be accepted in the marketplace. Additionally, the effort to gain technological expertise and develop new technologies in our business may require us to incur significant expenses. Our technological development projects may also not deliver the benefits we expect once they are completed or may be replaced or become obsolete more quickly than expected, which could result in the accelerated recognition of expenses. If we are unable to develop or implement new technologies as quickly as our competitors, or if our competitors develop more cost-effective technologies or product offerings, we could experience a material adverse effect on business, financial condition or results of operations. Our investments in new products and services may not generate the expected returns, which could hinder our ability to generate organic growth in the future.
Previous wording
Our business depends substantially on global economic and market conditions. In particular, we believe that currently, a significant majority of the end users of our products live in North American and European countries. These areas historically experienced recessions, disruptions in banking and/or financial systems, and economic weakness and uncertainty. Today, there appears to be an increasing risk of recessions or inflationary economic impacts related to lingering effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical events, escalating energy costs, global supply chain disruptions, rising interest rates, and other economic changes. In addition, many of our products are recreational in nature and are generally discretionary purchases by consumers. Consumers are usually more willing to make discretionary purchases during periods of favorable general economic conditions and high consumer confidence. Discretionary spending may also be affected by many other factors, including interest rates, gas prices, the availability of consumer credit, taxes, and consumer confidence in future economic conditions. During periods of unfavorable economic conditions or periods when other negative market factors exist, consumer discretionary spending is typically reduced, which in turn could reduce our product sales and negatively affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current wording
Our business depends substantially on global economic and market conditions. In particular, we believe that currently, a significant majority of the end users of our products live in North American and European countries. These areas historically experienced recessions, disruptions in banking and/or financial systems, and economic weakness and uncertainty. Today, there appears to be an increasing risk of recessions or inflationary economic impacts related to lingering effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical events, escalating energy costs, global supply chain disruptions, changing interest rates, and other economic changes. In addition, many of our products are recreational in nature and are generally discretionary purchases by consumers. Consumers are usually more willing to make discretionary purchases during periods of favorable general economic conditions and high consumer confidence. Discretionary spending may also be affected by many other factors, including interest rates, gas prices, the availability of consumer credit, taxes, and consumer confidence in future economic conditions. During periods of unfavorable economic conditions or periods when other negative market factors exist, consumer discretionary spending is typically reduced, which in turn could reduce our product sales and negatively affect our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
We continue to face various risks related to public health issues, including epidemics, pandemics, and other outbreaks, including the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including changes in consumer behavior, COVID-19 pandemic fears and market downturns, and restrictions on business and individual activities, created significant volatility in the global economy and led to reduced economic activity. There have been extraordinary actions taken by international, federal, state, and local public health and governmental authorities, most of which are no longer in effect, to contain and combat the outbreak and spread of COVID-19 in regions throughout the world, including travel bans, quarantines, “stay-at-home” orders, and similar mandates for many individuals to substantially restrict daily activities and for many businesses to curtail or cease normal operations.
Current wording
We face various risks related to ongoing and potential public health issues, including epidemics, pandemics, and other outbreaks, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including changes in consumer behavior, pandemic fears and market downturns, and restrictions on business and individual activities, created significant volatility in the global economy and led to reduced economic activity.
Previous wording
The spread of COVID-19 caused us to modify our business practices, and we may take further actions as may be required by government authorities or that we determine are in the best interests of our employees, customers, suppliers, vendors, and business partners. For example, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of employees who work remotely or have a hybrid work schedule increased. It is possible that continued widespread remote work arrangements could negatively impact our operations, the execution of our business plans, productivity, the availability of key personnel and other employees necessary to conduct our business, and of third-party service providers who perform critical services for us, or otherwise cause operational failures due to changes in our normal business practices necessitated by the outbreak and related governmental actions.
Current wording
Government-mandated closures and “shelter-in-place” directives aimed at combating the spread of COVID-19 or future public health epidemics or pandemics, or an outbreak among, or quarantine of, the employees in any of our facilities caused and could continue to cause significant interruptions to, or temporary closures, of our operations. Additionally, modifications we’ve made and may continue to make to our business practices as a result of COVID-19, including implementing widespread remote arrangements, could negatively impact our operations, the execution of our business plans, productivity, the availability of key personnel and other employees necessary to conduct our business, and of third-party service providers who perform critical services for us, or otherwise cause operational failures due to changes in our normal business practices necessitated by an outbreak and related governmental actions.
