Clarus Corp

Previous wording

In addition to other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the following risk factors should be carefully considered in evaluating our business, because such factors may have a significant impact on our business, operating results, liquidity and financial condition. As a result of the risk factors set forth below, actual results could differ materially from those mentioned in any forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us, or that we currently consider to be immaterial, may also impact our business, operating results, liquidity and financial condition. If any of the following risks occur, our business, operating results, liquidity and financial condition, and the price of our common stock, could be materially adversely affected.

Current wording

In addition to other information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the following risk factors should be carefully considered in evaluating our business, because such factors may have a significant impact on our business, operating results, liquidity and financial condition. As a result of the risk factors set forth below, actual results could differ materially from those mentioned in any forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us, or that we currently consider to be immaterial, may also materially impact our business, operating results, liquidity and financial condition. If any of the following risks occur, our business, operating results, liquidity and financial condition, and the price of our common stock, could be materially adversely affected.

Previous wording

Many of the products we sell are used for inherently risky outdoor pursuits and have given rise to product liability or product warranty claims and other loss contingencies including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to our avalanche beacon transceivers, which could affect our earnings and financial condition.

Current wording

Many of the products we sell are used for inherently risky outdoor pursuits and have given rise to product liability or product warranty claims and other loss contingencies including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to BDEL’s avalanche beacon transceivers, which could affect our earnings and financial condition.

Previous wording

Many of our products are used in applications and situations that involve high levels of risk of personal injury and death. As a result, we maintain a staff who focus on including appropriate disclaimers and markings, and undertaking testing and otherwise seeking to assure the quality and safety of our products. We stay current with laws to seek to provide thorough and protective disclaimers and instructions on all of our products and packaging. Furthermore, our technical climbing and avalanche safety equipment and our related operations meet and are certified to International Personal Protective Equipment (PP) standards set by the EEC or ISO 9001 quality system standards. Failure to use our products for their intended purposes, failure to use or care for them properly, or their malfunction, or, in some limited circumstances, even correct use of our products, have resulted in serious bodily injury or death.

Current wording

Many of our products are used in applications and situations that involve high levels of risk of personal injury and death. As a result, we maintain a staff who focus on including appropriate disclaimers and markings, and undertaking testing and otherwise seeking to assure the quality and safety of our products. We stay current with laws to seek to provide thorough and protective disclaimers and instructions on all of our products and packaging. Furthermore, our technical climbing and avalanche safety equipment and our related operations meet and are certified to International Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards set by the EEC or ISO 9001 quality system standards. Failure to use our products for their intended purposes, failure to use or care for them properly, or their malfunction, or, in some limited circumstances, even correct use of our products, have resulted in serious bodily injury or death.

Previous wording

We remain exposed to product liability claims by the nature of the products we produce, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to our avalanche beacon transceivers. Exposure occurs if one of our products is alleged to have resulted in property damage, bodily injury or other adverse effects. Any such product liability claims have included allegations of defects in manufacturing and/or design, failure to warn of dangers inherent in the product or activities associated with the product, negligence, strict liability, and/or breach of warranties. Although we maintain product liability insurance in amounts that we believe are reasonable, there can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain such insurance on acceptable terms, if at all, in the future or that product liability claims will not exceed the amount of insurance coverage.

Current wording

We remain exposed to product liability claims by the nature of the products we produce, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to BDEL’s avalanche beacon transceivers. Exposure occurs if one of our products is alleged to have resulted in property damage, bodily injury or other adverse effects. Any such product liability claims have included allegations of defects in manufacturing and/or design, failure to warn of dangers inherent in the product or activities associated with the product, negligence, strict liability, and/or breach of warranties. Although we maintain product liability insurance in amounts that we believe are reasonable, there can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain such insurance on acceptable terms, if at all, in the future or that product liability claims will not exceed the amount of insurance coverage.

