Form 10-K
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 10-K

 

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

For the fiscal year ended August 28, 2011

OR

 

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

Commission file number 0-20355

 

 

Costco Wholesale Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Washington   91-1223280
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

999 Lake Drive, Issaquah, WA 98027

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (425) 313-8100

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

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on
which registered

Common Stock, $.005 Par Value   The NASDAQ Global Select Market

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

 

 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. YES x    NO ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. YES ¨    NO x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES x    NO ¨

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

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

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

 

Large accelerated filer x

   Accelerated filer ¨

Non-accelerated filer ¨ (Do not check if a smaller company)

   Smaller reporting company ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). YES ¨    NO x

The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant at February 11, 2011 was $32,525,998,477

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock as of September 30, 2011 was 433,365,150

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Company’s Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on January 26, 2012, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED AUGUST 28, 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

          Page  

PART I

     

Item 1.

  

Business

     4   

Item 1A.

  

Risk Factors

     10   

Item 1B.

  

Unresolved Staff Comments

     17   

Item 2.

  

Properties

     18   

Item 3.

  

Legal Proceedings

     18   

Item 4.

  

Reserved

     18   

PART II

     

Item 5.

  

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

     19   

Item 6.

  

Selected Financial Data

     20   

Item 7.

  

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

     21   

Item 7A.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

     36   

Item 8.

  

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

     37   

Item 9.

  

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

     37   

Item 9A.

  

Controls and Procedures

     38   

Item 9B.

  

Other Information

     38   

PART III

     

Item 10.

  

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

     39   

Item 11.

  

Executive Compensation

     39   

Item 12.

  

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

     39   

Item 13.

  

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

     39   

Item 14.

  

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

     39   

PART IV

     

Item 15.

  

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

     39   

 

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Table of Contents

INFORMATION RELATING TO FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this Report constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. They include statements that address activities, events, conditions or developments that we expect or anticipate may occur in the future and may relate to such matters as sales growth, increases in comparable store sales, cannibalization of existing locations by new openings, price or fee changes, earnings performance, earnings per share, stock-based compensation expense, warehouse openings and closures, the effect of adopting certain accounting standards, future financial reporting, financing, margins, return on invested capital, strategic direction, expense control, membership renewal rates, shopping frequency, litigation impact and the demand for our products and services. Forward-looking statements may also be identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual events, results, or performance to differ materially from those indicated by such statements, including, without limitation, the factors set forth in Item 1A—Risk Factors, and other factors noted in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and the consolidated financial statements and related notes in Item 8 of this Report. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

 

3


Table of Contents

PART I

Item 1—Business

Costco Wholesale Corporation and its subsidiaries (Costco or the Company) began operations in 1983 in Seattle, Washington. In October 1993, we merged with The Price Company, which had pioneered the membership warehouse concept, to form Price/Costco, Inc., a Delaware corporation. In January 1997, after the spin-off of most of our non-warehouse assets to Price Enterprises, Inc., we changed our name to Costco Companies, Inc. On August 30, 1999, we reincorporated from Delaware to Washington and changed our name to Costco Wholesale Corporation. Our common stock trades on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “COST.”

We report on a 52/53-week fiscal year, consisting of thirteen four-week periods and ending on the Sunday nearest the end of August. The first three quarters consist of three periods each, and the fourth quarter consists of four periods (five weeks in the thirteenth period in a 53-week year). The material seasonal impact in our operations is an increased level of net sales and earnings during the winter holiday season. References to 2011, 2010, and 2009 relate to the 52-week fiscal years ended August 28, 2011, August 29, 2010, and August 30, 2009, respectively.

The Company and its subsidiaries are principally engaged in the operation of membership warehouses in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, through majority-owned subsidiaries in Taiwan and Korea, and a 50% owned joint venture in Mexico (Mexico). At the beginning of fiscal 2011, we began consolidating our Mexico joint venture due to the adoption of a new accounting standard. Mexico’s results previously were accounted for under the equity method and our 50% share was included in “interest income and other, net” in the consolidated statements of income. In the current year, the financial position and results of Mexico’s operations are fully consolidated and the joint venture partner’s 50% share is included in “net income attributable to noncontrolling interests” in the consolidated statements of income. The initial consolidation of Mexico increased total assets, liabilities, and revenue by approximately 3%, with no impact on net income or net income per common share attributable to Costco. See discussion in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

General

We operate membership warehouses based on the concept that offering our members low prices on a limited selection of nationally branded and private-label products in a wide range of merchandise categories will produce high sales volumes and rapid inventory turnover. This turnover, when combined with the operating efficiencies achieved by volume purchasing, efficient distribution and reduced handling of merchandise in no-frills, self-service warehouse facilities, enables us to operate profitably at significantly lower gross margins than traditional wholesalers, mass merchandisers, supermarkets, and supercenters.

We buy the majority of our merchandise directly from manufacturers and route it to a cross-docking consolidation point (depot) or directly to our warehouses. Our depots receive container-based shipments from manufacturers and reallocate these goods for shipment to our individual warehouses, generally in less than twenty-four hours. This maximizes freight volume and handling efficiencies, eliminating many of the costs associated with traditional multiple-step distribution channels. Such traditional steps include purchasing from distributors as opposed to manufacturers, use of central receiving, storing and distributing warehouses, and storage of merchandise in locations off the sales floor.

Because of our high sales volume and rapid inventory turnover, we generally sell inventory before we are required to pay many of our merchandise vendors, even though we take advantage of early payment discounts when available. To the extent that sales increase and inventory turnover becomes more rapid, a greater percentage of inventory is financed through payment terms provided by suppliers rather than by our working capital.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 1—Business (Continued)

 

Our typical warehouse format averages approximately 143,000 square feet; newer units tend to be slightly larger. Floor plans are designed for economy and efficiency in the use of selling space, the handling of merchandise, and the control of inventory. Because shoppers are attracted principally by the quality of merchandise and the availability of low prices, our warehouses need not have elaborate facilities. By strictly controlling the entrances and exits of our warehouses and using a membership format, we have limited inventory losses (shrinkage) to less than two-tenths of one percent of net sales in the last several fiscal years—well below those of typical discount retail operations.

We generally limit marketing and promotional activities to new warehouse openings, occasional direct mail to prospective new members, and regular direct marketing programs (such as The Costco Connection, a magazine we publish for our members, coupon mailers, weekly email blasts from costco.com, and handouts) to existing members promoting selected merchandise. These practices result in lower marketing expenses as compared to typical retailers.

Our warehouses generally operate on a seven-day, 69-hour week, open weekdays between 10:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., with earlier weekend closing hours. Gasoline operations generally have extended hours. Because the hours of operation are shorter than those of traditional retailers, discount retailers and supermarkets, and due to other efficiencies inherent in a warehouse-type operation, labor costs are lower relative to the volume of sales. Merchandise is generally stored on racks above the sales floor and displayed on pallets containing large quantities, thereby reducing labor required for handling and stocking.

Our strategy is to provide our members with a broad range of high quality merchandise at prices consistently lower than they can obtain elsewhere. We seek to limit specific items in each product line to fast-selling models, sizes, and colors. Therefore, we carry an average of approximately 3,600 active stock keeping units (SKUs) per warehouse in our core warehouse business, as opposed to 45,000 to 140,000 SKUs or more at discount retailers, supermarkets, and supercenters. Many consumable products are offered for sale in case, carton, or multiple-pack quantities only.

In keeping with our policy of member satisfaction, we generally accept returns of merchandise. On certain electronic items, we generally have a 90-day return policy and provide, free of charge, technical support services, as well as an extended warranty.

Only the 2011 data in the accompanying tables includes Mexico.

The following table indicates the approximate percentage of net sales accounted for by major category of items:

 

     2011     2010     2009  

Sundries (including candy, snack foods, tobacco, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and cleaning and institutional supplies)

     22     23     23

Hardlines (including major appliances, electronics, health and beauty aids, hardware, office supplies, cameras, garden and patio, sporting goods, toys, seasonal items and automotive supplies)

     17     18     19

Food (including dry and institutionally packaged foods)

     21     21     21

Softlines (including apparel, domestics, jewelry, housewares, media, home furnishings and small appliances)

     10     10     10

Fresh Food (including meat, bakery, deli and produce)

     12     12     12

Ancillary and Other (including gas stations, pharmacy, food court, optical, one-hour photo, hearing aid and travel)

     18     16     15

 

 

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Table of Contents

Item 1—Business (Continued)

 

Ancillary businesses within or next to our warehouses provide expanded products and services and encourage members to shop more frequently. The following table indicates the number of ancillary businesses in operation at fiscal year-end:

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Food Court

     586         534         521   

One-Hour Photo Centers

     581         530         518   

Optical Dispensing Centers

     574         523         509   

Pharmacies

     529         480         464   

Gas Stations

     368         343         323   

Hearing-Aid Centers

     427         357         303   

Print Shops and Copy Centers

     10         10         10   

Car Washes

     7         7         2   

Number of warehouses

     592         540         527   

The 2010 and 2009 numbers exclude the 32 warehouses operated in Mexico.

Our electronic commerce businesses, costco.com in the U.S. and costco.ca in Canada, provide our members additional products generally not found in our warehouses, in addition to services such as digital photo processing, pharmacy, travel, and membership services.

Our warehouses accept cash, checks, certain debit cards, American Express and a private label Costco credit card. Losses associated with dishonored checks have been minimal, as members who have issued dishonored checks are identified and prevented from making further purchases until restitution is made.

We have direct buying relationships with many producers of national brand-name merchandise. We do not obtain a significant portion of merchandise from any one supplier. We have not experienced any difficulty in obtaining sufficient quantities of merchandise, and believe that if one or more of our current sources of supply became unavailable, we would be able to obtain alternative sources without substantial disruption of our business. We also purchase private label merchandise, as long as quality and customer demand are comparable and the value to our members is greater as compared to name brand items.

Certain financial information for our segments and geographic areas is included in Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

Membership Policy

Our membership format is designed to reinforce customer loyalty and provide a continuing source of membership fee revenue. Members can utilize their memberships at any Costco warehouse location in any country. We have two primary types of members: Business and Gold Star (individual). Our member renewal rate was 89% in the U.S. and Canada, and approximately 86% on a worldwide basis, consistent with recent years. The renewal rate is a trailing calculation that captures renewals during the period seven to eighteen months prior to the reporting date. Businesses, including individuals with a business license, retail sales license or other evidence of business existence, may become Business members. Business members generally pay an annual membership fee of approximately $50 for the primary and household membership card, with add-on membership cards available for an annual fee of approximately $50 (including a free household card). Many of our business members also shop at Costco for their personal needs. Individual (Gold Star) memberships are available to individuals who do not qualify for a Business membership, for an annual fee of approximately $50, which includes a household card.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 1—Business (Continued)

 

Our membership was made up of the following (in thousands):

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Gold Star

     25,000         22,500         21,500   

Business

     6,300         5,800         5,700   

Business, Add-on Primary

     4,000         3,300         3,400   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total primary cardholders

     35,300         31,600         30,600   

Additional cardholders

     28,700         26,400         25,400   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total cardholders

     64,000         58,000         56,000   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The numbers for 2010 and 2009 exclude approximately 2,900 and 2,800 cardholders of Mexico at the end of those years.

Executive membership is available to all members, with the exception of Business Add-on members, in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom for an annual fee of approximately $100. This program, excluding Mexico, offers additional savings and benefits on various business and consumer services, such as merchant credit-card processing, auto and home insurance, the Costco auto purchase program, check printing services and a high yield savings program. The services are generally provided by third-parties and vary by country and state. In addition, Executive members qualify for a 2% annual reward (which can be redeemed at Costco warehouses), up to a maximum of approximately $500 per year, on qualified purchases made at Costco. At the end of 2011, 2010, and 2009, Executive members represented 38%, 36%, and 33%, respectively, of our primary membership. Executive members generally spend more than other members, and the percentage of our net sales attributable to these members continues to increase.

Labor

Our employee count approximated:

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Full-time employees

     92,000         82,000         79,000   

Part-time employees

     72,000         65,000         63,000   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total employees

     164,000         147,000         142,000   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The numbers for 2010 and 2009 exclude approximately 9,000 individuals who were employed by Mexico at the end of those years. Approximately 13,600 hourly employees in certain of our locations (all former Price Company locations) in five states are represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. All remaining employees are non-union. We consider our employee relations to be very good.

Competition

Our industry is highly competitive, based on factors such as price, merchandise quality and selection, warehouse location and member service. We compete with over 800 warehouse club locations across the U.S. and Canada (Wal-Mart’s Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club), and every major metropolitan area has multiple club operations. In addition, we compete with a wide range of global, national and regional wholesalers and retailers, including supermarkets, supercenter stores, department and specialty stores, gasoline stations, and internet-based retailers. Competitors such as Wal-Mart, Target, Kohl’s and Amazon.com are among our significant general merchandise retail competitors. We also compete with low-cost operators selling a single category or narrow range of merchandise, such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, Office Depot, PetSmart, Staples, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Best Buy and Barnes & Noble. Our international operations face similar types of competitors.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 1—Business (Continued)

 

Regulation

Certain state laws require that we apply minimum markups to our selling prices for specific goods, such as tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, and gasoline. While compliance with such laws may cause us to charge higher prices, other retailers are also typically governed by the same restrictions, and we believe that compliance with such laws currently in effect do not have a material adverse effect on our operations.

Certain jurisdictions have enacted or proposed laws and regulations that would prevent or restrict the operations or expansion plans of certain large retailers and warehouse clubs, including us, within their jurisdictions. If enacted, such laws and regulations could have a material adverse affect on our operations.

Intellectual Property

We believe that, to varying degrees, our trademarks, trade names, copyrights, proprietary processes, trade secrets, patents, trade dress and similar intellectual property add significant value to our business and are important factors in our success. Our failure to continue to develop, maintain, and protect these properties would adversely affect our business and financial results. We have invested significantly in the development and protection of our well-recognized brands, including the Costco Wholesale® series of trademarks and our private label brand, Kirkland Signature®. We believe that Kirkland Signature products are premium products offered to our members at prices that are generally lower than those for national brand products and that they help lower costs, differentiate our merchandise offerings from other retailers, and generally earn higher margins. We expect to increase the sales penetration of our private label items in the future. We rely on trademark and copyright law, trade secret protection, and confidentiality and license agreements with our employees and others to protect our proprietary rights. Effective intellectual property protection may not be available in every country in which we operate.

Available Information

Our internet website is www.costco.com. We make available through the Investor Relations section of that site, free of charge, our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, Proxy Statements and Forms 3, 4 and 5, and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after filing such materials with, or furnishing such documents to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The information found on our website is not part of this or any other report filed with or furnished to the SEC.

The Company has adopted a code of ethics for senior financial officers pursuant to section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Copies of the code are available free of charge by writing to Secretary, Costco Wholesale Corporation, 999 Lake Drive, Issaquah, WA 98027. If the Company makes any amendments to this code (other than technical, administrative, or non-substantive amendments) or grants any waivers, including implicit waivers, from this code to the CEO, chief financial officer or controller, we will disclose (on our website or in a Form 8-K report filed with the SEC) the nature of the amendment or waiver, its effective date, and to whom it applies.

 

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Table of Contents

Item 1—Business (Continued)

 

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following is a list of the names, ages, and positions of the executive officers of the Company. All executive officers have 25 or more years of service with the Company, with the exception of Mr. Murphy who has 24 years of service.

 

Name

  

Position With Company

   Executive
Officer
Since
     Age  

James D. Sinegal

   Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Sinegal is a co-founder of the Company and has been a director since its inception. In February 2010, Mr. Sinegal relinquished his role as President of the Company, which he had held since the Company’s inception.      1983         75   

Jeffrey H. Brotman

   Chairman of the Board. Mr. Brotman is a co-founder of the Company and has been a director since its inception.      1983         69   

W. Craig Jelinek

   President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Jelinek has been President and Chief Operating Officer of the Company since February 2010, when he also joined the Board of Directors. Prior to that date, he was Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Merchandising since 2004.      1995         59   

Richard A. Galanti

   Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Galanti has been a director of the Company since January 1995.      1993         55   

John D. McKay

   Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Northern and Midwest Division. Mr. McKay was Senior Vice President, General Manager, Northwest Region from 2000 to March 2010.      2010         54   

Paul G. Moulton

   Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer. Mr. Moulton was Executive Vice President, Real Estate Development until March 2010.      2001         60   

James P. Murphy

   Executive Vice President, International Division. Mr. Murphy was Senior Vice President, International Division, from September 2004 to October 2010.      2011         58   

Joseph P. Portera

   Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Eastern and Canadian Divisions.      1994         59   

Douglas W. Schutt

   Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Merchandising. Mr. Schutt was Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Northern and Midwest Division from 2004 to March 2010.      2004         52   

Thomas K. Walker

   Executive Vice President, Construction, Distribution and Traffic.      2004         71   

Dennis R. Zook

   Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, Southwest and Mexico Divisions.      1993         62   

 

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors

The risks described below could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. These risks are not the only risks that we face. Our business operations could also be affected by additional factors that apply to all companies operating in the United States and globally, as well as other risks that are not presently known to us or that we currently consider to be immaterial.