Previous wording
These impacts had and could continue to negatively affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and the trading price of our securities. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted and may further impact the broader economies of affected countries, including negatively impacting economic growth, the proper functioning of financial and capital markets, foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and liquidity.
Current wording
These impacts affected and could continue to negatively affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, and the trading price of our securities. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted and may further impact and disrupt global economies and financial markets.
Previous wording
During 2023, approximately 25% of our net sales were generated from the sale of bike products. Part of our success is attributed to the growth in the high-end bike industry, including increases in average retail sales prices, as better-performing product designs and technologies have been incorporated into these products. If the popularity of high-end or premium-priced bikes does not increase or declines, the number of bike enthusiasts seeking such bikes or premium-priced suspension products, wheels, cranks and other specialty components for their bikes does not increase or declines, or the average price point of these bikes declines, we may fail to achieve future growth or our sales could decrease, and our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively affected. In addition, if current bike enthusiasts stop purchasing our products due to changes in preferences, we may fail to achieve future growth or our sales could be decreased, and our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively affected.
Current wording
During 2024, approximately 23% of our net sales were generated from the sale of bike products. Part of our success is attributed to the growth in the high-end bike industry, including increases in average retail sales prices, as better-performing product designs and technologies have been incorporated into these products. If the popularity of high-end or premium-priced bikes does not increase or declines, the number of bike enthusiasts seeking such bikes or premium-priced suspension products, wheels, cranks and other specialty components for their bikes does not increase or declines, or the average price point of these bikes declines, we may fail to achieve future growth or our sales could decrease, and our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively affected. In addition, if current bike enthusiasts stop purchasing our products due to changes in preferences, we may fail to achieve future growth or our sales could be decreased, and our business, financial condition or results of operations could be negatively affected.
Previous wording
Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2023, our Sport’s Specialty Group expanded and diversified with the acquisition of Marucci. Part of Marucci’s success derives from the demand for high-performing products, notably within the baseball and softball industry. If professional athletes and performance enthusiasts no longer demand Marucci’s products, we could experience slower or declining growth or sales, which may adversely affect our business. For example, if Marucci experiences a material decline in demand among professional athletes, consumers who seek the same performance as the professionals may no longer desire Marucci equipment. Similarly, if overall demand for sporting products declines, Marucci sales could decrease and reduce future growth opportunities. A material decline in the demand for Marucci products may adversely impact our business, financial condition, or operation results.
Current wording
Additionally, in the fourth quarter of 2023, our Specialty Sports Group expanded and diversified with the acquisition of Marucci. Part of Marucci’s success derives from the demand for high-performing products, notably within the baseball and softball industry. If professional athletes and performance enthusiasts no longer demand Marucci’s products, we could experience slower or declining growth or sales, which may adversely affect our business. For example, if Marucci experiences a material decline in demand among professional athletes, consumers who seek the same performance as the professionals may no longer desire Marucci equipment. Similarly, if overall demand for sporting products declines, Marucci sales could decrease and reduce future growth opportunities. A material decline in the demand for Marucci products may adversely impact our business, financial condition, or operation results.
Previous wording
We depend upon the contributions, talent, and leadership of our senior management team, particularly our Chief Executive Officer, Michael C. Dennison. We do not have a “key person” life insurance policy on Mr. Dennison or any other key employees. We believe that the top nine members of our senior management team are crucial to establishing our focus and executing our corporate strategies, as they have extensive knowledge of our systems and processes. Given our senior management team’s knowledge of our industry and the limited number of direct competitors in the industry, we believe that it could be difficult to find replacements should any of the members of our senior management team leave.
Current wording
We depend upon the contributions, talent, and leadership of our senior management team, particularly our Chief Executive Officer, Michael C. Dennison. We do not have a “key person” life insurance policy on Mr. Dennison or any other key employees. We believe that the top seven members of our senior management team are crucial to establishing our focus and executing our corporate strategies, as they have extensive knowledge of our business, systems and processes. Given our senior management team’s knowledge of our industry and the limited number of direct competitors in the industry, we believe that it could be difficult to find replacements should any of the members of our senior management team leave.
