FORM 6-K

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

 

Report of Foreign Issuer

Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the month of June 2003

 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

 

Rembrandt Tower

Amstelplein 1

1096 HA Amsterdam

The Netherlands

 

(Exact name of registrant and address of principal executive offices)

[Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.]

Form 20-F   ý    Form 40-F   o

[Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.]

Yes   o   No   ý

[If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):]

 

Enclosure:  Annual Report

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

SIGNATURES

 

                Pursuant to the requirements 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.

 

 

 

 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

 

 

 

 

Date:  19 June 2003

 

By:

/s/ Robert S. Singer

 

 

Name:

Robert S. Singer

 

 

Title:

Chief Financial Officer

 



 

 

 

 

annual report 2002

 



 

GUCCI

GUCCI GROUP NV

 

 

annual report 2002

 

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GUCCI GROUP HIGHLIGHTS

 

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In the global market for luxury goods, Gucci Group is one of the world’s leading multi-brand companies. Through its brands, Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Roger & Gallet, Bottega Veneta, Bédat & Co., Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Balenciaga, the Group designs, produces and distributes high-quality personal luxury items, including ready-to-wear, handbags, luggage, small leather goods, shoes, timepieces, jewelry, ties and scarves, eyewear, perfume, cosmetics and skincare products. The Group’s retail network includes directly-operated stores in major markets throughout the world, and its wholesale activity includes sales to franchise stores, duty-free boutiques and leading department and specialty stores. The shares of Gucci Group are listed on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange (GCCI.AS) and on the New York Stock Exchange (GUC) .

 

2002 Revenues

 

Division

 

Product

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Distribution Channel

 

Region

 

 

 

 

 

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Financial Highlights

(In millions of Euro (1), except per share, share amounts and employees)

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

1999

 

1998

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(US$)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gucci Division

 

1,536.8

 

1,700.1

 

1,628.8

 

1,127.1

 

1,042.5

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

146.4

 

101.2

 

105.7

 

7.2

 

 

YSL Beauté

 

549.7

 

518.5

 

584.2

 

30.1

 

 

Other Operations

 

350.8

 

254.6

 

147.9

 

9.4

 

 

Interdivisional

 

(39.4

)

(9.3

)

(5.3

)

(0.0

)

 

Total

 

2,544.3

 

2,565.1

 

2,461.3

 

1,173.8

 

1,042.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

2,544.3

 

2,565.1

 

2,461.3

 

1,173.8

 

1,042.5

 

Gross profit

 

1,742.2

 

1,791.7

 

1,709.5

 

789.1

 

693.0

 

Operating expenses

 

1,436.4

 

1,393.1

 

1,264.4

 

529.7

 

446.5

 

Operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

305.8

 

398.6

 

445.1

 

259.4

 

246.5

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

126.4

 

130.2

 

90.7

 

9.0

 

6.4

 

Operating profit

 

179.4

 

268.4

 

354.4

 

250.4

 

240.1

 

Net income

 

226.8

 

312.5

 

366.9

 

313.7

 

195.0

 

Net income per share - diluted

 

2.21

 

3.08

 

3.61

 

3.31

 

3.28

 

Weighted average number of common shares - diluted (million)

 

102.423

 

101.524

 

101.591

 

94.869

 

59.499

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Margins:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin

 

68.5

%

69.8

%

69.5

%

67.2

%

66.5

%

Operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

12.0

%

15.5

%

18.1

%

22.1

%

23.6

%

Operating margin

 

7.1

%

10.5

%

14.4

%

21.3

%

23.0

%

 


(1)          Starting from February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. In order to facilitate comparisons between the Group’s financial statements before and after January 31, 2002, the Group translated previous years’ US Dollar balances to the Euro.

 

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Financial Highlights

(In millions of Euro (1), except per share, share amounts and employees)

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

1999

 

1998

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(US$)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance Sheet Data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash, net of short-term debt

 

2,304.0

 

2,199.7

 

3,229.7

 

2,456.2

 

111.6

 

Trade receivables

 

331.8

 

328.8

 

269.8

 

261.3

 

80.5

 

Inventories

 

472.0

 

450.0

 

355.7

 

256.0

 

157.2

 

Trade payables and accrued expenses

 

478.5

 

467.1

 

480.1

 

377.3

 

144.2

 

Working capital (2)

 

682.3

 

454.2

 

219.6

 

229.3

 

148.2

 

Long-term debt

 

1,202.4

 

824.4

 

981.3

 

146.2

 

17.3

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

4,671.4

 

4,558.4

 

4,425.9

 

3,943.8

 

577.2

 

Total assets

 

7,780.6

 

7,453.0

 

6,778.3

 

5,668.5

 

914.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

340.7

 

341.9

 

308.0

 

90.9

 

92.0

 

Average number of employees (3)

 

10,558

 

9,889

 

8,892

 

3,508

 

2,660

 

Number of employees at year-end (3)

 

10,684

 

9,934

 

9,223

 

7,908

 

2,806

 

Dividend per share (4)

 

0.50

 

US$

0.50

 

US$

0.50

 

US$

0.45

 

US$

0.40

 

 


(1)          Starting from February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. In order to facilitate comparisons between the Group’s financial statements before and after January 31, 2002, the Group translated previous years’ US Dollar balances to the Euro.

(2)          Current assets excluding cash minus current liabilities excluding short-term debt.

(3)          Full time equivalent.

(4)          Year 2002 dividend subject to shareholder approval of the Financial Statements at the Annual General Meeting. Dividends for years 2001, 2000 and 1999 were declared and paid in US Dollars. Dividends for these years were translated into Euros at the spot rate at the time of payment.

 

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REPORT OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD

 

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The year 2002 was a challenging time for our business and the whole luxury sector. Weak economies in the United States, Europe and Asia lowered consumer spending. Threats of terrorism decimated travel and tourism and, by year-end, the threat of war in Iraq severely exacerbated consumer anxiety. To the credit of our Management the Company performed admirably in this trying environment. While revenues were down, they declined by only a modest € 20 million to € 2,544 million. Moreover, the Group produced a robust gross margin of approximately 70% and a solid net income of € 227 million.

 

In the few years that Gucci has been a publicly traded company, it has become well equipped to handle the shocks that can disrupt trading conditions in the global luxury goods industry. Gucci addressed the Asian currency crisis in 1997 and 1998 with stringent cost and inventory controls, and rebounded with record profits in 1999. In 2002, a particularly turbulent political-economic environment, your Company managed the crisis, while preparing to take advantage of economic recovery when it arrives.

 

The Company has learned to balance cost cutting, necessary to maintaining profitability when revenues stagnate, with strategic investments, which are paramount to ensure the ongoing health of our brands, competitive advantage and long-term growth. In 2002, while the Company cut many general and administrative expenses and discretionary costs, it maintained 2001 levels of investment in communications - € 290 million - and even increased capital expenditures for store openings and refurbishment to € 220 million from € 184 million in 2001. Most importantly the Company continued the development of the Brands we have acquired in recent years. Today, the Company is well poised to make the best of better times.

 

In looking at your Company’s performance in 2002, it is most important to consider the performance of the Gucci Division. The Group’s other brands were acquired with the full recognition that they would need intermediate term nurturing from Gucci’s economic strength to develop into companies of the scale and class of Gucci. Thus, Gucci Division is the backbone of the Group. As shown in management’s report and the accompanying financials, the Gucci Division clearly demonstrated its ability to weather the difficult economic environment.

 

In summary, your Company posted solid performance

 

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in the most difficult economic environment that it has seen, while positioning itself to prosper in the future. No less important, the offer by our strategic partner, Pinault-Printemps-Redoute - US$ 101.50 for each share in March-April 2004 - protects our Shareholders against the vicissitudes of the world economy and will give Shareholders the opportunity to choose whether to remain, as I hope they will, an investor in our future or to realize an immediate profit from their investment.

 

On behalf of our Shareholders may I thank our Chief Executive, Domenico De Sole, our Design Director, Tom Ford, our Management, all our people and the Supervisory Board for their substantial efforts and achievements this past year.

 

Sincerely,

Chairman of the Supervisory Board

 

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Tom Ford

Creative Director

 

Domenico De Sole

President and C.E.O.

 

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PRESIDENT AND C.E.O.’S LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

 

 

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Dear Shareholder,

 

As you are aware, the trading conditions in the luxury goods industry were exceptionally challenging in 2002. Fear of terrorism and, in the second half of last year, the threat of war in Iraq only aggravated the uncertainty and volatility in the marketplace.

 

In these trying circumstances, Gucci Group produced solid financial results and invested heavily in its future. The Gucci Division achieved outstanding profitability notwithstanding a decline in revenue, Yves Saint Laurent reduced its losses, YSL Beauté increased both revenues and profits and our other brands introduced new product lines and collections while significantly expanding and enhancing their retail and wholesale operations.

 

Gucci

 

Gucci’s sales held up well in the particularly difficult trading environment. Gucci’s performance was robust in those areas least affected by economic weakness and the threat of war, namely the Far East. Conversely, retail sales were weakest where economic malaise was most felt, in the United States. In Europe, the threat of war and terrorism, as well as the strengthening value of the Euro, significantly reduced tourism, which affected business in Gucci’s large stores in Italy, France and the United Kingdom.

 

Adept inventory management and rigorous cost control under these circumstances drove profitability to exceptional levels. Gucci’s 29.1% operating margin before goodwill amortization was in line with our original target of approximately 30% and was among the highest in our industry. This was a remarkable achievement given the shortfall of revenues compared to plan.

 

Gucci significantly strengthened and enhanced its infrastructure and distribution. In 2002, we made relatively low cost but strategic acquisitions of key suppliers of jewelry and shoes, moves which allow Gucci to enhance the collections of these two important product categories. The new 7,000 square foot flagship store on Madison Avenue in New York and the 7,500 square foot store on Avenue Montaigne in Paris, both  opened in 2002 and have raised Gucci’s profile in two important markets. The enlarged, 16,000 square foot store on via Montenapoleone in Milan, which opened fully in November, today stands as the brand’s global flagship. The brand’s London Bond Street store was moved to a 7,500 square foot location in April 2003, strengthening Gucci’s presence in another critical market.

 

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Yves Saint Laurent

 

Yves Saint Laurent continued its exceptional growth in 2002. Retail sales increased 75% on a constant currency basis, while wholesale sales grew 56%. Moreover, Yves Saint Laurent enjoyed exceptional editorial coverage, featuring on the cover of more than 100 fashion magazines. This publicity has furthered Yves Saint Laurent’s momentum and global recognition, especially in combination with the CFDA’s recognition of Tom Ford as Accessory Designer of the Year in 2002, following the award in 2001 as Designer of the Year for his work at the brand.

 

Accessories, which are fundamental to achieving high margins in the luxury goods industry, were a key component of the brand’s development last year. Following the introduction of new handbag lines such as Marquise and Colonial in Fall 2002 that built on the success of the iconic Mombasa, leather goods experienced 288% sales growth on a constant currency basis. Shoes saw 86% constant currency growth.  Eyewear, an important entry price point product, has extended Yves Saint Laurent’s reach to new customers,  while contributing to cash flow and profits through royalties.

 

After having opened a 9,000 square foot flagship on via Montenapoleone in Milan in December 2002, Yves Saint Laurent will open other important stores in 2003, including on: Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills; Canton Road in Hong Kong; Bond Street in London; 57th Street near 5th Avenue in New York; and via Condotti in Rome. With these stores, Yves Saint Laurent will have achieved a strong global presence and, by the end of 2003, will be positioned to increase significantly its retail sales and substantially reduce capital investments, focusing on profits and cash flow in the next stage of its development.

 

YSL Beauté

 

YSL Beauté’s 8% constant currency sales growth and 7% operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization in 2002 demonstrate that the business “turned the corner” last year, following a period of intense restructuring.

 

YSL Beauté undertook important product initiatives in 2002. Yves Saint Laurent revitalized its pillar fragrances Opium, Paris and Kouros with new packaging and seasonal lines. The result was double digit growth for Opium and Kouros and high single digit growth for Paris on a constant currency basis. The brand’s cosmetics sales also increased at a double-digit pace thanks to continuing improvement of our department store points-of-sale and the success of the newly launched Ligne Intense and Rouge Eclat lines. The new men’s fragrance, M7, launched in October,

 

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met our sales expectations notwithstanding the very difficult environment, and trends continue to bode well for the product’s future success.

 

2003 is another year of important product launches for YSL Beauté. The new Alexander McQueen fragrance, Kingdom, launched in March, is helping build greater brand recognition for the young fashion house. YSL Beauté’s first men’s fragrance for Zegna, Essenza di Zegna, which reached stores in April, has received an excellent early response for this leading Italian luxury ready-to-wear house. The new Stella McCartney perfume will be shown to the press this summer and launched in September. Given the brand’s appeal to young women, we believe that it has great potential for success both in fragrance and in make-up which we plan to launch in the future.

 

Other Operations

 

For Sergio Rossi, 2002 was a year of investment in both infrastructure and retail. The construction of a new factory in San Mauro Pascoli, near Rimini, was the company’s largest project. The plant, which will significantly increase efficiency and manufacturing flexibility, already has commenced operations with the production of the Fall/Winter 2003 collection. Last year, Sergio Rossi refurbished its store in Milan and opened important stores on Bond Street in London, Madison Avenue in New York, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and Ala Moana in Hawaii, as well as a men’s shoe store on Via della Spiga in Milan.

 

At Boucheron, the November launch of Beauté Dangereuse, designed by Creative Director Solange Azagury-Partridge, marked the house’s first jewelry collection as part of the Gucci Group. Complementing this milestone flagships opened on Bond Street in London, via Montenapoleone in Milan and in Ginza in Tokyo. In 2003, Boucheron will open important stores on rue Faubourg Saint Honoré in Paris and on Fifth Avenue in New York, while broadening its product offering through new jewelry and watch lines.

 

Bottega Veneta emerged as a formidable luxury goods house in 2002. Building on its artisan skill and the design talent of Creative Director Tomas Maier, Bottega Veneta launched a range of truly luxurious and distinct leather goods lines last year. Consumer response was immediate and overwhelmingly positive, with sales growth reaching 90% in 2002. During the year, Bottega Veneta also opened a number of important stores, including on via Montenapoleone in Milan, rue Faubourg Saint Honoré in Paris and Sloane Street in London.

 

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Bédat & Co. expanded distribution in Italy and Asia and, notwithstanding the difficult trading conditions in the timepiece industry, has enjoyed excellent consumer and trade response to its high quality and distinctive watches.

 

Each of our emerging brands made tremendous strides in 2002. Both Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney opened stores in lower Manhattan last Fall. This Spring, each opened a store in London, Alexander McQueen on Bond Street, Stella McCartney just off Bond Street. Balenciaga opened a New York store on 22nd Street in February. Each of the brands also significantly strengthened their positions with selective specialty retailers, particularly in the United States. The critical and commercial success of the Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter 2003 collections bodes well for the development of each brand this year. I also am delighted to note that the CFDA this Spring recognized Alexander McQueen as the International Designer of the Year for his truly exceptional 2002 collections.

 

Notwithstanding the difficult environment, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to invest significantly in our brands. In 2002, we spent € 340 million in capital expenditures, € 220 million of which for store openings and refurbishment. We also spent nearly € 300 million in communication and advertising, another critical driver of revenue and profit growth. Going forward, we will continue to invest substantially in communication. On the other hand, by the end of 2003 as the retail store network for each of our brands reaches critical mass, we expect to reduce significantly capital expenditures and to achieve substantial increases in operating free cash flow.

 

In conclusion, your Company continued to produce solid results while building for the future. The Group’s more robust infrastructure as a result of our investments, and in particular the breadth in product offering and enhanced distribution of each of our brands, will allow the Company to thrive once the global political-economic environment stabilizes. This growth, and the improving profitability of our newer brands after a  period of intense investment, will substantially increase the Group’s cash flow, the basis of shareholder value.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Domenico De Sole

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Chairman of the Management Board

 

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OPERATING DIVISIONS

 

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Gucci

 

Outstanding product quality, distinct and creative design and a modern store environment are the hall-marks of Gucci and the foundation of the brand’s leadership in the luxury goods industry. Gucci’s image is contemporary and its brand authority extends across a range of women’s and men’s products including leather goods, ready-to-wear, footwear, watches, jewelry, silks, eyewear and fragrances.

 

Leather goods are the historical and present-day core of Gucci. Handbags, the single largest product category, are reputed for design leadership, high quality and customer value. The collections cover a range of lifestyles, from everyday use to evening bags, and styles, from shoulder bags to totes. In 2002 Gucci introduced exclusive made to order and limited edition handbags. The made to order handbags, on which the owner’s name is discreetly embossed, are unique products as the client selects the materials, color and finishing. The limited edition handbags, produced in small quantities and available in very limited distribution within the global store network, also represent the ultimate in craftsmanship, quality and design standard. Luggage is an increasingly important category thanks to Gucci’s ability to anticipate, stimulate and fulfill market demand. In addition to traditional travel items, luggage includes business merchandise (briefcases and computer accessories) as well as lifestyle items (messenger bags). Wallets, belts and other small leather goods complement handbags and luggage in design and styling and round out the leather goods collection. Here, too, Gucci has been able to respond to and create trends in different markets around the world.

 

Through ready-to-wear Gucci showcases its collections in fashion shows, builds advertising campaigns and generates critical press and editorial coverage. Gucci’s reputation as a ready-to-wear house has increased systematically over the years thanks to the critical and commercial success of Tom Ford’s collections. Women’s clothing incorporates a full range of products including tailoring, sportswear, leather, evening and lingerie. Men’s collections encompass tailored clothing, furnishings, sportswear, leatherwear and underwear. The introduction of the ‘Made-To-Measure’ service has allowed Gucci to satisfy the highest requirements for tailored product, while rein-forcing its design and quality standards.

 

Footwear complements both ready-to-wear and leather goods. Women’s and men’s lines range from the classic moccasin to dress shoes, sneakers, boots and sandals. Aggressive styles and innovative colors and materials give Gucci shoes a recognizable

 

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identity worldwide. To reinforce the brand’s market position in shoes and to provide management greater expertise in the product category, Gucci in 2002 purchased key suppliers of men’s shoes and opened a state of the art development center for men’s footwear. The greater know-how achieved through increased vertical integration has allowed Gucci to expand significantly the breadth of the collections and successfully introduce ‘Made-To-Measure’ footwear lines.

 

Gucci watches combine outstanding Swiss craftsmanship with the same modern design aesthetic found in all the brand’s products. To further enhance its positioning in the luxury segment, in recent seasons Gucci has launched a number of new models incorporating gold, diamond and other precious materials.

 

Gucci jewelry is characterized by contemporary designs and excellent price positioning. In 2002, jewelry maintained a strong position and achieved exceptional growth despite adverse market conditions, thanks in large part to an evolution in the collection toward more exclusive product and the continued development of ‘Icon’, a signature line of gold rings. In 2002 Gucci opened its first dedicated store for jewelry and watches in Rome. Gucci will continue to develop jewelry through an enhanced product offering, greater selling space dedicated to jewelry in the larger stores and international advertising.

 

In partnership with our eyewear licensee, Gucci is a leader in sunglasses and frames for prescription glasses. Eyewear growth has been outstanding through recent seasons thanks to strong design leadership, excellent value and global distribution. Fragrances, which include the recently launched Gucci eau de toilette line, fully reflect Gucci’s modern image and allow the brand to be present in the important cosmetics distribution channel.

 

Directly-operated stores represent the brand’s most important point of contact with customers, providing a highly recognizable environment for Gucci products. In 2002 Gucci opened and enlarged important stores in a number of key markets, including New York (Madison Avenue), Paris (Avenue Montaigne), London (Bond Street) and Milan (via Montenapoleone). At the end of 2002, Gucci counted 174 directly-operated stores worldwide.

 

Gucci uses franchise stores in smaller cities or markets in which a partnership is appropriate. In recent years, Gucci has reduced franchise activities in favor of directly-operated stores. At the end of 2002, franchisee stores numbered 31. Wholesale distribution includes sales to duty-free boutiques and to leading luxury department and specialty stores.

 

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Yves Saint Laurent

 

Yves Saint Laurent’s mission is to be a leading luxury ready-to-wear and accessories brand. Yves Saint Laurent aims to achieve this objective by offering outstanding, high quality and distinctive fashion merchandise, while exercising full control over product creation and development, production and distribution of the core categories, in particular Rive Gauche ready-to-wear, leather goods and shoes. Since the Gucci Group’s acquisition of the brand, management has accomplished a great deal to ensure Yves Saint Laurent’s position among the world’s most renowned and respected luxury brand names.

 

2002 was another key year in Yves Saint Laurent’s development. Tom Ford presented critically and commercially acclaimed ready-to-wear and accessory collections. The company expanded both the retail and wholesale networks, while working to open a number of flagships in 2003. Management increased investment in communication and product development considerably, while improving business execution.

 

Ready-to-wear remains the core category of Yves Saint Laurent, and Tom Ford accomplished much to assure the brand’s preeminence as a fashion house. The Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter 2002 collections, which received tremendous praise and coverage, allowed Yves Saint Laurent to feature on the cover of more than 100 leading fashion and lifestyle magazines in 2002, more than double that in 2001.

 

Yves Saint Laurent has emerged as an important force in accessories. The Mombasa handbag, introduced in late 2001, established the brand’s presence in leather goods. Newer lines - both those launched in 2002 and others rolling out in 2003 – represent important additions to the handbag range. As a result of the brand’s growing strength in handbags and for his work at Yves Saint Laurent, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (“CFDA”) recognized Tom Ford as ‘Accessory Designer of the Year’ in 2002. In addition, in November 2002 the Accessories Council awarded Tom Ford “Designer of the Year.”

 

Yves Saint Laurent brand shoes have experienced rapid growth in recent seasons owing to the success of both ready-to-wear and leather goods. A license contract with the Group’s partner Safilo allowed Yves Saint Laurent to launch eyewear in 2002. Also last year, the company introduced several watch lines.

 

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In 2002, Yves Saint Laurent continued to refurbish its stores with the new store concept, which features black and white coloring and rich materials such as hewn oak, brushed steel, mirror and lacquer to create a modern architectural environment that complements the product offering. In addition, the company opened several large stores, including a flagship on via Montenapoleone in Milan, bringing the retail network to 48 stores at year-end. Over the course of 2003, Yves Saint Laurent will renovate and expand existing stores in Paris, Madrid and other major cities and open new stores in New York, Beverly Hills, London, Hong Kong and Rome and thereby increase the retail network to approximately 55 stores by year end.

 

In 2002 wholesale continued to develop as an important distribution channel with numerous shops-in-shop for ready-to-wear and accessories having opened in leading luxury department and specialty stores. The number of “three wall” shops-in-shop in leading US and European specialty stores numbered approximately 30 at the end of 2002 and is expected to increase to approximately 50 by the end of 2003.

 

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YSL Beauté

 

YSL Beauté is a leading international luxury cosmetics group. It creates, manufactures and distributes prestige perfumes, make-up, skin-care, soaps and toiletries for its own brands, Yves Saint Laurent and Roger & Gallet, as well as for licensed brands, Alexander McQueen, Ermenegildo Zegna, Fendi, Oscar de la Renta, Stella McCartney and Van Cleef & Arpels.

 

The YSL Beauté philosophy is respect for the personality and uniqueness of each of its brands as the richness and diversity of the portfolio is paramount to the business’ current and future success.

 

YSL Beauté is a fully integrated company. The production units – Yves Saint Laurent Parfums Lassigny and YSL Beauté Recherche et Industrie – are located in France. Distribution occurs via 15 subsidiaries. Agents and distributors, overseen by the company’s regional offices, reach markets not covered by the distribution affiliates.

 

Owned Brands

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

Accounting for more than 70% of YSL Beauté revenues and a substantial proportion of the division’s profit, Yves Saint Laurent offers a full collection of women’s and men’s fragrances, make-up and skincare products. The product offering is trend setting, yet firmly rooted in the values of one of the 20th Century’s great fashion names. This combination of quality, innovation and timelessness provides Yves Saint Laurent outstanding consumer loyalty.

 

Yves Saint Laurent fragrances hold leading positions in the French fragrance market and strong positions in other markets worldwide. The women’s portfolio includes best sellers Opium and Paris d’Yves Saint Laurent, while the most significant men’s lines are Kouros and M7, the latter launched in the Fall of 2002. Sales of both women’s and men’s perfumes increased at a rapid pace in 2002 thanks to strong demand for the pillar lines and the launch of M7.

 

Yves Saint Laurent make-up includes two lines – the original “gold” collection and Ligne Intense, launched last year. In 2002, management enriched the Ligne Intense make-up product offering through a number of new product roll outs: Teint Compact Matité complexion; Lisse Gloss lip stick; and eye ranges Mascara Longueur Intense, Ombre Vibration Duo and Dessin du Regard Haute Tenue. Make-up

 

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recorded double digit growth in 2002 thanks in large part to the development of Ligne Intense.

 

In skincare, Yves Saint Laurent offers face hydrating, nourishing, anti-aging and cleansing products and body firming, slimming and hydrating lines. Yves Saint Laurent develops technologically advanced products in all skincare segments thanks to innovation at YSL Beauté Research and Development. In 2002, Yves Saint Laurent in face care launched a new hydrating line, Hydra Tech, and extended the product of offering of Lisse Expert, and in body care introduced a new exfoliating line, Gommage Action Biologique.

 

Roger & Gallet

 

Roger & Gallet, a leading French luxury toiletries brand, manufactures and distributes eau de cologne, soaps and other fine toiletry products. In 2002, Roger & Gallet launched an eau de toilette, White Reseda, and a fragrant soap, Ginger.

 

Licensed Brands

 

Alexander McQueen

 

YSL Beauté launched the first Alexander McQueen fragrance, the women’s perfume Kingdom, in the Spring of 2003.

 

Ermenegildo Zegna

 

YSL Beauté introduced Essenza di Zegna, the first perfume for men’s fashion house Ermenegildo Zegna, in the Spring of 2003.

 

Fendi

 

Fendi Donna and Theorema Donna are the brand’s two principal women’s fragrances.

 

Oscar de la Renta

 

YSL Beauté launched the women’s fragrance Intrusion in the Spring of 2002 for Oscar de la Renta, a classic name in fashion whose business in primarily in the Americas.

 

Stella McCartney

 

YSL Beauté will launch the first Stella McCartney fragrance in the Fall of 2003.

 

Van Cleef & Arpels

 

YSL Beauté introduced the women’s perfume Murmure, in 2002 for jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels.

 

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Sergio Rossi

 

Founded in San Mauro Pascoli in the 1950’s, Sergio Rossi is one of Italy’s leading designers and producers of luxury women’s shoes. The company’s strong creativity and technical skills make it a reference point for many in the luxury footwear industry.

 

Sergio Rossi shoes, reputed for strong styling and exceptional quality, range from fashion forward women’s footwear to men’s business shoes. The company produces annually more than one-half million pairs of shoes in its own facilities in Italy and in close cooperation with a handful of highly skilled suppliers. Sergio Rossi’s know-how is such that in the past it has manufactured for some of Italy’s leading luxury brands and today produces shoes for Yves Saint Laurent.

 

Women’s shoes, the core business, registered strong growth in 2002 notwithstanding the difficult trading environment. Men’s footwear and leather goods are smaller product categories. Given Sergio Rossi’s expertise in shoe design and production and the Gucci Group’s know-how in leather goods, management aims to develop both the men’s shoes and leather goods business in the years to come.

 

The new store design embodies the core values of the Sergio Rossi brand: sophistication, sensuality and luxury. With sofas and armchairs made of brown suede and pony skin, taupe carpeting of pure wool, cool, grey walls and large bronze, framed mirrors, the retail space creates the atmosphere of a luxurious lounge. In 2002 Sergio Rossi refurbished most of its stores with this modern, elegant design and opened important stores in Milan, London, New York, Beverly Hills and Hawaii. As of January 31, 2003, Sergio Rossi’s distribution network consisted of 40 directly operated stores, several franchisee stores as well as doors in select department and specialty stores.

 

Sergio Rossi in spring 2003 completed construction of a new manufacturing and administrative facility in San Mauro Pascoli (near Rimini).

 

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Boucheron

 

Frédéric Boucheron opened his jewelry shop at the Palais Royal in Paris in 1858; and in 1893 moved to place Vendôme which today is still the home of Boucheron. For nearly 150 years, Boucheron has been designing precious jewelry, watches and perfumes. Boucheron’s primary business was jewelry and this was the case for the four generations from Frédéric Boucheron to Alain Boucheron who headed the company until its marriage with Gucci Group.

 

Gucci Group’s aim has been to rejuvenate and revamp the brand while retaining its spirit and respecting its heritage. The new Boucheron era officially began in July 2002 with the presentation to the international press of its first new collection designed under the creative direction of Solange Azagury-Partridge: Beauté Dangereuse. The collection reflects the new audacious and design conscious positioning of the brand which is reinforced by the new advertising campaign, catalogue, website, packaging and store concept.

 

The original Parisian opulence of the Vendôme store has been retained in the new store concept, which is designed to include also an exotic private salon. Each store has a vitrine dedicated to museum pieces and each year a selected piece from the archives will be reproduced in numbered limited editions. Stores in San Francisco, London, Milan and the Ginza district of Tokyo were all opened in 2002. In 2003 a flagship in New York and a second store in Paris are set to open.

 

In April 2003, Boucheron presented two new watches at the Basel Watch Fair: the MEC, a classic man’s timepiece, and the Reflet Grosgrain, a sophisticated new inspiration of the Reflet created in 1948.

 

In June 2003, a new access line will be launched with the concept of “L’Eau à la Bouche”, introducing gold, the color of molten chocolate.

 

In July, a second new High Jewelry and Jewelry collection will be presented to the press: “Not Bourgeois”. It is aristocratic and bohemian but not bourgeois.

 

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Bédat & Co.