We face strong competition from other retailers and warehouse club operators, which could negatively affect our financial performance.

The retail business is highly competitive. We compete for members, employees, sites, products and services and in other important respects with many other local, regional and national retailers, both in the United States and in foreign countries. We compete with a wide range of global, national and regional wholesalers and retailers, including supermarkets, supercenter stores, department and specialty stores, gasoline stations, and internet-based retailers. Such retailers and warehouse club operators compete in a variety of ways, including merchandise pricing, selection and availability, services, location, convenience, and store hours. Our inability to respond effectively to competitive pressures and changes in the retail markets could negatively affect our financial performance. Some competitors may have greater financial resources, better access to merchandise, and greater market penetration than we do.

General economic factors, domestically and internationally, may adversely affect our financial performance.

Higher interest rates, energy costs, inflation, levels of unemployment, healthcare costs, consumer debt levels, unsettled financial markets, weaknesses in housing and real estate markets, reduced consumer confidence, changes related to government fiscal and tax policies and other economic factors could adversely affect demand for our products and services or require a change in the mix of products we sell. Prices of certain commodity products, including gasoline and other food products, are historically volatile and are subject to fluctuations arising from changes in domestic and international supply and demand, labor costs, competition, market speculation, government regulations and periodic delays in delivery. Rapid and significant changes in commodity prices may affect our sales and profit margins. These factors can also increase our merchandise costs and/or selling, general and administrative expenses, and otherwise adversely affect our operations and financial results. General economic conditions can also be affected by the outbreak of war, acts of terrorism, or other significant national or international events.

Our growth strategy includes expanding our business, both in existing markets and in new markets.

Our future growth is dependent, in part, on our ability to acquire property, and build or lease new warehouses. We compete with other retailers and businesses for suitable locations. Local land use and other regulations restricting the construction and operation of our warehouses, as well as local community actions opposed to the location of our warehouses at specific sites and the adoption of local laws restricting our operations and environmental regulations may impact our ability to find suitable locations, and increase the cost of constructing, leasing and operating our warehouses. We also may have difficulty negotiating leases or real estate purchase agreements on acceptable terms. Failure to manage these and other similar factors effectively will affect our ability to timely build or lease new warehouses, which may have a material adverse affect on our future growth and profitability.

 

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

We seek to expand our business in existing markets in order to attain a greater overall market share. Because our warehouses typically draw members from their local areas, a new warehouse may draw members away from our existing warehouses and adversely affect comparable warehouse sales performance and member traffic at those existing warehouses.

We also intend to open warehouses in new markets. The risks associated with entering a new market include difficulties in attracting members due to a lack of familiarity with us, attracting members of other wholesale club operators currently operating in the new market, our lack of familiarity with local member preferences, and seasonal differences in the market. In addition, entry into new markets may bring us into competition with new competitors or with existing competitors with a large, established market presence. In new markets, we cannot ensure that our new warehouses will be profitably deployed; as a result, our future profitability may be delayed or otherwise materially adversely affected.

We are highly dependent on the financial performance of our United States and Canada operations.

Our financial and operational performance is highly dependent on our United States and Canada operations, which comprised 89% and 83% of consolidated net sales and operating income in 2011, respectively. Within the United States, we are highly dependent on our California operations, which comprised 24% of consolidated net sales in 2011. Our California market, in general, has a larger percentage of higher volume warehouses as compared to our other markets. Any substantial slowing or sustained decline in these operations could materially adversely affect our business and financial results. Declines in financial performance of our United States operations, particularly in California, and our Canada operations could arise from, among other things: failing to meet targets for warehouse openings; declines in actual or estimated comparable warehouse sales growth rates and expectations; negative trends in operating expenses, including increased labor, healthcare and energy costs; cannibalizing existing locations with new warehouses; shifts in sales mix toward lower gross margin products; changes or uncertainties in economic conditions in our markets, including higher levels of unemployment and depressed home values; and failing to consistently provide high quality products and innovative new products to retain our existing member base and attract new members.

We depend on vendors to supply us with quality merchandise at the right prices in a timely manner.

We depend heavily on our ability to purchase merchandise in sufficient quantities at competitive prices. We have no assurances of continued supply, pricing or access to new products, and any vendor could at any time change the terms upon which it sells to us or discontinue selling to us. Member demands may lead to out-of-stock positions of our merchandise, leading to loss of sales and profits.

We purchase our merchandise from numerous domestic and foreign manufacturers and importers and have thousands of vendor relationships. Our inability to acquire suitable merchandise on acceptable terms or the loss of key vendors could negatively affect us. We may not be able to develop relationships with new vendors, and products from alternative sources, if any, may be of a lesser quality or more expensive than those from existing vendors. Because of our efforts to adhere to high quality standards for which available supply may be limited, particularly for certain food items, the large volume we demand may not be consistently available.

Our suppliers are subject to risks, including labor disputes, union organizing activities, financial liquidity, inclement weather, natural disasters, supply constraints, and general economic and political conditions, that could limit their ability to timely provide us with acceptable merchandise. For these or other reasons, one or more of our suppliers might not adhere to our quality control, legal or regulatory stan

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

dards. These deficiencies may delay or preclude delivery of merchandise to us and might not be identified before we sell such merchandise to our members. This failure could lead to litigation and recalls, which could damage our reputation and our brands, increase our costs, and otherwise hurt our business.

Disruptions in our depot operations could adversely affect sales and member satisfaction.

We depend on the orderly operation of the receiving and distribution process, primarily through our depots. Although we believe that our receiving and distribution process is efficient, unforeseen disruptions in operations due to fires, hurricanes, earthquakes or other catastrophic events, labor shortages and disagreements or shipping problems, may result in delays in the delivery of merchandise to our warehouses, which could adversely affect sales and the satisfaction of our members.

We may not timely identify or effectively respond to consumer trends, which could negatively affect our relationship with our members, the demand for our products and services, and our market share.

It is difficult to consistently and successfully predict the products and services our members will demand. Our success depends, in part, on our ability to identify and respond to trends in demographics and consumer preferences. Failure to timely identify or effectively respond to changing consumer tastes, preferences (including those relating to sustainability of product sources) and spending patterns could negatively affect our relationship with our members, the demand for our products and services and our market share. If we are not successful at predicting our sales trends and adjusting our purchases accordingly, we may have excess inventory, which could result in additional markdowns and reduce our operating performance. This could have an adverse effect on margins and operating income.

Our failure to maintain positive membership loyalty and brand recognition could adversely affect our financial results.

Membership loyalty is essential to our business model. Damage to our brands or reputation may negatively impact comparable warehouse sales, lower employee morale and productivity, diminish member trust, and reduce member renewal rates and, accordingly, membership fee revenues, resulting in a reduction in shareholder value.

In addition, we sell many products under our owned and exclusive Kirkland Signature brand. Maintaining consistent product quality, competitive pricing, and availability of our Kirkland Signature products for our customers is essential to developing and maintaining customer loyalty. These products also generally carry higher margins than national brand products and represent a growing portion of our overall sales. If the Kirkland Signature brand experiences a loss of consumer acceptance or confidence, our sales and gross margin results could be adversely affected.

Changes in accounting standards and subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by management related to complex accounting matters could significantly affect our financial results.

Generally accepted accounting principles and related accounting pronouncements, implementation guidelines and interpretations with regard to a wide range of matters that are relevant to our business, including, but not limited to, revenue recognition, sales returns reserves, impairment of long-lived assets and warehouse closing costs, inventories, vendor rebates and other consideration, self-insurance liabilities, income taxes, unclaimed property laws and litigation, and other contingent liabilities are highly complex and involve many subjective assumptions, estimates and judgments by our management. Changes

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

in these rules or their interpretation or changes in underlying assumptions, estimates or judgments by our management could significantly change our reported or expected financial performance. Provisions for losses related to self-insured risks are generally based upon independent actuarially determined estimates. The assumptions underlying the ultimate costs of existing claim losses can be highly unpredictable, which can affect the liability recorded for such claims. For example, variability in inflation rates of health care costs inherent in these claims can affect the amounts realized. In March 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 were enacted. This legislation expands health care coverage to many uninsured individuals and expands coverage to those already insured. We expect our healthcare costs to increase, but not materially, as a result of this legislation. Similarly, changes in legal trends and interpretations, as well as a change in the nature and method of how claims are settled can impact ultimate costs. Although our estimates of liabilities incurred do not anticipate significant changes in historical trends for these variables, any changes could have a considerable effect upon future claim costs and currently recorded liabilities and could materially impact our consolidated financial statements.

Unfavorable changes in tax rates could adversely affect our operations, financial conditions or cash flows.

We compute our income tax provision based on enacted tax rates in the countries in which we operate. As the tax rates vary among countries, a change in earnings attributable to the various jurisdictions in which we operate could result in an unfavorable change in our overall tax provision. Additionally, any change in the enacted tax rates, any adverse outcome in connection with any income tax audits in any jurisdiction, including transfer pricing disputes, or any change in the pronouncements relating to accounting for income taxes may have a material adverse affect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Failure of our internal control over financial reporting could make our financial results inaccurate or untimely.

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Internal control over financial reporting includes: maintaining records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions; providing reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary for preparation of the financial statements; providing reasonable assurance that our receipts and expenditures of our assets are made in accordance with management authorization; and providing reasonable assurance that unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements would be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to and cannot provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our financial statements would be prevented or detected. Any failure to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting could limit our ability to report our financial results accurately and timely or to detect and prevent fraud.

We rely extensively on computer systems to process transactions, summarize results and manage our business. Disruptions in both our primary and back-up systems could harm our business.

Although we believe that we have independent, redundant, and primary and secondary computer systems, given the number of individual transactions we have each year it is important that we maintain

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

uninterrupted operation of our business-critical computer systems. Our computer systems, including our back-up systems, are subject to damage or interruption from power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, internal or external security breaches, catastrophic events such as fires, earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes, and errors by our employees. If our computer systems and our back-up systems are damaged or cease to function properly, we may have to make significant investments to fix or replace them, and we may suffer interruptions in our operations in the interim. Any material interruption in our computer systems may have a material adverse effect on our business or results of operations.

We expect to make significant technology investments in the coming years, which are key to managing our business. We must monitor and choose the right investments and implement them at the right pace. Excessive technological change could impact the effectiveness of adoption, and could make it more difficult for us to realize benefits from the technology. Targeting the wrong opportunities, failing to make the best investments or making an investment commitment significantly above or below our needs may result in the loss of our competitive position or underlying financial data. Additionally, the costs, potential problems, and interruptions associated with implementing technology initiatives could disrupt or reduce the efficiency of our operations in the short term. These initiatives might not provide the anticipated benefits or provide them in a delayed or more costly manner.

Our international operations subject us to risks associated with the legislative, judicial, accounting, regulatory, political and economic factors specific to the countries or regions in which we operate, which could adversely affect our financial performance.

During 2011, our international operations, including Canada, generated 27% of our consolidated net sales. We plan to continue expanding our international operations. As a result of these expansion activities in countries outside the United States, we expect that our international operations could account for a larger portion of our net sales in future years. Future operating results internationally could be negatively affected by a variety of factors, many beyond our control and similar to those we face in the United States. These factors include political conditions, economic conditions, regulatory constraints, currency regulations and exchange rates, and other matters in any of the countries or regions in which we operate, now or in the future. Other factors that may impact international operations include foreign trade, monetary and fiscal policies both of the United States and of other countries, laws and regulations of foreign governments and the United States (such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act), agencies and similar organizations, and risks associated with having major facilities located in countries which have been historically less stable than the United States. Risks inherent in international operations also include, among others, the costs and difficulties of managing international operations, adverse tax consequences and greater difficulty in enforcing intellectual property rights. Additionally, foreign currency exchange rates and fluctuations may have an adverse impact on our future costs or on future cash flows from our international operations.

Market expectations for our financial performance is high.

We believe that the price of our stock generally reflects high market expectations for our future operating results. Any failure to meet or delay in meeting these expectations, including our comparable warehouse sales growth rates, margins, earnings and earnings per share or new warehouse openings, could cause the market price of our stock to decline, as could changes in our dividend or stock repurchase policies.

 

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

Natural disasters or other catastrophic events could unfavorably affect our financial performance.

Natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, particularly in California or in Washington state, where our centralized operating systems and administrative personnel are located, could unfavorably affect our operations and financial performance. Such events could result in physical damage to one or more of our properties, the temporary closure of one or more warehouses or depots, the temporary lack of an adequate work force in a market, the temporary or long-term disruption in the supply of products from some local and overseas suppliers, the temporary disruption in the transport of goods from overseas, delays in the delivery of goods to our depots or warehouses within a country in which we operate and the temporary reduction in the availability of products in our warehouses. Public health issues, such as a potential H1N1 flu (swine flu) pandemic, whether occurring in the United States or abroad, could disrupt our operations, disrupt the operations of suppliers or customers, or have an adverse impact on consumer spending and confidence levels. We may be required to suspend operations in some or all of our locations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. These events could also reduce demand for our products or make it difficult or impossible to receive products from suppliers.

Factors associated with climate change could adversely affect our business.

We use natural gas, diesel fuel, gasoline, and electricity in our distribution and warehouse operations. Increased government regulations to limit carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions may result in increased compliance costs and legislation or regulation affecting energy inputs could materially affect our profitability. In addition, climate change could affect our ability to procure needed commodities at costs and in quantities we currently experience. We also sell a substantial amount of gasoline, the demand for which could be impacted by concerns about climate change and which also could face increased regulation. Climate change may be associated with extreme weather conditions, such as more intense hurricanes, thunderstorms, tornados and snow or ice storms, as well as rising sea levels. Extreme weather conditions increase our costs, and damage resulting from extreme weather may not be fully insured.

We are subject to a wide variety of federal, state, regional, local and international laws and regulations relating to the use, storage, discharge, and disposal of hazardous materials and hazardous and non-hazardous wastes, and other environmental matters.

Any failure to comply with these laws could result in costs to satisfy environmental compliance, remediation or compensatory requirements, or the imposition of severe penalties or restrictions on operations by governmental agencies or courts that could adversely affect our operations.

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings and audits, and while we cannot predict the outcomes of such proceedings and other contingencies with certainty, some of these outcomes may unfavorably affect our operations or increase our costs.

We are or may become involved in a number of legal proceedings and audits, including grand jury investigations, other government investigations, consumer, employment, tort and other litigation (see discussion of Legal Proceedings in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report). We cannot predict with certainty the outcomes of these legal proceedings and other contingencies, including environmental remediation and other proceedings commenced by governmental authorities. The outcome of some of these legal proceedings and other contingencies could require us to take or refrain from taking actions which could unfavorably affect our operations or could require us to pay substantial amounts of money. Additionally, defending against these lawsuits and

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

proceedings may involve significant expense and diversion of management’s attention and resources. Our business requires compliance with a great variety of laws and regulations. Failure to achieve compliance could subject us to lawsuits and other proceedings, and lead to damage awards, fines and penalties.

We are subject to the risks of selling unsafe products.

If our merchandise offerings, including food and prepared food products for human consumption, drugs and childrens’ products, do not meet or are perceived not to meet applicable safely standards or our members’ expectations regarding safety, we could experience lost sales, increased costs and be exposed to legal and reputational risk. The sale of these items involves the risk of injury to our members. Such injuries may result from tampering by unauthorized third parties, product contamination or spoilage, including the presence of foreign objects, substances, chemicals, other agents, or residues introduced during the growing, manufacturing, storage, handling and transportation phases. Our vendors are generally contractually required to comply with applicable product safety laws, and we are dependent on them to ensure that the products we buy comply with all safety standards. While we are subject to governmental inspection and regulations and work to comply in all material respects with applicable laws and regulations, we cannot be sure that consumption of our products will not cause a health-related illness in the future or that we will not be subject to claims, lawsuits, or government investigations relating to such matters, resulting in costly product recalls and other liabilities. Even if a product liability claim is unsuccessful or is not fully pursued, the negative publicity surrounding any assertion that our products caused illness or injury could adversely affect our reputation with existing and potential members and our corporate and brand image and these effects could be long term.

Our success depends on the continued contributions of management and on our ability to attract, train and retain highly qualified employees.

Our success depends to a significant degree on the continued contributions of members of our senior management and other key operations, merchandising and administrative personnel, and the loss of any such person(s) could have a material adverse effect on our business. Other than an annual agreement with our CEO, Mr. Sinegal, we have no employment agreements with our officers. We must attract, train and retain a large and growing number of highly qualified employees, while controlling related labor costs and maintaining our core values. Our ability to control labor costs is subject to numerous external factors, including prevailing wage rates and healthcare and other insurance costs. We compete with other retail and non-retail businesses for these employees and invest significant resources in training and motivating them. There is no assurance that we will be able to attract or retain highly qualified employees in the future, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial condition. The Company does not maintain key man insurance.