Previous wording
A disruption in the operations of our facilities, or delays in our planned expansion of certain facilities, could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current wording
A disruption in the operations of our facilities could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
Work stoppages or other disruptions, including those that involve our customers, could adversely affect our operating results.
Current wording
Work stoppages, infrastructure issues, or other disruptions, including those that involve our customers, could adversely affect our operating results.
Previous wording
A portion of our goods move through ports on the Western Coast of the U.S. We have a global supply chain, and we import products from our third-party vendors and our Fox Taiwan facility into the U.S. largely through ports on the West Coast. Dockworkers, none of whom are our employees, must offload freight from ships arriving at West Coast ports. We do not control the activities of these employees or seaports, and we could suffer supply chain disruptions due to any disputes, capacity shortages, slowdowns, or shutdowns that may occur, as was experienced in February 2015, in relation to certain West Coast ports. The 2015 strike lasted longer than we forecasted, and any similar labor dispute in the future or any slowdown or stoppage relating to the ongoing labor agreement negotiations could potentially have a negative effect on both our financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic increased uncertainty for global supply chains, as port congestion and shipping container shortages have become exacerbated, which could adversely affect our operating results.
Current wording
A portion of our goods move through ports on the coasts of the U.S. We have a global supply chain, and we import products from our third-party vendors and our Fox Taiwan facility into the U.S. largely through these ports. Dockworkers, none of whom are our employees, must offload freight from ships arriving at these ports. We do not control the activities of these employees or seaports, and we could suffer supply chain disruptions due to any disputes, capacity shortages, slowdowns, or shutdowns that may occur, as was experienced in February 2015, in relation to certain ports on the West Coast of the U.S. In October 2024, the International Longshoremen’s Association (“ILA”), which negotiates on behalf of 45,000 dockworkers at three dozen ports from Maine to Texas and collectively handles about half of seaborne imports into the U.S., initiated a three-day member strike due to disagreements with the United States Maritime Alliance over their agreement, which expired on September 30, 2024. The ILA reached a tentative agreement on a new six-year master contract in January 2025, which was ratified by the dockworkers and will be formally signed by both parties in March 2025. However, if for some reason the agreement is not signed in March 2025, the ILA could strike again. The 2015 strike lasted longer than we forecasted, and any similar labor dispute in the future or any slowdown or stoppage relating to the ongoing labor agreement negotiations, including the threatened strike by the ILA, could potentially have a negative effect on both our financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, the Baltimore Francis Scott Key bridge accident in March 2024 leading to the suspension of activity in the Port of Baltimore caused rerouting of shipping vessels, which may create congestion and delays in other ports, including certain East Coast ports through which we import products, increase fuel costs for shipping, and have long-standing impacts on supply chains in the retail and manufacturing industries. While the Port of Baltimore opened to maritime traffic on June 10, 2024, the bridge that is not expected to be fully rebuilt until late 2028 and further work to clear out wreckage and maintenance of the port may continue to cause delays in the Port of Baltimore and other East Coast ports where activities are rerouted. The incident has also raised concerns regarding deteriorating infrastructure throughout the U.S., which may further cause shipping delays and harm results of operation as such infrastructure is replaced or updated with new safety measures. Furthermore, the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic increased uncertainty for global supply chains, as port congestion and shipping container shortages have become exacerbated, which could adversely affect our operating results.
Previous wording
Work stoppages, labor disputes, and other disruptions involving our customers or otherwise could also adversely affect our operating results. For example, the United Auto Workers Union (“UAW”) 2023 strike impacted Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Stellantis after the UAW was unable to reach a deal with the three automakers. Automotive OEMs are some of the largest customers of our powered vehicle suspension products. The 2023 UAW strike may have lingering effects that could continue to impact the automotive industry. Any such lingering effects may adversely impact our own business, financial condition, or results of operation. Any future strikes, including those against our customers, are highly unpredictable and may negatively affect our business. The ultimate impact on our business, financial position, and results of operations will depend on factors beyond our control, including the duration and scope of labor strikes.