Previous wording

As a manufacturer and distributor of consumer products, we are subject to government regulation in the United States and other countries, including, without limitation, the Consumer Products Safety Act, which empowers the CPSC to exclude from the market products that are found to be unsafe or hazardous. Under certain circumstances, the CPSC could require us to repurchase or recall one or more of our products and/or subject us to financial penalties. For example, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd. (“BDEL”) was notified by the CPSC that the agency staff believes we failed to timely meet our statutory reporting obligations under the Consumer Product Safety Act with respect to certain models of BDEL’s avalanche transceivers either switching unexpectedly out of “send” mode and/or out of “search” mode, that we made material misrepresentations in reports to the CPSC, and that the agency staff has recommended that the CPSC impose substantial civil monetary penalties on us. Additionally, laws regulating certain consumer products exist in some cities and states, as well as in other countries in which we sell our products, and more restrictive laws and regulations may be adopted in the future. Any such recalls or repurchases of our products and/or imposition of financial penalties on us could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. If we are required to remove, or if we voluntarily remove, our products from the market, our reputation could be tarnished and we might have large quantities of finished products that we are unable to sell.

Current wording

As a manufacturer and distributor of consumer products, we are subject to government regulation in the United States and other countries, including, without limitation, the Consumer Products Safety Act, which empowers the CPSC to exclude from the market products that are found to be unsafe or hazardous. Under certain circumstances, the CPSC could require us to repurchase or recall one or more of our products and/or subject us to financial penalties. For example, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” BDEL was notified by the CPSC that the agency staff believes we failed to timely meet our statutory reporting obligations under the Consumer Product Safety Act with respect to certain models of avalanche transmitters distributed by BDEL either switching unexpectedly out of “send” mode and/or out of “search” mode, that we made material misrepresentations in reports to the CPSC, and that the agency staff has recommended that the CPSC impose substantial civil monetary penalties on us. Furthermore, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” the U.S. Department of Justice has commenced an investigation relating to the CPSC investigation and we received grand jury subpoenas for documents relating to, among other things, certain avalanche transmitters distributed by BDEL. Additionally, laws regulating certain consumer products exist in some cities and states, as well as in other countries in which we sell our products, and more restrictive laws and regulations may be adopted in the future. Any such recalls or repurchases of our products and/or imposition of financial penalties on us could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. If we are required to

Previous wording

We spend substantial resources ensuring compliance with governmental and other applicable standards. However, compliance with these standards does not necessarily prevent individual or class action lawsuits, which can entail significant cost and risk. We do not maintain insurance against many types of claims involving alleged defects in our products that do not involve personal injury or property damage. As a result, these types of claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Current wording

We spend substantial resources seeking to ensure compliance with governmental and other applicable standards. However, compliance with these standards does not necessarily prevent individual or class action lawsuits, which can entail significant cost and risk. We do not maintain insurance against many types of claims involving alleged defects in our products that do not involve personal injury or property damage. As a result, these types of claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Previous wording

Our product liability insurance program is an occurrence-based program based on our current and historical claims experience and the availability and cost of insurance. We carry both general and umbrella liability policies that insure us for product liability claims. The policy has a small retention, which enables us to manage and control our product liability claims. Historically, product liability awards have not exceeded our individual per occurrence self-insured retention. We cannot assure you, however, that our future product liability experience will be consistent with our past experience. Additionally, we do not maintain product recall insurance. We maintain a warranty reserve for estimated future warranty claims, but the actual costs of servicing future warranty claims may exceed the reserve. As a result, product recalls or product liability claims, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims and/or financial penalties, including, without limitation, the imposition by the CPSC of substantial civil monetary penalties on us relating to our avalanche beacon transceivers, could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.

Current wording

Our product liability insurance program is an occurrence-based program based on our current and historical claims experience and the availability and cost of insurance. We carry both general and umbrella liability policies that insure us for product liability claims. The policy has a small retention, which enables us to manage and control our product liability claims. Historically, product liability awards have not exceeded our individual per occurrence self-insured retention. We cannot assure you, however, that our future product liability experience will be consistent with our past experience. Additionally, we do not maintain product recall insurance. We maintain a warranty reserve for estimated future warranty claims, but the actual costs of servicing future warranty claims may exceed the reserve.

Previous wording

Adverse publicity about the Company and/or its brands and products, including with respect to certain models of our avalanche transceivers through social media or connection with other media or brand damaging events and/or public perception could negatively impact our business and reputation.

Current wording

Adverse publicity about the Company and/or its brands and products, including with respect to certain models of avalanche transmitters distributed by BDEL through social media or connection with other media or brand damaging events and/or public perception could negatively impact our business and reputation.