If we do not maintain the privacy and security of member-related and business information, we could damage our reputation with members, incur substantial additional costs and become subject to litigation.

We receive, retain, and transmit certain personal information about our members. In addition, our online operations at www.costco.com and www.costco.ca depend upon the secure transmission of confidential information over public networks, including information permitting cashless payments. A compromise of our security systems or those of other business partners that results in our members’ personal information being obtained by unauthorized persons could adversely affect our reputation with our members and others, as well as our operations, results of operations, financial condition and liquid-

 

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Item 1A—Risk Factors (Continued)

 

ity, and could result in litigation against us or the imposition of penalties. In addition, a security breach could require that we expend significant additional resources related to the security of information systems and could result in a disruption of our operations, particularly our online sales operations.

Additionally, the use of individually identifiable data by our business and our business associates is regulated at the international, federal and state levels. Privacy and information security laws and regulations change, and compliance with them may result in cost increases due to necessary systems changes and the development of new administrative processes. If we or those with whom we share information fail to comply with these laws and regulations or experience a data security breach, our reputation could be damaged, possibly resulting in lost future business, and we could be subjected to additional legal risk as a result of non-compliance.

Our security measures may be undermined due to the actions of outside parties, employee error, malfeasance, or otherwise, and, as a result, an unauthorized party may obtain access to our data systems and misappropriate business and personal information. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems change frequently and may not immediately produce signs of intrusion, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. Any such breach or unauthorized access could result in significant legal and financial exposure, damage to our reputation, and potentially have an adverse effect on our business.

Item 1B—Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

 

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Item 2—Properties

Warehouse Properties

At August 28, 2011, we operated 592 membership warehouses:

NUMBER OF WAREHOUSES

 

     Own Land
and Building
     Lease  Land
and/or
Building(1)
     Total  

United States and Puerto Rico

     339         90         429   

Canada

     72         10         82   

Mexico

     31         1         32   

United Kingdom

     19         3         22   

Japan

     1         8         9   

Taiwan

     0         8         8   

Korea

     3         4         7   

Australia

     2         1         3   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     467         125         592   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) 

85 of the 125 leases are land-leases only, where Costco owns the building.

The following schedule shows warehouse openings (net of closings) by region for the past five fiscal years and expected warehouse openings (net of closings) through December 31, 2011:

 

Openings by Fiscal Year

   United States      Canada      Other
International
    Total      Total Warehouses
in Operation
 

2007 and prior

     383         71         34        488         488   

2008

     15         4         5        24         512   

2009

     8         2         5        15         527   

2010

     10         2         1        13         540   

2011

     13         3         36 (2)      52         592   

2012 (expected through 12/31/11)

     4                 2        6         598   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

Total

     433         82         83        598      
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

(2) 

This number includes the 32 Mexico warehouses in operation at the beginning of 2011, when we began consolidating Mexico. Mexico opened 30 warehouses in 2007 and prior, one in 2008 and one in 2009.

At the end of 2011, our warehouses contained approximately 84.4 million square feet of operating floor space: 62.1 million in the United States, 11.2 million in Canada and 11.1 million in other international locations, including Mexico.

Our executive offices are located in Issaquah, Washington and occupy approximately 581,000 square feet. We operated eight regional offices in the United States, two regional offices in Canada and six regional offices internationally at the end of 2011, containing approximately 422,000 square feet. Additionally, we operated regional cross-docking facilities (depots) for the consolidation and distribution of most shipments to the warehouses, and various processing, packaging, and other facilities to support ancillary and other businesses. At the end of 2011, we operated 12 depots in the United States, four in Canada and four internationally, consisting of approximately 8.3 million square feet.

Item 3—Legal Proceedings

See discussion of Legal Proceedings in Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

Item 4—Reserved

 

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PART II

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

Market Information and Dividend Policy

Our common stock is traded on the National Market tier of NASDAQ under the symbol “COST.” On September 30, 2011, we had 8,198 stockholders of record.

The following table shows the quarterly high and low closing sale prices as reported by NASDAQ for each quarter during the last two fiscal years and the quarterly cash dividend declared per share of our common stock during the periods indicated.

 

     Price Range      Cash
Dividends
Declared
 
     High      Low     

2011:

        

Fourth Quarter

   $ 83.86       $ 70.39       $ 0.240   

Third Quarter

     81.46         69.76         0.240   

Second Quarter

     75.04         66.90         0.205   

First Quarter

     67.02         56.07         0.205   

2010:

        

Fourth Quarter

     59.16         53.61         0.205   

Third Quarter

     61.74         57.31         0.205   

Second Quarter

     60.89         57.07         0.180   

First Quarter

     61.12         50.65         0.180   

Payment of future dividends is subject to declaration by the Board of Directors. Factors considered in determining the size of the dividends are our profitability and expected capital needs. Subject to these qualifications, we presently expect to continue to pay dividends on a quarterly basis.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities (dollars in millions, except per share data)

The following table sets forth information on our common stock repurchase program activity for the 16-week fourth quarter of fiscal 2011:

 

Period(1)

   Total
Number
of Shares
Purchased
     Average
Price Paid
per Share
     Total Number of
Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced

Programs(2)
     Maximum Dollar
Value of Shares
that May Yet be
Purchased Under
the Programs(2)
 

May 9, 2011—June 5, 2011

     70,000       $ 79.16         70,000       $ 3,994   

June 6, 2011—July 3, 2011

     1,052,000         79.56         1,052,000       $ 3,911   

July 4, 2011—July 31, 2011

     917,000         80.64         917,000       $ 3,837   

August 1, 2011—August 28, 2011

     1,756,000         74.85         1,756,000       $ 3,706   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

Total fourth quarter

     3,795,000       $ 77.63         3,795,000      
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

(1) 

Monthly information is presented by reference to our fiscal periods during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.

 

(2) 

Our stock repurchase program is conducted under a $4,000 authorization of our Board of Directors approved in April 2011, which expires in April 2015.

Equity Compensation Plans

Information related to our equity compensation plans is incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement. The Proxy Statement will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the end of our fiscal year.

 

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Item 6—Selected Financial Data

The following table sets forth certain information concerning our consolidated financial condition, operating results, and key operating metrics. This information should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, included in Item 7 and our consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

At the beginning of fiscal 2011, we began consolidating our 50% owned Mexico joint venture (Mexico) on a prospective basis due to the adoption of a new accounting standard. Mexico’s results for the prior years were accounted for under the equity method and our 50% share was included in “interest income and other” in the consolidated statements of income in Item 8. In the current year, the financial position and results of Mexico’s operations are fully consolidated and the joint venture partner’s 50% share is included in “net income attributable to noncontrolling interests” in the consolidated statements of income in Item 8 of this Report. The initial consolidation of Mexico increased total assets, liabilities, and revenue by approximately 3%, with no impact on net income or net income per common share attributable to Costco. See discussion in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

(dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)

 

As of and for the year ended   Aug. 28, 2011
(52 weeks)
    Aug. 29, 2010
(52 weeks)
    Aug. 30, 2009
(52 weeks)
    Aug. 31, 2008
(52 weeks)
    Sept. 2, 2007
(52 weeks)
 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

         

Net sales

  $ 87,048      $ 76,255      $ 69,889      $ 70,977      $ 63,088   

Merchandise costs

    77,739        67,995        62,335        63,503        56,450   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Gross margin

    9,309        8,260        7,554        7,474        6,638   

Membership fees

    1,867        1,691        1,533        1,506        1,313   

Operating income

    2,439        2,077        1,777        1,969        1,609   

Net income attributable to Costco

    1,462        1,303        1,086        1,283        1,083   

Net income per diluted common share attributable to Costco

    3.30        2.92        2.47        2.89        2.37   

Dividends per share

  $ 0.89      $ 0.77      $ 0.68      $ 0.61      $ 0.55   

Increase (decrease) in comparable warehouse sales(1)

         

United States

    7     4     (2 %)      6     5

International

    16     19     (8 %)      15     9
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

    10     7     (4 %)      8     6
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Increase in international comparable warehouse sales in local currency

    10     8     7     6     5

BALANCE SHEET DATA

         

Net property and equipment

  $ 12,432      $ 11,314      $ 10,900      $ 10,355      $ 9,520   

Total assets

    26,761        23,815        21,979        20,682        19,607   

Short-term borrowings

           26        16        134        54   

Current portion of long-term debt

    900               80        6        60   

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

    1,253        2,141        2,130        2,206        2,108   

Costco stockholders’ equity

  $ 12,002      $ 10,829      $ 10,024      $ 9,194      $ 8,626   

WAREHOUSE INFORMATION

         

Warehouses in Operation(2)

         

Beginning of year(2)

    572        527        512        488        458   

Opened(3)

    24        14        19        34        30   

Closed(3)

    (4     (1     (4     (10       
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of year

    592        540        527        512        488   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes net sales at warehouses open greater than one year, including relocated facilities.

 

(2) 

Excludes, in 2010 and in prior years presented, warehouses operated in Mexico through a 50% owned joint venture. Mexico opened 30 of these warehouses in 2007 and prior, one in 2008, and one in 2009. The 2011 beginning-of-year figure includes the 32 Mexico warehouses consolidated at the beginning of the fiscal year.

 

(3) 

Includes warehouse relocations and the closure in July 2009 of two Costco Home locations.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data)

OVERVIEW

We believe that the most important driver of increasing our profitability is sales growth, particularly comparable sales growth (sales in warehouses open for at least one year). Comparable sales growth is achieved through increasing the frequency with which our members shop and the amounts they spend on each visit. Sales comparisons can also be particularly influenced by two factors that are beyond our control, including fluctuations in currency exchange rates (with respect to the consolidation of the results of our international operations) and changes in the cost of gasoline and associated competitive conditions (primarily impacting domestic operations). The higher our comparable sales the more we can leverage certain of our selling, general and administrative expenses, reducing them as a percentage of sales and enhancing profitability. Generating comparable sales growth is foremost a question of making available to our members the right merchandise at the right prices, a skill that we believe we have repeatedly demonstrated over the long term. Another substantial factor in sales growth is the health of the economies in which we do business, especially the United States. Sales growth and our gross margin are also impacted by our competition, which is vigorous and widespread, including a wide range of global, national and regional wholesalers and retailers, including supermarkets, supercenter stores, department and specialty stores, gasoline stations, and internet-based retailers. While we cannot control or reliably predict general economic health or changes in competition, we believe that we have been successful historically in adapting our business to these changes, such as through adjustments to our pricing and to our merchandise mix, including increasing the penetration of our private label items. Our philosophy is not to focus in the short term on maximizing prices that our members can be charged but to maintain what we believe is a perception among our members of our “pricing authority”—consistently providing the most competitive values. This may cause us, for example, to absorb increases in merchandise costs at certain times rather than immediately passing them along to our members, negatively impacting gross margin.

We also achieve sales growth by opening new warehouses and relocating existing warehouses to larger and better-located facilities. As our warehouse base grows, available and desirable potential sites become more difficult to secure, and square footage growth becomes a comparatively less substantial component of growth. However, the negative aspects of such growth, including lower initial operating profitability relative to existing warehouses and cannibalization of sales at existing warehouses when openings occur in existing markets, are ameliorated. Our rate of square footage growth is higher in foreign markets, due to the smaller base in those markets, and we expect that to continue.

Our financial performance also depends heavily on our ability to control costs. While we believe that we have achieved successes in this area historically, some significant costs are partially outside our control, most particularly health care and utility expenses. With respect to expenses relating to the compensation of our employees, our philosophy is not to seek to minimize the wages and benefits that they earn. Rather, we believe that achieving our longer-term objectives of reducing employee turnover and enhancing employee satisfaction requires maintaining compensation levels that are better than the industry average for much of our workforce. This may cause us, for example, to absorb costs that other employers might seek to pass through to their workforces. Because our business is operated on low margins, modest changes in various items in the income statement, particularly gross margin and selling, general and administrative expenses, can have substantial impacts on net income.

Key items for 2011 included:

 

   

Net sales increased 14.2% to $87,048, driven by a 10% increase in comparable sales and sales at the 20 net new warehouses opened in fiscal 2011. Net sales were favorably impacted by increases in the price of gasoline and by foreign currencies strengthening against the U.S. dollar;

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

   

Membership fees increased 10.4% to $1,867, primarily due to the increased penetration of the higher-fee Executive Membership program and new membership sign-ups;

 

   

Gross margin (net sales less merchandise costs) as a percentage of net sales decreased 14 basis points and included a pre-tax last in, first out (LIFO) inventory charge of $87. There was no LIFO charge in 2010;

 

   

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased 31 basis points;

 

   

Net income attributable to Costco increased 12.2% to $1,462, or $3.30 per diluted share compared to $1,303, or $2.92 per diluted share in 2010. The previously mentioned LIFO charge negatively impacted diluted earnings per share by $0.12;

 

   

The Board of Directors approved an increase in the quarterly cash dividend from $0.205 to $0.24 per share;

 

   

We repurchased 8,939,000 shares of our common stock, at an average cost of $71.74 per share, totaling approximately $641;

 

   

The Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of an additional $4,000 of our common stock under a repurchase program expiring in April 2015; and

 

   

In August 2011, we announced the retirement of Jim Sinegal as our Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2012. The Board of Directors elected Craig Jelinek, currently President and Chief Operating Officer, as President and Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2012. Mr. Sinegal will remain with Costco in an advisory role until February 2013. In addition, he will continue to serve on the Board of Directors.

Certain percentages presented are calculated using actual results prior to rounding. Unless otherwise noted, references to net income relate to net income attributable to Costco.

Only the 2011 data in the accompanying tables includes Mexico.

Results of Operations

Net Sales

 

     2011     2010     2009  

Net sales

   $ 87,048      $ 76,255      $ 69,889   

Net sales increase (decrease)

     14.2     9.1     (1.5 %) 

Increase (decrease) in comparable sales

     10     7     (4 %) 

Warehouse openings, net

     20        13        15   

2011 vs. 2010

Net Sales

Net sales increased $10,793 or 14.2% during 2011 compared to 2010. Excluding sales of Mexico, the increase would have been 11%. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in comparable warehouse sales, and the remainder primarily from sales at the 20 net new warehouses opened during 2011 (24 opened, and four closed, two due to relocation and two temporarily closed for repairs due to damage caused by the March 11, 2011 Japan earthquake, one of which remained closed as of the end of 2011).

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted net sales during 2011 by approximately $1,308, or 172 basis points. Net sales were also positively impacted by gasoline price increases during 2011 by approximately $1,699, or 223 basis points, which resulted from a 24% increase in the average sales price per gallon.

Our sales results continued to be impacted, albeit to a lesser extent than in 2010, by general economic conditions, and those conditions may continue to have an adverse impact on spending by our members. We believe, however, that due to the nature of our business model, we are better positioned than many retailers to compete in such an environment.

Comparable Sales

Comparable sales, including Mexico for both this year and last year, increased 10% during 2011, and were positively impacted by increases in the average amount spent by our members and in their shopping frequency. The strengthening of foreign currencies favorably impacted comparable sales by approximately $1,260, or 162 basis points during 2011. Gasoline price inflation positively impacted comparable sales results by approximately $1,679, or 220 basis points during 2011. Reported comparable sales growth includes the negative impact of cannibalization (established warehouses losing sales to our newly opened locations).

2010 vs. 2009

Net Sales

Net sales increased $6,366 or 9.1% during 2010 compared to 2009. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in comparable warehouse sales and the remainder primarily from sales at the 13 net new warehouses opened during 2010 (14 opened and one closed due to a relocation).

Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted net sales during 2010 by approximately $1,570 or 225 basis points. Net sales were also positively impacted by gasoline price inflation during 2010 by approximately $895, or 128 basis points, which resulted from a 17% increase in the average sales price per gallon.

Comparable Sales

Comparable sales increased 7% in 2010 and were positively impacted primarily by an increase in shopping frequency. Strengthening foreign currencies positively impacted comparable sales by approximately $1,510, or 217 basis points, in 2010. Gasoline price inflation positively impacted comparable sales results by approximately $882, or 126 basis points, during 2010. Reported comparable sales growth includes the negative impact of cannibalization (established warehouses losing sales to our newly opened locations).

Membership Fees

 

     2011     2010     2009  

Membership fees

   $ 1,867      $ 1,691      $ 1,533   

Membership fees increase

     10.4     10.3     1.8

Membership fees as a percent of net sales

     2.15     2.22     2.19

Total cardholders (000’s)

     64,000        58,000        56,000   

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

2011 vs. 2010

Membership fees increased 10.4% in 2011. Excluding membership fees from Mexico, the increase would have been 8.3% in 2011. This increase was due to the higher penetration of our higher-fee Executive Membership program and the additional membership sign-ups at the 20 net new warehouses opened during 2011. Our member renewal rates are consistent with recent years, currently at 89% in the U.S. and Canada, and approximately 86% on a worldwide basis.

Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted membership fees in 2011 by approximately $30.