 

Founded in 1996 by Simone and Christian Bédat, Bédat & Co. is a distinct, contemporary and exclusive watch brand, that combines quality with timeless value. Distributed primarily in the United States, Italy and Japan, Bédat & Co. offers a handful of models, best sellers of which include the No 7 and No 3 lines.

 

Bédat & Co.’s select product offering includes models priced from US$ 2,000 to US$ 30,000 for the most exclusive and precious models. Bédat & Co. has created its own quality label (the A.O.S.C.® certificate) to certify the Swiss origin of all product components and production as well as stringent manufacturing standards. An individual serial number for each watch guarantees its authenticity as a Bédat & Co. timepiece.

 

By working with Gucci Group Watches, in 2002 Bédat & Co. enlarged the breadth of its product offering and extended distribution into new markets in Europe and Asia.

 

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Bottega Veneta

 

Founded in 1966 in the Veneto region of Italy, Bottega Veneta is a premier Italian leather goods house known for its signature woven (intrecciato) leather items and use of artisan craftsmanship and fine materials. The name represents an aesthetic that is classic, yet modern.

 

Bottega Veneta became a part of Gucci Group in early 2001. New management and Creative Director Tomas Maier have rejuvenated completely the Bottega Veneta name, repositioning it in its original niche, the prestige segment of the luxury goods market.

 

The Spring/Summer 2002 collection was limited to women’s handbags, shoes and small leather goods, while the Fall/Winter 2002 collection included men’s and women’s bags, shoes, small leather goods, leather ready-to-wear and knitwear. Consumer response to the rejuvenated Bottega Veneta has been excellent.

 

In 2002 Bottega Veneta rolled out a new store design featuring earth color tones and wood paneling, walnut tables and mohair benches. Merchandise is displayed in the windows and on the furniture to give a casual, yet sophisticated feel to the store. At the end of 2002, after having opened stores in key locations, such as Milan, London and Paris, Bottega Veneta had 58 directly operated stores.

 

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Stella McCartney

 

 

The Stella McCartney brand was born in April 2001, when the Gucci Group and Stella McCartney partnered to create a new jointly-owned business. Stella McCartney operates as an independent company under the Gucci Group umbrella, with Stella McCartney exercising full creative control over the brand. She brings to her label a signature style that combines sharp tailoring, humor and sexy femininity.

 

The Company sells its range of womens’ ready-to- wear, shoes, bags, lingerie and jewelry to wholesale clients around the world, as well as through its own directly operated stores. In addition, the company has initiated a womens’ and mens’ bespoke tailoring service from its London flagship. Stella McCartney launched her first eyewear collection in partnership with Safilo in February 2003. Her first fragrance will be launched through YSL Beauté in Fall 2003.

 

Stella McCartney opened its first directly operated store, on 14th Street in mid-town Manhattan, in mid 2002 and its second store, off Bond Street in London, in April 2003. A third store is planned to open in Los Angeles in Fall 2003. Each store is unique and distinguished by Stella’s personal touch.

 

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Alexander McQueen

 

 

In July 2001, Gucci Group and Alexander McQueen entered into partnership. The business – in which the Gucci Group holds 51% and Alexander McQueen the remaining 49% share – aims to establish Alexander McQueen as a global luxury brand. The Company’s initial focus has been on development of a full portfolio of womens’ ready-to-wear and accessories, by building on the designer’s reputation for couture and cutting edge tailoring in ready-to-wear.

 

The business is a true partnership. Alexander McQueen enjoys full control over all aspects of the brand and its image, and the company benefits from Gucci Group’s industrial structure, management know-how and distribution strength. In late 2001 and early 2002, the Company regained total control over the brand by terminating manufacturing and distribution licenses and transferring the development, production and distribution of ready-to-wear, accessories and shoes to Gucci Group teams in Italy, who today work with the label’s London-based creative team.

 

As a complement to the core womens’ business, Alexander McQueen has partnered with leading Savile Row tailors H. Hunstman and Sons, to offer an exclusive Alexander McQueen bespoke menswear line. Alexander McQueen successfully launched its first fragrance, Kingdom, in early 2003 through YSL Beauté. An Alexander McQueen eyewear collection is under development with Safilo for launch towards the end of 2003.

 

The company opened its first directly operated store in the United States, on 14th Street in mid-town Manhattan, in mid 2002. Its second flagship opened in April 2003, in London on Bond Street, while its Milan store, off via Montenapoleone, will open in mid 2003.

 

Alexander McQueen’s collections and fashion shows continue to receive exceptional acclaim from customers, buyers and the press. In Spring 2003, the CFDA recognized Alexander McQueen as “International Designer of the Year” for his recent collections.

 

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Balenciaga

 

 

Balenciaga is one of the great and classic brands of French couture. In 1923, Cristóbal Balenciaga founded the fashion house and over the years from his Paris atelier created some of the most influential haute couture in fashion history. In 1968, Balenciaga closed his atelier, and in subsequent years the label continued primarily as a fragrance house until the mid 1980’s, when the brand’s new owners launched ready-to-wear.

 

Nicolas Ghesquière joined Balenciaga in 1995 and in late 1997 presented his debut collection to critical acclaim. The revitalization of Balenciaga had begun. In July 2001, Gucci Group acquired Balenciaga, and partnered with Nicolas Ghesquière as an important shareholder and Creative Director. As Creative Director, he has control over all aspects of the brand’s creative direction and image. Balenciaga’s tightly edited fashion shows and collections continue to receive wide-spread critical acclaim.

 

With this strong partnership, the company’s aim is to continue to build the Balenciaga name into a global luxury brand with particular recognition in women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and accessories. Balenciaga-branded fragrances are expected to be distributed by the prior owner of the brand until mid-2005, when full control over this product category will revert to Balenciaga.

 

In April 2003, Balenciaga completed the refurbishment of its historic flagship on Avenue Georges V in Paris, featuring a new store concept closely reflecting the strong, modern identity of the brand. In February 2003, Balenciaga opened a flagship store in New York, in lower Manhattan on 22nd Street.

 

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46



 

HUMAN RESOURCES

 

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48



 

Gucci Group strives to attract, hire, motivate and retain the best talent in order to achieve excellence in all aspects of its businesses. We believe that every employee is an ambassador for the Group and its brands, for which we maintain the highest standards of design, quality and service.

 

Our human resources philosophy is rooted in several principles:

 

Merit: We have a flat organizational structure, and employees enjoy a large degree of autonomy in order to meet the challenges and goals of their individual areas of responsibility. The Company offers a work environment that encourages communication and teamwork as well as leadership based on ability and skill rather than on hierarchy.

 

Teamwork: We foster teamwork by stressing the accomplishments of the entire Group rather than the success of an individual brand, manager, product category or distribution channel.

 

Partnerships: The Group maintains a strong and symbiotic relationship with its suppliers, the best of which enter our “partnership” program. We work closely with our suppliers to anticipate and satisfy the demands of our customers, and both employees and suppliers understand that our customers value the high quality and excellence of the Group’s products and services.

 

Transparency: We communicate Company accomplishments and objectives through all divisions, providing employees a framework with which to understand decisions and changes in the organization and with which to align their goals with those of the Group.

 

Entrepreneurialism: We encourage an entrepreneurial culture to allow employees to pursue rapidly opportunities for the Group.

 

Incentive: We ensure employee commitment to and involvement in Group objectives through a career and compensation system that rewards outstanding performance and results. We strive to promote from within, and incentive plans are designed to motivate the work-force and create a sense of partnership at all levels of the organization.

 

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50



 

FINANCIAL REVIEW

 

51



 

REPORT OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD

 

Group Revenues

 

(In millions of Euro(1))

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

By Division

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gucci Division

 

1,536.8

 

60.4

%

1,700.1

 

66.3

%

1,628.8

 

66.2

%

Yves Saint Laurent

 

146.4

 

5.7

%

101.2

 

3.9

%

105.7

 

4.3

%

YSL Beauté

 

549.7

 

21.6

%

518.5

 

20.2

%

584.2

 

23.7

%

Other Operations

 

350.82

 

13.8

%

254.6

(2) 

9.9

%

147.9

(3) 

6.0

%

Interdivisional

 

(39.4

)

(1.5

)%

(9.3

)

(0.3

)%

(5.3

)

(0.2

)%

Total

 

2,544.3

 

100.0

%

2,565.1

 

100.0

%

2,461.3

 

100.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Distribution Channel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Directly Operated Stores

 

1,265.7

 

49.7

%

1,295.8

 

50.5

%

1,196.9

 

48.6

%

Wholesale Distribution

 

1,214.4

 

47.8

%

1,192.8

 

46.5

%

1,184.8

 

48.2

%

Royalties

 

64.2

 

2.5

%

76.5

 

3.0

%

79.6

 

3.2

%

Total

 

2,544.3

 

100.0

%

2,565.1

 

100.0

%

2,461.3

 

100.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Product

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leather Goods

 

824.6

 

32.4

%

871.7

 

34.0

%

750.9

 

30.5

%

Shoes

 

293.6

 

11.5

%

278.1

 

10.8

%

266.9

 

10.8

%

Ready-to-Wear

 

325.0

 

12.8

%

317.9

 

12.4

%

302.1

 

12.3

%

Fragrances

 

398.7

 

15.7

%

391.7

 

15.3

%

427.8

 

17.4

%

Cosmetics

 

160.2

 

6.3

%

146.1

 

5.7

%

141.7

 

5.8

%

Watches

 

220.7

 

8.7

%

259.8

 

10.1

%

264.8

 

10.7

%

Jewelry

 

126.7

 

5.0

%

110.3

 

4.3

%

86.0

 

3.5

%

Other

 

130.6

 

5.1

%

113.0

 

4.4

%

141.5

 

5.8

%

Royalties

 

64.2

 

2.5

%

76.5

 

3.0

%

79.6

 

3.2

%

Total

 

2,544.3

 

100.0

%

2,565.1

 

100.0

%

2,461.3

 

100.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Europe

 

1,082.5

 

42.5

%

1,041.1

 

40.6

%

973.0

 

39.5

%

United States

 

521.2

 

20.5

%

542.8

 

21.2

%

585.7

 

23.8

%

Japan

 

503.1

 

19.8

%

519.2

 

20.2

%

435.0

 

17.7

%

Rest of Asia

 

307.8

 

12.1

%

330.1

 

12.9

%

322.0

 

13.1

%

Rest of World

 

129.7

 

5.1

%

131.9

 

5.1

%

145.6

 

5.9

%

Total

 

2,544.3

 

100.0

%

2,565.1

 

100.0

%

2,461.3

 

100.0

%

 


(1)          Starting from February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. 2001 and 2000 data were converted from US Dollar balances to Euro using the average exchange rate of the respective year.

(2)          Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bottega Veneta, Bédat & Co., Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Industrial Operations

(3)          Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bédat & Co.

 

52



 

(In millions of Euro(1))

 

Gucci
Fashion and
Accessories (2)

 

Gucci
Timepieces

 

Gucci
Division (3)

 

Yves Saint
Laurent

 

YSL
Beauté

 

Others
Operations (4)

 

Corporate

 

Interdivis.
elimination

 

Group

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

1,396.2

 

168.1

 

1,536.8

 

146.4

 

549.7

 

350.8

 

0.0

 

(39.4

)

2,544.3

 

Operating profit (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

402.8

 

44.3

 

447.8

 

(64.8

)

38.6

 

(81.3

)

(33.9

)

(0.5

)

305.8

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

8.4

 

8.2

 

16.7

 

23.1

 

41.1

 

45.5

 

0.0

 

0.0

 

126.4

 

Operating profit (loss)

 

394.4

 

36.1

 

431.1

 

(87.9

)

(2.5

)

(126.8

)

(33.9

)

(0.5

)

179.4

 

Operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

28.8

%

26.4

%

29.1

%

(44.3

)%

7.0

%

(23.1

)%

n/m

 

n/m

 

12.0

%

Operating margin

 

28.2

%

21.5

%

28.0

%

(60.1

)%

(0.5

)%

(36.1

)%

n/m

 

n/m

 

7.1

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

1,530.9

 

206.1

 

1,700.1

 

101.2

 

518.5

 

254.6

 

0.0

 

(9.3

)

2,565.1

 

Operating profit (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

461.2

 

59.4

 

518.3

 

(76.4

)

33.9

 

(41.9

)

(35.6

)

0.2

 

398.6

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

26.6

 

7.7

 

34.2

 

22.3

 

38.2

 

35.5

 

0.0

 

0.0

 

130.2

 

Operating profit (loss)

 

434.6

 

51.7

 

484.1

 

(98.7

)

(4.3

)

(77.4

)

(35.6

)

0.2

 

268.4

 

Operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

30.1

%

28.8

%

30.5

%

(75.5

)%

6.5

%

(16.5

)%

n/m

 

n/m

 

15.5

%

Operating margin

 

28.4

%

25.1

%

28.5

%

(97.6

)%

(0.8

)%

(30.4

)%

n/m

 

n/m

 

10.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

1,440.4

 

227.8

 

1,628.8

 

105.7

 

584.2

 

147.9

 

0.0

 

(5.3

)

2,461.3

 

Operating profit (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

357.8

 

83.0

 

439.9

 

(17.0

)

46.9

 

14.5

 

(39.0

)

(0.2

)

445.1

 

Goodwill and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

trademark amortization

 

9.5

 

6.3

 

15.9

 

20.5

 

40.5

 

13.8

 

0.0

 

0.0

 

90.7

 

Operating profit (loss)

 

348.3

 

76.7

 

424.0

 

(37.5

)

6.4

 

0.7

 

(39.0

)

(0.2

)

354.4

 

Operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

24.8

%

36.4

%

27.0

%

(16.1

)%

8.0

%

9.8

%

n/m

 

n/m

 

18.1

%

Operating margin

 

24.2

%

33.7

%

26.0

%

(35.5

)%

1.1

%

0.4

%

n/m

 

n/m

 

14.4

%

 


(1)          As of February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. 2001 and 2000 data were converted from US Dollar balances to Euro using the average exchange rate of the respective year.

(2)          Gucci Division excluding Gucci Timepieces

(3)          Excludes interdivisional transactions between Gucci Fashion and Accessories and Gucci Timepieces

(4)          2002 and 2001: Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bottega Veneta, Bédat & Co., Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Industrial operations 2000: Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bédat & Co.

 

The “Segment Information” of the notes to the consolidated financial statements contains a segment, “Gucci Group Watches,” which includes Bédat & Co., the wholesale watch activities of Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Boucheron and certain industrial watch activities. As management believes the Group’s performance is best understood through a brand-by-brand analysis, for the purposes of the MD&A it has placed the watch wholesale activities with their respective brands. As a result, the segment data of the consolidated financial results is not identical to that presented in the MD&A.

 

53



 

Introduction

 

The Report of the Management Board is based on the consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with those statements and the related notes herein. The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standards (“IAS”). These accounting standards differ in certain respects from Generally Accepted Accounting Principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), as discussed in Note 23 (page 166) to the consolidated financial statements and the section “Reconciliation of IAS with U.S. GAAP” (page 111) of the MD&A.

 

On February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency, and the financial statements for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2003 were prepared using the Euro. The financial statements for the fiscal years ended January 31, 2002 and January 31, 2001 were prepared using the US Dollar and simply translated from that currency to the Euro applying historical exchange rates (average period exchange rates for the consolidated statements of income and cash flow; end period exchange rates for the consolidated balance sheets). Management did not re-prepare these fiscal year financial statements using the Euro because such calculations would have altered the results of these years.

 

The discussion and analysis of “2001 vs. 2000” results (pages 82-94) is based on the Group’s Euro denominated accounts. Because the discussion and analysis of “2001 vs. 2000” results appearing in the 2001 Annual Report was based on US Dollar denominated financial accounts, certain growth rate calculations in the current analysis of “2001 vs. 2000” differ from those published in the 2001 Annual Report.

 

Because of the significant amortization of goodwill and trademarks as well as the impact of restructuring charges related to the Group’s acquisitions, management regularly evaluates the performance of both the Group and individual divisions utilizing the following measures (as defined herein), believing these measures are valuable in assessing the Company’s financial performance: operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization; operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization; after tax adjusted net results; funds from operations. Management also believes the following items (as defined herein) are useful in calculating Return on Invested Capital (“ROIC”), an important additional measure used by management to assess the Company’s financial performance: theoretical interest expense on non-capitalized leases; adjusted operating profit; Net Adjusted Operating Profit After Tax (“NAOPAT”); invested capital.

 

54



 

The reader should know that the above measurements are not contemplated by IAS or U.S. GAAP and are not substitutes or necessarily superior measures of operating income, net income, cash flows and other indicators of financial performance as defined by either IAS  or U.S. GAAP. Furthermore, these measures as defined by the Group may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other companies.

 

The Company made a number of acquisitions in 2002, 2001 and 2000. The results of the acquired companies are included in the Group’s operations as of the acquisition date. The Company’s 2002, 2001 and 2000 fiscal years ended on January 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively.

 

Safe Harbor Provisions

 

Under the safe harbor provisions to the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements or projections made by the Company, including those made in this document, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Factors that may affect the Company’s operations are discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for 2001, as amended, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Risk Factors

 

A number of important factors could adversely or otherwise affect the Group’s future results, the level of orders for the Company’s collections and budgeted expenditures. These factors include, among others:

 

•     Brand recognition: The Company’s financial performance in the luxury goods market is influenced by the success of its brands, which, in turn, depends on factors such as product design, the distinct character of the products, the materials used to make the products, the image of the Company’s stores, marketing, advertising expenditure, the quality of advertising, public relations initiatives including fashion shows and general  corporate profile.

 

•     Management of businesses and acquisitions: The Company’s financial success depends to a significant degree upon management’s ability to generate growth and profitability from each Group brand and to integrate newly-acquired companies into the Group structure such that these businesses achieve satisfactory levels of revenues, earnings and cash flows.

 

55



 

      Competition: The Company faces substantial competition in all product lines and markets in which it competes. The Company competes with well-known, high quality, international luxury goods companies such as Armani, Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel, Christian Dior, Ferragamo, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Prada, international prestige perfume, cosmetic and skincare groups such as Estée Lauder, l’Oréal and Shiseido as well as a large number of other international and regional purveyors of some or all of the types of products distributed by the Company.

 

      Adverse economic or political conditions: Downturns in general economic conditions or uncertainties regarding future economic prospects historically have affected adversely sales by luxury goods companies, including Gucci Group sales. Accordingly, such downturns or uncertainties in the future could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition or results of operations. Levels of consumer confidence are largely dependent on changes in disposable income and perceptions of and reactions to economic events, such as currency devaluation that make luxury goods more expensive, changes in levels of unemployment and taxation and the risks of inflation or deflation. Since the Company distributes its products internationally, a significant decline in the general economy or in consumers’ attitudes in a region - Europe, particularly Italy; the United States; Japan; and certain Asian markets, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea - could also have a material adverse impact on the Company. A substantial amount of the Company’s sales are generated by customers travelling abroad, particularly from Japan, other Asian countries, Europe and the United States. Consequently, adverse economic conditions, political situations (such as the war in Iraq) or other events (such as the travel advisories issued by the World Health Organization in connection with the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)) that result in a shift in travel patterns or a decline in travel volumes also could materially adversely affect the Company’s financial results.

 

      Interest rate and currency rate fluctuations: Changes in interest rates – particularly Euro, US, Swiss and Japanese rates – could affect materially the Company’s interest income and expense. The Company’s substantial net cash position, as of January 31, 2003, implies that declines in global interest rates – particularly Euro rates – would result in lower net interest income. The Company operates in many parts of the world and, as a result, its business can be affected by fluctuations in exchange rates. While the Company engages in foreign exchange hedging activities, it does not hedge long-term foreign exchange risks, nor is it permitted by IAS and U.S. GAAP to hedge its Euro denominated cost of sales. The Company’s business and financial results therefore could be adversely affected by fluctuations

 

56



 

in exchange rates, such as a strengthening of the Euro relative to the US Dollar and Japanese Yen, or a weakening of other currencies against the Euro, particularly if any such exchange rate movements persist. The Company changed its reporting currency to the Euro from the US Dollar on February 1, 2002. Consequently, as from this date the most significant exchange rate risk to which the Company is exposed is potential weakness of currencies in which a significant portion of its revenues are denominated – such as the US Dollar, the Japanese Yen, the English Pound and the Swiss Franc – compared to the Euro.

 

Group Results

 

Gucci Group achieved solid operating results in 2002, notwithstanding exceptionally challenging trading conditions: economic stagnation in the United States, Europe and Japan and precipitous falls in travel and tourism stemming from the threat of terrorism and, in the second half of 2002, the potential of war in Iraq. Group revenues were € 2,544.3 million in 2002, compared to € 2,565.1 million in 2001, a decline caused principally by lower revenues at the Gucci Division. The Company’s gross margin remained robust, 68.5% in 2002 compared to 69.8% in 2001, thanks in large part to continued gross margin strength at the Gucci Division and YSL Beauté and gross margin improvement at Yves Saint Laurent.

 

The Group’s operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization declined to € 305.8 million (12.0% margin) in 2002 from € 398.6 million (15.5% margin) in 2001 mainly as a result of: i) a decline in the Gucci Division’s operating profit before goodwill amortization to € 447.8 million (29.1% margin) from € 518.3 million (30.5% margin); and ii) an increase in the operating loss before goodwill and trademark amortization to € 81.3 million from € 41.9 million at the “other operations.” After goodwill and trademark amortization, the Group’s operating profit was € 179.4 million (7.1% margin) in 2002, against € 268.4 million (10.5% margin) in 2001.

 

The Group’s acquisitions in the period 1999-2002 and the application of International Accounting Standards caused goodwill and trademark amortization and restructuring expenses to have a significant impact on net income in 2002, 2001 and 2000. It should be noted that goodwill and trademark amortization has been calculated applying a maximum 20-year useful life as required by the SEC’s interpretation of International Accounting Standards and that this maximum useful life period is shorter than that allowed by U.S. GAAP and other national accounting standards. Management believes the maximum 20-year amortization period understates the useful life of certain of the Company’s trademarks

 

57



 

and related goodwill and, consequently, it has applied a 40-year amortization period to these assets in the reconciliation to U.S. GAAP. Moreover, starting in 2002, upon implementation of the requirements of FAS 142, the Company has ceased to amortize for U.S. GAAP purposes the trademark Yves Saint Laurent as well as the goodwill connected to all acquired companies. In addition management notes that, under U.S. GAAP, a significant portion of restructuring expenses incurred in 2000 would have been reflected in the purchase accounting of the acquisitions. Accordingly, this accounting treatment of the charges would have eliminated much of the impact of restructuring costs on Group net income that year and increased goodwill and, only marginally, subsequent goodwill amortization.

 

The Company reported net income of € 226.8 million in 2002 and € 312.5 million in 2001. In order to evaluate further the Group’s performance, management analyzes net income excluding the impact of goodwill and trademark amortization and restructuring charges. Goodwill and trademark amortization, net of tax, was € 101.3 million in 2002  and € 104.5 million in 2001. Restructuring charges, net of tax, were nil in 2002 and € 0.4 million in 2001. Excluding goodwill and trademark amortization and restructuring charges, management calculates the Group’s after tax adjusted net income was € 328.1 million in 2002 and € 417.4 million in 2001.

 

(In millions of Euro(1) except per share and share amounts)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income reported

 

226.8

 

312.5

 

366.9

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization, net of tax

 

101.3

 

104.5

 

68.5

 

Restructuring charges, net of tax

 

0.0

 

0.4

 

62.9

 

Net income adjusted (2)

 

328.1

 

417.4

 

498.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income per share reported – diluted basis

 

2.21

 

3.08

 

3.61

 

Net income per share adjusted (2) – diluted basis

 

3.20

 

4.11

 

4.90

 

Average number of shares – diluted basis (million)

 

102.4

 

101.5

 

101.6

 

 


(1)          Starting from February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. 2001 and 2000 data were converted from US Dollar balances to Euro using the average exchange rate of the respective year.

(2)          Excluding goodwill and trademark amortization, net of tax, and restructuring charges, net of tax.

 

58



 

RETURN ON INVESTED CAPITAL

 

Management believes after tax cash operating returns to be the most important measure in valuing the Company’s financial performance and a key variable in determining long-term share price performance. The Group therefore strives to maximize after tax Return On Invested Capital (“ROIC”), an objective it aims to accomplish through: i) long-term revenue growth; ii) strict cost control; iii) an optimal fiscal structure; and iv) modest invested capital.

 

      Revenue Growth: As strong brand equity is critical to turnover growth, the Group offers only high quality, distinctive merchandise at prices and points of sale appropriate for each brand. The Company avoids inappropriate proliferation of product and points of sale in order to protect each brand, despite the short-term financial gains such a policy could offer.

 

•     Cost Control: The Group maintains strict control of costs in an effort to maximize margins, and when appropriate invests the related savings in areas such as communication and distribution, critical to revenue growth.

 

•     Fiscal Structure: Taxes, a cash outflow, diminish shareholder returns, and accordingly the Group seeks to achieve an optimal fiscal structure, while respecting relevant legal requirements in the jurisdictions in which it operates.

 

•     Invested Capital: The Company aims to minimize capital employed. The Group believes strong merchandising and efficient systems help ensure rapid working capital turnover, while attention to store performance (namely, sales densities) and production help maximize the revenues-fixed asset ratio.

 

In its calculation of return on invested capital, management focuses solely on operating assets and liabilities. Accordingly, operating earnings exclude net interest income, working capital excludes cash and cash equivalents and short-term debt and invested capital includes the present value of fixed rent store operating leases. The capitalization of the present value of store operating leases implies, in theory, lower lease costs. Management adjusts for the theoretical reduction in lease costs by adding back to operating profit the theoretical interest expense of the non-capitalized leases.

 

59



 

 

 

2002

 

2001*

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

Gucci Division

 

Group

 

Gucci Division

 

Group

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

1,536.8

 

2,544.3

 

1,700.1

 

2,565.1

 

Operating profit

 

431.1

 

179.4

 

484.1

 

268.4

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

16.7

 

126.4

 

34.2

 

130.2

 

Operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

447.8

 

305.8

 

518.3

 

398.6

 

Theoretical interest expense non-capitalized leases (1)

 

17.2

 

37.2

 

15.8

 

22.6

 

Adjusted operating profit

 

465.0

 

343.0

 

534.1

 

421.2

 

Income tax expense

 

118.2

 

71.1

 

132.6

 

99.4

 

Net adjusted operating profit after tax (NAOPAT)

 

346.8

 

271.9

 

401.5

 

321.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Working capital (2)

 

299.7

 

571.8

 

255.9

 

451.1

 

Fixed assets (3)

 

594.5

 

1,288.9

 

586.1

 

1,004.0

 

Goodwill and trademarks (4)

 

194.4

 

1,780.2

 

190.2

 

1,759.1

 

Present value of obligations under fixed rent operating leases (5)

 

313.2

 

677.2

 

286.9

 

411.6

 

Invested capital – year end

 

1,401.8

 

4,318.1

 

1,319.1

 

3,625.8

 

Invested capital – year average

 

1,360.5

 

3,971.9

 

1,168.4

 

3,122.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating margin

 

28.1

%

7.1

%

28.5

%

10.5

%

Operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

29.1

%

12.0

%

30.5

%

15.5

%

Effective tax rate on adjusted operating profit (6)

 

25.4

%

20.7

%

24.8

%

23.6

%

NAOPAT margin

 

22.6

%

10.7

%

23.6

%

12.5

%

Revenues-Invested capital ratio (year average)

 

1.13

0.64

1.46

0.82

ROIC (7)

 

25.5

%

6.8

%

34.4

%

10.3

%

 


*                 Starting from February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. 2001 income statement and balance sheet items were converted from US Dollar to Euro using the year-average and the year-end exchange rate, respectively. Due to currency translation, 2001 Euro-denominated ratios may differ slightly from previously reported US Dollar-denominated ratios.

(1)          Non-capitalized leases calculated using current market interest rates; theoretical interest expense calculated at a 5.5% borrowing cost

(2)          Current assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents and fair market value of hedge derivatives) minus current liabilities (excluding short-term debt)

(3)          Excludes goodwill and trademarks as well as long-term financial assets

(4)          Gross value (does not consider accumulated amortization); net of non-cash deferred tax

(5)          Calculated using current market interest rates

(6)          Calculated applicable effective tax rate on adjusted operating profit (excludes restructuring expenses; goodwill and trademark amortization; financial income)

(7)          NAOPAT divided by the year average invested capital

 

60



 

Group ROIC

 

The Group’s 2002 ROIC reflects the full year consolidation of the Gucci Division, Yves Saint Laurent, YSL Beauté, Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bédat & Co., Bottega Veneta and certain industrial businesses acquired in 2001.

 

The Group’s 2001 ROIC reflects the full year consolidation of the Gucci Division, Yves Saint Laurent, YSL Beauté, Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bédat & Co., as well as the eleven month consolidation of Bottega Veneta, the ten month consolidation of Luxury Timepieces Design (“LTD”), and the six month consolidation of other businesses acquired in 2001.

 

NAOPAT: Management calculates that the Group’s Net Adjusted Operating Profit After Tax (“NAOPAT”) margin declined to 10.7% in 2002 from 12.5% in 2001 mainly as a result of lower profit at the Gucci Division and increased losses at the Group’s Other Operations.

 

Revenues-Invested capital ratio (year average): The Group’s revenues-to-year average invested capital ratio decreased to 0.64x in 2002 from 0.82x in 2001 owing to the decline in revenues and higher working capital, fixed assets (fixtures and fittings) and lease commitments related to the opening of new stores and the development of the Group’s newer and emerging brands.

 

ROIC: The Group’s after tax Return On the year average Invested Capital decreased to 6.8% in 2002 from 10.3% in 2001 as a result of the combined impact of the decline in the Group NAOPAT margin and the lower revenues-to-invested capital ratio.