Previous wording

Negative claims or publicity involving us, our board of directors, our brands, our products, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to our avalanche beacon transceivers, services and experiences, consumer data, or any of our key employees, endorsers, or suppliers could seriously damage our reputation and the image of our brands, regardless of whether such claims are accurate.

Current wording

Negative claims or publicity involving us, our board of directors, our brands, our products, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to BDEL’s avalanche beacon transceivers, services and experiences, consumer data, or any of our key employees, endorsers, or suppliers could seriously damage our reputation and the image of our brands, regardless of whether such claims are accurate.

Previous wording

Furthermore, social media, which accelerates and potentially amplifies the scope of negative publicity, can increase the challenges of responding to negative claims. Adverse publicity could also damage our reputation and the image of our brands, undermine consumer confidence in us and reduce long-term demand for our products, even if such adverse publicity is unfounded or not material to our operations. If the reputation, culture or image of any of our brands and products, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to our avalanche beacon transceivers, is tarnished or if we receive negative publicity, then our sales, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Current wording

Furthermore, social media, which accelerates and potentially amplifies the scope of negative publicity, can increase the challenges of responding to negative claims. Adverse publicity could also damage our reputation and the image of our brands, undermine consumer confidence in us and reduce long-term demand for our products, even if such adverse publicity is unfounded or not material to our operations. If the reputation, culture or image of any of our brands and products, including, without limitation, recalls and liability claims relating to BDEL’s avalanche beacon transceivers, is tarnished or if we receive negative publicity, then our sales, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Previous wording

From time to time, we have been and may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. Injuries sustained by those who use or purchase our products, including, without limitation, our avalanche beacon transceivers, have, and could in the future, subject us to regulatory proceedings and litigation by government agencies and private litigants brought against us, that regardless of their merits, could harm our reputation, divert management’s attention from our operations and result in substantial legal fees and other costs. For example, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” BDEL was notified by the CPSC that the agency staff believes we failed to timely meet our statutory reporting obligations under the Consumer Product Safety Act with respect to certain models of BDEL’s avalanche transceivers either switching unexpectedly out of “send” mode and/or out of “search” mode, that we made material misrepresentations in reports to the CPSC, and that the agency staff intends to recommend that the CPSC impose substantial civil monetary penalties on us. Any financial penalties imposed by the CPSC or other regulators could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. Also, we have reporting obligations to safety regulators in all jurisdictions where we sell our products, where reporting may trigger further regulatory investigations.

Current wording

From time to time, we have been and may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. Injuries sustained by those who use or purchase our products, including, without limitation, BDEL’s avalanche beacon transceivers, have, and could in the future, subject us to regulatory proceedings and litigation by government agencies and private litigants brought against us, that regardless of their merits, could harm our reputation, divert management’s attention from our operations and result in substantial legal fees and other costs. For example, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” BDEL was notified by the CPSC that the agency staff believes we failed to timely meet our statutory reporting obligations under the Consumer Product Safety Act with respect to certain models of avalanche transmitters distributed by BDEL either switching unexpectedly out of “send” mode and/or out of “search” mode, that we made material misrepresentations in reports to the CPSC, and that the agency staff intends to recommend that the CPSC impose substantial civil monetary penalties on us. Any financial or other penalties imposed by the CPSC as well as the Department of Justice or other regulators could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. Also, we have reporting obligations to safety regulators in all jurisdictions where we sell our products, where reporting may trigger further regulatory investigations.

Previous wording

As noted above, because a substantial majority of our net revenue is generated through discretionary spending by consumers for our outdoor recreation products, a downturn in the economy resulting from prolonged supply chain disruptions or labor shortages, a significant increase in inflation rates (including in connection with rising interest rates through government action to fight inflationary trends), or a reduction in consumer confidence in the U.S. economy may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, as consumers generally reduce their discretionary spending during such periods. Inflation rates have increased and may continue to rise or stay elevated for some time, all of which negatively impact consumer confidence and discretionary spending patterns. Additionally, inflationary trends and uncertainties in the economic climate in the United States and elsewhere could have a similar negative impact on the rate and amounts of purchases by our current and potential customers, create price inflation for our products, or otherwise have a negative impact on our expenses, gross margins and revenues, all of which could hinder our growth.