2010 vs. 2009

Membership fees increased 10.3% in 2010 compared to 2009. Membership fees in 2010 were positively impacted due to the increased penetration of our higher-fee Executive Membership program, the continued benefit of membership sign-ups at warehouses opened in 2009, a 2009 $27 charge to membership fees related to a litigation settlement concerning our membership renewal policy, and the additional membership sign-ups at the 13 net new warehouses opened in 2010. Our member renewal rate at the end of 2010 was 88% in the U.S. and Canada. Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar in 2010, which positively impacted membership fees by approximately $36.

Gross Margin

 

     2011     2010     2009  

Gross margin

   $ 9,309      $ 8,260      $ 7,554   

Gross margin increase

     12.7     9.4     1.1

Gross margin as a percent of net sales

     10.69     10.83     10.81

2011 vs. 2010

Gross margin as a percent of net sales decreased 14 basis points compared to 2010. Gross margin for core merchandise categories (food and sundries, hardlines, softlines, and fresh foods), when expressed as a percent of core merchandise sales, rather than total net sales, increased 18 basis points, primarily due to hardlines and food and sundries. However, when the core merchandise gross margin is expressed as a percentage of total net sales, it decreased two basis points from the prior year due primarily to the increased sales penetration of the lower-margin gasoline business. Warehouse ancillary and other businesses gross margins decreased by two basis points as a percent of total net sales. The gross margin comparison was negatively impacted by $87 or 10 basis points due to a LIFO inventory charge recorded in 2011. The charge resulted from higher costs for our merchandise inventories, primarily food and sundries and gasoline. There was no LIFO inventory charge recorded in 2010.

Excluding the impact of consolidating Mexico, the gross margin comparison as a percent of net sales would have been a decrease of 18 basis points during 2011. Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which positively impacted gross margin in 2011 by approximately $149.

2010 vs. 2009

Gross margin as a percent of net sales increased two basis points compared to 2009. Gross Margin for core merchandise categories, when expressed as a percent of core merchandise sales, rather than

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

total net sales, increased 25 basis points year-over-year, with all categories showing increases. However, the increased sales penetration of the lower margin gasoline business caused this increase to be only six basis points when expressed as a percent of total net sales. Warehouse ancillary businesses gross margins increased by three basis points as a percent of total net sales. In addition, gross margin comparisons were negatively impacted by five basis points due to a favorable $32 LIFO adjustment in 2009 compared to no LIFO adjustment in 2010. Increased penetration of the Executive Membership two-percent reward program and increased spending by Executive Members negatively affected gross margin by two basis points. Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar in 2010, which positively impacted gross margin by approximately $183.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

     2011     2010     2009  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

   $ 8,682      $ 7,840      $ 7,252   

SG&A as a percent of net sales

     9.97     10.28     10.38

2011 vs. 2010

SG&A expenses as a percent of net sales decreased 31 basis points compared to 2010; excluding the effect of gasoline price inflation on net sales, the decrease was 11 basis points. The year-over-year decrease was due to a 15 basis point improvement in our warehouse operating costs, largely payroll. This improvement was partially offset by a non-recurring benefit of $24, or three basis points, recorded in fiscal 2010 related to the refund of a previously recorded Canadian employee tax liability.

The consolidation of Mexico, which compared to our other operating segments has lower SG&A expenses as a percent of its own net sales, favorably impacted SG&A expenses as a percent of net sales by seven basis points in 2011. Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which negatively impacted SG&A during 2011 by approximately $116.

2010 vs. 2009

SG&A expenses as a percent of net sales improved ten basis points compared to 2009; excluding the effect of gasoline price inflation on net sales SG&A expense increased three basis points. Warehouse operating costs, excluding the effect of gasoline price inflation, increased seven basis points, primarily due to higher employee benefit costs, particularly employee healthcare and workers’ compensation. SG&A expense comparisons were positively impacted by six basis points related to: a $24 refund of a previously recorded Canadian employee tax liability; and a $23 charge recorded in 2009 to write down the net realizable value of the cash surrender value of employee life insurance contracts with no comparable charge in 2010. Foreign currencies strengthened against the U.S. dollar, which negatively impacted SG&A for 2010 by approximately $140.

Preopening Expenses

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Preopening expenses

   $ 46       $ 26       $ 41   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Warehouse openings, including relocations

     24         14         19   

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Preopening expenses include costs incurred for startup operations related to new warehouses and the expansion of ancillary operations at existing warehouses. Preopening expenses can vary due to the number of warehouse openings, the timing of the opening relative to our year-end, whether the warehouse is owned or leased, and whether the opening is in an existing, new, or international market.

Provision for Impaired Assets and Closing Costs, Net

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Warehouse closing expenses

   $ 8       $ 6       $ 9   

Impairment of long-lived assets

     1         2         8   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Provision for impaired assets & closing costs, net

   $ 9       $ 8       $ 17   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

This provision primarily includes costs related to: impairment of long-lived assets; future lease obligations, including contract termination costs, of warehouses that have been closed or relocated to new facilities; and accelerated depreciation, based on the shortened useful life through the expected closing date, on buildings to be demolished or sold and that are not otherwise impaired. The impairment charge in 2009 primarily related to the closing of our two Costco Home locations.

At the end of 2011 and 2010, the reserve for warehouse closing costs was $5, and primarily related to future lease obligations and other contractual obligations associated with exiting the properties.

Interest Expense

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Interest expense

   $ 116       $ 111       $ 108   

Interest expense primarily relates to our $900 of 5.3% and $1,100 of 5.5% Senior Notes (2007 Senior Notes) issued in fiscal 2007. The 5.3% Senior Notes are due March 15, 2012.

Interest Income and Other, Net

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Interest income

   $ 41       $ 23       $ 27   

Earnings of affiliates and other, net

     19         65         31   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Interest income and other, net

   $ 60       $ 88       $ 58   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

2011 vs. 2010

The increase in interest income year-over-year was attributable to increases in our cash and cash equivalents, including short-term investments, slightly higher interest rates, and the consolidation of our Mexico operations. The decrease in earnings of affiliates and other, net is primarily due to the previously discussed change in the accounting treatment of Mexico (see discussion in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report). In addition, there were net gains from foreign currency transactions and from derivative forward foreign currency contracts of $9 and $14 during 2011 and 2010, respectively. See Derivatives section in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

2010 vs. 2009

The decrease in interest income was due to lower interest rates on our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances. Interest income also includes a $12 other-than-temporary impairment loss recognized on certain securities within our investment portfolio in 2009. No impairment was recognized in 2010.

The increase in earnings of affiliates and other was primarily due to an increase in earnings from Mexico, which increased due to stronger sales and the Mexican peso strengthening against the U.S. dollar. In addition, there were net gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions and from derivative forward foreign currency contracts of $14 and ($5) in 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Provision for Income Taxes

 

     2011     2010     2009  

Income tax expense

   $ 841      $ 731      $ 628   

Effective tax rate

     35.3     35.6     36.4

The effective tax rate for 2011 was positively impacted by a tax refund received by Mexico. This benefit was offset by various discrete items recognized throughout the year.

The decline in the effective tax rate from 2009 to 2010 was primarily attributable to a change in the mix of earnings between domestic and international operations. The 2009 effective tax rate also included the unfavorable impact of a write-down on investments that were non-deductible for tax purposes.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES (dollars in millions, except per share data)

Cash Flows

The following table itemizes components of our most liquid assets:

 

     2011      2010  

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 4,009       $ 3,214   

Short-term investments

     1,604         1,535   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 5,613       $ 4,749   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash flows generated from warehouse operations and cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances. Of these balances, approximately $982 and $862 at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively, represented debit and credit card receivables, primarily related to sales in the week prior to the end of our fiscal year.

Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $3,198 in 2011 compared to $2,780 in 2010, an increase of $418. This increase was primarily attributable to a $219 increase in net income including noncontrolling interests, an $87 increase from the change in other current operating assets and liabilities, a $77 increase in deferred income taxes, and a $60 increase in depreciation and amortization, partially offset by an increase in our net investment in merchandise inventories (merchandise inventories less accounts payable) of $70.

Net cash used in investing activities totaled $1,180 in 2011 compared to $2,015 in 2010, a decrease of $835. This decrease in cash used was primarily attributable to an $896 decrease in cash used in the

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

net investment in short-term investments and a $165 cash increase representing the cash and cash equivalents on Mexico’s balance sheet as of August 29, 2010, partially offset by an increase in cash used for capital expenditures of $235. Mexico was consolidated as of the beginning of fiscal 2011 due to the adoption of a new accounting standard. See discussion in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

Net cash used in financing activities totaled $1,277 in 2011 compared to $719 in 2010, an increase of $558. This increase was primarily attributable to a $73 increase in cash used to repurchase Costco’s common stock and a $519 reduction in the amount of bank checks outstanding. The reduction in bank checks outstanding is due to maintaining higher balances in banks on which our checks are drawn.

Exchange rate changes increased cash and cash equivalents by $54 in 2011, compared to an increase of $11 in 2010, an increase of $43. This increase was due to the strengthening of foreign currencies against the U.S. dollar during 2011.

Management believes that our current cash position and operating cash flows will be sufficient to meet our capital requirements for the foreseeable future. We have not provided for U.S. deferred taxes on cumulative undistributed earnings of $2,646 and $1,972 at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively, of certain non-U.S. consolidated subsidiaries and other entities, including our 50% owned investment in Mexico, as such earnings are deemed by us to be indefinitely reinvested. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments held by these consolidated subsidiaries and other entities may not be available to be used for certain financing activities such as the repayment of short-term debt or to repurchase common stock. At August 28, 2011, cash and cash equivalent balances and short-term investments of $1,828 were held by these non-U.S. consolidated subsidiaries and other entities.

Dividends

In April 2011, our Board of Directors increased our quarterly cash dividend from $0.205 to $0.24 per share. Our quarterly cash dividends paid in 2011 totaled $0.89 per share, as compared to $0.77 per share in 2010.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Contractual Obligations

As of August 28, 2011, our commitments to make future payments under contractual obligations were as follows:

 

     Payments Due by Fiscal Year  

Contractual obligations

   2012      2013 to
2014
     2015 to
2016
     2017 and
thereafter
     Total  

Purchase obligations (merchandise)(1)

   $ 5,879       $       $       $       $ 5,879   

Long-term debt(2)

     1,011         126         126         1,329         2,592   

Operating leases(3)

     183         357         317         1,850         2,707   

Purchase obligations (property, equipment, services and other)(4)

     324         71         19                 414   

Construction commitments

     191                                 191   

Capital lease obligations(2)

     13         26         26         311         376   

Other(5)

     5         4         2         32         43   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 7,606       $ 584       $ 490       $ 3,522       $ 12,202   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes open merchandise purchase orders.

 

(2) 

Includes contractual interest payments.

 

(3) 

Operating lease obligations exclude amounts commonly referred to as common area maintenance, taxes, and insurance and have been reduced by $183 to reflect sub-lease income.

 

(4) 

The amounts exclude certain services negotiated at the individual warehouse or regional level that are not significant and generally contain clauses allowing for cancellation without significant penalty.

 

(5) 

Consists of $31 in asset retirement obligations, $9 in deferred compensation obligations and $3 of current unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain tax positions. The total amount excludes $50 of noncurrent unrecognized tax benefits due to uncertainty regarding the timing of future cash payments.

Expansion Plans

Our primary requirement for capital is the financing of land, buildings, and equipment costs for new and remodeled warehouses. To a lesser extent, capital is required for initial warehouse operations and working capital. While there can be no assurance that current expectations will be realized and plans are subject to change upon further review, it is our current intention to spend approximately $1,400 to $1,600 during fiscal 2012 for real estate, construction, remodeling, and equipment for warehouses and related operations. These expenditures are expected to be financed with a combination of cash provided from operations and existing cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments.

We plan to open up to 20 net new warehouses in 2012, and at least one relocation of an existing warehouse to a larger and better-located facility. In addition, the closed warehouse in Japan is expected to re-open in the third quarter of fiscal 2012.

We opened 20 net new warehouses in 2011 and spent $1,290 on capital expenditures.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Bank Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper Programs

 

    Credit Facility
Description
  Expiration
Date
  Credit Line Activity at
August 28, 2011
    Applicable
Interest
Rate
 

Entity

      Total of
all Credit
Facilities
    Stand-by
Letter of
Credit
(LC) &
Letter of
Guaranty
    Commercial
LC
    Short-
Term
Borrowing
    Available
Credit
   

U.S.

  Uncommitted
Standby LC
  N/A   $ 17      $ 17      $      $      $        N/A   

U.S.

  Uncommitted
Commercial LC
  N/A     50               21               29        N/A   

Australia(1)

  Guarantee Line   N/A     10        2                      8        N/A   

Canada(1)(3)

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  N/A     30        22                      8        2.35

Japan(1)(4)

  Revolving Credit   February-12     72                             72        0.58

Japan(1)

  Bank Guaranty   March-12     20        20                             N/A   

Japan(1)

  Revolving Credit   February-12     46                             46        0.58

Japan(2)

  Commercial LC   N/A     1                             1        N/A   

Korea(1)

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  March-12     11        1        1               9        4.39

Mexico

  Commercial LC   October-11     3                             3        N/A   

Mexico

  Commercial LC   N/A     3                             3        N/A   

Taiwan

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  January-12     24        10                      14        2.75

Taiwan

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  July-12     17        3                      14        2.79

United Kingdom

  Uncommitted
Money Market
Line
  N/A     32                             32        3.10

United Kingdom

  Uncommitted
Overdraft Line
  N/A     49                             49        1.50

United Kingdom(2)

  Letter of
Guarantee
  N/A     3        3                             N/A   

United Kingdom

  Commercial LC   N/A     3        1                      2        N/A   
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   
    TOTAL   $ 391      $ 79      $ 22      $      $ 290     
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

(1) 

The U.S. parent company, Costco Wholesale Corporation, guarantees this entity’s credit facility.

 

(2) 

Obligations under this facility are fully cash-collateralized by the subsidiary.

 

(3) 

The bank may cancel or restrict availability under this facility with 45-days written notice.

 

(4) 

This credit facility’s total facility amount will decrease to approximately $26 in November 2011.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

    Credit Facility
Description
  Expiration
Date
  Credit Line Usage at
August 29, 2010
    Applicable
Interest
Rate
 

Entity

      Total of
all Credit
Facilities
    Stand-by
Letter of
Credit
(LC) &
Letter of
Guaranty
    Commercial
LC
    Short-
Term
Borrowing
    Available
Credit
   

U.S.

  Uncommitted
Standby LC
  N/A   $ 22      $ 22      $      $      $        N/A   

U.S.

  Uncommitted
Commercial LC
  N/A     50               9               41        N/A   

Australia(1)

  Guarantee Line   N/A     9                             9        N/A   

Canada(1)(3)

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  N/A     28        16                      12        2.25

Japan(1)

  Revolving Credit   March-11     41                      13        28        0.61

Japan(1)

  Bank Guaranty   March-11     18        18                             N/A   

Japan(1)

  Revolving Credit   February-11     41                      13        28        0.61

Japan(2)

  Commercial LC   N/A     1                             1        N/A   

Korea(1)

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  March-11     10        2                      8        3.63

Taiwan

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  January-11     22        5                      17        2.63

Taiwan

  Multi-Purpose
Line
  July-11     16        3                      13        2.65

United Kingdom

  Uncommitted
Money Market
Line
  N/A     31                             31        3.05

United Kingdom

  Uncommitted
Overdraft Line
  N/A     46                             46        1.50

United Kingdom(2)

  Letter of
Guarantee
  N/A     3        3                             N/A   

United Kingdom

  Commercial LC   N/A     3        1                      2        N/A   
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   
    TOTAL   $ 341      $ 70      $ 9      $ 26      $ 236     
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

(1) 

The U.S. parent company, Costco Wholesale Corporation, guarantees this entity’s credit facility.

 

(2) 

Obligations under this facility are fully cash-collateralized by the subsidiary.

 

(3) 

The bank may cancel or restrict availability under this facility with 45-days written notice.

For those entities with multi-purpose lines, any issuance of either letters of credit or short-term borrowings will result in a corresponding decrease in available credit. Our letter of credit facilities consisted of the following at August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010:

 

     2011      2010  

Total credit facilities for commercial and standby letter of credit

   $ 138       $ 123   

Outstanding commitments under these facilities(1)

     101         79   

 

(1) 

Includes $79 and $70 of standby letters of credit at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Financing Activities

In March 2011, we reclassified our $900 5.3% Senior Notes due March 15, 2012, originally issued in February 2007, to a current liability within the current portion of long-term debt within the consolidated balance sheets to reflect its maturity of less than one year. Upon maturity, we intend to repay the outstanding principal balance and associated interest with our existing liquidity sources of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments balances.

In April 2010, our Japanese subsidiary paid the outstanding principal and interest balances totaling $44 related to the 0.92% promissory notes due April 2010, originally issued in April 2003.