 

Gucci Division ROIC

 

The Gucci Division achieved solid after tax ROIC, 25.5%, which compared to 34.4% in 2001.

 

NAOPAT: Notwithstanding the difficult trading conditions and owing to a strong gross margin and a proportional decline in selling, general and administrative expenses from aggressive cost control, Gucci generated an operating margin before goodwill amortization of 29.1% in 2002, compared to a 30.5% margin in 2001. The effective tax rate was 25.4% in 2002, compared to 24.8% in 2001. The combination of lower profitability and modestly higher effective tax rate lowered the Gucci Division’s NAOPAT margin to 22.6% in 2002 from 23.6% in 2001.

 

Revenues-Invested capital ratio (year average): The revenues-to-invested capital ratio declined to 1.13x in 2002 from 1.46x in 2001, mainly as a result of: i) lower revenues;

 

61



 

and ii) an increase in working capital, stemming mainly from lower non-operating current liabilities and an increase in average invested capital deriving principally from the opening of new stores during late 2001 and 2002, including important flagship locations in Milan, Paris, London, New York and Honolulu.

 

Management strongly believes that control of product development and distribution (primarily through directly-operated stores and limited wholesale activities) is paramount to Gucci’s continuing success and therefore may consider buying real estate, franchise activities and suppliers in the future. Thanks to Gucci’s consistently strong margins and relatively low capital intensity, management believes that through global brand equity, attractive product, systematic communication and good execution, the business should be able to maintain current levels of ROIC in the coming years. In addition, capital expenditure for stores is expected to decline in 2003 and future years compared to the levels incurred in 2001 and 2002. Therefore, Gucci will be positioned to improve its ROIC if future profits increase in connection with possible future revenue growth.

 

Other Divisions ROIC

 

Management considers Yves Saint Laurent’s ROIC not meaningful in 2002 and 2001 given the reported operating losses. Management believes that in the future, after a period of losses sustained to rejuvenate and rebuild the brand equity, the product collections and the distribution network of Yves Saint Laurent, the business should generate operating earnings and positive ROIC.

 

Management calculates YSL Beauté’s ROIC at approximately 4% in 2002 and in 2001. Excluding goodwill and trademarks from invested capital, management calculates that YSL Beauté’s ROIC would have been approximately 12% in 2002 and approximately 14% in 2001.

 

Given the number of new divisions acquired and re-launched in 2000-2002, the Group’s “Other Operations” made substantial investments in 2002 while incurring losses, which reduced the Group’s overall ROIC. Management expects the losses of these operations to begin to diminish in 2003 and that most, if not all, will become profitable in the medium term. If these divisions achieve profitability, the Group’s overall ROIC should improve substantially.

 

62



 

2002 vs. 2001

 

Gucci Division

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Revenues

 

1,536.8

 

100.0

%

1,700.1

 

100.0

%

1,628.8

 

100.0

%

Gross profit

 

1,093.1

 

71.1

%

1,223.6

 

72.0

%

1,120.1

 

68.8

%

Operating profit before goodwill amortization

 

447.8

 

29.1

%

518.3

 

30.5

%

439.9

 

27.0

%

Goodwill amortization

 

16.7

 

1.1

%

34.2

 

2.0

%

15.9

 

1.0

%

Operating profit

 

431.1

 

28.0

%

484.1

 

28.5

%

424.0

 

26.0

%

 

In 2002 the Gucci Division produced robust financial results notwithstanding an exceptionally difficult trading environment characterized by sluggish economic growth in the United States, Europe and Japan and sharp declines in travel and tourism brought on by the continued threat of terrorism and, beginning in summer 2002, the possibility of war in Iraq. Revenues were approximately € 1.5 billion; the gross margin exceeded 71%; and the operating margin before goodwill amortization surpassed 29%, approaching management’s beginning year target of 30%. Management attributes this strong performance to a combination of factors, including Gucci’s strong brand equity, collections with wide consumer appeal, a highly profitable global directly-operated store network, excellent customer service, adept inventory management to achieve high levels of full price sell-through and strict cost control.

 

63



 

Revenues

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

By Distribution Channel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Directly Operated Stores

 

1,067.2

 

69.5

%

1,162.6

 

68.4

%

1,120.3

 

68.8

%

Wholesale Distribution

 

267.8

 

17.4

%

298.8

 

17.6

%

253.5

 

15.5

%

Timepiece Distribution

 

153.9

 

10.0

%

186.0

 

10.9

%

208.2

 

12.8

%

Royalties

 

47.6

 

3.1

%

51.4

 

3.0

%

43.8

 

2.7

%

Interdivisional

 

0.3

 

0.0

%

1.3

 

0.1

%

3.0

 

0.2

%

Total

 

1,536.8

 

100.0

%

1,700.1

 

100.0

%

1,628.8

 

100.0

%

By Product

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leather Goods

 

741.5

 

48.2

%

833.5

 

49.0

%

745.1

 

45.8

%

Shoes

 

180.5

 

11.7

%

188.2

 

11.1

%

194.2

 

11.9

%

Ready-to-Wear

 

216.9

 

14.1

%

249.9

 

14.7

%

242.8

 

14.9

%

Watches

 

186.2

 

12.1

%

223.6

 

13.2

%

252.9

 

15.5

%

Jewelry

 

97.0

 

6.3

%

83.4

 

4.9

%

69.8

 

4.3

%

Other

 

66.8

 

4.5

%

68.8

 

4.0

%

77.2

 

4.7

%

Royalties

 

47.6

 

3.1

%

51.4

 

3.0

%

43.8

 

2.7

%

Interdivisional

 

0.3

 

0.0

%

1.3

 

0.1

%

3.0

 

0.2

%

Total

 

1,536.8

 

100.0

%

1,700.1

 

100.0

%

1,628.8

 

100.0

%

By Region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Europe

 

501.6

 

32.6

%

525.4

 

30.9

%

495.4

 

30.4

%

United States

 

321.7

 

20.9

%

387.2

 

22.8

%

430.0

 

26.4

%

Japan

 

408.3

 

26.6

%

441.3

 

26.0

%

365.8

 

22.5

%

Rest of Asia

 

266.9

 

17.4

%

300.2

 

17.6

%

291.1

 

17.9

%

Rest of World

 

38.0

 

2.5

%

44.7

 

2.6

%

43.5

 

2.6

%

Interdivisional

 

0.3

 

0.0

%

1.3

 

0.1

%

3.0

 

0.2

%

Total

 

1,536.8

 

100.0

%

1,700.1

 

100.0

%

1,628.8

 

100.0

%

 

Gucci Division revenues were € 1,536.8 million in 2002, compared to € 1,700.1 million in 2001 (-9.6%). The aforementioned difficult political economic environment caused Gucci to experience revenue declines across most of its product categories and major markets.

 

The Gucci Division operates two business divisions: Gucci Fashion and Accessories and Gucci Timepieces.

 

64



 

•     Gucci Fashion and Accessories merchandise, produced nearly exclusively in Italy, is sold primarily through directly-operated stores (“DOS”) and limited wholesale distribution channels, including mono-brand franchise stores, luxury department and specialty stores and fine travel retailers.

 

•     Gucci Timepieces, part of Gucci Group Watches, manufactures in Switzerland and distributes watches to Gucci directly-operated stores as well as to select department stores, timepiece specialty stores and travel retailers throughout the world.

 

Gucci Fashion and Accessories Revenues

Gucci Fashion and Accessories revenues were € 1,396.2 million in 2002, compared to € 1,530.9 million in 2001 (-8.8%).

 

Retail sales amounted to € 1,067.2 million in 2002, compared to € 1,162.6 million in 2001 (-8.2%). An analysis of constant-currency retail sales growth – which management believes is the best indicator of brand performance - shows positive trends in those markets furthest from economic malaise and the threat of terrorism and war, the Far East, and negative trends in those markets most affected by the harsh political-economic environment, United States and Europe. In full year 2002 retail sales on a constant currency basis increased 9.0% in Taiwan, 19.5% in South Korea and 0.3% in Japan, while having declined 7.4% in Europe and 14.7% in the United States. Within the United States Gucci saw constant currency retail sales decrease 17.4% in Hawaii and 14.1% on the mainland as economic stagnation led to lower demand in such key markets as New York and Beverly Hills.

 

Gucci finished 2002 with 174 DOS, compared to 163 at the end of 2001. In 2002 the Company opened 19 stores (5 in Europe, including a flagship on Avenue Montaigne in Paris; 5 in the United States, including important stores on Madison Avenue in New York and in Honu Hawaii; 6 in Japan; and 3 in non-Japan Asia, including a flagship in Taipei). Gucci closed 8 stores in 2002. Selling square footage in directly-operated stores was 504,039 on January 31, 2003, compared to 422,488 on January 31, 2002. As a result of the decrease in retail sales globally, the increased selling surface as well as Euro appreciation vis-a-vis the US Dollar and Japanese yen, Gucci’s sales per square foot (as calculated using the weighted average square footage during the year) declined to € 2,347 in 2002 from € 3,162 in 2001.

 

65



 

Wholesale turnover - sales to department and specialty stores, duty-free retailers and franchisees - decreased 10.4% to € 267.8 million in 2002 from € 298.8 million in 2001 owing mainly to the sharp 38.0% fall in sales to duty-free and travel retailers, caused primarily by the significant decline in their business in the aftermath of the events of September 11, 2001. Sales to franchisees and specialty and department stores were stable in 2002 compared to 2001. The number of franchise boutiques was 31 as of January 31, 2003, following the closure of certain stores in the Americas and the Middle East. Points-of-sale in duty-free numbered approximately 25 as of January 31, 2003.

 

Royalty income declined to € 47.6 million in 2002 from € 51.4 million in 2001 due primarily to modestly lower sales of Gucci-brand eyewear.

 

Sales of leather goods, Gucci’s largest product category, declined 11.0% to € 741.5 million as weak local customer demand and declining tourism led to lower sales of handbags and small leather goods. Sales of luggage increased in 2002 thanks in part to good demand for totes and messenger bags. Ready-to-wear sales declined 13.2% to € 216.9 million owing primarily to lower demand in Europe and the United States, two large markets for Gucci apparel. Shoe sales declined 4.1% to € 180.5 million, comparatively good performance that derived from the greater breadth and quality of the 2002 collections. Jewelry sales advanced 16.3% to € 97.0 million on an expansion of the collections to include more exclusive merchandise and continued strong growth in Japan. Wholesale doors for jewelry, limited to the most exclusive points of sale, numbered approximately 295 at the end of 2002.

 

Gucci Timepieces Revenues

Gucci Timepieces revenues declined 18.4% to € 168.1 million from € 206.1 million in 2001. Sales of Gucci brand watches to third party customers, € 153.9 million in 2002 compared to € 186.0 million in 2001, declined 17.3% owing to particularly difficult trading globally and policies implemented by department and  specialty stores to minimize inventory levels.

 

In the course of 2002, management continued to shift the mix to higher price point product, while reducing volumes as a means of increasing exclusivity. Watch unit turnover was approximately 510,000 in 2002 compared to 621,000 in 2001; the average retail sales price reached US$ 685 in 2002, compared to approximately US$ 630 in 2001.

 

66



 

Gross Profit

The Gucci Division gross margin was 71.1% in 2002, compared to 72.0% in 2001.

 

•     At Gucci Fashion and Accessories, the gross margin declined to 69.5% from 70.9% in 2001 owing principally to: i) negative operating leverage; ii) the decline in high margin leather goods sales; iii) modestly higher levels of mark-downs; and iv) the appreciation of the Euro compared to the US Dollar and the Japanese Yen.

 

      Gucci Timepieces gross margin was 71.7% in 2002, compared to 71.0% in 2001, a slight decline attributable mainly to negative operating leverage and an evolution in the product mix.

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Revenues

 

1,536.8

 

100.0

%

1,700.1

 

100.0

%

1,628.8

 

100.0

%

Store

 

338.5

 

22.0

%

355.9

 

20.9

%

331.3

 

20.3

%

General & Administrative(1)

 

176.9

 

11.5

%

198.4

 

11.7

%

198.2

 

12.2

%

Communication

 

79.9

 

5.2

%

100.2

 

5.9

%

102.2

 

6.3

%

Selling

 

29.1

 

1.9

%

27.6

 

1.6

%

28.0

 

1.7

%

Shipping & Handling

 

20.9

 

1.4

%

23.2

 

1.4

%

20.5

 

1.3

%

Selling, General & Administrative

 

645.3

 

42.0

%

705.3

 

41.5

%

680.2

 

41.8

%

 


(1)  General and administrative includes MIS, samples and design expenses

 

      Store expenses increased to 31.7% of retail turnover in 2002 from 30.6% in 2001 as a result mainly of higher fixed rent and depreciation due to the opening and expansion of stores in Europe and the United States. Variable rent declined in absolute and relative terms owing mainly to the lower sales in Japan, where shops-in-shop operate on a variable rent structure. Personnel and other costs declined because of both the variable nature of these expenses and management’s cost control initiatives, including the reduction of store personnel effected in December 2001.

 

67



 

Store expenses

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Store revenues

 

1,067.2

 

100.0

%

1,162.6

 

100.0

%

1,120.3

 

100.0

%

Personnel

 

92.2

 

8.6

%

99.3

 

8.5

%

94.3

 

8.4

%

Fixed rent

 

58.5

 

5.5

%

55.4

 

4.8

%

48.6

 

4.4

%

Variable rent

 

88.3

 

8.3

%

91.6

 

7.9

%

84.9

 

7.6

%

Depreciation and amortization

 

40.0

 

3.8

%

37.1

 

3.2

%

32.7

 

2.9

%

Other

 

59.5

 

5.5

%

72.5

 

6.2

%

70.8

 

6.3

%

Store expenses

 

338.5

 

31.7

%

355.9

 

30.6

%

331.3

 

29.6

%

 

      Management cut general and administrative expenses by € 21.5 million (to 11.5% of revenues in 2002 from 11.7% in 2001) by reducing discretionary expenses and lowering headcount – particularly in the United States in the course of fall 2001.

 

•     Communication – which includes advertising as well as the cost of fashion shows, special events, store displays and other communication and public relations initiatives – declined to € 79.9 million (5.2% of revenues) in 2002 from € 100.2 million (5.9% of revenues) in 2001. Management believes that the 2002 level of expenditures, in combination with the amounts spent by licensees on marketing and with the significant editorial coverage from fashion shows and public relations, generates a level of public exposure for Gucci that adequately supports the brand’s long-term revenue and profit growth.

 

•     Selling expenses (mainly wholesale distribution and showroom expenses) in 2002 where broadly stable compared to those in 2001, while shipping and handling expenses declined  owing mainly to cost control and the decline in wholesale sales.

 

Operating Profit

The Gucci Division operating profit before goodwill amortization was € 447.8 million in 2002, compared to € 518.3 million in 2001. Management considers the operating margin before goodwill amortization reached in 2002, 29.1% (30.5% in 2001), to be a strong performance given the decline of revenues and a reflection of its ability to manage for profit through trying economic circumstances.

 

Gucci Fashion and Accessories’ operating profit before goodwill amortization declined to € 402.8 million from € 461.2 million in 2001 owing to lower revenues. However, as a result of the reduction of costs, the operating margin before goodwill amortization was held

 

68



 

at 28.8% in 2002, compared to 30.1% in 2001. At Gucci Timepieces, lower sales and the attendant negative operating leverage led to a decline in the operating profit before goodwill amortization to € 44.3 million (26.4% margin) in 2002 from € 59.4 million (28.8% margin) in 2001.

 

Goodwill amortization at the Gucci Division was € 16.7 million in 2002, compared to € 34.2 million in 2001. At Gucci Fashion and Accessories, goodwill amortization fell to € 8.4 million in 2002 from € 26.6 million in 2001 because the goodwill related to the acquisition of the women’s ready-to-wear production activity in late 2000 was fully amortized as of January 31, 2002. Goodwill amortization at Gucci Timepieces was € 8.2 million in 2002, compared to € 7.7 million in 2001.

 

After amortization of goodwill, the Gucci Division operating profit was € 431.1 million in 2002 (28.0% margin), compared to € 484.1 million (28.5% margin) in 2001. At Gucci Fashion and Accessories, the operating profit was € 394.4 million (28.2% margin) in 2002, compared to € 434.6 million (28.4% margin) in 2001, while at Gucci Timepieces the operating profit was € 36.1 million (21.5% margin) in 2002, compared to € 51.7 million (25.1% margin) in 2001.

 

Yves Saint Laurent brand

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

146.4

 

26.9

%

101.2

 

21.5

%

YSL Beauté

 

397.4

 

73.1

%

369.8

 

78.5

%

Revenues

 

543.8

 

100.0

%

471.0

 

100.0

%

Operating (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(31.3

)

(5.8

)%

(51.9

)

(11.1

%)

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

57.1

 

10.5

%

57.9

 

12.3

%

Operating (loss)

 

(88.4

)

(16.3

)%

(109.8

)

(23.4

%)

 

The activities of Yves Saint Laurent are included in two segments - “Yves Saint Laurent,” the ready-to-wear and accessories division; and “YSL Beauté,” which operates the brand’s fragrance, cosmetics and skincare business – which are discussed in detail below. In order to allow the reader to appreciate the importance of Yves Saint Laurent within the Gucci Group, the above table presents the brand’s combined revenues and operating results from the two segments.

 

69



 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Revenues

 

146.4

 

100.0

%

101.2

 

100.0

%

105.7

 

100.0

%

Gross profit

 

85.1

 

58.1

%

54.6

 

54.0

%

72.9

 

69.0

%

Operating (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(64.8

)

(44.3

)%

(76.4

)

(75.5

)%

(17.0

)

(16.1

)%

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

23.1

 

15.8

%

22.3

 

22.1

%

20.5

 

19.4

%

Operating (loss)

 

(87.9

)

(60.1

)%

(98.7

)

(97.6

)%

(37.5

)

(35.5

)%

 

2002 was a year of exceptional growth and development for Yves Saint Laurent. Critically acclaimed Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter collections and the successful development of leather goods and other accessory lines increased revenues by 44.7%. Retail sales advanced 81.0% on a constant currency basis in 2002.

 

During 2002, the brand’s position in the luxury goods market strengthened significantly. In mid 2002, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) recognized Tom Ford as Accessories Designer of the Year for his work at Yves Saint Laurent (which followed the honor of Ready-to-wear Designer of the Year in 2001). Management significantly enhanced the product offering, not only in women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, but also in accessories. The leather goods collection expanded substantially with the launch of Mombasa in Spring 2002 and the introduction of the Colonial and Marquise lines in Fall 2002. Following the license agreement signed with Safilo in 2001, Yves Saint Laurent launched eyewear globally in Spring 2002. Control of the brand increased further as management cut unwanted contracts with certain licensees to 6 at year end 2002 from 15 at year end 2001 and expanded significantly retail and wholesale distribution.  The number of directly-operated stores was 48 as of January 31, 2003, compared to 43 on January 31, 2002. In the course of 2002, Yves Saint Laurent opened a number of large stores, including a 10,000 square foot flagship on via Montenapoleone in Milan. Yves Saint Laurent’s strong sales growth and increasing brand equity reinforced its position with leading US and European department and specialty stores, which by year end 2002 had made significant investments in the brand by building approximately 30 “hard format” shops-in-shop, often at their own expense and in prime locations in their stores.

 

70



 

Revenues

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

By Distribution Channel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Directly Operated Stores

 

83.0

 

56.7

%

47.4

 

46.8

%

34.3

 

32.5

%

of which Rive Gauche

 

83.0

 

56.7

%

47.4

 

46.8

%

24.6

 

23.3

%

of which other

 

0.0

 

0.0

%

0.0

 

0.0

%

9.7

 

9.2

%

Wholesale Distribution

 

50.4

 

34.4

%

32.3

 

31.9

%

35.5

 

33.6

%

of which Rive Gauche

 

50.4

 

34.4

%

32.3

 

31.9

%

19.9

 

18.9

%

of which other

 

0.0

 

0.0

%

0.0

 

0.0

%

15.6

 

14.7

%

Royalties

 

12.9

 

8.8

%

21.4

 

21.2

%

35.6

 

33.7

%

Interdivisional

 

0.1

 

0.1

%

0.1

 

0.1

%

0.3

 

0.2

%

Total

 

146.4

 

100.0

%

101.2

 

100.0

%

105.7

 

100.0

%

By Product

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ready-to-Wear

 

81.1

 

55.4

%

60.0

 

59.4

%

59.4

 

56.2

%

of which Rive Gauche

 

81.1

 

55.4

%

60.0

 

59.4

%

38.7

 

36.6

%

of which other

 

0.0

 

0.0

%

0.0

 

0.0

%

20.7

 

19.6

%

Leather goods

 

31.2

 

21.3

%

8.4

 

8.3

%

3.5

 

3.3

%

Shoes

 

15.8

 

10.8

%

9.0

 

8.9

%

0.3

 

0.3

%

Other accessories

 

5.3

 

3.6

%

2.3

 

2.1

%

1.0

 

1.0

%

Other

 

0.0

 

0.0

%

0.0

 

0.0

%

5.6

 

5.3

%

Royalties

 

12.9

 

8.8

%

21.4

 

21.2

%

35.6

 

33.7

%

Interdivisional

 

0.1

 

0.1

%

0.1

 

0.1

%

0.3

 

0.2

%

Total

 

146.4

 

100.0

%

101.2

 

100.0

%

105.7

 

100.0

%

By Region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Europe

 

73.8

 

50.4

%

53.2

 

52.8

%

57.2

 

54.1

%

United States

 

42.1

 

28.8

%

24.0

 

23.8

%

16.9

 

16.0

%

Japan

 

17.4

 

11.9

%

16.1

 

15.9

%

23.4

 

22.2

%

Rest of Asia

 

7.4

 

5.0

%

5.1

 

5.1

%

6.1

 

5.8

%

Rest of World

 

5.6

 

3.8

%

2.7

 

2.3

%

1.8

 

1.7

%

Interdivisional

 

0.1

 

0.1

%

0.1

 

0.1

%

0.3

 

0.2

%

Total

 

146.4

 

100.0

%

101.2

 

100.0

%

105.7

 

100.0

%

 

71



 

Ready-to-wear sales advanced 40.2% on a constant currency basis to € 81.1 million in 2002 reflecting Yves Saint Laurent’s momentum in this core product category. Sales of leather goods increased 288.1% on a constant currency basis following strong consumer interest for new lines, Mombasa, launched in Spring 2002, and Colonial and Marquise, introduced in Fall 2002. Sales of shoes grew 86.2% on a constant currency basis, as consumers responded positively to the high quality product (which is manufactured and sup-plied by Sergio Rossi).

 

Strong consumer demand for Yves Saint Laurent product drove both retail and wholesale sales. On a constant currency basis, retail sales increased 81.0% in 2002. In the United States and France, the brand’s two largest markets, retail sales increased 107.5% and 27.2%, respectively, on a constant currency basis. Yves Saint Laurent finished 2002 with 48 directly-operated stores, compared to 43 at the end of 2001, having opened 6 stores (3 in Europe, including a flagship on via Montenapoleone in Milan; 2 in the United States; and 1 in non-Japan Asia) and closed 1 store in the course of 2002.

 

Yves Saint Laurent plans to significantly expand its retail network in the coming 12 to 18 months through the opening of a number of large stores in Europe and the United States and the development of retail shops-in-shop within Japanese department stores. Key store openings for 2003 include: Rue Faubourg Saint Honoré in Paris; Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills; Bond Street in London; 57th Street off of Fifth Avenue in New York; Canton Road in Hong Kong; and via Condotti in Rome. Management expects the number of Yves Saint Laurent DOS to be approximately 55 at the end of 2003.

 

Wholesale sales increased 56.2% in 2002. Most of Yves Saint Laurent’s wholesale business is sales to leading specialty and department stores, mainly in the United States and Europe. These retail partners had approximately 30 “three-wall” shops-in-shop for the brand at the end of 2002. Management expects the number of these hard format Yves Saint Laurent shops-in shop to increase to approximately 50 by the end of 2003.

 

Royalty income declined by almost 50% to € 12.9 million in 2002 from € 21.4 million in 2001 as management ended inappropriate contracts with certain licensees (6 as of January 31, 2003, down from 15 as of January 31, 2002). Management expects to cut the number of license contracts further in 2003.

 

72



 

Profitability

Notwithstanding the substantial drop in royalty income and owing to the strong retail and leather goods sales and good full price sell through, Yves Saint Laurent increased its gross profit to € 85.1 million (58.1% margin) in 2002 from € 54.6 million (54.0% margin) in 2001.

 

The operating loss before goodwill and trademark amortization declined to € 64.8 million in 2002 from € 76.4 million in 2001 on the back of the strong revenue growth and the higher gross profit and despite continued significant investment in product and stores and higher communication spend. In order to support the strong collections, particularly the Fall/Winter lines, management increased communication expenses to € 36.5 million in 2002 from € 32.6 million in 2001.

 

YSL Beauté

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Revenues

 

549.7

 

100.0

%

518.5

 

100.0

%

584.2

 

100.0

%

Gross profit

 

408.0

 

74.2

%

385.4

 

74.3

%

429.6

 

73.5

%

Operating profit (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

38.6

 

7.0

%

33.9

 

6.5

%

46.9

 

8.0

%

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

41.1

 

7.5

%

38.2

 

7.4

%

40.5

 

6.9

%

Operating profit (loss)

 

(2.5

)

(0.5

)%

(4.3

)

(0.8

)%

6.4

 

1.1

%

 

YSL Beauté posted both sales and profit growth in 2002, as it benefited from the significant restructuring program begun in mid-2000 and completed in mid-2002. In the course of the restructuring program, management terminated known grey market sales of Yves Saint Laurent brand fragrances and cosmetics, while reducing by approximately 6,000 the number of points of sale to 16,000 worldwide. Management also restructured key distribution affiliates, reducing headcount, putting in place new regional managers and establishing business practices designed to support the long-term success of YSL Beauté’s brands.

 

73



 

Revenues

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

By Activity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent Fragrances

 

236.1

 

43.0

%

223.3

 

43.1

%

266.7

 

45.6

%

Yves Saint Laurent Cosmetics and Skincare

 

161.3

 

29.3

%

146.5

 

28.2

%

145.2

 

24.9

%

Yves Saint Laurent Total

 

397.4

 

72.3

%

369.8

 

71.3

%

411.9

 

70.5

%

Roger & Gallet and Licensed Brands

 

150.5

 

27.4

%

146.7

 

28.3

%

171.4

 

29.3

%

Interdivisional

 

1.8

 

0.3

%

2.0

 

0.4

%

0.9

 

0.2

%

Total Revenues

 

549.7

 

100.0

%

518.5

 

100.0

%

584.2

 

100.0

%

By Region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Europe

 

347.0

 

63.1

%

326.8

 

63.0

%

345.6

 

59.1

%

United States

 

82.7

 

15.1

%

76.3

 

14.7

%

98.4

 

16.8

%

Japan

 

30.6

 

5.6

%

32.4

 

6.3

%

34.3

 

5.9

%

Rest of Asia

 

17.1

 

3.1

%

12.8

 

2.5

%

18.5

 

3.2

%

Rest of World (1)

 

70.5

 

12.8

%

68.0

 

13.1

%

86.5

 

14.8

%

Interdivisional

 

1.8

 

0.3

%

2.0

 

0.4

%

0.9

 

0.2

%

Total Revenues

 

549.7

 

100.0

%

518.5

 

100.0

%

584.2

 

100.0

%

 


(1)          Includes non-US North America, exports and duty-free to Latin America, Africa, Middle East (where no distribution subsidiaries exist)

 

YSL Beauté revenues increased 6.0% (or 8.4% on a constant currency basis) to € 549.7 million in 2002 from € 518.5 million in 2001. Sales growth was particularly strong in the fourth quarter, having advanced 15.8% on a constant currency basis.

 

The sales growth owed to several factors. First, the tighter distribution structure established since 2000 helped YSL Beauté, and Yves Saint Laurent in particular, to reinforce its position with leading department stores and specialty retailers worldwide. Second, the business benefited from improved management, both at the corporate center, and among the key regional markets, as several new highly qualified managers were added. Finally, YSL Beauté launched new lines in the course of 2002, which greatly stimulated demand for several of the brands, Yves Saint Laurent in particular.

 

74



 

Sales in Europe increased 5.9% on a constant currency basis to € 347.0 million thanks mainly to good performance from Yves Saint Laurent across the continent and growth at Roger & Gallet. Sales in the United States increased 17.2% on a constant currency basis to € 82.7 million owing mainly to the strengthened position of Yves Saint Laurent in department and specialty stores following termination of the known parallel and grey market trade and good performance from Yves Saint Laurent brand make-up and skincare and from Opium. Sales in Japan increased 13.8% on a constant currency basis to € 30.6 million, supported by the good performance of Yves Saint Laurent make-up and skincare products. Sales in non-Japan Asia increased 16.5% on a constant currency basis to € 17.1 million. Sales in the rest of the world - which includes duty-free and export sales to the Americas and the Middle East – increased 7.9% on a constant currency basis to € 70.5 million primarily as a result of higher travel and duty-free sales.

 

Yves Saint Laurent Fragrances, Cosmetics and Skincare

Yves Saint Laurent sales increased 7.5% - or 9.9% on a constant currency basis - to € 397.4 million in 2002 from € 369.8 million in 2001.

 

      Women’s fragrances: Sales of women’s fragrance in 2002 were approximately equal that of 2001. Sales of the core fragrances Opium and Paris advanced at a double digit and a high single digit pace, respectively, on a constant currency basis in 2002. Sales of Nu (launched in late 2001) declined; the fragrance will be relaunched through an eau de toilette in 2003.

 

      Men’s fragrances: Sales of men’s fragrances increased 24.8% on a constant currency basis in 2002, driven by double digit growth from Kouros and the launch of M7 in Fall 2002.