Current wording

As noted above, because a substantial majority of our net revenue is generated through discretionary spending by consumers for our outdoor recreation products, a downturn in the economy resulting from prolonged supply chain disruptions or labor shortages, a significant increase in inflation rates (including in connection with rising interest rates through government action to fight inflationary trends), or a reduction in consumer confidence in the U.S. economy may have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations, as consumers generally reduce their discretionary spending during such periods. Inflation rates have increased and may continue to rise or stay elevated for some time, all of which negatively impact consumer confidence and discretionary

Previous wording

Additionally, shifts in consumer purchasing patterns, including the growth of e-commerce and large one-stop digital marketplaces, e-commerce off-price retailing and online comparison shopping in our key markets may have an adverse effect on our direct-to-consumer operations and the financial health of certain of our wholesale customers, some of whom may reduce their brick and mortar store fleet, file for protection under bankruptcy laws, restructure, or cease operations. These related business impacts have already occurred at certain of our wholesale customers. We face increased risk of order reduction and cancellation when dealing with financially ailing wholesale customers. We also extend credit to our wholesale customers based on an assessment of the wholesale customer’s financial condition, generally without requiring collateral. We may choose (and have chosen in the past) to limit our credit risk by reducing our level of business with wholesale customers experiencing financial difficulties and may not be able to replace those revenues with other customers or through our direct-to-consumer businesses within a reasonable period or at all.

Current wording

Additionally, shifts in consumer purchasing patterns, including the growth of e-commerce and large one-stop digital marketplaces, e-commerce off-price retailing and online comparison shopping in our key markets may have an adverse effect on our direct-to-consumer operations and the financial health of certain of our wholesale customers, some of whom may reduce their brick and mortar store fleet, file for protection under bankruptcy laws, restructure, or cease operations. These related business impacts have already occurred at certain of our wholesale customers. We face increased risk of order reduction and cancellation when dealing with financially ailing wholesale customers. We also extend credit to our wholesale customers based on an assessment of the wholesale customer’s financial condition, generally without requiring collateral. We may choose (and have chosen in the past) to limit our credit risk by reducing our

Previous wording

We also receive and distribute our products through third-party operated distribution facilities internationally and domestically. We depend on these third-parties to manage the operation of their distribution facilities as necessary to meet our business needs. If the third-parties fail to manage these responsibilities, our international and domestic distribution operations could face significant disruptions.

Current wording

We also receive and distribute our products through third-party operated distribution facilities internationally and domestically. We depend on these third-parties to manage the operation of their distribution facilities as necessary to meet our business needs. If such third-parties fail to manage these responsibilities, our international and domestic distribution operations could face significant disruptions.

Previous wording

Our operations in international markets, and earnings in those markets, may be affected by changes in global cultural, political, and financial market conditions as well as potential changes in regulations, legislation and government policies.

Current wording

Our operations in international markets, and earnings in those markets, may be affected by changes in global cultural, political, and financial market conditions as well as potential changes in regulations, legislation and government policies such as tariffs, tax laws and global trade policies.

Previous wording

Approximately 61% of our sales for the year ended December 31, 2023 were earned in international markets. As such our ability to maintain the current level of operations in our existing international markets and to capitalize on growth in existing and new international markets is subject to risks associated with international operations.

Current wording

Approximately 60% of our sales for the year ended December 31, 2024 were earned in international markets. As such our ability to maintain the current level of operations in our existing international markets and to capitalize on growth in existing and new international markets is subject to risks associated with international operations.

Previous wording

These include the burdens of complying with a variety of foreign laws and regulations, unexpected changes in regulatory requirements, new tariffs or other barriers to some international markets. For example, any future withdrawal or renegotiation of trade agreements, and the prosecution of trade disputes or the imposition of tariffs, duties, taxes and other charges on imports or exports between the United States and countries like China may adversely affect our ability to operate our business and execute our growth strategy. In addition, it may be more difficult for us to enforce agreements, collect receivables, receive dividends and repatriate earnings through foreign legal systems.