In June 2008, our Japanese subsidiary entered into a ten-year term loan in the amount of $39, with a variable rate of interest of Yen TIBOR (6-month) plus a 0.35% margin (0.79% and 0.84% at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively) on the outstanding balance. Interest is payable semi-annually in December and June and principal is due in June 2018.

In October 2007, our Japanese subsidiary issued promissory notes through a private placement in the amount of $85, bearing interest at 2.695%. Interest is payable semi-annually, and principal is due in October 2017. We guarantee all of the financial instruments issued by our Japanese subsidiary.

In February 2007, we issued $900 of 5.3% Senior Notes due March 15, 2012 (2012 Notes) at a discount of $2 and $1,100 of 5.5% Senior Notes due March 15, 2017 (2017 Notes) at a discount of $6 (together the 2007 Senior Notes). Interest on the 2007 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The discount and issuance costs associated with the 2007 Senior Notes are being amortized to interest expense over the terms of those notes. At our option, we may redeem the 2007 Senior Notes at any time, in whole or in part, at a redemption price plus accrued interest. The redemption price is equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount of the 2007 Senior Notes to be redeemed, or the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest to maturity. Additionally, we will be required to make an offer to purchase the 2007 Senior Notes at a price of 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase, upon certain events as defined by the terms of the 2007 Senior Notes.

In August 1997, we sold $900 principal amount at maturity 3.5% Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Notes (Zero Coupon Notes) due in August 2017. The Zero Coupon Notes were priced with a yield to maturity of 3.5%, resulting in gross proceeds to the Company of $450. The remaining Zero Coupon Notes outstanding are convertible into a maximum of 878,000 shares of Costco Common Stock at an initial conversion price of $22.71. Holders of the Zero Coupon Notes may require us to purchase the Zero Coupon Notes (at the discounted issue price plus accrued interest to date of purchase) in August 2012. At our option, we may redeem the Zero Coupon Notes (at the discounted issue price plus accrued interest to date of redemption) any time after August 2002. As of August 28, 2011, $862 in principal amount of Zero Coupon Notes had been converted by note holders into shares of Costco Common Stock, of which the principal converted during 2011, 2010 and 2009 is detailed in the table below:

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Principal converted during period

   $ 3       $ 1       $ 25   

Principal converted, including the related debt discount

   $ 2       $ 1       $ 19   

Shares issued upon conversion (000’s)

     65         18         562   

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Derivatives

We are exposed to foreign currency exchange-rate fluctuations in the normal course of business. We manage these fluctuations, in part, through the use of forward foreign-exchange contracts, seeking to economically hedge the impact of fluctuations of foreign-exchange on known future expenditures denominated in a foreign currency. The contracts are intended primarily to economically hedge our exposure to U.S. dollar merchandise inventory expenditures made by our international subsidiaries or other entities whose functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar. Currently, these contracts do not qualify for derivative hedge accounting. We seek to mitigate risk with the use of these contracts and do not intend to engage in speculative transactions. These contracts do not contain any credit-risk-related contingent features.

We seek to manage counterparty risk associated with these contracts by limiting transactions to counterparties with which we have established banking relationships. There can be no assurance, however, that this practice effectively mitigates counterparty risk. These contracts are limited to less than one year in duration. See Note 1 and Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report for additional information on the fair value of open, unsettled forward foreign-exchange contracts as of August 28, 2011, and August 29, 2010.

We are exposed to risks due to fluctuations in prices for energy that we consume, particularly electricity and natural gas, which we seek to partially mitigate through the use of fixed-price contracts for approximately 36% of our warehouses and other facilities, primarily in the U.S. and Canada. We also enter into variable-priced contracts for some purchases of natural gas, in addition to fuel for our gas stations, on an index basis. These contracts meet the characteristics of derivative instruments but generally qualify for the “normal purchases or normal sales” exception under authoritative guidance and thus require no mark-to-market adjustment.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have no off-balance sheet arrangements that have had, or are reasonably likely to have, a material current or future effect on our financial condition or consolidated financial statements.

Stock Repurchase Programs

In April 2011, our Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program in the amount of $4,000, expiring in April 2015, bringing total authorizations by our Board of Directors since inception of the program in 2001 to $10,800. The authorization in April 2011 revoked previously authorized but unused amounts totaling $792.

During 2011, we repurchased 8,939,000 shares of common stock, at an average price of $71.74 per share, totaling approximately $641. During 2010, we repurchased 9,943,000 shares of common stock, at an average price of $57.14 per share, totaling approximately $568. The remaining amount available to be purchased under our approved plan was $3,706 at the end of 2011. Purchases are made from time-to-time, as conditions warrant, in the open market or in block purchases and pursuant to plans under SEC Rule 10b5-1. Repurchased shares are retired, in accordance with the Washington Business Corporation Act.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of our financial statements requires that we make estimates and judgments. We continue to review our accounting policies and evaluate our estimates, including those related to revenue

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

recognition, investments, merchandise inventory valuation, impairment of long-lived assets, warehouse closing costs, insurance/self-insurance liabilities, and income taxes. We base our estimates on historical experience and on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable.

Revenue Recognition

We generally recognize sales, net of estimated returns, at the time the member takes possession of merchandise or receives services. When we collect payment from customers prior to the transfer of ownership of merchandise or the performance of services, the amount received is generally recorded as deferred revenue on the consolidated balance sheets until the sale or service is completed. We provide for estimated sales returns based on historical trends in merchandise returns, net of the estimated net realizable value of merchandise inventories to be returned and any estimated disposition costs. Amounts collected from members that under common trade practices are referred to as sales taxes are recorded on a net basis.

We evaluate whether it is appropriate to record the gross amount of merchandise sales and related costs or the net amount earned as commissions. Generally, when we are the primary obligor, subject to inventory risk, have latitude in establishing prices and selecting suppliers, influence product or service specifications, or have several but not all of these indicators, revenue is recorded on a gross basis. If we are not the primary obligor and do not possess other indicators of gross reporting as noted above, we record the net amounts as commissions earned, which is reflected in net sales.

Membership fee revenue represents annual membership fees paid by our members. We account for membership fee revenue, net of estimated refunds, on a deferred basis, whereby revenue is recognized ratably over the one-year membership period.

Our Executive members qualify for a 2% reward (which can be redeemed only at Costco warehouses), up to a maximum of approximately $500 per year, on qualified purchases made at Costco. We account for this 2% reward as a reduction in sales, with the related liability being classified within other current liabilities. The sales reduction and corresponding liability are computed after giving effect to the estimated impact of non-redemptions based on historical data.

Investments

Investments are reviewed quarterly for indicators of other-than-temporary impairment. This determination requires significant judgment. We employ a methodology that considers available quantitative and qualitative evidence. If the cost of an investment exceeds its fair value, we evaluate, among other factors, general market conditions, the duration and extent to which the fair value is less than cost, and our intent and ability to hold the investment. We also consider specific adverse conditions related to the financial health of and business outlook for the issuer, including industry and sector performance, operational and financing cash flow factors, and rating agency actions. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded and a new cost basis in the investment is established. If market, industry, and/or issuer conditions deteriorate, we may incur future impairments.

Merchandise Inventories

Merchandise inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market, as determined primarily by the retail inventory method, and are stated using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for substantially all U.S. merchandise inventories. Merchandise inventories for all foreign operations are primarily valued by the retail inventory method and are stated using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. We believe the LIFO method

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

more fairly presents the results of operations by more closely matching current costs with current revenues. We record an adjustment each quarter, if necessary, for the estimated effect of inflation or deflation, and these estimates are adjusted to actual results determined at year-end. Due to inflation, in 2011 the merchandise inventories valued at LIFO were lower than the FIFO value, resulting in a charge to merchandise costs of $87. During 2009, due to overall net deflationary trends, the Company recorded a $32 benefit to merchandise costs to adjust inventories valued at LIFO. At the end of 2010 and 2009, merchandise inventories valued at LIFO approximated FIFO after considering the lower of cost or market principle.

We provide for estimated inventory losses (shrink) between physical inventory counts as a percentage of net sales. The provision is adjusted periodically to reflect results of the actual physical inventory counts, which generally occur in the second and fourth quarters of the year.

Inventory cost, where appropriate, is reduced by estimates of vendor rebates when earned or as we progress toward earning those rebates, provided they are probable and reasonably estimable. Other consideration received from vendors is generally recorded as a reduction of merchandise costs upon completion of contractual milestones, terms of agreement, or other systematic and rational approaches.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Warehouse Closing costs

We periodically evaluate our long-lived assets for indicators of impairment, such as a decision to relocate or close a warehouse facility. Our judgments are based on existing market and operational conditions. Future events could cause us to conclude that impairment factors exist, requiring a downward adjustment of these assets to their then-current fair market value.

We provide estimates for warehouse closing costs for leased and owned locations to be closed or relocated. Judgment is involved in determining any impairment or our net liability, particularly related to the estimated sales price of owned locations and the potential sublease income at leased locations. These estimates are based on real estate conditions in the markets and our experience in those markets. We make assumptions about the average period of time it would take to sublease the location and the amount of potential sublease income for each leased location. We reassess our liability each quarter and adjust our liability accordingly when our estimates change.

Insurance/Self-Insurance Liabilities

We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance mechanisms, including a wholly-owned captive insurance entity and participation in a reinsurance pool, to provide for potential liabilities for workers’ compensation, general liability, property damage, directors and officers liability, vehicle liability, and employee health care benefits. Liabilities associated with the risks that we retain are not discounted and are estimated, in part, by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors and other actuarial assumptions. The estimated accruals for these liabilities could be significantly affected if future occurrences and claims differ from these assumptions and historical trends.

Income Taxes

The determination of our provision for income taxes requires significant judgment, the use of estimates, and the interpretation and application of complex tax laws. Significant judgment is required in assessing the timing and amounts of deductible and taxable items and the probability of sustaining uncertain tax positions. The benefits associated with uncertain tax positions are recorded in our consolidated financial statements only after determining a more-likely-than-not probability that the positions will withstand challenge from tax authorities. When facts and circumstances change, we reassess these probabilities and record any changes in the consolidated financial statements as appropriate.

 

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Item 7—Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (dollars in millions, except per share and warehouse number data) (Continued)

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

See discussion of Recent Accounting Pronouncements in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

Item 7A—Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to financial market risk resulting from fluctuations in interest and foreign currency exchange rates. We do not engage in speculative or leveraged transactions or hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes.

Interest Rate Risk

Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to our investment holdings that are diversified among money market funds, U.S. government and agency securities, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured corporate notes, and corporate notes and bonds with effective maturities of generally three months to five years at the date of purchase. The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve principal and secondarily to generate yields. The majority of our short-term investments are in fixed interest rate securities. These securities are subject to changes in fair value due to interest rate fluctuations. A revised investment policy was approved in December 2007 by our Board of Directors, limiting future investments to direct U.S. government and government agency obligations, repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government and government agency obligations, and U.S. government and government agency money market funds.

The investment policies of our subsidiaries are consistent with our primary objective to preserve principal and secondarily to generate yields. Our wholly-owned insurance subsidiary invests in U.S. government and government agency obligations, corporate notes and bonds, and asset and mortgage-backed securities with a minimum overall portfolio average credit rating of AA+. All of our foreign subsidiaries’ investments are primarily in money market funds, investment grade securities, bankers’ acceptances, bank certificates of deposit and term deposits, all denominated in their local currencies. Additionally, our Canadian subsidiary may invest a portion of its investments in U.S. dollar investment grade securities and bank term deposits to meet current U.S. dollar obligations.

Because most of our investments in cash and cash equivalents are short-term, interest rate changes are less likely to be material to our financial statements. Based on our overnight investments and bank balances within cash and cash equivalents at the end of 2011 and 2010, a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would result in an increase or decrease of approximately $29 and $23 (pre-tax), respectively, to interest income on an annual basis. For those investments that are classified as available-for-sale, the unrealized gains or losses related to fluctuations in market volatility and interest rates are reflected within stockholders’ equity in accumulated other comprehensive income.

The nature and amount of our long and short-term debt may vary as a result of future business requirements, market conditions and other factors. As of the end of 2011, our fixed-rate long-term debt included: $1,100 of 5.5% Senior Notes carried at $1,097; $900 of 5.3% Senior Notes carried at $900; $38 principal amount at maturity of 3.5% Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Notes carried at $31; and additional notes totaling $86. Additionally, our variable rate long-term debt included a 0.35% over Yen Tibor (6-month) Term Loan of $39. Fluctuations in interest rates may affect the fair value of the fixed-rate debt and may affect the interest expense related to the variable rate debt. See Note 4 to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8 of this Report for more information on our long and short-term debt.

 

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Item 7A—Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk (Continued)

 

Foreign Currency-Exchange Risk

Our foreign subsidiaries conduct limited transactions in their non-functional currencies, which exposes us to fluctuations in exchange rates. We manage these fluctuations, in part, through the use of forward foreign exchange contracts, seeking to hedge the impact of fluctuations on known future expenditures denominated in a foreign currency. As of August 28, 2011, and August 29, 2010, we held forward foreign exchange contracts with a notional amount of $247 and $225, respectively. At the end of 2011, the fair value of assets and liabilities recorded on our consolidated balance sheets were $1 and $2, respectively. At the end of 2010, the fair value of assets and liabilities were $1 and $3, respectively. A hypothetical 10% strengthening of the functional currency compared to the non-functional currency exchange rates at August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010, would have decreased the fair value of the contracts by $25 and $23, respectively.

Item 8—Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Financial statements of Costco are as follows:

 

     Page  

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     42   

Consolidated Balance Sheets, as of August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010

     44   

Consolidated Statements of Income, for the 52 weeks ended August 28, 2011, August  29, 2010, and August 30, 2009

     45   

Consolidated Statements of Equity and Comprehensive Income, for the 52 weeks ended August 28, 2011,  August 29, 2010, and August 30, 2009

     46   

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, for the 52 weeks ended August 28, 2011, August  29, 2010, and August 30, 2009

     47   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     48   

Management’s Report on the Consolidated Financial Statements

Our management is responsible for the preparation, integrity and objectivity of the accompanying consolidated financial statements and the related financial information. The financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and necessarily include certain amounts that are based on estimates and informed judgments. Our management also prepared the related financial information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and is responsible for its accuracy and consistency with the financial statements.

The consolidated financial statements have been audited by KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who conducted their audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). The independent registered public accounting firm’s responsibility is to express an opinion as to the fairness with which such financial statements present our financial position, results of operations and cash flows in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Item 9—Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

 

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Item 9A—Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we performed an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act)). Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during our most recently completed fiscal year that has materially affected or is reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

The certifications required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are filed as Exhibit 31.1 to this report.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that: (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions and the dispositions of our assets; (2) provide reasonable assurance that our transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with appropriate authorizations; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, we assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of August 28, 2011, using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control—Integrated Framework. Based on its assessment, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of August 28, 2011. The attestation of KPMG LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting is included with the financial statements in Item 8 of this Report.

/S/ JAMES D. SINEGAL

 

James D. Sinegal

Chief Executive Officer

/S/ RICHARD A. GALANTI

 

Richard A. Galanti

Executive Vice President

Chief Financial Officer

Item 9B—Other Information

None.

 

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PART III

Item 10—Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

Information relating to the availability of our code of ethics for senior financial officers and a list of our executive officers appear in Item 1 of this Report. The information required by this Item concerning our directors and nominees for director is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Proposal 1: Election of Directors,” “Directors,” “Committees of the Board” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in Costco’s Proxy Statement for its annual meeting of stockholders to be held on January 26, 2012 (“Proxy Statement”). The Proxy Statement will be filed with the SEC within 120 days of the end of our fiscal year.

Item 11—Executive Compensation

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Compensation of Directors,” “Executive Compensation,” and “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” in Costco’s Proxy Statement.

Item 12—Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in Costco’s Proxy Statement.

Item 13—Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Proposal 1: Election of Directors,” “Directors,” “Committees of the Board,” “Shareholder Communications to the Board,” “Meeting Attendance,” “Report of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors,” “Certain Relationships and Transactions” and “Report of the Audit Committee” in Costco’s Proxy Statement.

Item 14—Principal Accounting Fees and Services

The information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference to the sections entitled “Independent Public Accountants” in Costco’s Proxy Statement.

PART IV

Item 15—Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

 

  (a)

Documents filed as part of this report are as follows:

 

  1.

Financial Statements:

See the listing of Financial Statements included as a part of this Form 10-K on Item 8 of Part II.

 

  2.

Financial Statement Schedules:

All schedules have been omitted because the required information is not present or is not present in amounts sufficient to require submission of the schedule, or because the information required is included in the financial statements, including the notes thereto.

 

  3.

Exhibits:

The required exhibits are included at the end of the Form 10-K Annual Report and are described in the Exhibit Index immediately preceding the first exhibit.

 

  (b)

Financial Statement Schedules—None.