 

      Make-up and Skincare: Continued strong demand for the Ligne Intense collection and the lipstick Rouge Eclat drove make-up sales growth by 17.9% on a constant currency basis. Sales of skincare were stable as management curtailed sell-in in second half 2002 ahead of the launch of new product lines which will begin in 2003.

 

Other Brands Fragrances, Cosmetics and Skincare

Roger & Gallet sales increased at a mid-single digit rate on a constant currency basis, driven by demand for new men’s products and notwithstanding difficult trading in certain export markets.

 

75



 

Sales from fragrances manufactured and distributed under license (Oscar de la Renta; Van Cleef & Arpels; Fendi) increased collectively on a constant currency basis. Oscar de la Renta, distributed principally in the Americas, increased sales on the back of the launch of Intrusion. The launch of Murmure and growth of the fragrance First lifted Van Cleef & Arpels sales in 2002. Fendi sales declined principally as a result of lower turnover from fragrance Theorema Uomo.

 

Profitability

Gross profit reached € 408.0 million (74.2% margin) in 2002, compared to € 385.4 million (74.3% margin) in 2001.

 

Management’s strict cost control, in combination with past restructuring initiatives, led to a relative fall in operating expenses to 67.2% of revenues ( € 369.4 million) in 2002 from 67.8% ( € 351.5 million) in 2001.

 

      Communication expenses increased to € 115.2 million (21.0% of revenues) from € 113.7 million (21.9% of revenues), mainly as a result of continued advertising for core Yves Saint Laurent products and support for the new men’s fragrance, M7.

 

      The further reduction in points of sales, cost control and positive operating leverage combined to fractionally lower selling expenses as a proportion of revenues, to 22.6% (€ 124.4 million) in 2002 compared to 22.9% ( € 118.8 million) in 2001.

 

      Management’s cost control efforts maintained general and administrative expenses (which also include samples, MIS and design) to 13.3% of sales ( € 73.3 million in 2002 and € 68.8 million in 2001).

 

YSL Beauté’s operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization increased to € 38.6 million (7.0% margin) in 2002 from € 33.9 million (6.5% margin) in 2001. The 50 basis point increase in the margin, in line with management beginning year expectations, owed to a combination of factors, including cost control, positive operating leverage and the growth from Yves Saint Laurent brand products, which in 2002 generated an operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization of approximately 10%.

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization amounted to € 41.1 million in 2002, compared to € 38.2 million in 2001. After goodwill and trademark amortization, YSL Beauté generated an operating loss of € 2.5 million in 2002, compared to a € 4.3 million operating loss in 2001.

 

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Other Operations

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

 

%

 

Revenues

 

350.8

 

100.0

%

254.6

 

100.0

%

147.9

 

100.0

%

Gross profit

 

155.0

 

44.2

%

128.6

 

50.5

%

87.4

 

59.1

%

Operating profit (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(81.3

)

(23.1

)%

(41.9

)

(16.5

%)

14.5

 

9.8

%

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

45.5

 

13.0

%

35.5

 

13.9

%

13.8

 

9.4

%

Operating profit (loss)

 

(126.8

)

(36.1

)%

(77.4

)

(30.4

%)

0.7

 

0.4

%

 

In 2002 and 2001, the Group’s Other Operations included Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bottega Veneta, Bédat & Co., the Emerging Brands (Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga) and certain Industrial Operations. Collectively, the businesses included under Other Operations generated revenues of € 350.8 million in 2002 and € 254.6 million in 2001. The increase in revenues owed to several factors, including strong sales growth at Bottega Veneta, Sergio Rossi and the Emerging Brands and the full year consolidation of the Emerging Brands and certain Industrial Operations, which were consolidated for less than 12 months in 2001.

 

The Other Operations collectively generated an operating loss before goodwill and trademark amortization of € 81.3 million in 2002 and € 41.9 million in 2001, an increase attributable primarily to higher losses at Boucheron, Bottega Veneta as well as the Emerging Brands, all of which were in start-up phase in 2002. In 2002, the Other Operations incurred certain charges: in Boucheron, € 4.5 million of special inventory provisions which will allow the substitution of older product lines with the newly developing lines reflecting the new direction of the brand, and € 3.5 million of restructuring expenses connected to the transfer of the perfume activities to YSL Beauté; in Balenciaga, € 3.0 million related to the issue of shares of Balenciaga S.A. to the creative director Nicolas Ghesquière, as required by his agreement with the Group.

 

Sergio Rossi

Notwithstanding the difficult economic environment and thanks to strong retail sales, Sergio Rossi achieved double digit, constant currency revenue growth in 2002. Women’s shoes, approximately 90% of revenues, registered double digit sales growth. Sergio Rossi increased its directly-operated stores to 40 from 31 in 2002, following the opening of several

 

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important stores, including on Madison Avenue in New York (replacing a previous store), Bond Street in London, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, Ala Moana in Hawaii and the first men’s only shoe boutique on via della Spiga in Milan. In 2002 and early 2003, Sergio Rossi continued the construction of its production and administrative facility, located near San Mauro Pascoli, which opened in Spring 2003.

 

Boucheron

In 2002, Boucheron launched the first new jewelry collection created under new management, Beauté Dangereuse, and expanded its retail network. It opened important stores in Ginza Tokyo, on Bond Street in London and via Montenapoleone in Milan. Also in 2002, Boucheron continued development of a new collection of accessibly priced jewelry, which will be launched during 2003 and continued the build-out of two key stores, on Fifth Avenue in New York and Rue Faubourg Saint Honoré in Paris, which will open in 2003. As of January 31, 2003 Boucheron had 25 directly-operated stores.

 

Bottega Veneta

Bottega Veneta achieved outstanding growth in 2002. On a constant currency basis, revenues increased 69.1% in the full year and 90.5% in the fourth quarter as both the Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter lines generated excellent demand from consumers and the trade. Bottega Veneta opened important stores on via Montenapoleone in Milan, Sloane Street in London and Rue Faubourg Saint Honoré in Paris in 2002, while developing points of sale in select specialty retailers in the United States and Europe. As of January 31, 2003 Bottega Veneta had 58 directly-operated stores.

 

Bédat & Co.

In 2002, Bédat & Co. continued to enhance distribution in Europe, the United States and Asia, while working closely with Gucci Group Watches to maximize synergies.

 

Emerging Brands

Each Emerging Brand - Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga – achieved strong revenue growth in 2002 on the back of critically acclaimed collections. Both Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen opened a directly-operated store on 14th Street in New York in mid-2002. Both also opened a store in London – Stella McCartney off Bond Street; Alexander McQueen on Bond Street – in Spring 2003. In 2002, Balenciaga refur-bished its flagship in Paris and opened a store on 22nd Street in New York.

 

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Other Items

 

Goodwill and Trademark Amortization

Goodwill and trademark amortization was € 126.4 million, or € 101.3 million net of deferred tax, in 2002, compared to € 130.2 million, or € 104.5 million net of deferred tax, in 2001. The decrease owed principally to the complete amortization of goodwill related to the acquisition of Gucci’s former women’s ready-to-wear licensee as of January 31, 2002. Barring any substantial acquisition, management expects goodwill and trademark amortization to approximate the 2002 level in the coming years.

 

Net Financial Income

Net financial income was € 62.7 million in 2002, compared to € 88.1 million in 2001. The decline in net interest income owed principally to: i) the fall in short-term Euro interest rates in 2002 which lowered the yield on the short duration, Euro-denominated securities in which the Group invested its cash; and ii) a modest reduction of the average balance of net cash, which derived from cash outflows related to capital expenditures and the purchase of 1,800,595 Company’s own shares during 2002. The yield derived from the cash under management was 3.2% in 2002, compared to 4.4% in 2001.

 

Taxes

The Group’s effective tax rate was unusually low in 2002, 8.0%, compared to 16.0% in 2001. This rate in part reflected the reversal of tax risk provisions made in prior years following the successful conclusion of certain tax audits during the fourth quarter of 2002. Other salient components of the effective tax rate included: i) a 21.0% effective tax rate on Group operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization; ii) a negative € 9.1 million effective tax on net financial income, which the Group achieved through a low tax rate (approximately 5%) on most interest income and full tax deductibility in higher tax jurisdictions such as Japan, Italy and the United States, on most interest expense; iii) € 25.1 million of non-cash deferred tax credits on trademark amortization.

 

Net Income and Net Income per Share

Minority interests, primarily third party interests in Sergio Rossi, Bottega Veneta, the Emerging Brands and certain Gucci retail subsidiaries were positive € 5.1 million in 2002, as a result of losses at certain recently acquired companies. In 2001 minority interests were positive € 3.4 million.

 

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Group net income after minority interests was € 226.8 million in 2002, compared to € 312.5 million in 2001.

 

Trends

 

The weak economic environment in Europe and the United States, war in Iraq and the out-break of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (“SARS”) in South East Asia make management particularly cautious concerning short-term trading conditions and trends in the luxury goods industry. Management believes that these factors have combined to lower local consumer spending for luxury goods in much of the world, Europe and the United States in particular, and to significantly reduce travel and tourism, an important source of business for the luxury goods industry.

 

The Company observed weak trading trends in Spring 2003 in Europe and the United States, owing to the poor economic environment and lower travel and tourism, caused by the threat of terrorist attacks and the war in Iraq. Also, beginning in late March sales fell in certain markets of South East Asia as a result of SARS.

 

Management believes that improvement of the Group’s performance in 2003 will depend to a significant extent on the development of improved consumer confidence and willingness to travel. This in turn will depend on developments in the political environment, improvement in economic growth in most regions of the world and the efforts to contain SARS. Management believes that the product collections to be launched for Fall 2003, particularly for Gucci, are strong and will position the Company to enjoy profitable growth if the above described environmental improvements occur.

 

On May 28, 2003, the Gucci Group announced that the Supervisory Board had voted to recommend to Shareholders that the Company pay € 13.50 per share (or an aggregate amount of approximately € 1,340 million) to Shareholders through an increase, and subsequent reduction of the nominal value of the Company’s shares. (See note 24 to the Consolidated Financial Statements). The Supervisory Board’s recommendation will be voted on by Shareholders at the Annual General Meeting.

 

The Company communicated that in accordance with the Amended and Restated Strategic Investment Agreement, the Company’s Independent Directors determined that, as a result of the payment, the US$ 101.50 per share “put price” will be reduced by the US dollar

 

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equivalent of € 13.50 per share, plus a small adjustment for the time value of money.

 

Following the return of capital to shareholders, the Company expects to have net financial debt of between € 200 million and € 300 million and shareholders’ equity in excess of € 3 billion. Moreover, management believes the Company’s financial condition (including an expected gross cash position in excess of € 1 billion), available credit lines and expected future cash flows provide sufficient liquidity and capital resources to support the ongoing working capital and capital expenditure needs for all the Group’s companies and to finance potential further acquisitions.

 

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2001 vs. 2000

 

Gucci Division

 

In 2001 the Gucci Division produced the strongest results in its history notwithstanding an exceptionally difficult trading environment: revenues were € 1.7 billion; the gross margin climbed by more than 300 basis points to 72.0%; and for the first time the full year operating margin before goodwill amortization surpassed 30%, reaching 30.5%. The strong profitability in 2001 in part was due to the additional gross margin from women’s ready-to-wear related to the acquisition of the former women’s ready-to-wear licensee in late 2000 and to favorable foreign currency exchange rates.

 

Revenues

Gucci Division revenues were € 1,700.1 million in 2001, compared to € 1,628.8 million in 2000 (+4.4%). The business achieved revenue increases in two of its four major markets: +2.9% in Europe; +17.2% in Japan. Economic recession, in combination with the precipitous drop in tourism and travel after September 11, 2001, caused fourth quarter revenues in the United States to decline 20.4% overall and 54.0% in Hawaii, an overwhelmingly Japanese tourist market. This performance was the main cause of the full year revenue decline of 12.6% in the United States.

 

Gucci Fashion and Accessories Revenues

Gucci Fashion and Accessories revenues were € 1,530.9 million in 2001, compared to € 1,440.4 million in 2000 (+6.3%). Retail sales increased in most major markets owing to strong collections and notwithstanding the difficult trading environment. On a constant currency basis, retail sales in Europe increased 10.3%: in the largest European market, Italy, the increase was 11.5%; in France growth was 7.6%; and in the UK retail sales were flat compared to 2000. In Japan, Yen-denominated retail sales advanced 24.4%, as Gucci maintained a leading position among luxury goods brands. In non-Japan Asia, constant currency retail sales growth reached 18.6%, thanks to Gucci’s excellent performance in Hong Kong (+15.7%) and South Korea (+39.7%) and the twelve month consolidation of the retail business in Singapore, Malaysia and Australia. In the United States, retail sales declined 15.2% as a result of the particularly difficult economic environment and the sharp fall in travel and tourism following September 11. In 2001, retail sales in Hawaii were down 25.5%, while those in the continental US declined 12.3%.

 

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Gucci finished 2001 with 163 directly-operated stores compared to 143 at the end of 2000. In 2001 the Company opened 17 stores (1 in Hawaii; 7 in Europe; 4 in Japan, including a second freestanding store in Tokyo Aoyama; and 5 in non-Japan Asia, including a flagship in Hong Kong) and converted 3 stores in Spain from franchisees into DOS. Selling square footage in directly-operated stores was 422,488 on January 31, 2002, compared to 370,395 on January 31, 2001. As a result of the aforementioned decrease in US retail sales and the increased selling surface, as well as Japanese Yen and Euro weakness against the US Dollar, Gucci’s sales per square foot declined to € 3,162 in 2001 from € 3,299 in 2000.

 

Wholesale turnover - sales to department and specialty stores, duty-free retailers and franchisees - increased 17.9% to € 298.8 million in 2001 on the back of particularly strong sales to US and European department and specialty stores. The number of franchise boutiques fell to 38 from 43 in 2001 as Gucci converted 3 Spanish franchise stores into DOS, opened stores in Moscow and Beirut, and closed certain franchise stores in non strategic markets. Points-of-sale in duty-free numbered 34 at the end of 2001 from 38 at the end of 2000, following closures in South East Asia.

 

Royalty income advanced 17.4% to € 51.4 million in 2001 due primarily to continued growth in Gucci-brand eyewear sales and despite the absence of royalties from women’s ready-to-wear, a licensed activity purchased from Zamasport in November 2000.

 

Gucci maintained its leading position in leather goods, having achieved 11.9% sales growth to € 833.5 million in 2001. Sales of all three product categories – handbags; small leather goods; luggage – increased in 2001, with luggage and small leather goods sales growth having reached 38.9% and 16.1%, respectively. Ready-to-wear sales were up 2.9% at € 249.9 million, having grown in Europe but declined in the United States owing to the difficult trading environment in this market. Shoe sales declined 3.1% to € 188.2 million, affected by weaker wholesale demand and lower retail sales in the United States and Europe. At the end of the year the division opened a shoe prototype production facility which is expected to enhance the quality and variety of Gucci brand shoes and which management believes will lead to increased shoe revenues in the future. Jewelry sales advanced 19.5% to € 83.4 million, following the introduction of new, expanded collections and strong growth in Japan. Wholesale doors for jewelry, limited to the most exclusive points of sale, numbered approximately 224 in 2001.

 

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Gucci Timepieces Revenues

Gucci Timepieces revenues were € 206.1 million in 2001, compared to € 227.8 million in 2000. Sales of Gucci brand watches to third party customers were € 186.0 million in 2001, compared to 208.2 million in 2000, a decrease of 7.3% on a constant currency basis. The decline in Gucci watch sales owed to several factors. Economic recession in the United States led department and specialty stores to scale back orders in an effort to reduce inventory levels. The events of September 11 caused demand to further contract in the United States as well as in the travel and duty-free channels, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. In 2001, Gucci brand watch sales to third party customers declined 27.9% in the United States, 19.6% in non-Japan Asia and 24.9% in the Middle East. By contrast, sales advanced 6.8% in Europe and were stable in Japan.

 

In the course of 2001, management made further effort to shift the mix to higher price point product, while reducing volumes as a means of increasing the exclusivity of Gucci timepieces. Watch unit turnover was approximately 621,000 in 2001, compared to approximately 770,000 in 2000, with the average retail sales price having been approximately US$ 630 in both 2001 and 2000.

 

Gross Profit

The Gucci Division gross margin increased to 72.0% in 2001 from 68.8% in 2000.

 

      At Gucci Fashion and Accessories, the gross margin expansion to 70.9% in 2001 from 68.7% in 2000 owed to control of the women’s ready-to-wear production and distribution activity, resulting from the acquisition of the former licensee’s business in November 2000, favorable exchange rates – particularly the weakness of the Euro compared to the US Dollar and the Japanese Yen - high levels of full price sell-through and advantageous region mix (relatively stronger sales in Japan as compared to the United States and Europe).

 

      Gucci Timepieces gross margin was 71.0% in 2001, compared to 72.5% in 2000, a decline which resulted from negative leverage (on the fall in volume turnover), a change in the product mix and modestly higher provisions for obsolescence, and notwithstanding greater vertical integration obtained through the acquisition of the wholesale distribution activities in Japan and certain countries in South-East Asia in late 2000.

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Store expenses increased to 30.6% of retail turnover in 2001 from 29.6% in 2000 as a

 

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result of several factors, including: a relative increase in sales in the Japanese shops-in-shop, which operate under a variable rent structure; the decline in retail sales in certain markets, especially in the United States; and the opening of new DOS which in 2001 had not yet reached their full revenue potential.

 

General and administrative expenses declined in absolute and relative terms (11.7% of revenues in 2001; 12.2% in 2000). Throughout 2001, management maintained strict cost control, and following September 11 moved aggressively to reduce discretionary expenses and where necessary to reduce the number of employees. In reaction to the difficult economic circumstances in the United States, Gucci America eliminated approximately 140 administrative and sales associate positions in late 2001. In addition, in accordance with the Company’s policy not to pay management bonuses in years when the Group’s budgeted revenues and profits are not achieved, no bonuses were paid in 2001, which resulted in a reduction in G&A expenses compared to 2000.

 

Communication expenses were € 100.2 million (5.9% of revenues) in 2001, compared to € 102.2 million (6.3% of revenues) in 2000. Selling expenses (mainly wholesale distribution and showroom expenses) declined modestly in 2001 owing to cost control.

 

Operating Profit

Gucci Division operating profit before goodwill amortization climbed to an historical high of € 518.3 million (30.5% margin) in 2001 from € 439.9 million (27.0% margin) in 2000, which constitutes an exceptional performance under the trying economic circumstances and which owed to the 320 basis point increase in the gross margin and the aforementioned control of costs.

 

Gucci Fashion and Accessories generated exceptional profitability in 2001 as the operating profit before goodwill amortization advanced to € 461.2 million (30.1% of revenues) from € 357.8 million (24.8% of revenues) in 2000. The outstanding results stemmed from the higher gross margin as well as operating leverage. At Gucci Timepieces, the operating profit before goodwill amortization was € 59.4 million, compared to € 83.0 million in 2000. Owing to the aforementioned decline in sales and the lower gross margin, Gucci Timepieces posted a decline in operating profitability (28.8% before goodwill amortization in 2001, compared to 36.4% in 2000).

 

Goodwill amortization at the Gucci Division was € 34.2 million in 2001, compared to

 

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€ 15.9 million in 2000. At Gucci Fashion and Accessories, goodwill amortization rose to € 26.6 million in 2001 from € 9.5 million in 2000 principally as a result of the acquisition of the women’s ready-to-wear production activity in late 2000 and the joint venture with FJ Benjamin. Goodwill amortization at Gucci Timepieces was € 7.7 million in 2001, compared to € 6.3 million in 2000.

 

After amortization of goodwill, Gucci Division operating profit was € 484.1 million (28.5% of revenues) in 2001, compared to € 424.0 million (26.0% of revenues) in 2000. At Gucci Fashion and Accessories, the operating profit advanced 24.8% to € 434.6 million (28.4% of revenues) in 2001 from € 348.3 million (24.2% margin) in 2000, while at Gucci Timepieces the operating profit stood at € 51.7 million (25.1% margin) in 2001 versus € 76.7 million (33.7% margin) in 2000.

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

2001 was a year of tremendous progress for Yves Saint Laurent. First and foremost, Creative Director Tom Ford presented Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter collections that received strong critical acclaim from the press and trade, praise which helped spark consumer demand, particularly in the second half of 2001. Second, management gained further control of the brand, reducing the number of license contracts to 15 from 62, while simultaneously increasing the number of directly-operated stores to 43 from 27 and rolling out shops-in-shop in leading department and specialty stores in key US and European locations. Third, Yves Saint Laurent spent heavily on product development and communication, investments which expanded the breadth of the collections and increased brand visibility. Finally, Yves Saint Laurent further integrated into the Group structure, improving production, sourcing and systems, progress which also underpinned the company’s ability to offer larger collections as well as improve delivery times.

 

Revenues

Sales (excluding royalties) increased markedly in 2001 owing to the strong collections, the expanded distribution network and the improved structure. Retail sales advanced 37.9% to € 47.4 million. More significantly, Rive Gauche retail sales (which excluded sales of terminated lines, namely the diffusion Variation line) increased 92.3% in 2001. Demand for Rive Gauche was especially strong in the second half of 2001 as retail sales increased 122.8% in the third quarter and 192.1% in the fourth quarter. Wholesale sales were

 

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€ 32.3 million in 2001, compared to € 35.5 million in 2000. However, Rive Gauche wholesale sales advanced 60.6% in the year, with third and fourth quarter growth especially strong, 56.4% and 88.6%, respectively. The decline in royalty income to € 21.4 million in 2001 from € 35.6 million in 2000 resulted from management’s decision to dramatically reduce the number of license contracts.

 

Overall sales of Rive Gauche ready-to-wear increased 55.0% to € 60.0 million in 2001, with growth in the second half having reached 51.7%. The substantial rise in accessory sales to € 19.7 million in 2001 from € 4.8 million in 2000 owed to excellent performance from both shoes and handbags, particularly in the latter half of 2001.

 

Profitability

The gross profit was € 54.6 million (54.0% of revenues) in 2001, compared to € 72.9 million (69.0% of revenues) in 2000. Lower royalty income resulted in the absolute and relative decline in gross profit in 2001, a development management had anticipated following its decision to terminate license contracts.

 

The operating loss before goodwill and trademark amortization, € 76.4 million in 2001 compared to € 17.0 million in 2000, was below management’s expectation and owed to the strong retail sales growth achieved in late 2001. Management had planned substantial losses in 2001 due to the decision to invest heavily in communication, product development and distribution, which it considers drivers for Yves Saint Laurent’s future success. In 2001 communication expenses and design and development cost were € 32.6 million (32.2% of revenues) and € 27.3 million (27.0% of revenues), respectively.

 

YSL Beauté

 

Revenues

YSL Beauté revenues declined 9.4% on a constant currency basis to € 518.5 million in 2001 from € 584.2 million in 2000.

 

The fall in sales owed to several factors. First, economic recession in the United States led department and specialty stores to reduce inventory, and therefore orders, to the prestige fragrance and cosmetics industry. Second, the events of September 11 further weakened consumer demand in the US and dramatically reduced tourism, which further lowered sales

 

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in the US and sales in the travel and duty-free channels, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. Third, YSL Beauté eliminated image-damaging and unprofitable promotional activity: promotional and “gift-with-purchase” sales fell by approximately 30% in 2001. Finally, management continued to reduce points of sale in order to enhance the quality of distribution and create the platform of future revenue growth, particularly at Yves Saint Laurent: total points-of-sale numbered approximately 16,800 in January 2002, compared to approximately 22,200 in January 2001.

 

Sales in Europe declined 1.6% on a constant currency basis to € 326.8 million, as a result of difficult trading conditions and notwithstanding good performance from Roger & Gallet and Yves Saint Laurent make-up. Sales in the United States declined 25.2% on a constant currency basis to € 76.3 million owing to reduced inventory at retail and the radical reduction in points of sales for Yves Saint Laurent (doors in the United States numbered fewer than 1,800 at the end of 2001, compared to more than 5,500 at the beginning of the year). Sales in Japan declined 5.7% on a constant currency basis to 32.4 million, also affected by the policy to close doors to enhance the quality of distribution. Sales in non-Japan Asia declined 21.2% on a constant currency basis to € 12.8 million, principally owing to lower travel and duty-free sales. Sales in the rest of the world – which includes duty-free and export sales to the Americas and the Middle East - declined 20.2% on a constant currency basis to € 68.0 million, also primarily as a result of lower travel and duty-free sales.

 

Yves Saint Laurent Fragrances, Cosmetics and Skincare

Yves Saint Laurent sales declined 7.7% on a constant currency basis to € 369.8 million in 2001 from € 411.9 million in 2000.

 

      Women’s fragrances: Notwithstanding the launch of Nu in October 2001, sales of Yves Saint Laurent women’s fragrance declined in 2001. The reasons for this included, first, the difficult trading environment in the US and in the travel and duty-free channels; second, management’s decision to eliminate inappropriate points of sale in the US, which particularly affected Opium and Paris sales levels; and third, the decision to reduce communication spend for secondary lines in favor of the core perfumes.

 

      Men’s fragrances: Sales of men’s fragrances declined in 2001 owing to the difficult trading conditions and management’s decision to reduce communication spend for Body Kouros in favor of Kouros, the principal Yves Saint Laurent men’s fragrance.

 

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      Cosmetics: Led by the success of the new line, Ligne Intense, make-up sales advanced 8.9% on a constant currency basis. Skincare turnover increased 0.5% on a constant currency basis supported by the launch of several new body and face care products.

 

Other Brands Fragrances, Cosmetics and Skincare

In 2001, Roger & Gallet reported sales of € 40.0 million, up 2.1% on a constant currency basis. The toiletries group benefited from good demand for Gardner’s bath and gel and the launch of a new men’s fragrance, L’Homme Essentiel.

 

Sales from fragrances manufactured and distributed under license (Oscar de la Renta; Van Cleef & Arpels; Fendi) decreased approximately 17% on a constant currency basis. Oscar de la Renta, distributed principally in the Americas, bore the impact of the difficult trading conditions in the United States. Van Cleef & Arpels, which successfully launched a new men’s fragrance, Zanzibar, also suffered from the curtailed distribution in the United States and the poor demand in export markets. Fendi sales increased following the launch of Theorema Uomo.

 

Profitability

Gross profit reached € 385.4 million (74.3% of revenues) in 2001, compared to € 429.6 million (73.5% of revenues) in 2000. The increase in the margin was due to gross margin strength at Yves Saint Laurent and Van Cleef & Arpels, which itself owed to a change in the product mix towards fragrances (a higher margin category compared to cosmetics), as well as to Euro weakness.

 

Aggressive cost control, particularly following September 11 and the benefits of the restructuring initiatives undertaken in 2000 allowed YSL Beauté to cut operating expenses to € 351.5 million in 2001 from € 382.7 million in 2000. However, the sharp decline in sales resulted in a relative increase in operating expenses to 67.8% of revenues in 2001 from 65.5% of revenues in 2000.

 

      Communication expenses, while reduced in response to lower sales ( € 113.7 million in 2001, compared to € 124.0 million in 2000), increased as a proportion of sales (21.9% in 2001 from 21.2% in 2000). Notably, management increased communication at Yves Saint Laurent to 24.1% of sales in 2001 from 22.6% of sales in 2000, as a result of significantly increased spend for Paris and Kouros, maintained investment for Opium and communication associated with the launch of Nu.

 

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      Thanks to the reduction in points of sales, particularly in the US market, and cost control, selling expenses declined to € 118.8 million (22.9% of revenues) in 2001 from € 125.5 million (21.5% of revenues) in 2000.

 

      Aggressive cost reduction, in combination with the restructuring initiatives taken in 2000, led to a 15.2% decline in general and administrative expenses (which also include samples, MIS and design expenses) to € 68.8 million (13.3% of revenues) in 2001 from € 79.2 million (13.5% of revenues) in 2000.

 

YSL Beauté’s operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization was € 33.9 million (6.5% margin) in 2001, compared to € 46.9 million (an 8.0% margin) in 2000. Although the 6.5% margin was a decline on the year 2000 level of profitability and below the company’s initial expectations, management considers the performance to be positive in light of the exceptionally difficult trading environment and the significant reduction in points of sales in 2001. Moreover, management notes that the combined operating margin before goodwill and trademark amortization and central expenses of the core brands (Yves Saint Laurent, Roger & Gallet and Oscar de la Renta) exceeded 10% in 2001, as it did in 2000.

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization amounted to € 38.2 million in 2001, compared to € 40.5 million in 2000. After goodwill and trademark amortization, YSL Beauté generated an operating loss of € 4.3 million in 2001, compared to a € 6.4 million operating profit in 2000.

 

Other Operations

 

In 2001, the Group’s Other Operations included Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Bédat & Co., Bottega Veneta, Luxury Timepieces Design (“LTD”), Emerging Brands (Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga) and certain Industrial Operations. In 2000, the Group’s Other Operations included Sergio Rossi, Boucheron and Bédat & Co. Collectively, the businesses included under Other Operations generated revenues of € 254.6 million in 2001 and € 147.9 million in 2000.

In 2001, Other Operations collectively generated an operating loss before goodwill and trademark amortization of € 41.9 million, principally as a result of losses at Boucheron, Bottega Veneta and the Emerging Brands. The operating loss after goodwill and trademark

 

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amortization was € 77.4 million in 2001.

 

In 2000, Other Operations posted an operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization of € 14.5 million, thanks principally to profitability at Sergio Rossi. The operating profit after goodwill and trademark amortization was € 0.7 million in 2000.

 

Sergio Rossi

Sergio Rossi produced solid financial results in 2001. Notwithstanding the difficult economic environment, which led many retailers to curtail orders for luxury items, including footwear, Sergio Rossi achieved nominal revenue growth and maintained solid profitability. In 2001, women’s shoes represented 90.3% of revenues, men’s shoes and accessories the remaining portion of turnover. Retail and wholesale were 35.4% and 64.6%, respectively, of 2001 revenues. Directly-operated stores numbered 31 as of January 31, 2002, compared to 23 as of January 31, 2001. In 2001, Sergio Rossi continued to lay the foundation for its future growth. Important accomplishments included the introduction of a new store concept in Milan, the repurchase of the UK franchise and the construction of a new state-of-the-art production facility.