Current wording

These include the burdens of complying with a variety of foreign laws and regulations, unexpected changes in regulatory requirements, new tariffs or other barriers to some international markets. For example, any future withdrawal or renegotiation of trade agreements, and the prosecution of trade disputes or the imposition of tariffs, duties, taxes and other charges on imports or exports between the United States and countries like China, Canada and Mexico may adversely affect our ability to operate our business and execute our growth strategy. In addition, it may be more difficult for us to enforce agreements, collect receivables, receive dividends and repatriate earnings through foreign legal systems.

Previous wording

We cannot predict whether quotas, duties, taxes, exchange controls, current or future “trade wars” or other restrictions will be imposed by the United States, Australia, China, or other countries upon the import or export of our products and the commodities and components used to manufacture our products, or what effect any of these actions would have on our business, financial condition or results of operations. We cannot predict whether there might be changes in our ability to repatriate earnings or capital from international jurisdictions. Changes in regulatory and geopolitical policies and other factors may adversely affect our business or may require us to modify our current business practices.

Current wording

We cannot predict whether quotas, duties, taxes, exchange controls, current or future “trade wars” or other restrictions will be imposed by the United States, China, Canada and Mexico or other countries upon the import or export of our products and the commodities and components used to manufacture our products, or what effect any of these actions would have on our business, financial condition or results of operations. We cannot predict whether there might be changes in our ability to repatriate earnings or capital from international jurisdictions. Changes in regulatory and geopolitical policies and other factors may adversely affect our business or may require us to modify our current business practices.

Previous wording

introduction, manufacturing, and marketing of any new products or product innovations, or develop and introduce, in a timely manner, innovations to our existing products that satisfy customer needs or achieve market acceptance. Our failure to develop new products and introduce them successfully and in a timely manner, and at favorable margins, would harm our ability to successfully grow our business and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Current wording

We believe that our future success will depend, in part, upon our ability to continue to introduce innovative design extensions for our existing products and to develop, manufacture, and market new products. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in the introduction, manufacturing, and marketing of any new products or product innovations, or develop and introduce, in a timely manner, innovations to our existing products that satisfy customer needs or achieve market acceptance. Our failure to develop new products and introduce them successfully and in a timely manner, and at favorable margins, would harm our ability to successfully grow our business and could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, and financial condition.

Previous wording

As a global company, we determine our income tax liability in various tax jurisdictions and our effective tax rate based on an analysis and interpretation of local tax laws and regulations and our financial projections. This analysis requires a significant amount of judgment and estimation and is often based on various assumptions about the future, which, in times of economic disruptions, are highly uncertain. These determinations are the subject of periodic domestic and foreign tax audits. Although we accrue for uncertain tax positions, our accruals may be insufficient to satisfy unfavorable findings. Unfavorable audit findings and tax rulings may result in payment of taxes, fines and penalties for prior periods and higher tax rates in future periods.

Current wording

As a global company, we determine our income tax liability in various tax jurisdictions and our effective tax rate based on an analysis and interpretation of local tax laws and regulations, as well as our financial projections. This analysis requires significant judgment and estimation, often based on assumptions about the future, which, in times of economic disruptions or legislative changes, are highly uncertain. Our tax determinations are subject to periodic domestic and foreign audits, and while we accrue for uncertain tax positions, these accruals may be insufficient to satisfy unfavorable findings. Unfavorable audit findings or tax rulings could result in payment of additional taxes, fines, and penalties for prior periods and could lead to higher tax rates in future periods.

Previous wording

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine could have a material adverse effect on our operations, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and business outlook.

Current wording

Ongoing conflicts in multiple locations across the globe, as well as economic sanctions and other measures imposed in response thereto could have a material adverse effect on our operations, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and business outlook.

Previous wording

There is continued, sustained military conflict between Russia and Ukraine and continued disruption in the region is likely. As a result, new and stricter sanctions have been imposed by the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and other countries and organizations against officials, individuals, regions, and industries in Russia. Russia’s potential response to such sanctions, as well as prolonged unrest, intensified military activities and/or the implementation of more extensive sanctions impacting the region could have a material adverse effect on our operations, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and business outlook. Additionally, due to contractions in the supply of certain fuels from Russia arising out of the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions, it is possible that certain of our consumers in Europe may not participate in outdoor activities during winter in patterns that are predictable or to the scale we have experienced in the past, which could in turn have a material adverse effect on our operations, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and business outlook.