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

October 14, 2011

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

(Registrant)

By

  /s/ RICHARD A. GALANTI
 

Richard A. Galanti

Executive Vice President

and Chief Financial Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By

  /s/ JAMES D. SINEGAL    

October 14, 2011

 

James D. Sinegal

Chief Executive Officer and Director

   

By

  /s/ JEFFREY H. BROTMAN    

October 14, 2011

 

Jeffrey H. Brotman

Chairman of the Board

   

By

  /s/ W. CRAIG JELINEK    

October 14, 2011

 

W. Craig Jelinek

President, Chief Operating Officer and Director

   

By

  /s/ RICHARD A. GALANTI    

October 14, 2011

 

Richard A. Galanti

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director (Principal Financial Officer)

   

By

  /s/ DAVID S. PETTERSON    

October 14, 2011

 

David S. Petterson

Senior Vice President and Controller

(Principal Accounting Officer)

   

By

  /s/ BENJAMIN S. CARSON, SR., M.D.    

October 14, 2011

 

Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D.

Director

   

By

  /s/ SUSAN L. DECKER    

October 14, 2011

 

Susan L. Decker

Director

   

By

  /S/ DANIEL J. EVANS    

October 14, 2011

 

Daniel J. Evans

Director

   

 

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By

  /S/ WILLIAM H. GATES    

October 14, 2011

 

William H. Gates

Director

   

By

  /S/ HAMILTON E. JAMES    

October 14, 2011

 

Hamilton E. James

Director

   

By

  /S/ RICHARD M. LIBENSON    

October 14, 2011

 

Richard M. Libenson

Director

   

By

  /S/ JOHN W. MEISENBACH    

October 14, 2011

 

John W. Meisenbach

Director

   

By

  /S/ CHARLES T. MUNGER    

October 14, 2011

 

Charles T. Munger

Director

   

By

  /S/ JEFFREY S. RAIKES    

October 14, 2011

 

Jeffrey S. Raikes

Director

   

By

  /S/ JILL S. RUCKELSHAUS    

October 14, 2011

 

Jill S. Ruckelshaus

Director

   

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

Costco Wholesale Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Costco Wholesale Corporation and subsidiaries as of August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010 and the related consolidated statements of income, equity and comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the 52-week periods ended August 28, 2011, August 29, 2010, and August 30, 2009. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

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

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Costco Wholesale Corporation and subsidiaries as of August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the 52-week periods ended August 28, 2011, August 29, 2010, and August 30, 2009, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of August 28, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated October 14, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Seattle, Washington

October 14, 2011

 

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

Costco Wholesale Corporation:

We have audited Costco Wholesale Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of August 28, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting included in Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 28, 2011, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010, and the related consolidated statements of income, equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the 52-week periods ended August 28, 2011, August 29, 2010, and August 30, 2009, and our report dated October 14, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Seattle, Washington

October 14, 2011

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(dollars in millions, except par value and share data)

 

     August 28,
2011
    August 29,
2010
 
ASSETS     

CURRENT ASSETS

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 4,009      $ 3,214   

Short-term investments

     1,604        1,535   

Receivables, net

     965        884   

Merchandise inventories

     6,638        5,638   

Deferred income taxes and other current assets

     490        437   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

     13,706        11,708   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

    

Land

     3,819        3,484   

Buildings and improvements

     10,278        9,096   

Equipment and fixtures

     4,002        3,513   

Construction in progress

     269        267   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
     18,368        16,360   

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     (5,936     (5,046
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net property and equipment

     12,432        11,314   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

OTHER ASSETS

     623        793   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

   $ 26,761      $ 23,815   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY     

CURRENT LIABILITIES

    

Short-term borrowings

   $ 0      $ 26   

Accounts payable

     6,544        5,947   

Current portion of long-term debt

     900        0   

Accrued salaries and benefits

     1,758        1,571   

Accrued sales and other taxes

     335        322   

Other current liabilities

     1,540        1,328   

Deferred membership fees

     973        869   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     12,050        10,063   

LONG-TERM DEBT, excluding current portion

     1,253        2,141   

DEFERRED INCOME TAXES AND OTHER LIABILITIES

     885        681   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     14,188        12,885   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

    

EQUITY

    

Preferred stock $.005 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding

     0        0   

Common stock $.005 par value; 900,000,000 shares authorized 434,266,000 and 433,510,000 shares issued and outstanding

     2        2   

Additional paid-in capital

     4,516        4,115   

Accumulated other comprehensive income

     373        122   

Retained earnings

     7,111        6,590   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Costco stockholders’ equity

     12,002        10,829   

Noncontrolling interests

     571       

 

101

 

  

 

  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity

     12,573        10,930   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

   $ 26,761      $ 23,815   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

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

 

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Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(dollars in millions, except per share data)

 

     52 weeks ended
August 28,
2011
    52 weeks ended
August 29,
2010
    52 weeks ended
August 30,
2009
 

REVENUE

      

Net sales

   $ 87,048      $ 76,255      $ 69,889   

Membership fees

     1,867        1,691        1,533   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenue

     88,915        77,946        71,422   

OPERATING EXPENSES

      

Merchandise costs

     77,739        67,995        62,335   

Selling, general and administrative

     8,682        7,840        7,252   

Preopening expenses

     46        26        41   

Provision for impaired assets and closing costs, net

     9        8        17   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating income

     2,439        2,077        1,777   

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)

      

Interest expense

     (116     (111     (108

Interest income and other, net

     60        88        58   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

     2,383        2,054        1,727   

Provision for income taxes

     841        731        628   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net income including noncontrolling interests

     1,542        1,323        1,099   

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

     (80     (20     (13
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO

   $ 1,462      $ 1,303      $ 1,086   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO COSTCO:

      

Basic

   $ 3.35      $ 2.97      $ 2.50   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Diluted

   $ 3.30      $ 2.92      $ 2.47   
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Shares used in calculation (000’s)

      

Basic

     436,119        438,611        433,988   

Diluted

     443,094        445,970        440,454   

Dividends per share

   $ 0.89      $ 0.77      $ 0.68   

 

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

 

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Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(dollars in millions)

 

   

 

Common Stock

    Additional
Paid-in
Capital
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
    Retained
Earnings
    Total Costco
Stockholders’
Equity
    Noncontrolling
Interests
    Total
Equity
 
    Shares (000’s)     Amount              

BALANCE AT AUGUST 31, 2008

    432,513      $ 2      $ 3,543      $ 288      $ 5,361      $ 9,194      $ 80      $ 9,274   

Comprehensive Income:

               

Net income

            1,086        1,086        13        1,099   

Unrealized gain on short-term investments, net of ($2) tax

          3          3        0        3   

Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other

          (181       (181     (4     (185
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

              908        9        917   

Stock options exercised and release of vested restricted stock units, including tax effects

    3,794        0        75            75          75   

Conversion of convertible notes

    562        0        19            19          19   

Repurchases of common stock

    (895     0        (7       (50     (57       (57

Stock-based compensation

        181            181          181   

Cash dividends

            (296     (296       (296

Distribution to noncontrolling interest

                (9     (9
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

BALANCE AT AUGUST 30, 2009

    435,974        2        3,811        110        6,101        10,024        80        10,104   

Comprehensive Income:

               

Net income

            1,303        1,303        20        1,323   

Unrealized gain on short-term investments, net of ($1) tax

          3          3        0        3   

Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other

          9          9        1        10   
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

              1,315        21        1,336   

Stock options exercised and release of vested restricted stock units, including tax effects

    7,461        0        205            205          205   

Conversion of convertible notes

    18        0        1            1          1   

Repurchases of common stock

    (9,943     0        (92       (476     (568       (568

Stock-based compensation

        190            190          190   

Cash dividends

            (338     (338       (338
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

BALANCE AT AUGUST 29, 2010

    433,510        2        4,115        122        6,590        10,829        101        10,930   

Initial consolidation of noncontrolling interest in Costco Mexico

              0        357        357   

Comprehensive Income:

               

Net income

            1,462        1,462        80        1,542   

Unrealized gain on short-term investments, net of ($1) tax

          1          1        0        1   

Foreign-currency translation adjustment and other

          250          250        24        274   
           

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Comprehensive income

              1,713        104        1,817   

Stock options exercised and release of vested restricted stock units, including tax effects

    9,630        0        281            281          281   

Conversion of convertible notes

    65        0        2            2          2   

Repurchases of common stock

    (8,939     0        (89       (552     (641       (641

Stock-based compensation

        207            207          207   

Cash dividends

            (389     (389       (389

Investment by noncontrolling interest

                9        9   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

BALANCE AT AUGUST 28, 2011

    434,266      $ 2      $ 4,516      $ 373      $ 7,111      $ 12,002      $ 571      $ 12,573   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

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

 

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Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(dollars in millions)

 

    52 Weeks ended
August 28,
2011
    52 Weeks ended
August 29,
2010
    52 Weeks ended
August 30,
2009
 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

     

Net income including noncontrolling interests

  $ 1,542      $ 1,323      $ 1,099   

Adjustments to reconcile net income including noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operating activities:

     

Depreciation and amortization

    855        795        728   

Stock-based compensation

    207        190        181   

Undistributed equity earnings in joint ventures

    (1     (42     (33

Excess tax benefits on stock-based awards

    (45     (10     (2

Other non-cash operating activities, net

    24        2        46   

Deferred income tax expense

    84        7        70   

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the initial consolidation of Costco Mexico at the beginning of fiscal 2011:

     

Increase in merchandise inventories

    (642     (213     (394

Increase in accounts payable

    804        445        255   

Other operating assets and liabilities, net

    370        283        142   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

    3,198        2,780        2,092   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

     

Additions to property and equipment

    (1,290     (1,055     (1,250

Increase resulting from initial consolidation of Costco Mexico

    165        0        0   

Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment

    16        4        7   

Purchases of short-term investments

    (3,276     (2,693     (1,806

Maturities of short-term investments

    2,614        1,428        1,780   

Sales of investments

    602        309        183   

Other investing activities, net

    (11     (8     (15
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

    (1,180     (2,015     (1,101
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

     

Change in bank checks outstanding

    (514     5        (22

Repayments of short-term borrowings

    (105     (73     (1,777

Proceeds from short-term borrowings

    79        81        1,669   

Repayments of long-term debt

    0        (84     (6

Cash dividend payments

    (389     (338     (296

Investment by (distribution to) noncontrolling interests

    9        0        (9

Excess tax benefits on stock-based awards

    45        10        2   

Proceeds from stock-based awards, net of minimum tax withholdings

    224        193        69   

Repurchases of common stock

    (624     (551     (69

Other financing activities, net

    (2     38        0   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in financing activities

    (1,277     (719     (439
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

    54        11        (14
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

    795        57        538   

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS BEGINNING OF YEAR

    3,214        3,157        2,619   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS END OF YEAR

  $ 4,009      $ 3,214      $ 3,157   
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

     

Cash paid during the year for:

     

Interest (reduced by $9, $11, and $8 interest capitalized in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively)

  $ 111      $ 110      $ 104   

Income taxes

  $ 742      $ 637      $ 565   

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF NON-CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

     

(Decrease) Increase in accrued property and equipment

  $ (10   $ 24      $ 20   

Common stock issued upon conversion of 3.5% Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Notes

  $ 2      $ 1      $ 19   

Property acquired under capital leases

  $ 0      $ 90      $ 72   

Unsettled repurchases of common stock

  $ 17      $ 17      $ 0   

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

 

47


Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data)

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Costco Wholesale Corporation, a Washington corporation, its wholly-owned subsidiaries, subsidiaries in which it has a controlling interest, consolidated entities in which it has made equity investments or has other interests through which it has majority-voting control or it exercises the right to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s performance (Costco or the Company). The Company reports noncontrolling interests in consolidated entities as a component of equity separate from the Company’s equity. All material inter-company transactions between and among the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries and other consolidated entities have been eliminated in consolidation.

In June 2009, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued amended guidance concerning whether a company’s variable interest(s) in an entity constitute a controlling financial interest. The Company adopted this guidance on August 30, 2010 (at the beginning of its fiscal year 2011). As a result of the adoption, the Company determined that its 50%-owned joint venture, Costco Mexico (Mexico), would be consolidated on a prospective basis beginning August 30, 2010. Costco operates 32 warehouses in Mexico similar to Costco warehouses operated elsewhere.

Historically, the Company accounted for its 50% interest in Mexico under the equity method of accounting. The Company’s equity method investment in Mexico included in other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of August 29, 2010 totaled $357, which was derecognized as part of the initial consolidation of the joint venture on August 30, 2010. Total assets and liabilities increased by approximately 3% due to the initial consolidation and the 50% noncontrolling interest in Mexico of $357 was recorded as a component of equity as a result of the initial consolidation. The initial consolidation of Mexico had no impact on net income or net income per common share attributable to Costco (Net Income). The Company’s net income excludes income attributable to noncontrolling interests in its operations in Mexico, Korea, and Taiwan. In December 2010, the Company and its 50% joint venture partner amended the Mexico joint venture agreements. As a result, the Company obtained, subject to certain continuing conditions, majority-voting control of the joint venture. As the Company had previously consolidated the joint venture, these amendments did not impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

The Company operates membership warehouses that offer low prices on a limited selection of nationally branded and select private-label products in a wide range of merchandise categories in no-frills, self-service facilities. At August 28, 2011, Costco operated 592 warehouses worldwide which included: 429 U.S. locations (in 40 U.S. states and Puerto Rico), 82 Canadian locations (in nine Canadian provinces), 32 Mexico locations, 22 United Kingdom locations, nine Japan locations, eight Taiwan locations, seven Korea locations, and three Australia locations.

Fiscal Year End

The Company’s fiscal year ends on the Sunday closest to August 31. References to 2011, 2010, and 2009 relate to the 52-week fiscal years ended August 28, 2011, August 29, 2010, and August 30, 2009, respectively.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported

 

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Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and assumptions.

Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior fiscal year amounts or balances to conform to the presentation in the current fiscal year. These reclassifications did not have a material impact on the Company’s previously reported consolidated financial statements.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers as cash and cash equivalents all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase and proceeds due from credit and debit card transactions with settlement terms of less than one week. Credit and debit card receivables were $982 and $862 at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Short-term Investments

In general, short-term investments have a maturity of three months to five years at the date of purchase. Investments with maturities beyond five years may be classified, based on the Company’s determination, as short-term based on their highly liquid nature and because such marketable securities represent the investment of cash that is available for current operations. Short-term investments classified as available-for-sale are recorded at fair value using the specific identification method with the unrealized gains and losses reflected in accumulated other comprehensive income until realized. Realized gains and losses from the sale of available-for-sale securities, if any, are determined on a specific identification basis and all are recorded in interest income and other, net in the consolidated statements of income. Short-term investments classified as held-to-maturity are financial instruments that the Company has the intent and ability to hold to maturity and are reported net of any related amortization and are not remeasured to fair value on a recurring basis.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, receivables, and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short-term nature or variable interest rates. See Notes 2, 3, and 4 for the carrying value and fair value of the Company’s investments, derivative instruments, and fixed rate debt.

The Company follows the authoritative guidance for fair value measurements relating to financial and nonfinancial assets and liabilities, including the presentation of required disclosures, in its consolidated financial statements. This guidance defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The guidance also establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires maximizing the use of observable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of inputs that may be used are:

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

 

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Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

The following valuation techniques are used to measure fair value:

Level 1 primarily consists of financial instruments, such as money market mutual funds, whose value is based on quoted market prices, such as quoted net asset values published by the fund as supported in an active market, exchange-traded instruments and listed equities.

Level 2 includes assets and liabilities where quoted market prices are unobservable but observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities, or could be obtained from data providers or pricing vendors. The Company’s Level 2 assets and liabilities primarily include United States (U.S.) government and agency securities, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insured corporate bonds, investments in corporate notes and bonds, asset and mortgage-backed securities, and forward foreign exchange contracts. Valuation methodologies are based on “consensus pricing,” using market prices from a variety of industry-standard independent data providers or pricing that considers various assumptions, including time value, yield curve, volatility factors, credit spreads, default rates, loss severity, current market and contractual prices for the underlying instruments or debt, broker and dealer quotes, as well as other relevant economic measures. All are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data, for which the Company typically receives independent external valuation information.

Level 3 is comprised of significant unobservable inputs for valuations from the Company’s independent data and a primary pricing vendor that are also supported by little, infrequent, or no market activity. Management considers indicators of significant unobservable inputs such as the lengthening of maturities, later-than-scheduled payments, and any remaining individual securities that have otherwise matured, as indicators of Level 3. Assets and liabilities are considered Level 3 when their fair value inputs are unobservable, unavailable or management concludes that even though there may be some observable inputs, an item should be classified as a Level 3 based on other indicators of significant unobservable inputs, such as situations involving limited market activity, where determination of fair value requires significant judgment or estimation. The Company utilizes the services of a primary pricing vendor, which does not provide access to its proprietary valuation models, inputs and assumptions. While the Company is not provided access to proprietary models of the vendor, the Company reviewed and contrasted pricing received with other pricing sources to ensure accuracy of each asset class for which prices are provided. The Company’s review also included an examination of the underlying inputs and assumptions for a sample of individual securities across asset classes, credit rating levels and various durations, a process that is continually performed for each reporting period. In addition, the pricing vendor has an established challenge process in place for all security valuations, which facilitates identification and resolution of potentially erroneous prices. The Company believes that the prices received from the primary pricing vendor are representative of exit prices in accordance with authoritative guidance, and are classified appropriately in the fair value hierarchy.