 

Boucheron

In 2001, Boucheron undertook numerous initiatives to ensure its rapid revenue growth in the coming years. Among these, the company put in place a management team, including the new creative director, with extensive experience in the prestige jewelry and watch business. In addition, Boucheron began to develop new jewelry and watch lines, including items in the accessibly-priced segments of the market, to launch in 2002. Boucheron has developed a new store format, which it will roll out in 2002 in flagship locations including New York, London, Paris, Milan and Tokyo. Finally, Boucheron benefited extensively from the Group’s infrastructure, having adopted Gucci’s retail system to its DOS network, begun shipping products through the Company’s warehouses and integrated perfume distribution into the YSL Beauté structure in certain markets.

 

Bottega Veneta

In 2001, Bottega Veneta accomplished a great deal to position itself as a leading prestige leather goods house in the luxury goods industry. New management, including a creative director, joined the company in mid 2001. In a period of less than two months the new team developed and launched fall/winter 2002 lines, reflecting Bottega Veneta’s heritage as an exclusive leather goods house. Management also refurbished many of the company’s

 

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directly-operated stores with an interim store design, while having developed an entirely new store concept and having secured locations for flagships in Milan, London and Paris.

 

Bédat & Co.

In 2001, Bédat & Co. enhanced distribution with the roll-out of doors in Italy and Japan. In 2002, the brand plans to extend distribution to France, Germany, Switzerland and Spain and develop production and distribution synergies with Luxury Timepieces International and Luxury Timepieces Manufacturing.

 

Emerging Brands

Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and Nicolas Ghesquière for Balenciaga each presented strong Spring/Summer 2002 collections at Paris fashion shows in October 2001. In the latter half of 2001, each house also put in place highly qualified management teams and began to use Group production, distribution and logistical resources to build its business. Store locations have been secured for the brands in key cities – Alexander McQueen in New York and Milan; Stella McCartney in New York; while Balenciaga has begun  renovation of its historic Paris flagship. Other major locations are under negotiation. Critical acclaim for the Fall/Winter 2002 collections has led to strong orders from important luxury department and specialty stores, which leads management to expect robust revenue growth for each designer brand in 2002.

 

Industrial Operations

In order to deepen the Company’s industrial expertise and improve the breadth and quality of certain product categories, the Group acquired a controlling interest in number of small industrial activities in 2001. These included an Italian men’s shoe producer, Calzaturificio Regain, a precious leather tannery, Caravel Pelli Pregiate, and an Italian women’s shoe producer, Paoletti.

 

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Other Items

 

Goodwill and Trademark Amortization

Goodwill and trademark amortization was € 130.2 million, or € 104.5 million net of deferred tax, in 2001, compared to € 90.7 million, or € 68.5 million net of deferred tax, in 2000. The increase owed principally to the purchase in November 2000 of certain assets from Zamasport, Gucci’s former women’s ready-to-wear licensee, acquisitions and partnerships (Bédat & Co.; Bottega Veneta; Di Modolo; Stella McCartney; Alexander McQueen; Balenciaga), the repurchase of certain franchise operations and the acquisition of certain industrial activities. Due to the almost complete amortization of the Zamasport goodwill in 2001 and barring any substantial acquisition, management expects goodwill and trademark amortization to be lower in 2002 compared to 2001.

 

Net Financial Income

Net financial income was € 88.1 million in 2001, compared to € 160.2 million in 2000. The decline in net interest income owed principally to: a) the steep fall in short-term US interest rates in 2001 which dramatically lowered the yield on the short duration, US Dollar-denominated fixed income securities in which the Group invested its cash; and b) the reduction of the average balance of net cash, which derived from cash outflows for acquisitions and the special US$ 7.00 dividend paid in December 2001 following the settlement of the dispute among the Company, Pinault-Printemps-Redoute S.A. (“PPR”) and LVMH-Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (“LVMH”). The yield derived from the cash under management was 4.4% in 2001, compared to 6.9% in 2000.

 

Restructuring Costs

Net restructuring costs in 2001 were negative € 0.8 million, reflecting the reversal of certain prior period provisions for restructuring, which offset insignificant restructuring costs at the Group’s newly acquired subsidiaries. Restructuring costs in 2000, mainly severance payments at the Yves Saint Laurent companies, were € 96.6 million, or € 62.9 million net of tax.

 

Taxes

The Group’s effective tax rate was 16.0% in 2001 and included the following salient components: a) a 23.6% effective tax rate on Group operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization; b) a negative € 9.8 million effective tax on net financial income, which the Group achieved through a low tax rate (approximately 4%) on most interest income and full tax deductibility on interest expense; and c) € 25.7 million of non-cash deferred tax credits on trademark amortization.

 

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Net Income and Net Income per Share

Minority interests, primarily third party interests in Sergio Rossi, Bottega Veneta, the Emerging Brands and certain Gucci retail subsidiaries, were positive € 3.4 million in 2001, as a result of losses at certain recently acquired companies. In 2000 minority interests were € 4.3 million (negative).

 

Group net income after minority interests was € 312.5 million in 2001, compared to € 366.9 million in 2000.

 

Liquidiy and Capital Resources

 

Management believes that the Group’s financial condition, available credit lines as at January 31, 2003 and expected future cash flows provide sufficient liquidity and capital resources to support the ongoing working capital and capital expenditure needs for all the Group’s companies and subsidiaries and to finance potential further acquisitions.

 

Cash Flow Provided by Operating Activities

 

The Group’s net income for the years 2002 and 2001 was € 226.8 million and € 312.5 million, respectively. Management expects the Company to maintain healthy levels of profitability in the future, but net income levels may fluctuate principally as a result of business trends, changes in interest rates, the Company’s cash and debt positions and potential acquisitions or disposals.

 

The Group’s funds from operations (defined as net income, plus depreciation and amortization, plus the net loss/gain on the sale of assets, plus the write-down of non-current assets) was € 469.2 million in 2002, compared to € 535.2 million in 2001. The decline was due solely to the lower net income as depreciation increased and amortization was virtually unchanged in 2002 compared to 2001. Management expects modest increases in depreciation in future years owing to the significant investments in fixed assets in 2002.  The level of goodwill and trademark amortization is expected to remain stable in the future barring substantial acquisitions.

 

The Group’s operating cash flow increased to € 247.3 million in 2002 from € 228.8 million in 2001 owing primarily to significantly lower investment in operating working capital in 2002 (€ 221.9 million) compared to 2001 (€ 306.4 million). The salient points concerning

 

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the changes in working capital in 2002 were the following:

 

      Inventories: Net inventories increased € 43.3 million to € 472.0 million as of January 31, 2003 (compared to a € 80.4 million increase in 2001). Higher inventories in 2002 resulted primarily from: i) the acquisition of certain small industrial operations; ii) the inventory requirements of new stores; and iii) new product introductions, particularly at Yves Saint Laurent, Boucheron and Bottega Veneta. Gucci Division inventories decreased to € 216.8 million as of January 31, 2003 from € 248.4 million as of January 31, 2002 as a result of management’s decision and ability to adjust product flow and inventory to lower sales. Management believes that inventory levels at each of the Company’s businesses as at January 31, 2003 properly reflected expected short-term business developments, and it does not foresee significant increases in inventories in 2003.

 

      Trade receivables: Trade receivables increased € 27.9 million to € 331.8 million as of January 31, 2003 (compared to a € 24.2 million increase in 2001). This owed principally to higher wholesale sales for the Group in fourth quarter 2002 (€ 326.2 million) compared to fourth quarter 2001 (€ 307.8 million). Management believes the level of trade receivables as at January 31, 2003 appropriately reflected the Company’s level of business.

 

      Trade payables and accrued expenses: Trade payables and accrued expenses increased by € 36.9 million to € 478.5 million as of January 31, 2003. Trade payables alone increased by € 32.5 million to € 221.8 million as of January 31, 2003 (compared to a € 11.3 million decrease in 2001) owing mainly to the build up of inventories and the renegotiation of certain contracts with the Group’s suppliers.

 

Overall, management expects working capital to increase in line with Group revenues and does not foresee changes in working capital to constitute a significant drain on the Company’s liquidity in the future.

 

Cash Flow Used in Investing Activities

 

Cash used in investing activities was € 362.5 million in 2002, compared to € 552.1 million in 2001.

 

Purchases of Tangible Assets: The purchase of tangible assets was € 255.6 million in

 

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2002, compared to € 245.9 million in 2001. The total cost of store openings, refurbishment and expansions was € 158.2 million in 2002 ( € 111.4 million in 2001).

 

Increase in Deferred Charges and Intangible Assets: The increase in deferred charges and intangible assets amounted to € 85.1 million in 2002 ( € 96.1 million in 2001). Investments in intangible assets alone were € 80.2 million in 2002 (€ 91.4 million in 2001). 77.3% of this amount was the purchase of lease rights (“key money”); the remainder was primarily investment in software. Management expects investments in intangible assets to subside in the coming years as the pace of large store openings and expansions slows.

 

The budgeted investment in tangible and intangible assets in 2003 is approximately € 240 million, € 100 million of which is for store openings, refurbishment and expansions, and € 68.5 million to purchase a property for the Group’s future Japanese headquarters in Tokyo Ginza, which upon completion of construction in 2005 also will house a 10,000 square foot Gucci flagship. The Group has temporarily financed the project primarily through short-term Japanese yen denominated borrowings and is currently exploring alternative long-term financing solutions.

 

Management notes that the opportunity to buy or lease strategically important real estate for stores may cause actual capital expenditures for 2003 or future years to exceed the budgeted level. Management expects investments in tangible and intangible assets, which should decline in 2003, to further fall in 2004 as most of the expensive stores necessary for the future development of each of the Company’s brands will have opened by the end of 2003.

 

Acquisitions: The cost of acquisitions in 2002, € 24.9 million, included the purchase of strategically important shoe and jewelry suppliers and the minority interests in Gucci’s Taiwan affiliate. Acquisitions in 2001, for a total consideration of € 220.3 million, were principally for Bottega Veneta and the Emerging Brands (Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga). Management may consider other strategic acquisitions in the future, and the cost of any potential acquisition will depend on the size and quality of the business. At present, no significant acquisitions are planned, and management believes that the Group’s business and financial resources should be dedicated primarily to developing sustainable revenue growth and profitability at its current brands. Consequently, in 2003 the Group is less likely to make acquisitions than it was in the preceding three years.

 

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Cash Flow (Used in) Provided by Financing Activities

 

In 2002, the Group’s financing activities resulted in a € 217.4 million net cash inflow. This inflow resulted primarily from an increase in long-term debt for € 384.9 million, used in part to finance the aforementioned investments in tangible assets. Financing activities in 2002 also included € 50.7 million for the payment of dividends and € 158.5 million to purchase 1,800,595 of the Company’s shares, which the Company plans to use to satisfy the future exercise of employee stock options.

 

In 2001, the Group’s financing activities resulted in a € 869.8 million net cash outflow. This outflow related primarily to the payment of dividends, € 425.2 million, the reimbursement of long-term debt, € 173.0 million, and investments in long-term financial assets, € 299.4 million, in connection with the letter of credit issued following the settlement of the dispute among the Company, PPR and LVMH.

 

Cash and Debt

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

Jan 31, 2003

 

Jan 31, 2002

 

Jan 31, 2001

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

2,934.5

 

2,964.9

 

3,350.0

 

Bank overdrafts and short-term loans

 

630.5

 

765.2

 

120.3

 

Cash and cash equivalents, net of short-term financial indebtedness

 

2,304.0

 

2,199.7

 

3,229.7

 

Long-term financial assets

 

256.1

 

308.0

 

0.0

 

Long-term financial payables

 

1,202.4

 

824.4

 

981.3

 

Cash and cash equivalents as a percentage of total assets

 

37.7

%

39.8

%

49.4

%

 

A significant proportion of Group assets consists of cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents amounted to € 2,934.5 million (37.7% of total assets) as at January 31, 2003 and € 2,964.9 million (39.8% of total assets) as at January 31, 2002. A significant portion of the Group’s cash position is the result of a capital increase subscribed by PPR in the amount of US$ 2.925 billion on March 19, 1999.

 

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Cash equivalents include short-term deposits and asset management accounts. As at January 31, 2003 € 1,870.8 million ( € 1,993.4 million as at January 31, 2002) was held in third party asset management accounts and invested in securities and money market instruments issued by reputable entities with acceptable credit quality. As of January 31, 2003, each managed portfolio had an overall rating of at least AA, and an adequate level of diversification (Company guidelines for third party asset managers state that no issue should exceed 10% of a portfolio and a portfolio should not purchase more than 10% of any issue). While a substantial liquid position remains on the Group’s balance sheet, management will continue to seek to maximize after tax cash yield through an efficient fiscal structure, while minimizing the risk profile of the investments. The yield on cash under management was 3.2% (3.0% net of tax) in 2002, 4.4% (4.2% net of tax) in 2001 and 6.9% (6.6% net of tax) in 2000. In connection with the change in the Group’s reporting currency to the Euro from the US Dollar (as of February 1, 2002) and in order to minimize the Company’s foreign exchange risk exposure, management in late 2001 and early 2002 switched most cash management accounts to a Euro-denominated basis from a US Dollar-denominated basis.

 

During the period 1999 through 2001, the Group made numerous acquisitions that reduced its net cash balance. Nonetheless, as at January 31, 2003 the Group’s available liquid resources exceeded current and expected future cash operating requirements. Management recognizes cash and cash equivalents generate returns significantly inferior to those generated by certain of the Group’s operating assets. In 2002 management reduced the Company’s cash position through the judicious purchases of strategic assets (e.g. real estate, suppliers) as well as the purchase of 1,800,595 of the Company’s own shares. Between February 1 and April 30, 2003, the Company purchased 3,203,987 of its own shares for  a total cost of € 281.6 million. Depending on market conditions, its cash position and Supervisory Board authorization, the Company may again repurchase its own shares.

 

Notwithstanding the Group’s significant liquidity, management has adopted a policy to maintain a certain level of debt and available credit lines. This policy is designed to ensure sufficient credit availability in the event that the cash and cash equivalents balance is utilized to make significant acquisitions or investments. Management has sought opportunities to borrow funds at low after tax interest rates and reinvest the funds at high after tax interest rates as part of the policy to maximize the Group’s fiscal efficiency.

 

In addition, management believes that appropriate levels of debt enhance shareholder

 

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value through a lower weighted average cost of capital and a shield on taxable income. Accordingly, as of January 31, 2003, the Group has available a € 667 million multi-currency revolving credit facility from which, as of January 31, 2003, it had drawn € 270 million, CHF 132 million, JPY 2 billion and US$ 245 million (a total of € 601.9 million). In addition, in the course of 2002, the Company entered into a number of borrowing transactions, including loans for US$ 50 million, JPY 19 billion and CHF 120 million for general corporate purposes (See Note 10 and Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements). Management will continue to explore the possibilities of debt financing - for both capital investment and acquisitions - in an effort to optimize gearing levels and the Company’s fiscal structure.

 

Acquisitions

 

The strategic alliance between Gucci Group and PPR - implemented through the Strategic Investment Agreement (“SIA”), entered into on March 19, 1999 and amended on September 10, 2001 - foresees that the Group utilize funds from the capital increase to PPR to finance acquisitions with the objective to become a multi-brand luxury goods group. The brands the Company thus far has acquired in the context of the SIA are the following:

 

Company

 

% Ownership

 

Acquired in

 

Balenciaga

 

91.0

 

July 2001

 

Alexander McQueen

 

51.0

 

July 2001

 

Stella McCartney

 

50.0

 

April 2001

 

Di Modolo (LTD)

 

100.0

 

April 2001

 

Bottega Veneta

 

78.5

 

February 2001

 

Bédat & Co.

 

85.0

 

December 2000

 

Boucheron

 

100.0

 

June 2000

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

100.0

 

December 1999

 

YSL Beauté

 

100.0

 

December 1999

 

Sergio Rossi

 

70.0

 

November 1999

 

 

In addition to the above-mentioned brands, the Company has acquired a number of real estate assets, industrial activities and franchise businesses with the objective of strengthening its business.

 

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The Company may make further selective acquisitions, and future Group results may vary depending on the nature, number and timing of future acquisitions. However, at present, no significant acquisitions are planned and, consequently, the Group is less likely to make acquisitions than it was in the past.

 

Commitments and Contingencies

 

The Company’s total contractual and commercial obligations as of January 31, 2003 totaled € 3,107.4 million (€ 2,300.3 million as at January 31, 2002).

 

      Financial debt, including bank overdrafts, short-term loans and long-term payables, was € 1,732.0 million as at January 31, 2003 (€ 1,568.9 million as at January 31, 2002).

 

      Operating lease commitments were € 1,044.7 million as at January 31, 2003. Store leases in particular represent a major financial commitment, and the minimum future store lease rentals for contracts with fixed rental payments amounted to € 831.5 million at January 31, 2003 (€ 488.9 million at January 31, 2002). The present value of the minimum store rental payments calculated using current market interest rates was € 677.2 million at January 31, 2003 (€ 411.6 million at January 31, 2002), of which Gucci Division accounted for € 313.2 million at January 31, 2003 (€ 286.9 million at January 31, 2002). A significant portion of the Group’s retail space is rented under lease contracts that provide partially or entirely for variable rent calculated as a percentage of sales. Such rental payments amounted to € 100.1 million in 2002 (€ 99.3 million in 2001).

 

      Finance lease commitments, calculated as the present value of minimum lease payments, were € 100.9 million as at January 31, 2003 and reflected on the balance sheet as a liability.

 

      Supplier purchase obligations were € 134.5 million as at January 31, 2003 (€ 83.5 million at January 31, 2002)

 

      Other commitments, principally the property in Ginza Tokyo were € 95.3 million as at January 31, 2003.

 

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Contractual and commercial obligations

 

 

 

Payments due by period

 

(In millions of Euro)

 

Total

 

<1 year

 

2-3 years

 

4-5 years

 

>5 years

 

Financial debt, current and non-current

 

1,732.0

 

629.2

 

748.6

 

316.2

 

38.0

 

Operating leases

 

1,044.7

 

127.4

 

226.0

 

176.4

 

514.9

 

Capital leases

 

100.9

 

1.3

 

2.9

 

3.7

 

93.0

 

Supplier purchase obligations

 

134.5

 

72.9

 

60.1

 

1.5

 

0.0

 

Other Commitments

 

95.3

 

85.1

 

5.4

 

0.5

 

4.3

 

Total contractual and commercial obligations

 

3,107.4

 

915.9

 

1,043.0

 

498.3

 

650.2

 

 

The Group had certain contingent liabilities and commitments as at January 31, 2003:

 

      Letter of Credit: In the context of the Settlement Agreement among Gucci Group, LVMH and PPR, the Gucci Group procured a Letter of Credit for the benefit of shareholders other than PPR and LVMH in the amount of US$ 230.0 million, which will be made available to the “independent” shareholders in the event that PPR fails to consummate an offer to acquire all outstanding shares in accordance with the Restated SIA. The letter of credit is secured by a US$ 245 million of bond classified as a long-term financial asset.

 

      Minority shareholders and partnerships: Certain minority shareholders of the Group’s companies have the right through put options to sell their interests in these companies to the Gucci Group in the future. These contractual agreements between the Gucci Group and these minority shareholders extend for periods up to fifteen years. In most cases the exercise price of a put option depends on the future financial performance and valuation of the company to which that put option is related. It is not possible to estimate the amounts payable under the options as they will depend on the future performance of the related companies. Assuming all Put options were exercised on January 31, 2003, the amount payable would have been € 125.3 million. This amount includes the minimum exercise price of certain of the put/call options which the Company may be obligated to pay in the years to come. At January 31, 2003, these minimum commitments totaled € 52.2 million, € 39.0 million of which related to put options expiring by January 31, 2005. (For additional information see Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements).

 

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      Other commitments: The Company has commitments to purchase certain assets. As at January 31, 2003, these commitments totaled € 95.3 million, € 85.1 million of which are due in 2003 and relate mainly to the acquisition of property in Tokyo Ginza (see Note 20).

 

Related Party Transactions

 

In 2002 the Company entered into commercial transactions with parties having interest in Gucci Group N.V. (PPR or minority shareholders of consolidated subsidiaries) These primarily involved wholesale product sales, cooperative advertising purchases, office supplies purchases from PPR-affiliate retailers as well as certain rental of stores and showroom space from minority shareholders. These transactions, conducted on an arm’s length basis, represented less than 0.2% of consolidated revenues and 0.3% of consolidated operating expenses, respectively, in 2002.

 

Management expects related third party transactions to continue to account for only a nominal portion of Group revenues and costs in future years.

 

Legal Proceedings

 

In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is a party to various claims and legal actions (including actions relating to the use of the Company’s trademarks) which the Company believes are routine in nature and incidental to the operation of its business. In the opinion of management, based upon inquiries of counsel and a review of pending litigation matters, including amounts in controversy, the resolution of all such pending claims and actions will not have a material adverse effect upon the consolidated financial position or results of operations of the Company, except as described below.

 

The Company has several outstanding discussions with and assessments by fiscal authorities in various countries. The Company is contesting the assessments and where appropriate, has made related provisions in the financial statements. Management believes that the final results are not likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or operating results.

 

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Settlement of the LVMH Litigation

 

In January 1999, LVMH - Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (“LVMH”) made an uninvited acquisition of 34.4% of the Common Shares of the Company. On March 19, 1999, the Company entered into a Strategic Investment Agreement (“SIA”) with Pinault-Printemps-Redoute S.A. (“PPR”) pursuant to which the Company issued 39,007,133 Common Shares to Societé Civile de Gestion Financière Marothi (“Marothi”), a wholly owned subsidiary of PPR, in exchange for approximately US$ 3 billion. LVMH challenged the strategic alliance in court in The Netherlands. On September 10, 2001, the Company, PPR and LVMH entered into a comprehensive settlement of the legal actions pending on that date.

 

The Settlement Agreement provided for the purchase by PPR of 8,579,337 Common Shares, representing approximately 8.6% of the Company’s then outstanding share capital, from LVMH at a price of US$ 94.00 per Common Share.

 

Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, PPR, LVMH and the Company dismissed all pending litigation, claims and actions relating to, inter alia, the shareholdings of LVMH or PPR in the Company, the acquisitions of such shareholdings or the granting of options to Company management. The Settlement Agreement provided for the payment of a special cash dividend of US$ 7.00 per Common Share to benefit all Gucci Group shareholders, except PPR. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, PPR has agreed to commence the Offer to all holders of Common Shares at a price of US$ 101.50 (the “Offer Price”) per Common Share on March 22, 2004. If, immediately prior to the expiration of the Offer Period, the Common Shares not tendered in the Offer and the Common Shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding options granted to employees of the Company to purchase Common Shares constitute less than the greater of (1) 15% of the then-outstanding Common Shares and (2) 15 million Common Shares, PPR will provide a subsequent offering period of no less than 10 days following its acceptance for payment of Common Shares tendered in the initial offering period (the “Subsequent Offering Period”) (as contemplated by Rule 14d-11 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended).

 

PPR may delay the commencement of the Offer for a maximum of six months upon the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event, but only for so long as the Force Majeure Event exists and the existence of such event is confirmed by a majority of the Independent Directors. The Settlement Agreement defines a Force Majeure Event as any of the following: (1) trading generally shall have been suspended or materially limited on or by, as the case may

 

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be, the New York Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam N.V. or the Paris Bourse, (2) trading of any securities of the Company shall have been suspended on any exchange, (3) a general moratorium on commercial banking activities in New York or Paris shall have been declared by either U.S. federal, New York or French authorities, or (4) there shall have occurred a change in the worldwide financial markets or any international calamity or crisis that, in the judgement of at least a majority of the Independent Directors (after consultation with PPR), is so material and adverse as to make it impracticable to commence the Offer, provided that the Independent Directors shall have received the written opinion of an international investment bank to such effect. In the event of the occurrence of an event specified in clause (4) of the Force Majeure Event definition, PPR is only entitled to defer the commencement of the Offer for up to sixty days, and in any case, only for so long as such event exists and is continuing.

 

LVMH and the Company would have the right to seek monetary damages from PPR if it fails to honor its obligations under the Settlement Agreement. In addition, LVMH and the Company are each entitled to seek specific performance of the agreement, including an injunction to require PPR to commence the Offer and purchase the Common Shares in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement. The Settlement Agreement does not confer any rights or remedies upon any person or entity other than Gucci Group, LVMH and PPR.

 

Under a simultaneously executed Amended and Restated Strategic Investment Agreement among the Company and PPR and Marothi (“Restated SIA”, discussed below), in the event that PPR fails to commence and complete the Offer in accordance with the terms set forth in the Settlement Agreement, which are reiterated in the Restated SIA, a majority of the Independent Directors shall have the ability to seek specific performance, sue for damages and/or distribute a stock dividend for each issued and outstanding Common Share not owned by PPR so that as a result of such stock dividend, PPR’s share ownership shall be reduced to 42% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares. In the event the Independent Directors cause the Company to distribute a stock dividend, the number of Supervisory Board members nominated by PPR would be reduced by one member, the composition of the Strategic and Financial Committee would be three Independent Directors and two PPR Directors and PPR would be prohibited from acquiring additional Common Shares unless it does so  pursuant to a public offer for all of the outstanding Common Shares which is recommended to the Company’s shareholders by the Independent Directors.

 

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PPR agreed that until the later of the expiration of the Offer Period and the completion of the Subsequent Offering Period and for so long as no less than the greater of (1) 15% of the outstanding Common Shares and (2) 15 million Common Shares remain outstanding, it will use its best efforts to cause the Company to maintain the listing of the Common Shares on the NYSE and the Amsterdam Stock Exchange.

 

On December 17, 2001, LVMH sold 11,565,648 Common Shares, representing 11.5% of Gucci’s then outstanding share capital, to Crédit Lyonnais for a purchase price of approximately US$ 89.6381 per Common Share (or an aggregate purchase price of US$ 1,036,722,345). Upon consummation of the sale, LVMH no longer beneficially owned any shares of the Company.

 

The Amended and Restated Strategic Investment Agreement

 

As noted above (see Settlement of the LVMH Litigation), as part of the settlement, the Company and PPR and Marothi entered into a Restated Strategic Investment Agreement (“Restated SIA”). Apart from reiterating some of the financial features of the Settlement Agreement, the Restated SIA amends the corporate governance provisions of the existing Strategic Investment Agreement.

 

Restated SIA provides for an equal number of PPR Directors and Independent Directors. Pursuant to a request by PPR, the majority of Independent Directors agreed to reduce the Supervisory Board to eight members and Mr. Charles Mackay resigned as a member of the Supervisory Board, effective November 9, 2001. The Restated SIA provides that an Independent Director serve as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board (subject to the prior approval of the Strategic and Financial Committee).

 

Until the consummation of the Offer, the Supervisory Board will be comprised of four Independent Directors and four PPR Directors. Following the consummation of the Offer, PPR will have the ability to expand the Supervisory Board of the Company by one member and nominate such additional member following at least 15 days’ notice to the Independent Directors. During such notice period, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board will schedule a meeting of the Supervisory Board, and PPR will consult with the Independent Directors. If the decision is taken to expand the Supervisory Board, a shareholders’ meeting will be noticed promptly and the matter will be submitted to shareholders of the Company for a vote.

 

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The restated SIA provides that the PPR Directors may not vote on any matter as to which a majority of the Independent Directors determine that PPR has a conflict of interest (subject to arbitration by PPR).

 

The Supervisory Board will continue to maintain the Strategic and Financial Committee, consisting of three PPR Directors and two Independent Directors. The Strategic and Financial Committee will discuss and approve certain matters prior to their submission to the full Supervisory Board for approval, including the Company’s strategic plan; certain investments, strategic acquisitions and dispositions; certain capital expenditures and incurrence of debt outside the ordinary course of business; changes in the Company’s capital structure; any amendment to the Company’s Articles of Association or the rules of the Supervisory Board; any legal mergers, demergers, spinoffs, dissolutions and applications relating to bankruptcy or reorganizations and the appointment of the Chairman of the Supervisory Board. Managing Directors will be nominated by the Independent Directors and approved by the Strategic and Financial Committee. If not approved by the Strategic and Financial Committee, the matters described above must be approved by at least 75% of the members of the Supervisory Board then in office in order to take effect.

 

The Restated SIA provides that prior to December 31, 2004, PPR may not sell or transfer any Common Shares except with the prior consent of a majority of the Independent Directors, except to its affiliates under certain conditions and except in connection with a public offer for 100% of the Common Shares by a third party which offer has been recommended to the Company’s shareholders by the Supervisory Board. After December 31, 2004, PPR may sell or transfer  Common Shares following due consultation with the Independent Directors.

 

The Restated SIA also includes certain non-competition provisions, assurances of the Company’s independence, a commitment to support the existing manufacturing operations and employee base and a commitment not to solicit Company employees. Before PPR and its affiliates can carry on a competing business in the fashion clothing and luxury goods industry, apart from the activities conducted by the PPR Group as of the date of the Restated SIA, such competing business must first be presented to the Company in accordance with the terms of the Restated SIA.

 

In the event of sales or transfers by PPR of Common Shares following December 31, 2004, the governance arrangements described above are subject to certain modifications.

 

106



 

The Restated SIA terminates on the earliest of (1) March 19, 2009, (2) such date following the consummation of the Offer such that fewer than the greater of (a) 15% of the then-outstanding Common Shares and (b) 15 million Common Shares are held by shareholders other than PPR and its affiliates, (3) such time prior to March 19, 2009 as PPR consummates a tender offer, other than the Offer, for 100% of the then-outstanding Common Shares, which is recommended to the shareholders by a majority of the Independent Directors and (4) such time as the Settlement Agreement ceases to be in full force and effect other than pursuant to the terms thereof, provided that in such case PPR, the Company and Marothi shall agree to be bound by the initial Strategic Investment Agreement.