Current wording
Work stoppages, labor disputes, and other disruptions involving our customers or otherwise could also adversely affect our operating results. For example, the United Auto Workers Union (“UAW”) 2023 strike impacted Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Stellantis after the UAW was unable to reach a deal with the three automakers. Automotive OEMs are some of the largest customers of our powered vehicle suspension products. In 2024, the UAW again threatened strikes against one of Ford Motor Company’s units and Stellantis. UAW strikes and threatened UAW strikes may have lingering effects that could impact the automotive industry. Any such lingering effects may adversely impact our own business, financial condition, or results of operation. Any future strikes, including any strikes against our customers, are highly unpredictable and may negatively affect our business. The ultimate impact on our business, financial position, and results of operations will depend on factors beyond our control, including the duration and scope of labor strikes.
Previous wording
Net sales attributable to our five largest OEM customers, which can vary from year to year, collectively accounted for approximately 27%, 23%, and 24% of our net sales in fiscal years 2023, 2022 and 2021. The loss of all or a substantial portion of our sales to any of these OEM customers, whether through the temporary or permanent discontinuation of their products which incorporate our products or otherwise, the loss of market share by these customers, manufacturing or other problems, including disruptions related to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic or labor strikes, could have a material impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current wording
Net sales attributable to our five largest customers, which can vary from year to year, collectively accounted for approximately 28%, 27%, and 23% of our net sales in fiscal years 2024, 2023 and 2022. The loss of all or a substantial portion of our sales to any of these customers, whether through the temporary or permanent discontinuation of their products which incorporate our products or otherwise, the loss of market share by these customers, manufacturing or other problems, including disruptions related to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic or labor strikes, could have a material impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
Foreign currency fluctuations could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. U.S. government policy—including interest rate increases by the Federal Reserve—may impact the exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and foreign currencies. We sell our products inside and outside of the U.S., primarily in U.S. Dollars and New Taiwan Dollars. However, some of the OEMs purchasing products from us sell their products in Europe and other foreign markets using the Euro and other foreign currencies. As a result, as the U.S. Dollar appreciates against these foreign currencies, our products will become relatively more expensive for these OEMs. Accordingly, competitive products that our OEM customers can purchase in other currencies may become more attractive, and we could lose sales as these OEMs seek to replace our products with cheaper alternatives. In addition, should the U.S. Dollar depreciate significantly, this could have the effect of decreasing our gross margins and adversely impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current wording
Foreign currency fluctuations could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations. U.S. government policy—including changes in interest rates by the Federal Reserve—may impact the exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and foreign currencies. We sell our products inside and outside of the U.S., primarily in U.S. Dollars and New Taiwan Dollars. However, some of the OEMs purchasing products from us sell their products in Europe and other foreign markets using the Euro and other foreign currencies. As a result, as the U.S. Dollar appreciates against these foreign currencies, our products will become relatively more expensive for these OEMs. Accordingly, competitive products that our OEM customers can purchase in other currencies may become more attractive, and we could lose sales as these OEMs seek to replace our products with cheaper alternatives. In addition, should the U.S. Dollar depreciate significantly, this could have the effect of decreasing our gross margins and adversely impact our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
•our international operations are exposed to risks associated with conducting business globally, including currency exchange rate fluctuations and policies related to global trade and tariffs;
Current wording
Our international operations are exposed to risks associated with conducting business globally.
Previous wording
•difficulty in transporting materials internationally, including labor disputes at West Coast ports, which handle a large amount of our products;
Current wording
•difficulty in transporting materials internationally, including labor disputes at East and West Coast ports, which handle a large amount of our products;
Previous wording
•geopolitical regional conflicts, including the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine conflict on the global economy, energy supplies and raw materials, terrorist activity, political unrest, civil strife, acts of war, and other political uncertainty;
Current wording
•geopolitical regional conflicts, including the impact of the Russian war in Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine conflict on the global economy, energy supplies and raw materials, terrorist activity, political unrest, civil strife, acts of war, and other political uncertainty;
Previous wording
Our sales could be adversely impacted by the disruption or cessation of sales by other bike component manufacturers or if other bike component manufacturers enter the specialty bike component market.
Current wording
Our sales could be adversely impacted by the disruption or cessation of sales by other manufacturers or if other manufacturers enter the specialty markets in which we operate.