Our current financial liabilities have fair values that approximate their carrying values. Our long-term financial liabilities consist of long-term debt, which is recorded on the balance sheet at issuance price less unamortized discount.

 

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Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Receivables, net

Receivables consist of the following at the end of 2011 and 2010:

 

     2011     2010  

Vendor receivables, and other

   $ 487      $ 448   

Reinsurance receivables

     201        196   

Receivables from governmental entities

     98        64   

Other receivables

     96        103   

Third-party pharmacy receivables

     86        75   

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     (3     (2
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Receivables, Net

   $ 965      $ 884   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Vendor receivables include payments from vendors in the form of volume rebates or other purchase discounts that are evidenced by signed agreements and are reflected in the carrying value of the inventory when earned or as the Company progresses towards earning the rebate or discount and as a component of merchandise costs as the merchandise is sold. Vendor receivable balances are generally presented on a gross basis separate from any related payable due. In certain circumstances, these receivables may be settled against the related payable to that vendor. Other consideration received from vendors is generally recorded as a reduction of merchandise costs upon completion of contractual milestones, terms of the related agreement, or by other systematic approach.

Reinsurance receivables are held by the Company’s wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary. The receivable balance represents amounts ceded through reinsurance arrangements, and are reflected on a gross basis, separate from the amounts assumed under reinsurance, which are presented on a gross basis within other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

Receivables from governmental entities largely consists of various tax related items.

Third-party pharmacy receivables generally relate to amounts due from members’ insurance companies for the amount above their co-pay, which is collected at the point-of-sale.

Amounts are recorded net of an allowance for doubtful accounts. Management determines the allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical experience and application of the specific identification method. Write-offs of receivables were immaterial for fiscal years 2011, 2010, or 2009.

Merchandise Inventories

Merchandise inventories consist of the following at the end of 2011 and 2010:

 

     2011      2010  

United States (primarily LIFO)

   $ 4,548       $ 4,150   

Foreign (FIFO)

     2,090         1,488   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Merchandise Inventories

   $ 6,638       $ 5,638   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

51


Table of Contents

COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Merchandise inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market, as determined primarily by the retail inventory method, and are stated using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for substantially all U.S. merchandise inventories. Merchandise inventories for all foreign operations are primarily valued by the retail inventory method and are stated using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. The Company believes the LIFO method more fairly presents the results of operations by more closely matching current costs with current revenues. The Company records an adjustment each quarter, if necessary, for the estimated effect of inflation or deflation, and these estimates are adjusted to actual results determined at year-end.

Due to inflation in 2011, the merchandise inventories valued at LIFO were lower than the FIFO value, resulting in a charge to merchandise costs of $87. During 2009, due to overall net deflationary trends, the Company recorded a $32 benefit to merchandise costs to adjust inventories valued at LIFO. At the end of 2010, merchandise inventories valued at LIFO approximated FIFO after considering the lower of cost or market principle.

The Company provides for estimated inventory losses between physical inventory counts as a percentage of net sales, using estimates based on the Company’s experience. The provision is adjusted periodically to reflect the results of the actual physical inventory counts, which generally occur in the second and fourth fiscal quarters of the fiscal year. Inventory cost, where appropriate, is reduced by estimates of vendor rebates when earned or as the Company progresses towards earning those rebates, provided that they are probable and reasonably estimable.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost. In general, new building additions are separated into components, each with its own estimated useful life. Depreciation and amortization expense is computed using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives or the lease term, if shorter. Leasehold improvements incurred after the beginning of the initial lease term are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the remaining term of the initial lease plus any renewals that are reasonably assured at the date the leasehold improvement is made.

Estimated useful lives for financial reporting purposes are as follows:

 

     Years

Buildings and improvements

   5 - 50

Equipment and fixtures

   3 - 20

Repair and maintenance costs are expensed when incurred. Expenditures for remodels, refurbishments and improvements that add to or change the way an asset functions or that extend the useful life of an asset are capitalized. Assets that were removed during the remodel, refurbishment or improvement are retired. When assets are retired or sold, the asset costs and related accumulated depreciation are eliminated, with any remaining gain or loss recorded.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company periodically evaluates long-lived assets for impairment when relocating or closing a warehouse or when events or changes in circumstances occur that may indicate the carrying amount of the asset group, generally an individual warehouse, may not be fully recoverable. For asset groups

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

to be held and used, including warehouses to be relocated, the carrying value of the asset group is considered recoverable when the estimated future undiscounted cash flows generated from the use and eventual disposition of the asset group exceed the group’s net carrying value. In the event that the carrying value is not considered recoverable, an impairment loss would be recognized for the asset group to be held and used equal to the excess of the carrying value above the estimated fair value of the asset group. For asset groups classified as held for sale (disposal group), the carrying value is compared to the disposal group’s fair value less costs to sell. The Company estimates fair value by obtaining market appraisals from third party brokers or other valuation techniques. In 2011, 2010, and 2009, the Company recorded impairment charges of $1, $2, and $11, respectively, included in provision for impaired assets and closing costs, net and interest income and other in the consolidated statements of income. In 2009, the charge was primarily related to the closure of its two Costco Home locations in July 2009.

Assets classified as held for sale were not material as of August 28, 2011 or August 29, 2010.

Other Assets

Other assets consist of the following at the end of 2011 and 2010:

 

     2011      2010  

Prepaid rents, lease costs, and long-term deposits

   $ 211       $ 186   

Tax-related assets

     179         18   

Goodwill, net

     74         71   

Cash surrender value of life insurance

     64         65   

Other

     95         96   

Investment in Mexico

     0         357   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other Assets

   $ 623       $ 793   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As previously discussed, the Company began consolidating Mexico at the beginning of 2011, on a prospective basis. The amount of retained earnings that represented undistributed earnings of Mexico was $307 at the end of 2010. The Company did not make any capital contributions to its investment in Mexico in 2010 or 2009. The investments and equity in earnings of other unconsolidated joint ventures are not material.

Tax-related assets represent amounts deposited with taxing authorities in connection with ongoing income tax audits and the Company’s long term deferred tax assets.

Goodwill resulting from certain business combinations is reviewed for impairment in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if circumstances dictate. No impairment of goodwill has been incurred to date.

The Company adjusts the carrying value of its employee life insurance contracts to the net cash surrender value at the end of each reporting period.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Accounts Payable

The Company’s banking system provides for the daily replenishment of major bank accounts as checks are presented. Accordingly, included in accounts payable at the end of 2011 and 2010 are $108 and $617, respectively, representing the excess of outstanding checks over cash on deposit at the banks on which the checks were drawn.

Insurance/Self-Insurance Liabilities

The Company uses a combination of insurance and self-insurance mechanisms, including a wholly-owned captive insurance entity and participation in a reinsurance program, to provide for potential liabilities for workers’ compensation, general liability, property damage, directors and officers liability, vehicle liability, and employee health care benefits. The reinsurance agreement is one year in duration and new agreements are entered into by each participant at their discretion at the commencement of the next fiscal year. Liabilities associated with the risks that are retained by the Company are not discounted and are estimated, in part, by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors, and other actuarial assumptions. The estimated accruals for these liabilities could be significantly affected if future occurrences and claims differ from these assumptions and historical trends. As of the end of 2011 and 2010, these insurance liabilities were $595 and $541 in the aggregate, respectively, and were included in accounts payable, accrued salaries and benefits, and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, classified based on their nature.

The Company’s wholly-owned captive insurance subsidiary (the captive) receives direct premiums, which are netted against the Company’s premium costs in selling, general and administrative expenses, in the consolidated statements of income. The captive participates in a reinsurance program that includes other third-party members. The member agreements and practices of the reinsurance program limit any participating members’ individual risk. Income statement adjustments related to the reinsurance program and related impacts to the consolidated balance sheets are recognized as information becomes known. In the event the Company leaves the reinsurance program, the Company is not relieved of its primary obligation to the policyholders for activity prior to the termination of the annual agreement.

Other Current Liabilities

Other current liabilities consist of the following at the end of 2011 and 2010:

 

     2011      2010  

Accrued member rewards

   $ 602       $ 522   

Insurance-related liabilities

     276         263   

Tax-related liabilities

     122         79   

Cash card liability

     112         100   

Deferred sales

     141         98   

Other current liabilities

     96         86   

Vendor consideration liabilities

     66         57   

Sales return reserve

     74         72   

Interest payable

     51         51   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other Current Liabilities

   $ 1,540       $ 1,328   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Derivatives

The Company is exposed to foreign-currency exchange-rate fluctuations in the normal course of business. The Company manages these fluctuations, in part, through the use of forward foreign-exchange contracts, seeking to economically hedge the impact of fluctuations of foreign exchange on known future expenditures denominated in a foreign-currency. The contracts are intended primarily to economically hedge exposure to U.S. dollar merchandise inventory expenditures made by the Company’s international subsidiaries or other entities whose functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar. Currently, these contracts do not qualify for derivative hedge accounting. The Company seeks to mitigate risk with the use of these contracts and does not intend to engage in speculative transactions. These contracts do not contain any credit-risk-related contingent features. The aggregate notional amounts of forward foreign-exchange contracts were $247 and $225 at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively.

The Company seeks to manage counterparty risk associated with these contracts by limiting transactions to counterparties with which the Company has an established banking relationship. There can be no assurance, however, that this practice effectively mitigates counterparty risk. The contracts are limited to less than one year in duration. See Note 3 for information on the fair value of open, unsettled forward foreign-exchange contracts as of August 28, 2011, and August 29, 2010.

The amount of net foreign-currency transaction gains or losses recognized in interest income and other, net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income relating to forward foreign-exchange contracts were nominal in 2011, 2010 and 2009. These gains and losses are largely offset by the impact of revaluing related foreign currency denominated payables, which are also recognized in interest income and other, net.

The Company is exposed to risks due to fluctuations in prices for the energy it consumes, particularly electricity and natural gas, which it seeks to partially mitigate through the use of fixed-price contracts for approximately 36% of its warehouses and other facilities, primarily in the U.S. and Canada. The Company also enters into variable-priced contracts for some purchases of natural gas, in addition to fuel for its gas stations, on an index basis. These contracts meet the characteristics of derivative instruments, but generally qualify for the “normal purchases or normal sales” exception under authoritative guidance and thus require no mark-to-market adjustment.

Foreign-Currency

The functional currencies of the Company’s international subsidiaries are the local currency of the country in which the subsidiary is located. Assets and liabilities recorded in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. Revenues and expenses of the Company’s consolidated foreign operations are translated at average rates of exchange prevailing during the year.

The Company recognizes foreign-currency transaction gains and losses related to revaluing all monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the functional currency, generally the U.S. dollar payables of consolidated subsidiaries to their functional currency, in interest income and other, net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. These gains and losses were $8 and $13 in 2011 and 2010, respectively and not significant in 2009.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Revenue Recognition

The Company generally recognizes sales, net of estimated returns, at the time the member takes possession of merchandise or receives services. When the Company collects payments from customers prior to the transfer of ownership of merchandise or the performance of services, the amounts received are generally recorded as deferred sales included in other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets until the sale or service is completed. The Company reserves for estimated sales returns based on historical trends in merchandise returns, net of the estimated net realizable value of merchandise inventories to be returned and any estimated disposition costs. Amounts collected from members, which under common trade practices are referred to as sales taxes, are recorded on a net basis.

The Company evaluates whether it is appropriate to record the gross amount of merchandise sales and related costs or the net amount earned as commissions. Generally, when Costco is the primary obligor, is subject to inventory risk, has latitude in establishing prices and selecting suppliers, can influence product or service specifications, or has several but not all of these indicators, revenue is recorded on a gross basis. If the Company is not the primary obligor and does not possess other indicators of gross reporting as noted above, it records the net amounts as commissions earned, which is reflected in net sales.

Membership fee revenue represents annual membership fees paid by substantially all of the Company’s members. The Company accounts for membership fee revenue, net of estimated refunds, on a deferred basis, whereby revenue is recognized ratably over the one-year membership period. As previously disclosed, effective with renewals occurring on and after March 1, 2009, the Company changed an element of its membership renewal policy. Memberships renewed within two months after expiration of the current membership year are extended for twelve months from the expiration date. (Under the previous policy, renewals within six months of the expiration date were extended for twelve months from the expiration date.) Memberships renewed more than two months after such expiration date are extended for twelve months from the renewal date. This change has had an immaterial effect of deferring recognition of certain membership fees paid by late-renewing members.

The Company’s Executive Members qualify for a 2% reward (up to a maximum of approximately five hundred dollars per year on qualified purchases made at Costco), which can be redeemed at Costco warehouses. The Company accounts for this reward as a reduction in sales, with the related accrued member rewards liability included in other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The sales reduction and corresponding liability are computed after giving effect to the estimated impact of non-redemptions based on historical data. The net reduction in sales was $790, $688, and $610 in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively.

Merchandise Costs

Merchandise costs consist of the purchase price of inventory sold, inbound shipping charges and all costs related to the Company’s depot operations, including freight from depots to selling warehouses, and are reduced by vendor consideration. Merchandise costs also include salaries, benefits and depreciation on production equipment in certain fresh foods and ancillary departments.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of salaries, benefits and workers’ compensation costs for warehouse employees, other than fresh foods departments and certain ancillary businesses, as well as all regional and home office employees, including buying personnel. Selling, general and administrative expenses also include utilities, bank charges, rent and substantially all building and equipment depreciation, as well as other operating costs incurred to support warehouse operations.

Marketing and Promotional Expenses

Costco’s policy is generally to limit marketing and promotional expenses to new warehouse openings, occasional direct mail marketing to prospective new members and direct mail marketing programs to existing members promoting selected merchandise. Marketing and promotional costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of income.

Stock-Based Compensation

Compensation expense for all stock-based awards granted is recognized using the straight-line method. The fair value of restricted stock units (RSUs) is calculated as the market value of the common stock on the measurement date less the present value of the expected dividends forgone during the vesting period. The fair value of stock options is measured using the Black-Scholes valuation model. While options and RSUs granted to employees generally vest over five years, all grants allow for either daily or quarterly vesting of the pro-rata number of stock-based awards that would vest on the next anniversary of the grant date in the event of retirement or voluntary termination. The historical experience rate of actual forfeitures has been minimal. As such, the Company does not reduce stock-based compensation for an estimate of forfeitures because the estimate is inconsequential in light of historical experience and considering the awards vest on either a daily or quarterly basis. The impact of actual forfeitures arising in the event of involuntary termination is recognized as actual forfeitures occur, which generally has been infrequent. Stock options have a ten-year term. Stock-based compensation expense is predominately included in selling, general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of income. See Note 7 for additional information on the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.

Leases

The Company leases land and/or buildings at warehouses and certain other office and distribution facilities primarily under operating leases. Operating leases expire at various dates through 2051, with the exception of one lease in the Company’s United Kingdom subsidiary, which expires in 2151. These leases generally contain one or more of the following options which the Company can exercise at the end of the initial lease term: (a) renewal of the lease for a defined number of years at the then-fair market rental rate or rate stipulated in the lease agreement; (b) purchase of the property at the then-fair market value; or (c) right of first refusal in the event of a third party purchase offer.

The Company accounts for its lease expense with free rent periods and step-rent provisions on a straight-line basis over the original term of the lease, from the date the Company has control of the

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

property. Certain leases provide for periodic rental increases based on the price indices, and some of the leases provide for rents based on the greater of minimum guaranteed amounts or sales volume.

The Company has entered into four capital leases for warehouse locations, expiring at various dates through 2040. Capital lease assets are included in buildings and improvements in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Amortization expense on capital lease assets is recorded as depreciation expense and is predominately included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Capital lease liabilities are recorded at the lesser of the estimated fair market value of the leased property or the net present value of the aggregate future minimum lease payments and are included in other current liabilities and other liabilities. Interest on these obligations is included in interest expense.

Preopening Expenses

Preopening expenses related to new warehouses, new regional offices and other startup operations are expensed as incurred.

Provision for Impaired Assets and Closing Costs, Net

Warehouse closing costs incurred relate principally to expenses associated with the Company’s relocation of certain warehouses (that were not otherwise impaired) to larger and better-located facilities. The provisions for 2011, 2010, and 2009 included charges in the amounts indicated below:

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Warehouse closing expenses

   $ 8       $ 6       $ 9   

Impairment of long-lived assets

     1         2         8   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Provision for Impaired Assets and Closing Costs, Net

   $ 9       $ 8       $ 17   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Warehouse closing expenses primarily relate to accelerated building depreciation based on the shortened useful life through the expected closing date and remaining lease obligations, net of estimated sublease income, for leased locations. At the end of 2011 and 2010, the Company’s reserve for warehouse closing costs was $5 and primarily related to estimated future lease obligations and other estimated contractual obligations associated with exiting the properties.