 

Impact of changes in exchange rates

 

As of February 1, 2002, the Group began to report its financial performance in Euros. Management based its decision to change the Company’s reporting currency to the Euro from the US Dollar on several considerations, including: the advent of the Euro as the legal tender currency in twelve European Union Member States (including Italy and France, the countries in which most of the Group’s products are produced) as at January 1, 2002 and the increase in the proportion of Group revenue and expenses denominated in the Euro resulting from acquisitions made in 1999, 2000 and 2001. Management also believes that reporting in Euros facilitates comparisons to the Company’s publicly-traded competitors which generally report in the currency of their home country, where their products are usually sourced. Management did not apply a retrospective application of the change of the reporting currency as this would have caused an unfair and misleading presentation of prior years’ financial statements. Accordingly, no adjustments relating to prior periods has been made either to the opening balance of retained earnings or in reporting the net profit or loss for the prior periods because existing balances are not recalculated. The Group’s financial statements before January 31, 2002 have been translated from US Dollar to the Euro applying historical exchange rates.

 

Changes in exchange rates between the Euro and other currencies, particularly the US Dollar and the Japanese Yen, can affect significantly Gucci Group operating results and financial condition. However, management notes the change in the reporting currency to the Euro mitigates foreign exchange risk on the Company’s gross margin and generally reduces gross margin volatility.

 

107



 

      The Group’s revenues are denominated in many currencies, the most important of which are the US Dollar and related currencies, Euro, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc and English Pound.

 

      For the Gucci Division, own store operating expenses (22.0% of division revenues in 2002) are incurred in local currencies; most production and sourcing costs, with the exception of watches, are in Euros; watch production expenses are incurred primarily in Swiss Francs. For the other brands, most production and operating expenses are in Euros, with the exception of store expenses, which are in local currencies.

 

      In 2002, the Group’s revenues in US Dollars, Japanese Yen, Swiss Francs and most non Euro-currencies exceeded expenses in those currencies. By contrast, the Group’s total expenses in Euros exceeded its total revenues in that currency.

 

Period-to-period changes in the average exchange rate of the Euro against the US Dollar or other currencies can affect the Company’s revenues and operating profits in Euro terms. On the basis of current and planned revenue and expense relationships:

      depreciation of the Euro relative to non Euro-currencies (in which the Company receives revenues) has a positive effect on revenues and operating profit;

      appreciation of the Euro relative to non Euro-currencies (in which the Company receives revenues) generally has a negative effect on revenues and operating profit.

 

Throughout 2002 and as at January 31, 2003, the Company was involved in hedging transactions designed to reduce the short-term impact of currency fluctuations on operating profit resulting from fluctuations in the relationship between the Euro and the principal currencies in which revenues and expenses are denominated, with particular focus on the US Dollar and the Japanese Yen. The hedging transactions normally relate to a period not exceeding twenty-four months and are designed to limit the effect of exchange fluctuations in the period starting when the Company fixes prices for a season and takes orders for the related products and ending when the related sales are completed. Management notes the change in the reporting currency to the Euro simplifies foreign exchange hedging, notwithstanding the Group’s aforementioned need to hedge non Euro-denominated revenues and expenses, principally those denominated in US Dollars, Japanese Yen, Swiss Francs and English Pounds. For the year 2003, management already hedged a substantial proportion of the Group’s expected revenues and costs in these currencies.

 

108



 

Had there been an adverse change in foreign currencies in 2002 defined as a devaluation of the Japanese Yen and the US Dollar of 10% compared to the Euro, the Company’s net income after tax would have decreased by approximately € 90.2 million, excluding the effect of actual hedging transactions which were in place during the year, and increased by approximately € 6.8 million, net of the effect of such hedging transactions.

 

Other Matters

 

Seasonality

Gucci Group’s results of operations for a given quarter or half-year are affected by various seasonal influences. Accordingly, results for each quarter or half-year are not necessarily indicative of probable results in other quarters or half-years, and the Group’s net income may vary from one interim period to another interim period. The second half of any year generally displays somewhat greater revenues and profits because of the important Christmas season.

 

Inflation

Inflation has been relatively low in the Company’s principal markets in recent years. The Company believes that inflation has not significantly affected its revenues or profitability in the last three years.

 

Significant accounting policies

 

The Group’s accounting policies comply with standards set forth by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The significant policies the Group uses to prepare its consolidated financial statements and notes in accordance with IAS principles are described in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.  Certain of these significant accounting policies require management to make assumptions, which if changed could impact measurably the Group’s financial results as reported in the consolidated financial statements and related notes. The assumptions, which follow principles of prudence and conservatism, are based on numerous considerations, including management’s expectations of the performance of the Group’s companies, suppliers and customers, business trends in the luxury goods industry and macro-economic developments.

 

109



 

Some of the Group’s significant accounting policies include:

 

Valuation of Inventory

Inventories are stated at the lower of purchase or production cost or market value. Purchase or production cost is determined under the retail or average cost method for retail inventories and the average cost method for production and wholesale inventories. Under the retail inventory method, the valuation of inventories at cost and the resulting gross margins are determined by applying a calculated cost-to-retail ratio, for various groupings of similar items, to the retail value of inventories. Consequently, the cost of the inventory reflected on the consolidated balance sheet is decreased by charges to cost of sales during the period that it is first determined that the merchandise will be sold at markdown value.

 

Valuation of Trademarks and Goodwill

The trademark of an acquired business is valued using discounted cash flow analysis. The goodwill of an acquired business is valued as the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the identifiable net assets of that business at the date of acquisition. In accordance with the SEC’s interpretation of International Accounting Standards, in 2001 and previous years goodwill and trademark amortization was calculated applying a maximum 20-year useful life to the goodwill and trademarks.

 

The Group follows IAS 36 in assessing potential impairment of goodwill or trademarks. Goodwill and trademarks are reviewed for impairment losses whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets whose carrying values exceed their recoverable amount are written down to the higher of the net selling price and the amount determined using discounted net future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.

 

Accounting for Hedging

The Company has a policy to hedge the foreign exchange risk associated with the translation of future anticipated foreign currency denominated revenues and expenses. This hedging permits the Group to reduce the volatility of its prices and consequently of its gross and operating margins by ensuring that the exchange rates at which foreign currency revenue and expenses are reported are similar to those planned when prices are fixed (normally six to nine months before the products are sold).

 

110



 

Hedges normally are made by acquiring derivative instruments, such as forward contracts and options, which expire during the period in which the hedged revenues and expenses are expected to occur. The Group normally acquires such instruments for a notional value which is somewhat less than the total expected revenues and expenses. However, if actual revenues or expenses are lower than the hedged amounts, the Company may incur gains or losses from the recognition of the fair value derivative instruments.

 

Reconciliation of IAS with  U.S. GAAP

 

Under IAS Gucci Group N.V. reported net income of € 226.8 million in 2002, € 312.5 million in 2001 and € 336.9 million in 2000. Under U.S. GAAP, Gucci Group would have reported net income of € 379.5 million in 2002, € 199.3 million in 2001 and € 441.8 million in 2000.

 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with IAS. The most significant differences between IAS and U.S. GAAP for 2002, 2001 and 2000 which affected net income are generated by: the different accounting treatments associated with goodwill and trademark amortization; restructuring charges; non-cash compensation expense; fiscal benefits arising from the exercise of stock options; the gains/losses on derivative instruments entered into to cover the exchange risk on anticipated future transactions, deferred taxation related to the elimination of the intercompany profit and construction period store rental expenses. Note 23 to the consolidated financial statements provides a description of these and certain other differences as they relate to Gucci Group and a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP of net income and shareholders’ equity.

 

The differences between U.S. GAAP and IAS reported net income and shareholders’ equity, as reflected in the reconciliation, owed principally to:

 

      In 2002: the differences in the amortization rate for goodwill and trademarks; a change in the intrinsic value of outstanding options; and unrealized exchange gains on hedge transactions.

 

      In 2001: the differences in the amortization rate for goodwill and trademarks; and the US$ 7.00 reduction in the exercise price of options following the Settlement Agreement among Gucci Group, PPR and LVMH.

 

111



 

Some of the most significant differences between IAS and U.S. GAAP include the accounting treatments for the following items:

 

Impairment of Indefinite Life Assets

Effective February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the full provisions of new U.S. GAAP accounting principle FAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“FAS 142”). Consequently, the Group reassessed the useful lives of previously recognized intangible assets. As a result of this assessment the Yves Saint Laurent trademark was classified as an indefinite-lived intangible asset (“Indefinite-Lived Asset”) under the provisions of FAS 142. This conclusion is supported by the fact that the Yves Saint Laurent trademark right is: perpetual in duration, related to one of the most successful luxury brands, and when the relaunch of the brand is completed expected to generate positive cash flows as long as the company owns it. In fact, the Yves Saint Laurent brand possesses all the qualities (long standing reputation, high awareness, reliably high quality, costumers loyalty due to its recognizable attributes), which permit the Company to achieve superior and very long-term cash flows, fundamental to enhancing the brand’s long-term value. The Indefinite-Lived Asset will no longer be amortized but rather tested for impairment annually or when events and circumstances warrant. The Group will reevaluate the useful life of the Indefinite-Lived Asset each year to determine whether events or circumstances continue to support indefinite useful life.

 

In accordance with the FAS 142 transition provisions, on February 1, 2002 the Group completed the transition impairment test of its Indefinite-Lived Asset and goodwill comparing the fair value of the Indefinite-Lived Asset and of all goodwill to their related current carrying amounts as at that date and determined that no impairment existed at that date. Fair value was derived using a discounted cash flow analysis. Impairment analyses were based on five year business plans consistent with internal planning assumptions. In the valuation model, the Company did not apply a perpetual growth rate and a constant operating mar-gin assumption until the end of the five-year period. The Company assumed a discount rate, which is representative of the Weighted Average Cost of Capital consistent with rates adopted by reputable investment banks. In the forecast period considered for the impairment analysis, the Company budgeted the businesses’ free cash flow; in the subsequent period (perpetuity), constant growth rates were assumed, which correspond to minimal real growth after adjusting for expected inflation.

 

Using the methodologies consistent with those applied for its transitional impairment test performed, the Group completed its annual impairment test for the Indefinite-Lived Asset and goodwill as at January 31, 2003. These annual impairment tests did not indicate an impairment of either the Yves Saint Laurent trademark or goodwill deriving from any of the Group’s acquisitions.

 

112



 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

As required by IAS, the Company amortizes goodwill and acquired trademarks over a maximum period of 20 years. In 2002 the Company adopted FAS 142, under which it did not amortize goodwill nor the Yves Saint Laurent trademark which has an indefinite useful life. The other acquired trademarks were amortized over periods representing their estimated useful lives, which the Company reassessed when first applying FAS 142 as of February 1, 2002 as follows:

 

Trademark

 

Useful life

 

Balenciaga

 

20 years

 

Bottega Veneta

 

40 years

 

Boucheron

 

20 years

 

Roger & Gallet

 

40 years

 

Sergio Rossi

 

40 years

 

Stella McCartney

 

20 years

 

 

Restructuring charges

In accordance with IAS rules, the Group does not recognize a provision with respect to certain exit costs, employee termination costs and other restructuring expenses as at the date of the acquisitions, but rather charges such costs to expense in the periods they are incurred. Under U.S. GAAP these liabilities should be recognized and included in the allocation of the acquisition costs. Accordingly, appropriate adjustments have been reflected in the U.S. GAAP reconciliation.

 

Non-cash compensation expense

In accordance with FIN 44, the U.S. GAAP reconciliation includes an adjustment to record a non-cash employee compensation expense caused by the US$ 7.00 repricing of in-the-money vested stock options occurred in 2001. This expense in 2001 amounted to € 114.7 million before tax ( € 103.6 million after tax), and was calculated as the total intrinsic value market price minus the strike price of all in-the-money vested employee stock options as of the date of the repricing of the options (December 20, 2001). This repricing was necessary in order to provide treatment to option holders which was equitable and equivalent to that given to shareholders who received the special US$ 7.00 dividend resulting from the settlement agreement with LVMH. In 2002, the change in the intrinsic value of outstanding options was recognized as an increase of compensation expense of € 37.7 million before tax ( € 33.4 million after tax).

 

113



 

The income statement charge resulted from the application of rules contained in FIN 44 and, in management’s opinion, was not representative of the economic substance of the transaction. In particular, it should be emphasized that had employees exercised these in-the-money vested options (as was within their rights) prior to the payment of the US$ 7.00 dividend and then held the shares in order to receive the dividend, the employees would have received exactly the same economic benefit deriving from the re-pricing, and there would not have been any charge to the income statement. However, because the form of the employees’ holding remained stock options (as opposed to shares), the Company was required to recognise additional compensation expense in the U.S. GAAP reconciliation. Management also notes that the expense recorded for U.S. GAAP has no impact on the Company’s cash flow.

 

In accordance with IAS, no cost is accrued for stock options on the date of grant as well as during the life of the options. Under U.S. GAAP, as permitted under FAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”, the Company accounts for employee stock options under Accounting Principles Board statement No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”, (“APB 25”) as clarified by FASB Interpretation No. 44, “Accounting for Certain Transactions involving Stock Compensation” (“FIN 44”), and FASB Interpretation No. 28, “Accounting for Stock Appreciation and Other Variable Stock Option or Award Plans”.

 

The Company generally issues options to employees and directors to purchase shares of the Company with an exercise price greater than or equal to the market price of the underlying shares at the date of grant. Prior to 2000, the Supervisory Board contracted to grant options to certain executive officers, subject to the approval of the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”). On June 22, 2000, the AGM authorized the issuance of the options granted in 1999. In accordance with APB 25, in 2000 the compensation cost for stock options was measured as the excess of the quoted market price of Gucci shares on the day shareholder approval was obtained and the strike price of the options (the “Intrinsic Value”). The related compensation expense is being recognized over the vesting period of each grant.

 

Hedging

The Company enters into transactions including derivative transactions to manage its foreign exchange exposure related to certain anticipated future revenues and expenses in currencies other than the reporting currency of the Group as at the year end. Until the adoption of IAS 39 “Financial instruments: recognition and measurement”, and FAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, the Company deferred the

 

114



 

unrealized gains or losses on hedges in respect of future revenues and expenses; under U.S. GAAP unrealized gains or losses on hedges, which were not covered by firm commitments as at the balance sheet date, were included in the determination of net income. Upon the adoption of IAS 39 the Company qualifies for hedge accounting and records the fair value movements of Cash flow hedges as a component of equity until the related revenues and expenses are realized. Under U.S. GAAP the Company’s hedges of anticipated future transactions do not qualify for hedge accounting. Accordingly, on adoption of FAS 133 the current U.S. GAAP hedging relationships for the Company’s existing derivative instruments were no longer recognized as hedges. Subsequent to adoption, movements in the fair value of Cash flow hedges have been recorded as adjustments to U.S. GAAP net income. However, as IAS basis shareholders’ equity reflects the Hedging reserve in Other comprehensive income, from January 31, 2002 there is no longer a reconciling item between IAS and U.S. GAAP basis shareholders’ equity.

 

On February 1, 2001 the Company adopted FAS 133 and IAS 39 which establish accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments and hedging activities. Both standards require that all derivatives are recognized as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measured at fair value at each reporting period. On the adoption date, under IAS 39, the Company recorded a gain, net of tax, of € 8.7 million directly in shareholders’ equity related to instruments designed to hedge cash flow fluctuations. Under U.S. GAAP this amount is recorded as an adjustment to Other comprehensive income. Accordingly no reconciling item to net equity as at January 31, 2003 and 2002 was required.

 

115



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Consolidated statements of income

(In thousands of Euro, except per share and share amounts)

 

 

 

2002

 

2001(*)

 

2000(*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net revenues

 

2,544,286

 

2,565,116

 

2,461,324

 

Cost of goods sold

 

802,007

 

773,399

 

751,799

 

Gross profit

 

1,742,279

 

1,791,717

 

1,709,525

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

1,436,420

 

1,393,123

 

1,264,452

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

126,418

 

130,209

 

90,691

 

Operating profit

 

179,441

 

268,385

 

354,382

 

Restructuring expenses

 

 

(750

)

96,630

 

Financial income, net

 

62,796

 

88,123

 

160,256

 

Other income (expenses), net

 

(1,257

10,586

 

2,038

 

Income before income taxes and minority interests

 

240,980

 

367,844

 

420,046

 

Income tax expense

 

19,286

 

58,679

 

48,823

 

Net income before minority interests

 

221,694

 

309,165

 

371,223

 

Minority interests

 

5,060

 

3,370

 

(4,298

)

Net income for the year

 

226,754

 

312,535

 

366,925

 

Net income per share of common stock - basic

 

2.24

 

3.12

 

3.67

 

Weighted average number of shares – basic

 

101,060,751

 

100,174,358

 

99,923,430

 

Net income per share of common stock - diluted

 

2.21

 

3.08

 

3.61

 

Weighted average number of shares and share equivalents - diluted

 

102,422,918

 

101,524,040

 

101,590,732

 

 


(*)   The Euro amounts have been calculated from previously published US Dollar amounts in accordance with the criteria disclosed in Note 3 to these consolidated financial statements.

 

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

 

116



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Consolidated balance sheets

(In thousands of Euro)

 

 

 

2002

 

2001(*)

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

2,934,578

 

2,964,907

 

Trade receivables, net

 

331,834

 

328,794

 

Inventories, net

 

472,028

 

450,027

 

Deferred tax assets

 

191,219

 

169,565

 

Current value of hedge derivatives

 

110,559

 

3,179

 

Other current assets

 

326,186

 

281,252

 

Total current assets

 

4,366,404

 

4,197,724

 

Non-current assets

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term financial assets

 

256,089

 

307,982

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

 

912,497

 

691,857

 

Goodwill, trademarks, other intangible assets and deferred charges, net

 

2,110,015

 

2,144,233

 

Deferred tax assets

 

72,452

 

64,338

 

Other non-current assets

 

63,150

 

46,852

 

Total non-current assets

 

3,414,203

 

3,255,262

 

Total assets

 

7,780,607

 

7,452,986

 

Liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Bank overdrafts and short-term loans

 

630,534

 

765,158

 

Trade payables and accrued expenses

 

478,479

 

467,123

 

Deferred tax liabilities and income tax payable

 

151,750

 

167,640

 

Other current liabilities

 

119,262

 

143,814

 

Total current liabilities

 

1,380,025

 

1,543,735

 

Non-current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term financial payables

 

1,202,411

 

824,415

 

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities

 

50,831

 

47,550

 

Long-term tax payable and deferred tax liabilities

 

373,159

 

379,392

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

38,182

 

33,616

 

Total non-current liabilities

 

1,664,583

 

1,284,973

 

Total liabilities

 

3,044,608

 

2,828,708

 

Minority interests

 

64,566

 

65,855

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

Share capital

 

104,688

 

103,654

 

Contributed surplus

 

2,790,401

 

2,795,369

 

Retained earnings

 

968,745

 

707,515

 

Treasury stock, at cost

 

(173,274

)

(60,142

)

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

754,119

 

699,492

 

Net result for the year

 

226,754

 

312,535

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

4,671,433

 

4,558,423

 

Total liabilities, minority interests and shareholders’ equity

 

7,780,607

 

7,452,986

 

 


(*) The Euro amounts have been calculated from previously published US Dollar amounts in accordance with the criteria disclosed in Note 3 to these consolidated financial statements.

 

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

 

117



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Consolidated statements of cash flows

(In thousands of Euro)

 

 

 

2002

 

2001(*)

 

2000(*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flow provided by operating activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net result for the year

 

226,754

 

312,535

 

366,925

 

Depreciation

 

93,950

 

77,094

 

59,780

 

Amortization

 

148,525

 

145,585

 

103,685

 

Net loss (gain) on sale and write-down of non-current assets

 

(28

)

2

 

(204

)

Changes (net of acquisitions) in:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

trade receivables, net

 

(27,872

)

(24,215

)

20,105

 

inventories, net

 

(43,333

)

(80,368

)

(34,716

)

short-term deferred tax assets

 

(25,278

)

(27,099

)

(52,937

)

other current assets

 

(45,014

)

(54,855

)

31,602

 

trade payables and accrued expenses

 

36,870

 

(34,209

)

29,603

 

income tax payable

 

(20,161

)

18,417

 

70,542

 

other current liabilities

 

(27,879

)

(44,477

)

44,131

 

deferred tax

 

(46,854

)

(36,313

)

(80,818

)

other non-current assets

 

(13,126

)

(7,882

)

(3,734

)

other non-current liabilities

 

(9,218

)

(15,369

)

(14,016

)

Cash flow provided by operating activities

 

247,336

 

228,846

 

539,948

 

Cash flow used in investing activities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquisitions

 

(24,875

)

(220,264

)

(436,527

)

Purchases of tangible assets

 

(255,578

)

(245,869

)

(221,965

)

Increase in deferred charges and intangible assets

 

(85,077

)

(96,081

)

(63,971

)

Proceeds from the sale of non-current assets

 

2,987

 

10,100

 

634

 

Cash flow used in investing activities

 

(362,543

)

(552,114

)

(721,829

)

Cash flow (used in) provided by financing activities Issuance (repayment) of long-term debt, net

 

384,891

 

(173,031

)

821,980

 

Investment in long-term financial assets

 

 

(299,419

)

 

Purchases of treasury shares

 

(158,499

)

 

 

Proceeds from the exercise of stock options and other movements

 

41,749

 

27,869

 

15,950

 

Dividends

 

(50,709

)

(425,243

)

(49,029

)

Cash flow (used in) provided by financing activities

 

217,432

 

(869,824

)

788,901

 

Increase (decrease) in cash, net of short-term financial indebtedness

 

102,225

 

(1,193,092

)

607,020

 

Effect of exchange rates on cash (short-term financial indebtedness), net:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exchange effects arising from translation

 

4,984

 

(35,118

)

25,762

 

Exchange effects arising from change to Euro

 

 

206,510

 

123,435

 

Cash (short-term financial indebtedness) from acquired companies, net

 

(2,914

)

(8,297

)

17,352

 

Cash and cash equivalents, net of short-term financial indebtedness, at the beginning of the year

 

2,199,749

 

3,229,746

 

2,456,177

 

Cash and cash equivalents, net of short-term financial indebtedness, at the end of the year

 

2,304,044

 

2,199,749

 

3,229,746

 

 

118



 

 

 

2002

 

2001(*)

 

2000(*)

 

Cash and cash equivalents, net of short-term financial indebtedness, comprise the following:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

2,934,578

 

2,964,907

 

3,350,030

 

Bank overdrafts and short-term loans

 

(630,534

)

(765,158

)

(120,284

)

Cash and cash equivalents, net

 

2,304,044

 

2,199,749

 

3,229,746

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001(*)

 

2000(*)

 

Cash paid during the period:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

52,161

 

68,788

 

44,648

 

Income taxes

 

121,157

 

106,508

 

57,071

 

Cash flow from interest received

 

122,274

 

163,055

 

207,519

 

 

Assets and liabilities in the businesses acquired were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed assets

 

743

 

16,205

 

43,454

 

Trade receivables

 

5,691

 

19,287

 

17,721

 

Inventories

 

1,675

 

7,717

 

61,096

 

Trade payables

 

(2,857

)

(22,894

)

(30,100

)

Other liabilities, net

 

(3,205

)

(49,038

)

(17,048

)

Cash (short-term indebtedness), net

 

(2,914

)

(8,297

)

17,352

 

Financial payables

 

 

(2,805

)

(1,865

)

Effects of changes in exchange rates

 

616

 

4,693

 

467

 

 

 

(251

)

(35,132

)

91,077

 

Goodwill and trademarks, net of deferred taxes

 

29,721

 

281,073

 

366,466

 

Cost of acquisitions

 

29,470

 

245,941

 

457,543

 

Amount paid

 

24,875

 

220,264

 

436,527

 

Amount to be paid as at the year end

 

4,595

 

25,677

 

21,016

 

 


(*) The Cash flows were converted from US Dollar to Euro using the average exchange rate of the respective year except for cash and cash equivalents amounts which were converted from US Dollar to Euro using the historical exchange rate at the end of the respective year.

 

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

 

119



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Statement of changes in consolidated shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income

(In thousands of Euro, except number of shares)

 

 

 

Number
of shares

 

Share
capital

 

Contributed
surplus

 

Retained
earnings

 

Treasury
stock,
at cost

 

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income

 

Net result
for the
year

 

Total

 

Balance at January 31, 2000

 

99,748,458

 

103,583

 

2,789,417

 

492,584

 

(104,070

)

348,633

 

313,684

 

3,943,831

 

Appropriation of result for 1999

 

 

 

 

270,964

 

 

 

(270,964

)

 

Dividends

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(47,835

)

(47,835

)

Shares issued for option exercise

 

69,812

 

71

 

4,640

 

 

 

 

 

4,711

 

Shares released from treasury for options exercise

 

260,479

 

 

1,128

 

 

12,398

 

 

 

13,526

 

Other

 

16,456

 

 

(3,055

)

 

782

 

 

 

(2,273

)

Net income for 2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

366,925

 

366,925

 

Foreign currency adjustments (net of tax of (1.0) million)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(59,684

)

 

(59,684

)

Comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

307,241

 

Exchange effects arising from change to Euro

 

 

 

 

 

 

201,582

 

5,115

 

206,697

 

Balance at January 31, 2001

 

100,095,205

 

103,654

 

2,792,130

 

763,548

 

(90,890

)

490,531

 

366,925

 

4,425,898

 

Appropriation of result for 2000

 

 

 

 

312,225

 

 

 

(312,225

)

 

Dividends

 

 

 

 

(364,480

)

 

 

(58,959

)

(423,439

)

Shares released from treasury for options exercise

 

612,475

 

 

2,997

 

 

30,028

 

 

 

33,025

 

Other

 

14,723

 

 

242

 

(2,852

)

720

 

256

 

 

(1,634

)

Net income for 2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

312,535

 

312,535

 

Other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Hedging reserve:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening

 

 

 

 

(926

)

 

9,359

 

 

8,433

 

Movements

 

 

 

 

 

 

(16,918

)

 

(16,918

)

  Fair-value reserve

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2,388

)

 

(2,388

)

  Foreign currency adjustments (net of tax of (1.1) million)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(104,733

)

 

(104,733

)

Total other comprehensive income

 

 

 

-

 

(926

)

 

(114,680

)

 

(115,606

)

Comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

196,929

 

Exchange effects arising from change to Euro

 

 

 

 

 

 

323,385

 

4,259

 

327,644

 

Balance at January 31, 2002

 

100,722,403

 

103,654

 

2,795,369

 

707,515

 

(60,142

)

699,492

 

312,535

 

4,558,423

 

 

120



 

 

 

Number
of shares

 

Share
capital

 

Contributed
surplus

 

Retained
earnings

 

Treasury
stock,
at cost

 

Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income

 

Net result
for the
year

 

Total

 

Balance at January 31, 2002

 

100,722,403

 

103,654

 

2,795,369

 

707,515

 

(60,142

)

699,492

 

312,535

 

4,558,423

 

Appropriation of result for 2001

 

 

 

 

261,826

 

 

 

(261,826

)

 

Dividends

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(50,709

)

(50,709

)

Shares issued for option exercise

 

7,940

 

8

 

394

 

 

 

 

 

402

 

Shares released from treasury for options exercise

 

1,294,274

 

 

(3,458

)

 

44,747

 

 

 

41,289

 

Shares repurchased

 

(1,800,595

)

 

 

 

(158,499

)

 

 

(158,499

)

Other

 

11,229

 

1,026

 

(1,904

)

(596

)

620

 

 

 

(854

)

Net income for 2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

226,754

 

226,754

 

Other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Hedging reserve

 

 

 

 

 

 

106,581

 

 

106,581

 

  Fair-value reserve

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,207

 

 

5,207

 

  Foreign currency adjustments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(net of tax of Euro 7.7 million)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(57,161

)

 

(57,161

)

Total other comp-
rehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

54,627

 

 

54,627

 

Comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

281,381

 

Balance at January 31, 2003

 

100,235,251

 

104,688

 

2,790,401

 

968,745

 

(173,274

)

754,119

 

226,754

 

4,671,433

 

 


(*) The Euro amounts as at January 31, 2002 have been calculated from previously published US Dollar amounts as follows:

“Share capital” and related movements by multiplying the number of shares issued by the nominal value of € 1.01;

Balances other than “Share capital” as the aggregate amount of:

The balances as at January 31, 1999 translated using the exchange rate at that date, and

The movements recorded during the period from February 1, 1999 up to January 31, 2002 calculated as follows:

“Net income of the period” using the respective period average exchange rate,

“Shares issued to PPR” on March 19, 1999 using the exchange rate on that date,

“Appropriation of the result” using the prior period average exchange rate,

“Dividends” using the exchange rate on the due date of the respective payments,

all other movements using each period’s average exchange rate.

 

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

 

121



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

(1) Activities of the Group

Gucci Group is one of the world’s leading multi-brand luxury goods companies. Through the Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Sergio Rossi, Boucheron, Roger & Gallet, Bottega Veneta, Bédat & Co, Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Balenciaga brands, the Group designs, produces and distributes high-quality personal luxury goods, including ready-to-wear, handbags, luggage, small leather goods, shoes, timepieces, jewelry, ties and scarves, eyewear, perfume, cosmetics and skincare products. The Group directly operates stores in major market throughout the world and also distributes products to franchise stores, duty-free boutiques and leading department and specialty stores. The shares of Gucci Group are listed on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange (GCCI.AS) and on the New York Stock Exchange (GUC).