Current wording

Ongoing wars in multiple locations across the globe, as well as economic sanctions and other measures imposed in response thereto, have caused and continue to cause disruption, instability and volatility in global markets. The conflicts have caused and may continue to cause adverse global economic conditions resulting from escalating geopolitical tensions, the exclusion of certain financial institutions from the global banking system, volatility and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, inflationary pressures, supply chain and logistics disruptions, such as shipping disruptions in waterways, and heightened cybersecurity threats. As a result of sustained military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, sanctions have been imposed by the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and other countries and organizations against officials, individuals, regions, and industries in Russia. Russia’s potential response to such sanctions, as well as prolonged unrest, intensified military activities and/or the implementation of more extensive sanctions impacting the region could have a material adverse effect on our operations, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and business outlook. Additionally, due to contractions in the supply of certain fuels from Russia arising out of the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions, it is possible that certain of our consumers in Europe may not participate in outdoor activities during winter in patterns that are predictable or to the scale we have experienced in the past, which could in turn have a material adverse effect on our operations, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and business outlook.

Previous wording

Compliance costs related to environmental requirements could negatively impact our financial results.

Current wording

Compliance costs related to environmental requirements, including those associated with Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), could negatively impact our financial results.

Previous wording

We are, and any of our vendors or customers may be subject to extensive federal, state, local and foreign laws, regulations, rules and ordinances relating to pollution, protection of the environment, climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, and the generation, storage, handling, transportation, treatment, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances and waste materials. Costs and capital expenditures relating to environmental, health or safety matters are subject to evolving regulatory requirements and depend on the timing of the promulgation and enforcement of specific standards which impose the requirements. Moreover, changes in environmental regulations could inhibit or interrupt our operations, or require modifications to our facilities. Accordingly, environmental, health or safety regulatory matters could result in significant unanticipated costs or liabilities.

Current wording

We are, and any of our vendors or customers may be subject to extensive federal, state, local and foreign laws, regulations, rules and ordinances relating to pollution, protection of the environment, climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, and the generation, storage, handling, transportation, treatment, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances and waste materials, including Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). In 2024, certain of our products and inventory containing PFAS resulted in charges, and we may face additional liabilities in the future. Costs and capital expenditures relating to environmental, health or safety matters are subject to evolving regulatory requirements and depend on the timing of the promulgation and enforcement of specific standards which impose the requirements. Moreover, changes in environmental regulations could inhibit or interrupt our operations, or require modifications to our facilities. Accordingly, environmental, health or safety regulatory matters could result in significant unanticipated costs or liabilities.

Previous wording

An element of our general growth strategy is the acquisition of or investment in businesses and assets that will diversify our current business, increase size, expand our geographic scope of operations and otherwise offer growth opportunities. We may not be able to successfully identify attractive acquisition or investment opportunities, obtain financing for acquisitions, make acquisitions on satisfactory terms, or successfully acquire and/or integrate identified targets. In identifying, evaluating and selecting a target business or assets for a potential acquisition or investment, we expect to encounter intense competition from other entities, including blank check companies, private equity groups, venture capital funds, leveraged buyout funds, and operating businesses seeking strategic acquisitions.

Current wording

An element of our general growth strategy is the acquisition of or investment in businesses and assets that will diversify our current business, increase size, expand our geographic scope of operations and otherwise offer growth opportunities. We may not be able to successfully identify attractive acquisition or investment opportunities, obtain financing for acquisitions, make acquisitions on satisfactory terms, or successfully acquire and/or integrate identified targets. In identifying, evaluating and selecting a target business or assets for a potential acquisition or investment, we expect to encounter intense competition from other entities, including blank check

Previous wording

Many of these entities are well-established and have extensive experience identifying and effecting business combinations directly or through affiliates. Moreover, many of these competitors possess greater financial, technical, human and other resources than us which will give them a competitive advantage in pursuing the acquisition of certain target businesses.