Interest Income and Other, Net

Interest income and other, net includes:

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Interest income, net

   $ 41       $ 23       $ 27   

Earnings of affiliates and other, net

     19         65         31   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Interest Income and Other, Net

   $ 60       $ 88       $ 58   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

As previously discussed, Costco began consolidating Mexico at the beginning of 2011, on a prospective basis. For 2010 and 2009, the equity in earnings of Mexico is included in interest income and other, net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income, and was $41 and $32, respectively.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

The Company periodically evaluates unrealized losses in its investment securities for other-than-temporary impairment using both qualitative and quantitative criteria. In the event a security is deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, the Company recognizes the credit loss component in interest income and other, net in the consolidated statements of income. The Company generally only invests in debt securities.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Under the asset and liability method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributed to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and tax credits and loss carry-forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences and carry-forwards are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to amounts expected to be realized.

The determination of the Company’s provision for income taxes requires significant judgment, the use of estimates, and the interpretation and application of complex tax laws. Significant judgment is required in assessing the timing and amounts of deductible and taxable items and the probability of sustaining uncertain tax positions. The benefits of uncertain tax positions are recorded in the Company’s consolidated financial statements only after determining a more-likely-than-not probability that the uncertain tax positions will withstand challenge, if any, from tax authorities. When facts and circumstances change, the Company reassesses these probabilities and records any changes in the consolidated financial statements as appropriate. See Note 9 for additional information.

Net Income Attributable to Costco per Common Share

The computation of basic net income per share uses the weighted average number of shares that were outstanding during the period. The computation of diluted net income per share uses the weighted average number of shares in the basic net income per share calculation plus the number of common shares that would be issued assuming exercise and vesting of all potentially dilutive common shares outstanding using the treasury stock method for shares subject to stock options and restricted stock units and the “if converted” method for the convertible note securities.

Stock Repurchase Programs

Repurchased shares of common stock are retired, in accordance with the Washington Business Corporation Act. The par value of repurchased shares is deducted from common stock and the excess repurchase price over par value is deducted from additional paid-in capital and retained earnings. See Note 6 for additional information.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

As discussed above in Note 1, the Company adopted guidance related to consolidation of variable interest entities.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

In October 2009, the FASB issued amended guidance on revenue recognition for multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. Under this guidance, when vendor-specific objective evidence or third-party evidence for deliverables in an arrangement cannot be determined, a best estimate of the selling price is required to separate deliverables and allocate arrangement consideration using the relative selling-price method. This guidance also prescribes disclosure requirements on how the application of the relative selling price method affects the timing and amount of revenue recognition. The Company adopted this guidance at the beginning of its fiscal year 2011. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In January 2010, the FASB issued guidance to amend the disclosure requirements related to recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements. The guidance requires disclosure of transfers of assets and liabilities between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value measurement hierarchy, including the reasons and the timing of the transfers. Under Level 3 of the fair value measurement hierarchy, the guidance requires disclosure of information on purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements on a gross basis (as opposed to a net basis) in the reconciliation of the assets and liabilities measured. The Company adopted this guidance at the beginning of its third quarter of fiscal 2010, except for the Level 3 reconciliation disclosures on the roll-forward activities, which were adopted at the beginning of its third quarter of fiscal 2011. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statement disclosures.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In May 2011, the FASB issued guidance to amend the requirements related to fair value measurement which changes the wording used to describe many requirements in GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. Additionally, the amendments clarify the FASB’s intent about the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. The amended guidance is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, and is applied prospectively. The Company plans to adopt this guidance at the beginning of its third quarter of fiscal year 2012. Adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statement disclosure.

In June 2011, the FASB issued guidance on presentation of comprehensive income. The new guidance eliminates the current option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. Instead, an entity will be required to present either a continuous statement of net income and other comprehensive income or to present the information in two separate but consecutive statements. The new guidance must be applied retrospectively and is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. The Company plans to adopt this guidance at the beginning of its third quarter of fiscal 2012. Adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements and will impact the financial statements’ presentation only.

In September 2011, the FASB issued guidance to amend and simplify the rules related to testing goodwill for impairment. The revised guidance allows an entity to make an initial qualitative evaluation, based on the entity’s events and circumstances, to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. The results of this qualitative assessment determine whether it is necessary to perform the currently required two-step impairment test. The new

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 1—Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

 

guidance is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. Early adoption is permitted. The Company plans to early adopt this guidance for its fiscal year 2012 annual impairment test. Adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Note 2—Investments

The major categories of the Company’s investments are as follows:

Money market mutual funds

The Company invests in money funds that seek to maintain a net asset value of par, while limiting overall exposure to credit, market, and liquidity risks.

U.S. government and agency securities

These U.S. government-secured debt instruments are publically traded and valued. Losses in this category are primarily due to market liquidity and interest rate reductions.

Corporate notes and bonds

The Company evaluates its corporate debt securities based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the credit rating of the issuer. The vast majority of the Company’s corporate debt securities are rated investment grade by the major rating agencies.

FDIC-insured corporate bonds

These bonds are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government under the FDIC’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program. Losses in this category are primarily due to market liquidity and interest rate reductions.

Asset and mortgage-backed securities

The vast majority of the Company’s asset and mortgage-backed securities have investment grade credit ratings from the major rating agencies. These investments are collateralized by residential real estate, credit card receivables, commercial real estate, foreign mortgage receivables, and lease receivables. Estimates of fair value are based upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, credit rating of the issuer, internal credit risk, interest rate variation, prepayment assumptions, and the potential for default.

Certificates of deposit

Certificate of deposits are short-term interest-bearing debt instruments issued by various financial institutions with which the Company has an established banking relationship.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 2—Investments (Continued)

 

The Company’s investments at the end of 2011 and 2010, were as follows:

 

2011:

   Cost
Basis
     Unrealized
Gains
     Unrealized
Losses
     Recorded
Basis
 

Available-for-sale:

           

U.S. government and agency securities

   $ 1,096       $ 8       $ 0       $ 1,104   

Corporate notes and bonds

     6         1         0         7   

FDIC-insured corporate bonds

     208         1         0         209   

Asset and mortgage-backed securities

     12         0         0         12   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total available-for-sale

     1,322         10         0         1,332   

Held-to-maturity:

           

Certificates of deposit

     272               272   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investments

   $ 1,594       $ 10       $ 0       $ 1,604   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

2010:

   Cost
Basis
     Unrealized
Gains
     Unrealized
Losses
     Recorded
Basis
 

Available-for-sale:

           

U.S. government and agency securities

   $ 1,222       $ 7       $ 0       $ 1,229   

Corporate notes and bonds

     10         1         0         11   

FDIC-insured corporate bonds

     139         0         0         139   

Asset and mortgage-backed securities

     23         0         0         23   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total available-for-sale

     1,394         8         0         1,402   

Held-to-maturity:

           

Certificates of deposit

     133               133   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total investments

   $ 1,527       $ 8       $ 0       $ 1,535   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Gross unrealized gains and losses on cash equivalents were not material at August 28, 2011 and August 29, 2010.

The proceeds and gross realized gains and losses from sales of available-for-sale securities during 2011, 2010, and 2009 are provided in the following table:

 

      2011      2010      2009  

Proceeds

   $ 602       $ 309       $ 183   

Realized gains

     1         5         5   

Realized losses

     0         1         2   

During 2009, the Company recognized $12 other-than-temporary impairment losses related to certain enhanced money fund investment securities, which were included in interest income and other, net in the accompanying consolidated statements of income. At the end of 2010, the Company no longer held any of these securities. At the end of 2011 and 2010 the Company’s available-for-sale securities that were in continuous unrealized-loss position were insignificant.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 2—Investments (Continued)

 

The maturities of available-for-sale and held-to-maturity securities at August 28, 2011 were as follows:

 

     Available-For-Sale      Held-To-Maturity  
     Cost Basis      Fair Value      Cost Basis      Fair Value  

Due in one year or less

   $ 890       $ 892       $ 272       $ 272   

Due after one year through five years

     426         433         0         0   

Due after five years

     6         7         0         0   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 1,322       $ 1,332       $ 272       $ 272   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Note 3—Fair Value Measurement

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The tables below present information at the end 2011 and 2010, regarding the Company’s financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis, and indicate the level within the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fair value. As of these dates, the Company’s holdings of Level 3 financial assets and liabilities were immaterial.

 

2011:

   Level 1      Level 2  

Money market mutual funds(1)

   $ 200       $ 0   

Investment in U.S. government and agency securities(3)

     0         1,177   

Investment in corporate notes and bonds

     0         7   

Investment in FDIC-insured corporate bonds

     0         209   

Investment in asset and mortgage-backed securities

     0         12   

Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position(2)

     0         1   

Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position(2)

     0         (2
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 200       $ 1,404   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

2010:

   Level 1      Level 2  

Money market mutual funds(1)

   $ 1,514       $ 0   

Investment in U.S. government and agency securities

     0         1,229   

Investment in corporate notes and bonds

     0         11   

Investment in FDIC-insured corporate bonds

     0         139   

Investment in asset and mortgage-backed securities

     0         23   

Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in asset position(2)

     0         1   

Forward foreign-exchange contracts, in (liability) position(2)

     0         (3
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 1,514       $ 1,400   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Included in cash and cash equivalents in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

 

(2) 

The asset and the liability values are included in deferred income taxes and other current assets and other current liabilities, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. See Note 1 for additional information on derivative instruments.

 

(3) 

$73 and $1,104 included in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 3—Fair Value Measurement (Continued)

 

Changes in fair value, including net transfers, of all financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) during 2011 and 2010 were immaterial.

The Company reports transfers in and out of Levels 1, 2, and 3, as applicable, using the fair value of the individual securities as of the beginning of the reporting period in which the transfer occurred. There were no transfers in or out of Level 1, 2, or 3 during 2011 and 2010.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

Financial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include held-to-maturity investments that are carried at amortized cost and are not remeasured to fair value on a recurring basis. There were no fair value adjustments to these financial assets measured during the 2011 and 2010.

Nonfinancial assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include items such as long lived assets that are measured at fair value resulting from an impairment, if deemed necessary. Fair value adjustments to these nonfinancial assets and liabilities during 2011 and 2010 were immaterial.

Note 4—Debt

Bank Credit Facilities and Commercial Paper Programs

The Company enters into various short-term bank credit facilities. At the end of 2011 and 2010, the total amount of credit under these facilities was $391 and $341, respectively. The total amount outstanding was $26 at the end of 2010. There was nothing outstanding at the end of 2011. The various credit facilities provide for applicable interest rates ranging from 0.58% to 4.39% in 2011 and 0.61% to 3.63% in 2010.

Short-Term Borrowings

The weighted average borrowings, maximum borrowings, and weighted average interest rate under all short-term borrowing arrangements were as follows for 2011 and 2010:

 

Category of Aggregate

Short-term Borrowings

   Maximum Amount
Outstanding
During the Fiscal Year
     Average Amount
Outstanding
During the Fiscal Year
     Weighted Average
Interest Rate
During the Fiscal Year
 

Year ended August 28, 2011

        

Bank borrowings:

        

Canada

   $ 6       $ 4         3.00

Japan

     70         20         0.58   

Bank overdraft facility:

        

United Kingdom

     16         4         1.50   

Year ended August 29, 2010

        

Bank borrowings:

        

Canada

   $ 1       $ 1         2.75

Japan

     64         39         0.63   

Bank overdraft facility:

        

United Kingdom

     5         2         1.50   

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 4—Debt (Continued)

 

Long-Term Debt

Long-term debt at the end of 2011 and 2010 consisted of the following:

 

     2011      2010  

5.5% Senior Notes due March 2017

   $ 1,097       $ 1,096   

5.3% Senior Notes due March 2012

     900         899   

2.695% Promissory notes due October 2017

     85         77   

0.35% over Yen TIBOR (6-month) Term Loan due June 2018

     39         35   

3.5% Zero Coupon convertible subordinated notes due August 2017

     31         32   

Other long-term debt

     1         2   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total long-term debt

     2,153         2,141   

Less current portion of 5.3% Senior Notes due March 2012

     900         0   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

   $ 1,253       $ 2,141   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

In April 2010, the Company’s Japanese subsidiary paid the outstanding principal and interest balances related to the 0.92% promissory notes due April 2010, originally issued in April 2003.

In June 2008, the Company’s Japanese subsidiary entered into a ten-year term loan with a variable rate of interest of Yen TIBOR (6-month) plus a 0.35% margin (0.79% and 0.84% at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively) on the outstanding balance. Interest is payable semi-annually in December and June and principal is due in June 2018.

In October 2007, the Company’s Japanese subsidiary issued promissory notes through a private placement, bearing interest at 2.695%. Interest is payable semi-annually, and principal is due in October 2017. The Company guarantees all financing instruments issued by its Japanese subsidiary.

In February 2007, the Company issued $900 of 5.3% Senior Notes due March 15, 2012 (2012 Notes) at a discount of $2 and $1,100 of 5.5% Senior Notes due March 15, 2017 (2017 Notes) at a discount of $6 (together the 2007 Senior Notes). Interest on the 2007 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on March 15 and September 15 of each year. The discount and issuance costs associated with the Senior Notes are being amortized to interest expense over the terms of those notes. The Company, at its option, may redeem the 2007 Senior Notes at any time, in whole or in part, at a redemption price plus accrued interest. The redemption price is equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount of the 2007 Senior Notes to be redeemed, or the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest to maturity. Additionally, the Company will be required to make an offer to purchase the 2007 Senior Notes at a price of 101% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase, upon certain events as defined by the terms of the 2007 Senior Notes. In March 2011, the Company reclassified its 2012 Notes, to a current liability within the current portion of long-term debt of the consolidated balance sheets to reflect its remaining maturity of less than one year.

In August 1997, the Company sold $900 principal amount at maturity 3.5% Zero Coupon Convertible Subordinated Notes (Zero Coupon Notes) due in August 2017. The Zero Coupon Notes were priced with a yield to maturity of 3.5%, resulting in gross proceeds to the Company of $450. The remaining Zero Coupon Notes outstanding are convertible into a maximum of 878,000 shares of Costco Common

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 4—Debt (Continued)

 

Stock shares at an initial conversion price of $22.71. Holders of the Zero Coupon Notes may require the Company to purchase the Zero Coupon Notes (at the discounted issue price plus accrued interest to date of purchase) in August 2012. The Company, at its option, may redeem the Zero Coupon Notes (at the discounted issue price plus accrued interest to date of redemption) any time after August 2002. As of August 28, 2011, $862 in principal amount of Zero Coupon Notes had been converted by note holders into shares of Costco Common Stock, of which the principal converted during 2011, 2010 and 2009 is detailed in the table below:

 

     2011      2010      2009  

Principal converted during period

   $ 3       $ 1       $ 25   

Principal converted, including the related debt discount

   $ 2       $ 1       $ 19   

Shares issued upon conversion (000’s)

     65         18         562   

The carrying value and estimated fair value of long-term debt consisted of the following at the end of 2011 and 2010:

 

     2011      2010  
     Carrying
Value
     Fair
Value
     Carrying
Value
     Fair
Value
 

2017 Notes

   $ 1,097       $ 1,314       $ 1,096       $ 1,295   

2012 Notes

     900         924         899         961   

Zero Coupon Notes

     31         63         32         51   

Other long-term debt

     125         134         114         122   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total long-term debt

     2,153         2,435         2,141         2,429   

Less current portion

     900         924         0         0   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Long-term debt, excluding current portion

   $ 1,253       $ 1,511       $ 2,141       $ 2,429   
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The estimated fair value of the zero coupon notes is based upon quoted market prices. All of the Company’s other debt obligations are based upon quoted market prices of similar types of borrowing arrangements.

Maturities of long-term debt during the next five fiscal years and thereafter are as follows:

 

2012

   $ 900   

2013

     0   

2014

     0   

2015

     0   

2016

     0   

Thereafter

     1,253   
  

 

 

 

Total

   $ 2,153   
  

 

 

 

 

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COSTCO WHOLESALE CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(dollars in millions, except share data) (Continued)

 

Note 5—Leases

Operating Leases

The aggregate rental expense and sublease income related to certain of its operating lease arrangements, for 2011, 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     Aggregate
rental
expense
     Sublease
income(1)
 

2011

   $ 208       $ 10   

2010

     187         10   

2009

     177         10   

 

(1) 

Included in interest income and other, net

Contingent rents are not material.

Capital Leases

Gross assets recorded under these leases were $170 and $169, at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively. These assets are recorded net of accumulated amortization of $13 and $7 at the end of 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Future minimum payments, net of sub-lease income of $183 for all years combined, during the next five fiscal years and thereafter under non-cancelable operating leases with terms of at least one year and capital leases, at the end of 2011, were as follows:

 

     Operating
leases
     Capital lease
obligations
 

2012

   $ 183       $ 13   

2013

     182         13   

2014