 

(2) Acquisitions

During the period ended January 31, 2003 the Group made a number of immaterial acquisitions including Italian shoe and jewelry production facilities as well as the quota held by the minority shareholder in the Joint Venture established in the past in Taiwan for a total consideration of € 29.5 million.

 

In February 2001, the Group acquired 66.7% of Bottega Veneta B.V. (“Bottega Veneta”) through both a capital increase and the purchase of shares from the shareholders. In July 2001, the Group acquired an additional 11.8% of the share capital of Bottega Veneta, raising its interest in Bottega Veneta to 78.5%. Bottega Veneta manufactures and sells luxury leather products, shoes and accessories.

 

In April 2001, the Group acquired 50% of the shares of Stella McCartney Ltd which develops, produces and sells ready-to-wear and accessories, designed by Stella McCartney and bearing the Stella McCartney brand. The Group has the right to nominate 50% of the members of the Board including the President who has a casting vote in the event of any deadlock. Accordingly, Stella McCartney Ltd is consolidated on a line-by-line basis.

 

In July 2001, the Group acquired 51% of Birdswan Ltd which develops, produces and sells ready-to-wear and accessories designed by Alexander McQueen and bearing the Alexander McQueen brand.

 

122



 

In July 2001, the Group acquired 91% of Balenciaga S.A. (“Balenciaga”). Balenciaga sells luxury women’s ready-to-wear and leather accessories under the Balenciaga brand.

 

In 2001 the Group made other smaller acquisitions including franchisees in Spain, Australia and Japan, the Swiss watch design and manufacturing company Di Modolo Associates S.A., as well as several Italian shoe and leather production facilities.

 

The total cost of all acquisitions during the period ended January 31, 2002, including professional fees and ancillary costs, was approximately € 245.9 million.

 

The acquisitions have been accounted for utilizing the purchase method and, accordingly, the operating results of the new businesses have been included in the consolidated statements of income from the date of the acquisition. The purchase prices of the acquired companies have been preliminarily allocated to identified assets (including trademarks) and liabilities of these companies based on their estimated fair values on the date of the acquisition. The residual amounts of € 29.7 and € 239.5 million, as of January 31, 2003 and January 31, 2002, respectively has been recorded as goodwill, which will be amortized over 20 years.

 

(3) Summary of significant accounting policies

The Group’s accounting policies comply with standards set forth by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies used by the Group to prepare the financial statements.

 

Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except as disclosed in the accounting principles below.

 

Reporting currency

Starting from February 1, 2002, the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. This change is justified by the Euro’s introduction on January 1, 2002, and the substantial recent increase in the portion of Group revenue and expenses denominated in this currency resulting principally from acquisitions made during 1999, 2000 and 2001.

 

123



 

The comparative balances previously reported in prior period US Dollar denominated consolidated financial statements have been translated by applying the following criteria:

 

      assets and liabilities have been translated at the closing € /US$ rate at the date of the balance sheet (€ /US$ 0.8637);

      equity items have been translated following the criteria disclosed in the notes to the Statement of changes in consolidated shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income;

      income statement items have been translated by applying the exchange rate that approximates the average €/US$ exchange rate for the relevant period (€/US$ 0.8908 and €/US$ 0.9176 in 2001 and 2000, respectively);

      exchange differences resulting from this translation have been recognized directly in equity as a movement of the “Accumulated other comprehensive income” reserve;

      consolidated statements of cash flows have been translated by applying the exchange rate that approximates the average € /US$ exchange rate for the relevant period.

 

Consequently, the prior period consolidated financial statements show the same trends and ratios as previously reported.

 

Principles of consolidation

The assets, liabilities and equity of consolidated companies are added together on a line-by-line basis, eliminating the book value of the related investment against the Group’s share of equity.

 

In the case of subsidiaries not 100% owned, the Group recognizes a minority interest consisting of the portion of net income and net assets attributable to the interest owned by third parties.

 

All significant inter-company balances, transactions and unrealized profits and losses are eliminated.

 

The balance sheets of subsidiaries denominated in foreign currencies are translated into Euro using year-end exchange rates, while average exchange rates for the year are used for the translation of the statements of income and cash flows. Significant individual transactions are translated at the rate of exchange prevailing on the date of the transaction. Translation gains and losses, including the differences arising as a result of translating opening shareholders’ equity using exchange rates at the close of the period or on the date of acquisition for foreign companies acquired during the year rather than exchange rates at the beginning of the period, are reported as a separate component of shareholders’ equity.

 

124



 

Any goodwill arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity and any fair value adjustments to the carrying amount of the assets and liabilities arising on the acquisition of that foreign entity are translated using the closing exchange rate.

 

Cash and cash equivalents

The Group considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The investments included in cash and cash equivalents are reported at their fair market value.

 

Receivables and payables

Receivables and payables are stated at nominal value. Receivables are reduced to their expected realizable value by an allowance for doubtful accounts. Receivables and payables denominated in foreign currencies are stated at the year-end exchange rates. The resulting gains or losses are recorded in the consolidated statements of income, with the exception of the gains or losses resulting from the translation of inter-company long-term loans, which are considered to form part of the net investment in the related subsidiaries or for which settlement is not planned or anticipated in the foreseeable future. The impact of translation of these items has been reflected in Foreign currency adjustments (see Note 14).

 

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of purchase or production cost or market value. Purchase or production cost is determined under the retail cost methods for retail inventories and average cost method for production and wholesale inventories.

 

Under the retail inventory method, the valuation of inventories at cost and the resulting gross margins are determined by applying a calculated cost-to-retail ratio, for various groupings of similar items, to the retail value of inventories. Consequently, the cost of the inventory reflected on the consolidated balance sheet is decreased by charges to cost of sales during the period that it is first determined that the merchandise will be sold at mark-down value.

 

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are carried at historical cost. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the fixed assets or the term of the lease.

 

125



 

The applicable depreciation rates are as follows:

 

Buildings

 

2% - 6%

Plant and production equipment

 

7% - 18%

Furniture and fixtures

 

10% - 20%

Leasehold improvements and general store equipment

 

Expected lease term

Electronic office machines

 

10% - 22%

 

Land is not depreciated.

 

When property is retired or otherwise disposed, the cost and related depreciation are removed from the financial statements and any related gains or losses are included in income.

 

Leases

Leases of property, plant and equipment, where the Group has substantially all the risk and rewards of ownership, are classified as finance leases. Finance leases are capitalized at the inception of the lease at the lower of the fair value of the leased property or the present value of the minimum lease payments. Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance charges so as to achieve a constant rate of financial charge on the balance outstanding. The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are included in other long-term payables. The interest element of the finance cost is charged to the income statement over the lease period. Property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases is depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the asset or the lease term.

 

Goodwill, trademarks, other intangible assets and deferred charges

Goodwill is recorded as the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the identifiable net assets of acquired businesses at the date of acquisition and is expensed over its estimated useful life using the straight-line method of amortization. When the acquisition agreement provides for an adjustment to the purchase consideration contingent on future events, an estimate of the adjustment is included in the cost of acquisition. Any future adjustment of the estimate is recorded as an adjustment of the goodwill.

 

Acquired trademarks are amortized over their estimated useful life up to a maximum period of 20 years. Acquired trademarks, whose useful lives are estimated to be greater than 20 years, are amortized over 20 years, the maximum period permitted by IAS.

 

126



 

Other intangible assets and deferred charges expected to benefit future periods are recorded at cost. Amortization is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated benefit period.

 

The applicable amortization rates are as follows:

 

Commercial leases and licenses

 

expected lease or license term

Software

 

20 %

Licenses repurchased

 

contractual expiring date of the license

Miscellaneous deferred charges and intangible assets

 

20 %

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

Property, plant and equipment and other non-current assets, including goodwill, trademarks and other intangible assets are reviewed for impairment losses whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Assets whose carrying values exceed their recoverable amount are written down to the higher of the net selling price and the amount determined using discounted net future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset.

 

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities are calculated on an actuarial basis or in accordance with applicable local law to the extent that the amount of the liability does not differ materially from the amount which would have been calculated on an actuarial basis.

 

The Group’s contributions to defined contribution pension plans are charged to the income statement in the period to which the contributions relate.

 

Derivative financial instruments

The Group enters into derivative financial transactions as hedges. The related financial instruments are initially recognized in the balance sheet at cost and subsequently are remeasured periodically at their fair value. The accounting treatment of the changes in fair value depends on whether the hedging instrument is designated as a hedge of recognized assets or liabilities (“Fair value hedge”) or as a hedge of forecasted transactions (“Cash flow hedge”). Changes in fair values of derivatives that are designated as Fair value hedges and that are highly effective are recorded in the income statement, along with any changes in fair value of the hedged asset or liability that is attributable to the hedged risk. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as Cash flow

 

127



 

hedges and that are highly effective are deferred in the equity account, “Hedging reserve”. Amounts deferred in the Hedging reserve and any subsequent changes in the value of the derivatives are recorded in the income statement in the same period and classified in the same income statement accounts as the related hedged transactions.

 

If a hedging instrument designated as a Cash flow hedge is sold or terminated prior to maturity, any related gains or losses continue to be deferred until the hedged transaction occurs. If the forecasted transaction is no longer expected to take place the derivative instrument ceases to meet the criteria for designation as a Cash flow hedge. Accordingly as soon as this event occurs, any gains or losses arising from changes in fair value are recognized in income. At the inception of hedging transactions, the Group documents the relationship between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk management objectives and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivatives designated as hedges to specific assets and liabilities or to specific forecasted transactions as well as measuring at the hedge inception and on an on-going basis the degree of effectiveness of the hedging instruments in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the hedged items.

 

All outstanding derivatives at January 31, 2003 and 2002 qualified for hedge accounting.

 

The fair value of the hedging instruments is estimated by reputable financial institutions on the basis of market conditions.

 

Long-term financial assets

The Company owns financial assets, which it intends to hold to maturity. However, they may be sold in response to liquidity requirements or changes in interest rates. Accordingly, they are classified as “Available-for-sale”.

 

All purchases and sales of financial assets are recognized on the trade date, which is the date that the Company commits to purchase or sell the asset. Financial assets are carried at fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value are recognized directly in the equity account, “Fair value reserve”, until the financial asset is sold, redeemed, or otherwise disposed of, or until the financial asset is determined to be impaired, at which time the cumulative gain or loss previously recognized in equity is included in net profit or loss for the period.

 

128



The fair value of the financial assets is determined through reference to quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. If there are no market values available for the financial assets, the value is determined by reputable financial institutions on the basis of market conditions.

 

Stock options

Upon the grant of the options no effects are recognized in the financial statements. Upon exercise, the effects, other than the tax benefit received by the Group, are recorded as movements in shareholders’ equity. Newly issued shares to satisfy the exercise of options are recorded as increases in share capital and contributed surplus for a total amount equal to the exercise price. If treasury shares are utilized to satisfy the exercise of the stock options, the difference between the exercise price and the average value of treasury shares is recorded as a change in contributed surplus.

 

In certain circumstances the Group receives income tax benefits upon the exercise of stock options by certain employees. These benefits relate to the income tax deduction available to the Group for the difference between the exercise price and the fair value of the Group’s common shares on the date of exercise. These benefits are reported as a reduction of income tax expense.

 

Income taxes

The provision for current income taxes is based on estimated taxable income.

 

Deferred income taxes are provided, using the liability method, to reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that are expected to be in effect in each of the relevant jurisdictions when such differences are expected to reverse. The effect of changes in the statutory tax rate is reflected in the statement of income in the period of such changes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset only when they relate to the same tax jurisdiction.

 

A valuation allowance is provided against net deferred tax assets, which are not considered probable of realization based on historical and expected profitability of the individual subsidiaries. Such assets are recognized when realized or when, based on expected future results, it becomes probable that they will be realized in future periods.

 

129



 

Net income per share

Basic net income per share is calculated by dividing the net income for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share is calculated by dividing the net income for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period adjusted for the effects of all potentially dilutive shares [i.e. employee stock options].

 

Recognition of revenues

Revenues from the sale of products are recognized on the transfer of ownership to third parties. Royalties are recognized at the time of sale of the licensed products and, in accordance with industry practice, are included in revenues.

 

Store opening/closing costs

Pre-opening expenditures incurred for new or remodeled retail stores are expensed as incurred except for rents paid during the construction period of new retail stores, which are capitalized as part of leasehold improvements. When a store is closed, the remaining investment in fixtures and leasehold improvements, net of expected salvage, is charged to income and the present value of any remaining lease liability, net of expected sublease recovery, is also charged to income.

 

Shipping & Handling costs

Shipping & Handling costs billed to the customer are recorded on an accrual basis in cost of goods sold. Revenues arising from amounts billed to the customer for those costs are recorded as revenues. Shipping & Handling costs not billed to the customer are included in Selling, general and administrative expenses.

 

Communication expenses

Communication expenses, which include advertising, public relations and visual display expenses, are expensed as incurred.

 

Cooperative advertising programs

Expenditures for cooperative advertising programs, under which certain wholesale distributor costumers are reimbursed for a portion of the advertising costs they incur are included in Selling, general and administrative expenses.

 

130



 

Restructuring expenses

Restructuring expenses are classified as non operating when they relate to restructuring of acquired companies during the year immediately after the acquisition. Restructuring expenses related to operations which are already part of the Group are classified as operating expenses.

 

Reclassifications

Certain amounts in the 2001 and 2000 financial statements have been reclassified to conform with the 2002 presentation.

 

Use of estimates

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and 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.

 

Additional information

The companies included in the consolidated financial statements at January 31, 2003 are listed in Note 25.

 

The financial statements used in the consolidation are those approved, or to be submitted for approval, by the shareholders of each subsidiary at their respective annual general meetings. Such statements have been reclassified to conform to international practice and adjusted, where necessary, to comply with Group accounting policies.

 

Fiscal years of the Group ended on January 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001.

 

All references to “financial statements” in these notes are to the “consolidated” financial statements for all periods, unless otherwise indicated.

 

Amounts included in the financial statements and notes are stated in thousands of Euro except percentages and net income per share and share amounts and where otherwise noted.

 

All references to the “Group” or the “Company” relate to Gucci Group N.V. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated.

 

131



 

(4) Segment information

The Group has five operating segments: Gucci Division [excluding Gucci Timepieces], Gucci Group Watches, Yves Saint Laurent, YSL Beauté and Other Operations. Gucci Division (excluding Gucci Timepieces) includes all revenues from the sale and licensing of Gucci branded products other than those from the wholesale distribution activities of the Gucci brand watches. Gucci Group Watches includes the production and distribution of Gucci and other Gucci Group brand watches. Yves Saint Laurent includes all revenues from the sale and licensing of Yves Saint Laurent branded products other than those from the wholesale distribution of Yves Saint Laurent perfumes, cosmetics and watches. YSL Beauté includes revenues from the sale of perfume, make-up and skincare products other than Gucci and Boucheron brand perfume. Other Operations includes revenues from operations, which are not individually material. The non-operating segment Corporate includes the parent company and certain subsidiaries which are involved principally in financial transactions and which do not generally sell to third parties as well as the expenses related to certain employees and members of management, who perform Group corporate functions, which are not allocated to the individual operating business segments. Inter-segment transactions are priced on an arm’s length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties.

 

The 2000 and 2001 segment information previously published in US Dollars have been translated to Euro applying the average exchange rate and the year end exchange rate to the income statement and balance sheet items, respectively. Previously reported capital expenditures were translated from US Dollar to Euro using the average exchange rate of the respective year.

 

132



 

The following table presents information about the Company by segment of activity:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gucci Division (excluding Gucci Timepieces)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

1,382,690

 

1,512,798

 

1,417,605

 

Revenues from other segments

 

13,527

 

18,087

 

22,789

 

Total revenues

 

1,396,217

 

1,530,885

 

1,440,394

 

Operating profit before goodwill amortization

 

402,867

 

461,213

 

357,810

 

Goodwill amortization

 

8,433

 

26,573

 

9,537

 

Operating profit after goodwill amortization

 

394,434

 

434,640

 

348,273

 

Depreciation

 

59,241

 

53,113

 

45,840

 

Assets

 

1,080,778

 

1,028,202

 

773,821

 

Liabilities

 

261,803

 

229,128

 

258,952

 

Capital expenditures

 

94,186

 

201,811

 

140,102

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

49,629

 

 

22,112

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gucci Group Watches(1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gucci

 

153,862

 

186,084

 

208,182

 

Other Brands

 

29,565

 

30,213

 

10,562

 

Total revenues from external customers

 

183,427

 

216,297

 

218,744

 

Revenues from other segments

 

24,796

 

19,999

 

19,743

 

Total revenues

 

208,223

 

236,296

 

238,487

 

Operating profit before goodwill amortization

 

36,661

 

55,144

 

83,887

 

Goodwill amortization

 

13,714

 

12,556

 

6,538

 

Operating profit after goodwill amortization

 

22,947

 

42,588

 

77,349

 

Depreciation

 

4,417

 

3,999

 

2,086

 

Assets

 

387,465

 

384,396

 

336,390

 

Liabilities

 

71,303

 

54,307

 

50,561

 

Capital expenditures

 

23,617

 

8,472

 

21,495

 

 


(1) The Gucci Group Watches segment includes the production and wholesale distribution of Gucci and other brand watches.

 

133



 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

145,792

 

101,054

 

105,473

 

Revenues from other segments

 

40

 

93

 

218

 

Total revenues

 

145,832

 

101,147

 

105,691

 

Operating (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(63,653

)

(76,375

)

(17,055

)

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

23,102

 

22,301

 

20,482

 

Operating (loss) after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(86,755

)

(98,676

)

(37,537

)

Depreciation

 

12,720

 

8,095

 

5,813

 

Assets

 

600,113

 

520,434

 

530,910

 

Liabilities

 

78,377

 

117,002

 

122,549

 

Capital expenditures

 

59,236

 

45,241

 

17,125

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

23,661

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YSL Beauté

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

547,948

 

516,481

 

583,420

 

Revenues from other segments

 

1,779

 

2,026

 

779

 

Total revenues

 

549,727

 

518,507

 

584,199

 

Operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

38,646

 

33,901

 

46,930

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

41,096

 

38,205

 

40,539

 

Operating profit (loss) after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(2,450

)

(4,304

)

6,391

 

Depreciation

 

18,282

 

14,878

 

11,668

 

Assets

 

1,061,993

 

1,071,763

 

1,048,289

 

Liabilities

 

214,810

 

199,804

 

235,810

 

Capital expenditures

 

24,874

 

20,623

 

14,372

 

 

134



 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Operations(2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

284,429

 

218,486

 

136,082

 

Revenues from other segments

 

32,670

 

5,509

 

1,747

 

Total revenues

 

317,099

 

223,995

 

137,829

 

Operating profit (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(75,023

)

(37,282

)

14,135

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

40,073

 

30,574

 

13,595

 

Operating profit (loss) after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(115,096

)

(67,856

)

540

 

Depreciation

 

16,013

 

7,839

 

3,940

 

Assets

 

1,090,208

 

898,291

 

464,857

 

Liabilities

 

192,159

 

101,976

 

64,513

 

Capital expenditures

 

122,739

 

48,827

 

4,827

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

16,397

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating costs

 

(33,920

)

(35,577

)

(38,997

)

Depreciation

 

5,384

 

4,546

 

3,427

 

Assets

 

280,146

 

244,921

 

210,432

 

Liabilities

 

261,666

 

314,297

 

221,072

 

Capital expenditures

 

33,313

 

16,976

 

88,015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elimination

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from other segments

 

(72,812

)

(45,714

)

(45,276

)

Operating loss (profit) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

281

 

(2,430

)

(1,637

)

Operating loss (profit) after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

281

 

(2,430

)

(1,637

)

Assets

 

(323,133

)

(232,309

)

(147,969

)

Liabilities

 

(393,364

)

(324,411

)

(255,207

)

 


(2) The Other Operations segment includes revenues from operations which individually are not material to the Group.

 

135



 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

2,544,286

 

2,565,116

 

2,461,324

 

Operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

305,859

 

398,594

 

445,073

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

126,418

 

130,209

 

90,691

 

Operating profit after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

179,441

 

268,385

 

354,382

 

Depreciation

 

116,057

 

92,470

 

72,774

 

Segment assets

 

4,177,570

 

3,915,698

 

3,216,730

 

Unallocated assets

 

3,603,037

 

3,537,288

 

3,561,559

 

Consolidated total assets

 

7,780,607

 

7,452,986

 

6,778,289

 

Segment liabilities

 

686,754

 

692,103

 

698,250

 

Unallocated liabilities

 

2,357,854

 

2,136,605

 

1,630,435

 

Consolidated total liabilities

 

3,044,608

 

2,828,708

 

2,328,685

 

Capital expenditures

 

357,965

 

341,950

 

285,936

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

89,687

 

 

22,112

 

 

As required by IAS 14 (Revised), unallocated assets and liabilities include current and deferred taxation and financial assets and liabilities.

 

As of February 1, 2003 the Boucheron fragrance operation will be integrated with YSL Beauté. After the integration YSL Beauté will manage all Boucheron’s perfume’s worldwide activities, including marketing, distribution and coordination of the international subsidiaries and distributors. In order to facilitate the comparison with the future performance

 

136



 

of the YSL Beauté and Other Operations segments, the segment information is set out below as if the integration had occurred on February 1, 2001:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

YSL Beauté

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

598,792

 

569,379

 

Revenues from other segments

 

236

 

189

 

Total revenues

 

599,028

 

569,568

 

Operating profit before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

38,280

 

31,134

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

52,303

 

49,385

 

Operating (loss) after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(14,023

)

(18,251

)

Depreciation

 

18,956

 

15,610

 

Assets

 

1,305,817

 

1,308,985

 

Liabilities

 

218,978

 

214,285

 

Capital expenditures

 

24,874

 

20,263

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Operations

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

233,585

 

165,588

 

Revenues from other segments

 

32,172

 

5,409

 

Total revenues

 

265,757

 

170,997

 

Operating (loss) before goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(74,658

)

(34,515

)

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

28,866

 

19,394

 

Operating (loss) after goodwill and trademark amortization

 

(103,524

)

(53,909

)

Depreciation

 

15,339

 

7,107

 

Assets

 

831,989

 

664,867

 

Liabilities

 

173,598

 

91,293

 

Capital expenditures

 

122,729

 

48,827

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

16,397

 

 

 

137



 

The following table presents information about the Company by geographic area:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

United States

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

521,203

 

542,815

 

585,714

 

Assets

 

535,237

 

452,452

 

313,894

 

Capital expenditures

 

81,947

 

82,408

 

74,791

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

83,184

 

 

 

Italy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

338,075

 

337,577

 

309,027

 

Assets

 

1,024,229

 

941,581

 

629,078

 

Capital expenditures

 

102,409

 

83,666

 

99,160

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

6,503

 

 

22,112

 

France

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

247,991

 

236,792

 

224,138

 

Assets

 

1,968,636

 

2,063,754

 

1,919,317

 

Capital expenditures

 

49,804

 

37,509

 

23,333

 

Rest of Europe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

496,396

 

466,747

 

439,805

 

Assets

 

888,938

 

888,007

 

609,495

 

Capital expenditures

 

84,373

 

100,113

 

57,575

 

Japan

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

503,138

 

519,193

 

434,931

 

Assets

 

212,177

 

209,240

 

162,503

 

Capital expenditures

 

27,458

 

22,654

 

10,743

 

Rest of Asia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

307,750

 

330,061

 

322,007

 

Assets

 

116,484

 

125,481

 

116,919

 

Capital expenditures

 

11,746

 

15,455

 

20,277

 

Rest of world

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

129,733

 

131,931

 

145,702

 

Assets

 

7,921

 

8,775

 

8,590

 

Capital expenditures

 

228

 

145

 

57

 

Elimination

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets

 

(576,052

)

(773,592

)

(543,066

)

 

138



 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues from external customers

 

2,554,286

 

2,565,116

 

2,461,324

 

Segment assets

 

4,177,570

 

3,915,698

 

3,216,730

 

Unallocated assets

 

3,603,037

 

3,537,288

 

3,561,559

 

Consolidated total assets

 

7,780,607

 

7,452,986

 

6,778,289

 

Capital expenditures

 

357,965

 

341,950

 

285,936

 

Assets value of capital leases stipulated during the year

 

89,687

 

 

22,112

 

 

Assets in France and in Italy include € 1,383.0 million and € 275.8 million, respectively, of intangible assets (goodwill and trademarks), which relate to global operations; it is not possible to allocate these values to individual geographic segments.

 

Rest of Asia includes principally China, Guam, Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore and Malaysia.

 

Rest of world includes principally North America excluding the United States, South America, the Middle East and Australia.

 

(5) Inventories, net

Inventories, net of allowances for excess and obsolete items, at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finished goods

 

333,919

 

330,263

 

Work in progress

 

29,054

 

28,783

 

Raw materials

 

109,055

 

90,981

 

Inventories, net

 

472,028

 

450,027

 

 

139



 

(6) Other current assets

Other current assets at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VAT & other taxes

 

149,029

 

114,683

 

Prepaid expenses

 

88,468

 

74,902

 

Prepaid tax

 

30,924

 

25,881

 

Other

 

57,765

 

65,786

 

Other current assets

 

326,186

 

281,252

 

 

(7) Property, plant and equipment, net

Property, plant and equipment, net, at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land

 

131,724

 

132,341

 

Buildings

 

318,493

 

159,018

 

Plant and production equipments

 

91,541

 

66,185

 

Furniture and fixtures

 

109,617

 

96,077

 

Leasehold improvements

 

320,077

 

261,021

 

Electronic office machines

 

54,390

 

51,239

 

Construction in progress

 

47,237

 

51,967

 

Other

 

25,368

 

26,433

 

Property, plant and equipment, gross

 

1,098,447

 

844,281

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(185,950

)

(152,424

)

Property, plant and equipment, net

 

912,497

 

691,857

 

 

Land and Buildings include € 17.3 million for the new headquarter of Gucci Group Watches division in Neuchatel (Switzerland), for which a lease with option to purchase was signed during this year. As it is considered probable that the option will be exercised the asset has been classified as a capital expenditure in 2002.

 

140



 

The movements in property, plant and equipment were as follows:

 

Cost

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

844,281

 

638,054

 

Additions

 

362,575

 

245,869

 

Acquisitions

 

540

 

12,844

 

Disposals

 

(44,142

)

(63,647

)

Currency translation

 

(64,807

)

11,161

 

Closing balance

 

1,098,447

 

844,281

 

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

152,424

 

127,991

 

Charge for the year

 

93,950

 

77,094

 

Disposals

 

(39,052

)

(55,154

)

Currency translation

 

(21,372

)

2,493

 

Closing balance

 

185,950

 

152,424

 

 

Additions include assets leased under capital leases amounting to € 89.7 million and leasehold improvements amounting to € 103.5 million for new stores and store refurbishments and expansions.

 

As at January 31, 2003 the Company owns assets leased under capital lease with a gross book value of € 132.8 million and accumulated depreciation of € 2.3 million.

 

141



 

(8) Goodwill, trademarks, other intangible assets and deferred charges, net

Trademarks and accumulated amortization at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

Gross

 

2002
Accumulated
amortization

 

Net

 

2001
Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

941,201

 

143,002

 

798,199

 

843,948

 

Other brands

 

463,041

 

64,146

 

398,895

 

347,577

 

Total trademarks

 

1,404,242

 

207,148

 

1,197,094

 

1,191,525

 

 

The movements in trademarks were as follows:

 

Cost

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

1,324,463

 

1,222,414

 

Acquisitions

 

 

59,874

 

Adjustments to prior year value

 

79,815

 

 

Currency translation

 

(36

)

42,175

 

Closing balance

 

1,404,242

 

1,324,463

 

 

Accumulated amortization

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

132,938

 

61,314

 

Charge for the year

 

75,099

 

64,571

 

Currency translation

 

(889

)

7,053

 

Closing balance

 

207,148

 

132,938

 

 

The movements in goodwill were as follows:

 

Cost

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

861,275

 

597,070

 

Acquisitions

 

29,721

 

239,540

 

Adjustments to prior year value

 

(58,557

)

(3,579

)

Currency translation

 

(3,014

)

28,244

 

Closing balance

 

829,425

 

861,275

 

 

142



 

Accumulated amortization

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

109,330

 

46,846

 

Charge for the year

 

51,319

 

65,638

 

Currency translation

 

(3,369

)

(3,154

)

Closing balance

 

157,280

 

109,330

 

 

Adjustments to prior year value relate primarily to the definitive allocation of the purchase price for Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta acquired during 2001.

 

Other intangible assets consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Store lease acquisitions

 

154,723

 

121,014

 

Software

 

42,523

 

37,998

 

Licenses repurchased

 

62,830

 

51,428

 

Other

 

45,248

 

39,487

 

Intangible assets, gross

 

305,324

 

249,927

 

Accumulated amortization

 

(64,548

)

(49,164

)

Intangible assets, net

 

240,776

 

200,763

 

 

143



 

The movements in other intangible assets were as follows:

 

Cost

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

249,927

 

147,971

 

Additions

 

85,077

 

96,081

 

Acquisitions

 

602

 

2,812

 

Disposals

 

(6,242

)

(3,291

)

Reclassifications

 

 

297

 

Currency translation

 

(24,040

)

6,057

 

Closing balance

 

305,324

 

249,927

 

 

Accumulated amortization

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

49,164

 

29,343

 

Charge for the year

 

22,107

 

15,376

 

Disposals

 

(5,094

)

(1,655

)

Currency translation

 

(1,629

)

6,100

 

Closing balance

 

64,548

 

49,164

 

 

(9) Long-term financial assets

Long-term financial assets on January 31, 2003 consisted of the following bonds:

 

 

 

S&P
Rating

 

Nominal value*

 

Fair value
Euro

 

Yield

 

Expiration
date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

KFW International Finance

 

AAA

 

US$ 245,000

 

227,921

 

2.29

%

24/01/2005

 

Dexia Municipal Agency

 

AAA

 

Euro 27,175

 

28,168

 

4.25

%

12/01/2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

256,089

 

 

 

 

 

 


* In thousands

 

The KFW International Finance bond is pledged as security for a US$ 230 million letter of credit issued in connection with the settlement of the dispute among the Group, PPR and LVMH (see Note 14). The Company intends to hold this investment until its maturity, but in the future may choose to use other financial assets as security for the letter of credit.