Previous wording
Most bikes that incorporate our suspension products are built using products and components manufactured by other bike component manufacturers. If those other bike component manufacturers stopped selling or producing the products and components for which the finished bikes that incorporates our products depend on, our sales may be adversely affected. Similarly, if those other bike component manufacturers experience sales disruptions, lose their competitive position in the marketplace, or face reputational damage, customers could migrate to complementary bike products, some of which may be incompatible with our suspension products or directly compete with our products. Moreover, other bike component manufacturers could begin manufacturing bike suspension products, wheels, or cranks, or bundle their bike components with competitors’ products. In any of these scenarios, our sales could decline, which may negatively impact our business, financial condition, or results of operation.
Current wording
Most bikes that incorporate our suspension products are built using products and components manufactured by other bike component manufacturers. We face similar concerns with manufacturers in our other lines of business. If those other manufacturers stopped selling or producing the products and components for which our products depend on, our sales may be adversely affected. Similarly, if those other manufacturers experience sales disruptions, lose their competitive position in the marketplace, or face reputational damage, customers could migrate to complementary products, some of which may be incompatible with our suspension products or directly compete with our products. Moreover, other manufacturers could begin manufacturing products such as bike suspension products, wheels, or cranks, or bundle their components with competitors’ products. In any of these scenarios, our sales could decline, which may negatively impact our business, financial condition, or results of operation.
Previous wording
Unless otherwise required by law, we generally provide a limited warranty for our products for a one, two- or three-year period beginning on: (i) in the case of OEM sales, the date the bike or powered vehicle is purchased from an authorized OEM where our product is incorporated as original equipment on the purchased bike or powered vehicle; (ii) in the case of aftermarket sales, the date the product is originally purchased from an authorized dealer; or (iii) in the case of upfitting sales, the date of the retail sale to an end customer. From time to time, our customers may negotiate for longer or different warranty coverage. In the ordinary course of business, we incur warranty costs and reserve against such costs in our financial statements. However, there is a risk that a product could underperform and require us to adjust our warranty reserves or incur costs in excess of these reserves, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Current wording
Unless otherwise required by law, we generally provide a limited warranty for our products for a one, two- or three-year period beginning on: (i) in the case of OEM sales, the date the bike or powered vehicle is purchased from an authorized OEM where our product is incorporated as original equipment on the purchased bike or powered vehicle; (ii) in the case of aftermarket/non-OEM sales, the date the product is originally purchased from an authorized dealer; or (iii) in the case of upfitting sales, the date of the retail sale to an end customer. From time to time, our customers may negotiate for longer or different warranty coverage. In the ordinary course of business, we incur warranty costs and reserve against such costs in our financial statements. However, there is a risk that a product could underperform and require us to adjust our warranty reserves or incur costs in excess of these reserves, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
Previous wording
As of December 29, 2023, we employed approximately 4,300 employees worldwide, a large percentage of which work at our manufacturing facilities. Our business involves complex manufacturing processes that can be inherently dangerous. Although we employ safety procedures in the design and operation of our facilities, there is a risk that an accident or death could occur in one of our facilities. In addition, prior to the introduction of new products, our employees test the products under rigorous conditions, which involve the risk of injury or death. Any accident could result in manufacturing or product delays, which could negatively affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The outcome of litigation is difficult to assess or quantify, and the cost to defend litigation can be significant. As a result, the costs to defend any action or the potential liability resulting from any such accident or death or arising out of any other litigation, and any negative publicity associated therewith, could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current wording
As of January 3, 2025, we employed approximately 4,100 employees worldwide, a large percentage of which work at our manufacturing facilities. Our business involves complex manufacturing processes that can be inherently dangerous. Although we employ safety procedures in the design and operation of our facilities, there is a risk that an accident or death could occur in one of our facilities. In addition, prior to the introduction of new products, our employees test the products under rigorous conditions, which involve the risk of injury or death. Any accident could result in manufacturing or product delays, which could negatively affect our business, financial condition or results of operations. The outcome of litigation is difficult to assess or quantify, and the cost to defend litigation can be significant. As a result, the costs to defend any action or the potential liability resulting from any such accident or death or arising out of any other litigation, and any negative publicity associated therewith, could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