Current wording

companies, private equity groups, venture capital funds, leveraged buyout funds, and operating businesses seeking strategic acquisitions. Many of these entities are well-established and have extensive experience identifying and effecting business combinations directly or through affiliates. Moreover, many of these competitors possess greater financial, technical, human and other resources than us which will give them a competitive advantage in pursuing the acquisition of certain target businesses.

Previous wording

From time to time, we have been and may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. Injuries sustained by those who use or purchase our products, including, without limitation, our avalanche beacon transceivers, have, and could in the future, subject us to regulatory proceedings and litigation by government agencies and private litigants brought against us, that regardless of their merits, could harm our reputation, divert management’s attention from our operations and result in substantial legal fees and other costs. For example, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” BDEL was notified by the CPSC that the agency staff believes we failed to timely meet our statutory reporting obligations under the Consumer Product Safety Act with respect to certain models of BDEL’s avalanche transceivers either switching unexpectedly out of “send” mode and/or out of “search” mode, that we made material misrepresentations in reports to the CPSC, and that the agency staff intends to recommend that the CPSC impose substantial civil monetary penalties on us. Any financial penalties imposed by the CPSC or other regulators could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. Also, we have reporting obligations to safety regulators in all jurisdictions where we sell our products, where reporting may trigger further regulatory investigations.

Current wording

From time to time, we have been and may be subject to claims, lawsuits, government investigations, and other proceedings involving products liability, competition and antitrust, intellectual property, privacy, consumer protection, securities, tax, labor and employment, commercial disputes, and other matters that could adversely affect our business operations and financial condition. Injuries sustained by those who use or purchase our products, including, without limitation, BDEL’s avalanche beacon transceivers, have, and could in the future, subject us to regulatory proceedings and litigation by government agencies and private litigants brought against us, that regardless of their merits, could harm our reputation, divert management’s attention from our operations and result in substantial legal fees and other costs. For example, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” BDEL was notified by the CPSC that the agency staff believes we failed to timely meet our statutory reporting obligations under the Consumer Product Safety Act with respect to certain models of avalanche transmitters distributed by BDEL either switching unexpectedly out of “send” mode and/or out of “search” mode, that we made material misrepresentations in reports to the CPSC, and that the agency staff intends to recommend that the CPSC impose substantial civil monetary penalties on us. Furthermore, as disclosed in Item 3. “Legal Proceedings,” the U.S. Department of Justice has commenced an investigation relating to the CPSC investigation and we received grand jury subpoenas for documents relating to, among other things, certain avalanche transmitters distributed by BDEL. Any financial or other penalties imposed by the CPSC as well as the Department of Justice or other regulators could be costly to us and could damage our business and reputation as well as have a material adverse effect on the Company’s liquidity, stock price, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. Also, we have reporting obligations to safety regulators in all jurisdictions where we sell our products, where reporting may trigger further regulatory investigations.

Previous wording

Climate change is occurring around the world and may impact our business in numerous ways. Such change could lead to an increase in raw material and packaging prices, and reduced availability, for example, due to water shortages which could adversely impact raw material availability. Increased frequency of extreme weather (storms and floods) could cause increased incidence of disruption to the production and distribution of our products and an adverse impact on consumer demand and spending.

Current wording

Climate change may impact our business in numerous ways, and could lead to an increase in raw material and packaging prices, and reduced availability, for example, due to water shortages which could adversely impact raw material availability. Increased frequency of extreme weather (for example, storms and floods) could cause increased incidence of disruption to the production and distribution of our products and an adverse impact on consumer demand and spending.

Previous wording

The members of our Board of Directors and our executive officers, which includes Mr. Warren B. Kanders, beneficially own approximately 20.2% of our outstanding common stock as of March 4, 2024. As a result, our Board of Directors and executive officer, to the extent they vote their shares in a similar manner, have influence over our affairs and could exercise such influence in a manner that is not in the best interests of our other stockholders, including by attempting to delay, defer or prevent a change of control transaction that might otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders.

Current wording

The members of our Board of Directors and our executive officers, which includes Mr. Warren B. Kanders, beneficially own approximately 22.2% of our outstanding common stock as of March 6, 2025. As a result, our Board of Directors and executive officer, to the extent they vote their shares in a similar manner, have influence over our affairs and could exercise such influence in a manner that is not in the best interests of our other stockholders, including by attempting to delay, defer or prevent a change of control transaction that might otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders.