Gasoline or diesel fuel is required to operate most powered vehicles that use our products. There can be no assurance that the supply of these fuels will continue uninterrupted, that rationing will not be imposed, or that the price of or tax on these petroleum products will not significantly increase. For example, there have been significant increases in gasoline and diesel fuel prices due to geopolitical developments, including the impacts resulting from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and there are heightened uncertainties regarding the future price and availability of gasoline and diesel fuel. Future shortages of gasoline and diesel fuel and substantial increases in the price of fuel could have a material adverse effect on our powered vehicle product category, which could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current wording
Gasoline or diesel fuel is required to operate most powered vehicles that use our products. There can be no assurance that the supply of these fuels will continue uninterrupted, that rationing will not be imposed, or that the price of or tax on these petroleum products will not significantly increase. For example, there have been significant increases in gasoline and diesel fuel prices due to geopolitical developments, including the impacts resulting from the Russian war in Ukraine, and there are heightened uncertainties regarding the future price and availability of gasoline and diesel fuel. Future shortages of gasoline and diesel fuel and substantial increases in the price of fuel could have a material adverse effect on our powered vehicle product category, which could have a negative effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
The information technology systems described above are also potentially vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses, ransomware attacks and other similar types of malicious activities and cyber-attacks, including attempts by others to gain access to our proprietary or sensitive information, and ranging from individual attempts to advanced persistent threats. Further, ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly prevalent and severe. To alleviate the financial, operational, and reputational impact of a ransomware attack, it may be preferable to make extortion payments, but we may be unwilling or unable to do so, including, for example, if applicable laws or regulations prohibit such payments. The procedures and controls we use to monitor these threats and mitigate our exposure may not be sufficient to prevent cybersecurity incidents. The results of these incidents could include misstated financial data, theft of trade secrets or other intellectual property, liability for disclosure of confidential customer, supplier or employee information, increased costs arising from the implementation of additional security protective measures, litigation and reputational damage, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition, business or results of operations. Any remedial costs or other liabilities related to cybersecurity incidents may not be fully insured or indemnified by other means. Moreover, we or our third-party vendors or business partners may be more vulnerable to such attacks in remote work environments, which increased in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Current wording
The information technology systems described above are also vulnerable to unauthorized access, computer viruses, ransomware attacks and other similar types of malicious activities and cyber-attacks, including attempts by others to gain access to our proprietary or sensitive information, and ranging from individual attempts to advanced persistent threats. Further, ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly prevalent and severe. To alleviate the financial, operational, and reputational impact of a ransomware attack, it may be preferable to make extortion payments, but we may be unwilling or unable to do so, including, for example, if applicable laws or regulations prohibit such payments. Given the persistent and advanced nature of cybersecurity threats, we continue to invest in upgraded programs, implement advanced features, and establish adequate controls to stop or curtail these threats. However, investing in upgraded programs, advanced programs and adequate controls is expensive and an ongoing, rapidly changing challenge and the procedures and controls we use to monitor these threats and mitigate our exposure may not be sufficient to prevent cybersecurity incidents. The results of these incidents could include misstated financial data, theft of trade secrets or other intellectual property, liability for disclosure of confidential customer, supplier or employee information, increased costs arising from the implementation of additional security protective measures, litigation and reputational damage, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition, business or results of operations. Any remedial costs or other liabilities related to cybersecurity incidents may not be fully insured or indemnified by other means. Moreover, we or our third-party vendors or business partners may be more vulnerable to such attacks in remote work environments, which increased in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Showing the first 40 of 59 pairs. Open the source sections for the rest.
Rearranged current paragraphs (5)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•qualitative data and limited sources support our beliefs regarding the future growth of the performance-defining product market and may not be reliable;
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•we are subject to environmental laws and regulations and potential exposure, costs and liabilities due to laws and regulations regarding conflict minerals, environmental matters, land-use, and noise and air pollution may have a negative impact on our future sales and results of operations;
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We do not control our suppliers, athletic programs, OEMs, other customers, or partners, or require them to comply with a formal code of conduct, and actions that they might take could harm our reputation and sales.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We may incur higher employee costs in the future.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
U.S. policies related to global trade and tariffs could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
These government-mandated closures, “shelter-in-place” directives, and an outbreak among, or quarantine of, the employees in any of our facilities caused and could continue to cause significant interruptions to, or temporary closures, of our operations.