Previous wording

Further, our certificate of incorporation provides for blank check preferred stock, which allows the Board to issue preferred stock at any time with rights and designations set forth by the Board. Section 382 of the Code generally excludes preferred stock when calculating ownership percentages as they relate to our NOLs if the preferred stock satisfies all of the following criteria: it is not entitled to vote, it is limited and preferred as to dividends and does not participate in corporate growth to any significant extent, it has redemption and liquidation rights which do not exceed the issue price of such stock (except for a reasonable redemption or liquidation premium), and it is not convertible into another class of stock. Our Board may authorize and issue preferred stock that does not meet these criteria, and such preferred stock would count towards determining ownership change under Section 382 of the Code. Therefore the issuance of any preferred stock could increase the likelihood of a limitation of the use of our NOLs.

Current wording

Further, our certificate of incorporation provides for blank check preferred stock, which allows our Board of Directors to issue preferred stock at any time with rights and designations set forth by our Board of Directors. Section 382 of the Code generally excludes preferred stock when calculating ownership percentages as they relate to our NOLs if the preferred stock satisfies all of the following criteria: it is not entitled to vote, it is limited and preferred as to dividends and does not participate in corporate growth to any significant extent, it has redemption and liquidation rights which do not exceed the issue price of such stock (except for a reasonable redemption or liquidation premium), and it is not convertible into another class of stock. Our Board of Directors may authorize and issue preferred stock that does not meet these criteria, and such preferred stock would count towards determining ownership change under Section 382 of the Code. Therefore, the issuance of any preferred stock could increase the likelihood of a limitation of the use of our NOLs.

Previous wording

the percentage of the Company’s capital stock that is treated as owned by a “5% stockholder.” Additionally, on February 7, 2008, our Board of Directors approved a rights agreement which is designed to assist in limiting the number of 5% or more owners and thus reduce the risk of a possible “change of ownership” under Section 382 of the Code.

Current wording

the percentage of the Company’s capital stock that is treated as owned by a “5% stockholder.” Additionally, on September 5, 2024, our Board of Directors approved an amendment to, our rights agreement dated February 7, 2008, which is designed to assist in limiting the number of 5% or more owners and thus reduce the risk of a possible “change of ownership” under Section 382 of the Code.

Previous wording

In connection with our general growth strategy of acquiring businesses and assets, we have and may be forced in the future to write-down or write-off assets, restructure our operations, or incur impairment or other charges that could result in us reporting losses. For example, during the year ended December 31, 2022, we recorded approximately $92 million of impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, specifically the Rhino-Rack trademark, in our Adventure reporting unit. Even though these charges may be non-cash items and not have an immediate impact on our liquidity, the fact that we report charges of this nature could contribute to negative market perceptions about us or our common stock.

Current wording

In connection with our general growth strategy of acquiring businesses and assets, we have and may be forced in the future to write-down or write-off assets, restructure our operations, or incur impairment or other charges that could result in us reporting losses. For example, during the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded approximately $45 million of impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, specifically the Rhino-Rack and MAXTRAX trademarks, in our Adventure reporting unit. Even though these charges may be non-cash items and not have an immediate impact on our liquidity, the fact that we report charges of this nature could contribute to negative market perceptions about us or our common stock.

Previous wording

We have outstanding an aggregate of 38,236,268 shares of our common stock as of March 4, 2024. This includes 6,525,421 shares of common stock that are beneficially owned by Mr. Kanders, our Chairman of the Board, of which he has 4,840,971 pledged as security for loans from financial institutions and that may be sold by such financial institutions in the event of a foreclosure of these loans. The sale of a significant amount of shares at any given time, or the perception that such sales could occur, including sales of the shares beneficially owned by Mr. Kanders, could adversely affect the prevailing market price of our common stock.

Current wording

We have outstanding an aggregate of 38,362,162 shares of our common stock as of March 3, 2025. This includes 7,073,821 shares of common stock that are beneficially owned by Mr. Kanders, our Chairman of the Board. The sale of a significant amount of shares at any given time, or the perception that such sales could occur, including sales of the shares beneficially owned by Mr. Kanders, could adversely affect the prevailing market price of our common stock.