 

144



 

The Dexia Municipal Agency bond is held in connection with a € 135 million loan repayable in 2006. Under the terms of the loan, the Company is permitted to substitute the bond with another one of similar quality and characteristics.

 

During the period the movements in long-term financial assets were as follows:

 

Accumulated amortization

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

307,982

 

 

Addition

 

255,028

 

302,115

 

Disposals

 

(253,038

)

 

Change of fair value

 

3,218

 

(2,388

)

Currency translation

 

(57,101

)

8,255

 

Closing balance

 

256,089

 

307,982

 

 

The movements of the period represent the sale of the KFW International Finance bond held as at the end of prior period and the acquisition of a different KFW International Finance bond.

 

(10) Bank overdrafts and short-term loans

Bank overdrafts and short-term loans at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

January 31, 2003

 

January 31, 2002

 

Currency

 

Nominal
currency
value*

 

Amount
in Euro

 

Weighted
average
interest rate

 

Nominal
currency
value*

 

Amount
in Euro

 

Weighted
average
interest rate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

US Dollars

 

100,482

 

92,901

 

1.63

%

58,000

 

67,153

 

2.10

%

Euro

 

208,863

 

208,863

 

3.03

%

256,986

 

256,986

 

3.61

%

Japanese Yen

 

30,050,245

 

232,641

 

0.30

%

25,966,000

 

226,323

 

0.29

%

Swiss Franc

 

104,483

 

71,183

 

1.08

%

132,000

 

89,506

 

2.05

%

Other

 

 

 

24,946

 

 

 

 

 

125,190

 

 

 

Total

 

N/A

 

630,534

 

1.63

%

N/A

 

765,158

 

2.06

%

 


* In thousands

 

145



 

The other balances are composed of numerous small balances held by the Group’s individual subsidiaries.

 

Credit lines

On January 31, 2003, the Group had a syndicated multi-currency revolving credit facility amounting to € 667.0 million expiring on July 21, 2005, subject to the following conditions:

 

Interest rate per annum

 

 

 

from February 1, 2003 up to July 21, 2003

 

Libor + 0.275

%

from July 22, 2003 up to July 21, 2005

 

Libor + 0.30

%

 

 

 

 

Commitment fee per annum on the undrawn portion

 

 

 

from February 1, 2003 up to July 21, 2003

 

0.1375

%

from July 22, 2003 up to July 21, 2005

 

0.15

%

 

The funding is subject to financial covenants as follows:

 

                  the ratio of Net Financial Indebtedness to the Net Worth should not be greater than 1:1;

                  the ratio of Net Financial Indebtedness to Earning Before Interests, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (“EBITDA”) should not be greater than 3:1;

                  the ratio of EBITDA to Financial expenditure, net of any financial income should not be less than 4:1.

 

The terms used in the financial covenants are defined in the syndicated loan agreement and may differ from similar terms used in the financial statements.

 

On January 31, 2003, all these covenants were satisfied.

 

Moreover, Gucci Group N.V is obliged to ensure that the aggregate total assets of certain subsidiaries of the Group represents not less than 85% of the total assets of the Group.

 

At January 31, 2003 the Group had additional available lines of credit, which were not firm commitments, totaling € 619.7 million ( € 529.9 million as at January 31, 2002).

 

146



 

(11) Income taxes

Income tax expense for 2002, 2001 and 2000 was as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current

 

105,236

 

136,153

 

151,994

 

Deferred

 

(85,950

)

(77,474

)

(103,171

)

Income tax expense

 

19,286

 

58,679

 

48,823

 

 

The following table sets out the reconciliation between the effective tax rate and the statutory tax rate in The Netherlands:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statutory tax rate in The Netherlands

 

35.0

%

35.0

%

35.0

%

Effect of different rate applicable to interest income of Gucci Luxembourg

 

(22.3

)%

(14.7

)

(18.1

)%

Effect of different statutory rates applicable to operating subsidiaries

 

(10.1

)%

(10.7

)

(7.0

)%

Effect of tax rate changes in France and Italy

 

 

 

(4.4

)%

Non-deductible expenses

 

1.7

%

5.1

%

5.2

%

Benefit on exercise of stock options

 

(0.3

)%

(0.1

)

(0.9

)%

Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets for tax losses carried forward

 

4.6

%

1.7

%

 

Other

 

(0.6

)%

(0.3

)%

1.8

%

Effective tax rate

 

8.0

%

16.0

%

11.6

%

 

147



 

Deferred tax balances, net of the valuation allowance, reflected in the financial statements at January 31, 2003 and 2002 were related to the following items:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

Assets

 

Liabilities

 

Assets

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inventory

 

81,705

 

 

84,655

 

 

Intangible assets

 

28,237

 

331,911

 

32,944

 

336,550

 

Tangible assets

 

 

10,553

 

 

13,779

 

Net operating loss carry-forwards

 

123,984

 

 

69,837

 

 

Accrued compensation expenses

 

6,251

 

 

10,508

 

 

Accrued restructuring expenses

 

1,000

 

 

2,857

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

2,529

 

14,943

 

3,891

 

11,532

 

Accrued expenses

 

13,126

 

 

12,399

 

 

Non income taxes

 

1,678

 

 

7,327

 

 

Hedging reserve

 

 

5,190

 

 

 

Other

 

5,161

 

2,394

 

9,485

 

1,439

 

Deferred tax balances

 

263,671

 

364,991

 

233,903

 

363,300

 

 

The total deferred tax balance for net operating loss carry-forwards amounts to € 170,596 ( € 102,839 in 2001) against which a valuation allowance of € 46,612 ( € 33,002 in 2001) has been provided to reflect the uncertainty as to the recoverability of certain of these assets.

 

At January 31, 2003, the Group net operating loss carry-forwards expire as follows:

 

2004

 

2,721

 

2005

 

7,858

 

2006

 

78,444

 

2007

 

78,448

 

2008 and beyond

 

210,697

 

Without expiration

 

102,494

 

Total

 

480,662

 

 

148



 

(12) Long-term financial payables

Long-term financial payables at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

.

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

Floating rate

 

Yen

 

Fixed rate
Yen

 

Total
loans

 

Capital
leases

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHF

 

US$

 

GBP

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

Total

 

Due in fiscal year:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(*)

 

 

 

 

2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

27,659

 

2004

 

2,570

 

1,460

 

 

1,602

 

5,419

 

109,561

 

120,612

 

1,383

 

121,995

 

119,245

 

2005

 

272,045

 

91,390

 

226,516

 

1,602

 

20,903

 

15,514

 

627,970

 

1,532

 

629,502

 

420,905

 

2006

 

137,045

 

1,118

 

 

1,602

 

32,515

 

37,346

 

209,626

 

1,817

 

211,443

 

203,937

 

2007

 

1,365

 

1,118

 

 

1,602

 

 

102,508

 

106,593

 

1,934

 

108,527

 

47,068

 

Beyond 2007

 

 

17,881

 

 

13,621

 

 

2,633

 

34,135

 

92,962

 

127,097

 

 

 

 

413,025

 

112,967

 

226,516

 

20,029

 

58,837

 

267,562

 

1,098,936

 

99,628

 

1,198,564

 

818,814

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,847

 

5,601

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,202,411

 

824,415

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

3.00

%

1.15

%

1.94

%

4.60

%

0.41

%

0.83

%

1.95

%

6.40

%

2.33

%

2.29

%

 


(*)  Calculated as the present value of minimum lease payments under financial leases due beyond twelve months after January 31, 2003.

 

The other balances are composed of numerous small balances held by the Group’s individual subsidiaries.

 

The carrying value of long-term liabilities approximates fair value.

 

(13) Pension liabilities and severance indemnities

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Staff leaving indemnities

 

48,403

 

41,074

 

Deferred compensation

 

2,247

 

3,659

 

Other

 

181

 

2,817

 

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities

 

50,831

 

47,550

 

 

149



 

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities at January 31, 2003 and 2002 relate to employees in the following countries:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Italy

 

23,480

 

19,687

 

France

 

22,455

 

19,989

 

Other

 

4,896

 

7,874

 

Pension liabilities and severance indemnities

 

50,831

 

47,550

 

 

In Italy staff leaving indemnity is paid to all employees on termination of their employment. Each year, the Group accrues for each employee an amount partly based on the employee’s remuneration and partly based on the revaluation of the amounts previously accrued.

 

The indemnity is an unfunded, but fully provided, liability.

 

In France employees are entitled to a leaving indemnity if they leave the company in certain circumstances. The liability is based on an actuarial valuation based on a prudent assessment of the relevant parameters, which were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discount rate

 

5.1

%

5.8

%

Projected future remuneration increases

 

3.1

%

3.8

%

Projected future employee turnover

 

2-7

%

2-7

%

 

The movements in pension liabilities and severance indemnities were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

47,550

 

40,802

 

Accruals for the year

 

9,195

 

7,479

 

Acquisitions

 

681

 

1,856

 

Payments

 

(5,169

)

(2,586

)

Currency translation

 

(1,426

)

(1

)

Closing balance

 

50,831

 

47,550

 

 

150



 

(14) Shareholders’ equity

Share Capital

The authorized share capital of Gucci Group N.V. amounts to € 228.7 million and is divided into 224,215,247 shares.

 

On August 8, 2002 the articles of association of Gucci Group N.V. were amended by notarial deed, providing for an increase in par value of shares by € 0.01 to € 1.02. According to the notarial deed, the paid-up share capital was increased by € 1,026,277.03 to € 104,680,257.06. € 1,026,277.03 was debited against Gucci Group’s Contributed Surplus.

 

Out of the total authorized shares 102,635,643 and 102,627,703 were issued as of January 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively; 2,400,392 and 1,905,300 of these shares were held by the Company in treasury on January 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively.

 

On July 16, 2002 the Company’s Supervisory Board authorized the repurchase up to 3,500,000 of its outstanding shares.

 

On January 24, 2003 the Company instructed its bankers to purchase a maximum of 3,500,000 of the Company’s shares at prices not to exceed a defined minimum on the New York and Euronext Amsterdam stock exchanges between January 27, 2003 and April 30, 2003. The repurchased shares will be held in treasury and reissued to the Company’s employees upon the exercise of their stock options pursuant the Company’s stock option plan. As of April 30, 2003, the Group had purchased 3,454,582 shares.

 

Dividends

On May 27, 2002, the Supervisory Board approved a dividend of US$ 0.50 per share. Following approval of the Annual Accounts by shareholders at the Annual General Meeting on July 15, 2002, the Company paid the dividend from the result of the year 2001 of US$ 0.50 per share. In 2001 the dividend distributed was US$ 0.50 per share.

 

Strategic Alliance

On September 10, 2001, the Company, Pinault-Printemps-Redoute S.A. (“PPR”) and LVMH-Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (“LVMH”) entered into a comprehensive settlement of the legal actions pending among them on that date.

 

151



 

The Settlement Agreement provided for the purchase by PPR of 8,579,337 Common Shares, representing approximately 8.6% of the Company’s then outstanding share capital, from LVMH at a price of US$ 94 per Common Share. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, PPR, LVMH and the Group dismissed all pending litigation, claims and actions relating to, inter alia, the shareholdings of LVMH or PPR in the Company, the acquisitions of such shareholdings or the granting of options to Company management.

 

Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, PPR has agreed to commence an Offer to all holders of Common Shares at a price of US$ 101.50 (the “Offer Price”) per Common Share on March 22, 2004, with payment to be made on or before April 30, 2004 (such period from March 22, 2004 through April 30, 2004 being referred to herein as the “Offer Period”). If, immediately prior to the expiration of the Offer Period, the Common Shares not tendered in the Offer and the Common Shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding options granted to employees of Gucci to purchase Common Shares constitute less than the greater of (1) 15% of the then-outstanding Common Shares and (2) 15 million Common Shares, PPR will provide a subsequent offering period of no less than 10 days following its acceptance for payment of Common Shares tendered in the initial offering period (as contemplated by Rule 14d-11 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). PPR may delay the commencement of the Offer for a maximum of six months upon the occurrence of a Force Majeure Event, provided that PPR may only defer the Offer for so long as the Force Majeure Event exists and the existence of such event must be confirmed by a majority of the Independent Directors.

 

LVMH and the Company (but no other third parties) would have the right to seek monetary damages and/or specific performance from PPR if it fails to honor its obligations under the Settlement Agreement, including an injunction to require PPR to commence the Offer and purchase the Common Shares in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement.

 

Under a simultaneously executed Amended and Restated Strategic Investment Agreement (“Restated SIA”) among the Company, PPR and Marothi, in the event that PPR fails to commence and complete the Offer in accordance with the terms set forth in the Settlement Agreement, which were reiterated in the Restated SIA, a majority of the Independent Directors shall have the ability to seek specific performance, sue for damages and/or distribute a stock dividend for each issued and outstanding Common Share not owned by PPR

 

152



 

so that as a result of such stock dividend, PPR’s share ownership shall be reduced to 42% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares. In the event the Independent Directors cause the Company to distribute a stock dividend, the number of Supervisory Board members nominated by PPR would be reduced by one member and PPR would be prohibited from acquiring additional Common Shares unless it does so pursuant to a public offer for all of the outstanding Common Shares which is recommended to the Company’s shareholders by the Independent Directors.

 

Net income per share

The numerator for the calculation of both the basic and fully diluted net income per share is “Net income for the year”.

 

Options granted in accordance with the Company’s Incentive Stock Option Plan are the only items, which can dilute net income per share. The denominator used in “Basic net income per share” and “Diluted net income per share” is calculated using the treasury stock method as shown in the following table:

 

 

 

January 31, 2003

 

January 31, 2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Denominator in calculating basic net income per share

 

101,060,751

 

100,174,358

 

Add: In the money options outstanding

 

6,913,971

 

5,118,230

 

Less: Treasury shares*

 

5,551,804

 

3,768,548

 

Denominator in calculating diluted net income per share

 

102,422,918

 

101,524,040

 

 


* Theoretical treasury shares which would be acquired from proceeds of exercise of all in-the-money options outstanding.

 

2,474,000 options to purchase shares of common stock with an average strike price of US$ 113.05 were outstanding as at January 31, 2003, but were not included in the computation of diluted net income per share (2,764,800 as at January 31, 2002) because their exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common shares during the year; accordingly, the inclusion of these 2,474,000 options would have been antidilutive in the calculation.

 

153



 

Hedging reserve

The movements in the Hedging reserve account in 2002 and 2001 were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

(7,559

)

8,698

 

Realized change in the value of Cash flow hedges related to transactions completed during the year

 

(56,806

)

(12,860

)

Total changes of the fair value of Cash flow hedges during the year

 

168,577

 

(4,058

)

Tax on changes during the year

 

(5,190

)

 

Currency translation

 

(493

)

661

 

Closing balance

 

98,529

 

(7,559

)

 

Fair value reserve

The movements in the Fair value reserve account in 2002 and 2001 were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

(2,388

)

 

Gain on available-for-sale investments sold during the period

 

(6,886

)

 

Change of the fair value of available-for-sale investments during the period

 

12,093

 

(2,388

)

Currency translation

 

(107

)

 

Closing balance

 

2,712

 

(2,388

)

 

Foreign currency adjustments

Movements in foreign currency adjustments account in 2002 and 2001 were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

(230,410

)

(125,677

)

Translation of opening net equity and consolidation adjustments

 

(112,273

)

(71,981

)

Translation of newly acquired companies

 

 

(4,701

)

Translation of result for the period

 

(3,219

)

(10,619

)

Translation of long-term inter-company accounts receivable

 

58,331

 

(17,432

)

Closing balance

 

(287,571

)

(230,410

)

 

154



 

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

The ESOP formed in February 1999 was terminated in 2001 and the shares previously issued to it were cancelled. As part of the termination agreement, the Company committed to issue shares to employees. In fulfillment of the commitment 8,644 and 35,920 shares were issued as at January 31, 2003 and in April 2003, respectively. The issuance of these shares has no material impact on the Company’s net income or shareholders’ equity.

 

(15) Stock option plan

Under the Incentive Stock Option Plan the Company issues options to employees and directors to purchase shares of the Company. On January 31, 2003, the Group was authorized to grant options from time to time with respect to up to a cumulative total of 17,264,444 common shares (16,014,444 at January 31, 2002).

The Company amended and restated the Incentive Stock Option Plan. With few exceptions, options issued under the Incentive Stock Option Plan and the Amended and Restated Incentive Stock Option Plan (the New Option Plan) generally were granted at exercise prices equal to or greater than the share price at the time of grant, generally vest proportionally for each complete year of service to the Company over a period up to five years from the date of issuance, and generally expire ten years from the date of issuance.

 

If the less than the greater of 15 million shares or 15% of the Company’s outstanding shares remain untendered at the end of the Offer Period (see Strategic alliance), than options issued under the New Option Plan and (if agreed by the option holders) options issued prior to the amendment and restatement of the Stock Option Plan not tendered into the Offer would convert to Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs), which would convert to cash payments by the Company when exercised. The SARs would have the same vesting period as the options and the amount of the related cash payments would be determined based on a formula, which measures the value of the Company as compared to other stock exchange listed comparator companies.

 

As at January 31, 2003 the Company did not accrue any provision representing possible such future cash payments, as the conversion of the options into SARs may be confirmed only by the occurrence of future events not within the control of the Company. Had the contingent liability been recorded as at January 31, 2003, it would not have been material.

 

155



 

The following table summarizes the combined option activity (all amounts are stated in US Dollars, except for share amounts):

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

Shares

 

Weighted
average
price(*)

 

Shares

 

Weighted
average
price(*)

 

Shares

 

Weighted
average
price(*)

 

Outstanding at beginning of the year

 

9,631,803

 

79.36

 

9,381,049

 

83.67

 

3,448,057

 

53.77

 

Granted

 

1,300,750

 

88.19

 

1,044,900

 

85.43

 

6,267,800

 

98.37

 

Exercised

 

1,302,214

 

42.48

 

612,475

 

39.63

 

330,291

 

50.67

 

Cancelled

 

124,740

 

65.11

 

181,671

 

72.35

 

4,517

 

62.22

 

Outstanding at the end of the year

 

9,505,599

 

85.68

 

9,631,803

 

79.36

 

9,381,049

 

83.67

 

Exercisable at the end of the year

 

4,741,339

 

76.18

 

4,256,263

 

62.08

 

3,109,836

 

57.26

 

Available for grant at the end of the year based on Shareholders’ authorization

 

1,449,387

 

N/A

 

1,375,397

 

N/A

 

738,626

 

N/A

 

 


(*) Amounts in US Dollar

 

156



 

Additional information regarding options at January 31, 2003, was as follows:

 

 

 

Options outstanding

 

Options exercisable

 

Range of
exercise price(*)

 

Number
outstanding

 

Weighted average
remaining contractual
life (months)

 

Weighted
average
exercise price(*)

 

Number
exercisable

 

Weighted
average
exercise price(*)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15.00

 

9,706

 

33.0

 

15.00

 

9,706

 

15.00

 

22.00 39.94

 

262,782

 

60.5

 

35.48

 

233,162

 

35.59

 

40.63 59.63

 

475,420

 

67.9

 

52.91

 

328,340

 

50.57

 

62.50 70.91

 

1,575,216

 

89.4

 

68.28

 

1,393,196

 

67.90

 

71.69 80.75

 

1,429,900

 

89.0

 

77.77

 

547,270

 

77.40

 

80.76 83.00

 

1,447,325

 

90.5

 

82.91

 

1,313,415

 

82.97

 

83.37 99.85

 

1,851,250

 

104.0

 

88.21

 

287,250

 

88.47

 

103.00 128.00

 

2,454,000

 

89.0

 

113.20

 

629,000

 

103.06

 

Total

 

9,505,599

 

N/A

 

85.68

 

4,741,339

 

76.18

 

 


(*) Amounts in US Dollar

 

(16) Net revenues

Net revenues include royalty income primarily from the use of the Gucci brand related to eyewear, fragrances and ready-to-wear as well as from the use of the Yves Saint Laurent and other brands for various products.

 

Royalties related to the following trademarks:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gucci

 

47,615

 

51,435

 

43,847

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

12,876

 

21,429

 

35,654

 

Other

 

3,704

 

3,612

 

90

 

Total

 

64,195

 

76,476

 

79,591

 

 

157



 

(17) Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses in 2002, 2001, and 2000 were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Store

 

453,180

 

432,445

 

366,459

 

General and administrative

 

412,664

 

403,983

 

379,914

 

Communication

 

289,861

 

290,651

 

264,009

 

Selling

 

171,389

 

159,290

 

158,062

 

Shipping & Handling

 

62,472

 

61,432

 

56,153

 

Marketing & Promotions

 

29,656

 

28,460

 

19,876

 

Royalties expense

 

8,873

 

8,827

 

12,247

 

Research & Development

 

8,325

 

8,035

 

7,732

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

1,436,420

 

1,393,123

 

1,264,452

 

 

(18) Financial income, net

Financial income, net, in 2002, 2001 and 2000 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

105,208

 

150,750

 

216,872

 

Interest (expense)

 

(49,559

)

(63,773

)

(51,158

)

Financial income (expense) from hedging transactions

 

397

 

899

 

(5,884

)

Financial income from disposal of financial assets

 

6,886

 

 

 

Other

 

(136

)

247

 

426

 

Financial income, net

 

62,796

 

88,123

 

160,256

 

 

The income from disposal of financial assets derived from the KFW International Finance bond dislosed in Note 9.

 

(19) Restructuring expenses

In 2002 restructuring expenses, related primarily to the integration of Boucheron fragrance operations into YSL Beauté, amounting to € 3.5 million were incurred. These expenses were classified as Operating expenses.

 

In 2001 restructuring expenses of approximately € 8.4 million were primarily for severance payments at Boucheron, Balenciaga and Bottega Veneta, which were offset by the reversal of the over-accrual of certain restructuring expenses in Yves Saint Laurent and YSL

 

158



 

Beauté provided in 2000. The 2001 restructuring expenses were not classified as operating expenditures as they related to restructuring of acquired companies during the year immediately after the acquisition.

 

(20) Commitments and contingencies

Leases

Annual future minimum fixed rental payments under non-cancelable operating leases as of January 31, 2003, were as follows:

 

Fiscal year

 

Store

 

Other

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2003

 

78,496

 

48,898

 

127,394

 

2004

 

79,756

 

47,275

 

127,031

 

2005

 

77,340

 

21,629

 

98,969

 

2006

 

73,485

 

17,647

 

91,132

 

2007

 

69,712

 

15,618

 

85,330

 

Thereafter

 

452,681

 

62,209

 

514,890

 

Total

 

831,470

 

213,276

 

1,044,746

 

 

In addition to future minimum rental payments, the Group is committed to paying a fixed percentage of net sales in excess of specified amounts for certain of its stores. In Japan the rental contracts do not specify minimal rental payments, but provide for payments calculated as a percentage of sales.

 

Total store rent expense for 2002, 2001 and 2000 was as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed rent

 

83,858

 

73,154

 

54,959

 

Variable rent

 

100,138

 

99,332

 

87,938

 

Total store rent

 

183,996

 

172,486

 

142,897

 

 

159



 

Supply contracts

Unrelated subcontractors assemble the Group’s leather goods. In order to ensure the availability of production capacity, the Group enters into agreements with certain suppliers, which included minimum supply commitments over periods up to four years. Moreover the Group enters into agreements with suppliers of certain watch components, which included minimum supply commitments after 2003. The total amount of the future commitments related to these agreements at January 31, 2003, was as follows:

 

Fiscal year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2003

 

72,920

 

2004

 

54,091

 

2005

 

6,000

 

2006

 

1,500

 

Total

 

134,511

 

 

Hedging contracts

During the period, the Group entered into derivative transactions to cover its foreign exchange exposure related to anticipated future transactions in currencies other than the reporting currency of the Group.

 

The notional values of the contracts outstanding at January 31, 2003 and January 31, 2002 were the following:

 

January 31, 2003

 

Forward

 

Combination options

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

US Dollars

 

152,934

 

543,091

 

696,025

 

Japanese Yen

 

145,532

 

526,121

 

671,653

 

English Pound

 

149,934

 

 

149,934

 

Hong Kong Dollars

 

94,495

 

 

94,495

 

Korean Won

 

4,109

 

 

4,109

 

Total

 

547,004

 

1,069,212

 

1,616,216

 

 

160



 

January 31, 2002

 

Forward

 

Combination options

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

US Dollars

 

187,498

 

268,320

 

455,818

 

Japanese Yen

 

184,387

 

388,545

 

572,932

 

English Pound

 

65,277

 

 

65,277

 

Hong Kong Dollars

 

53,713

 

 

53,713

 

Korean Won

 

17,863

 

 

17,863

 

Total

 

508,738

 

656,865

 

1,165,603

 

 

Certain subsidiaries of the Group entered into forward contracts in relation to trade accounts receivables and payables and financial receivables and payables, denominated in the currencies indicated below.

 

The contracts outstanding at January 31, 2003 and January 31, 2002 were as follows:

 

Currencies

 

January 31,
2003

 

January 31,
2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

US Dollar

 

487,653

 

395,738

 

Japanese Yen

 

22,704

 

171,073

 

Swiss Franc

 

111,976

 

145,078

 

English Pound

 

52,322

 

33,971

 

Other currencies

 

16,600

 

20,030

 

Total

 

691,255

 

765,890

 

 

All contracts mature at various dates from February 2003 to December 2005.

 

All derivatives contracts are entered into with major financial institutions and, consequently, the Group does not expect default by the counter-parties.

 

Litigation

As of January 31, 2003, the Group’s management and legal advisors consider that the minor unresolved legal actions in which the Group was involved will not have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Company.

 

161



 

Letter of credit

In addition to the other protections under the Settlement Agreement (see Note 14), the Group procured a letter of credit for the benefit of shareholders other than PPR and LVMH. On October 22, 2001, Citibank N.A. (Milan Branch) issued an irrevocable letter of credit in an amount not to exceed US$ 230 million, which will be available to all the Group shareholders, other than PPR and LVMH, in the event that PPR fails to consummate the Offer. KAS Associatie N.V. is the beneficiary of the letter of credit and has agreed to act as paying agent for the benefit of all the Group shareholders, other than PPR and LVMH. The letter of credit is guaranteed by a US$ 245 million bond issued by KFW International Finance (see Note 9).

 

Commitment to minority shareholders

Certain minority shareholders of the Group’s companies have the right through put options to sell their interests in these companies to the Gucci Group in the future. These contractual agreements between the Gucci Group and these minority shareholders extend for various periods up to fifteen years. In most cases the exercise price of a put option depends on the future financial performance and valuation of the company, to which the option is related. It is not possible to estimate the amounts payable under the options as they will depend on the future performance of the related companies. Assuming all such Put options were exercised on January 31, 2003, the amount payable would have been € 125.3 million. This amount includes the minimum exercise price of certain of the Put / Call options which the Company may be obliged to pay in the years indicated below:

 

Fiscal year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2003

 

220

 

2004

 

38,734

 

2005

 

 

2006

 

2,281

 

2007

 

4,835

 

Thereafter

 

6,145

 

Total

 

52,215

 

 

162



 

Other commitments

The Company entered into agreements mainly for the acquisition of fixed assets. These commitments as at January 31, 2003 were as follows:

 

Fiscal year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2003

 

85,083

 

2004

 

5,225

 

2005

 

225

 

2006

 

225

 

2007

 

225

 

Thereafter

 

4,275

 

Total

 

95,258

 

 

The major commitment is for the acquisition of a property in the Ginza district of Tokyo, which was completed in April 2003.

 

(21) Additional disclosures

Employee remuneration

Remuneration in 2002, 2001 and 2000 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salaries and wages

 

449,673

 

451,450

 

390,532

 

Social contributions

 

81,879

 

70,944

 

75,151

 

Pension and severance indemnities

 

11,485

 

10,461

 

8,508

 

Total remuneration

 

543,037

 

532,855

 

474,191

 

 

163



 

Number of employees

The average number of employees during 2002, 2001and 2000 was as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Managers

 

620

 

603

 

520

 

White-collar staff

 

7,796

 

7,438

 

6,476

 

Blue-collar staff

 

2,142

 

1,848

 

1,896

 

Total average number of employees

 

10,558

 

9,889

 

8,892

 

 

The number of employees at January 31, 2003 and 2002 consisted of the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Managers

 

643

 

608

 

White-collar staff (without temporary staff)

 

7,839

 

7,365

 

Blue-collar staff

 

2,202

 

1,961

 

Total number of employees at year-end

 

10,684

 

9,934

 

 

Directors’ emoluments

The members of the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V. as a group received emoluments for 2002 , 2001 and 2000 amounting to € 8.5 million, € 5.9 million and € 5.1 million, respectively.

 

164



 

Related party transactions

In 2002 the Company entered into commercial transactions with parties having an interest in the Group (PPR or minority shareholders of consolidated subsidiaries). These transactions involved primarily wholesale product sales, cooperative advertising purchases and office supplies purchases from PPR-affiliate retailers, the rental of stores and showroom spaces as well as purchases of raw materials from minority shareholders. These transactions represented less than 0.2% (0.2% in 2001) of consolidated revenues, 0.3% (0.1% in 2001) of consolidated operating expenses and 1.2% (1.4% in 2001) of the cost of goods sold.

 

(22) Quarterly information (unaudited)

The following table shows financial results by quarter:

 

2002

 

1 quarter

 

2 quarter

 

3 quarter

 

4 quarter

 

Full year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net revenues

 

607,619

 

577,132

 

644,757

 

714,778

 

2,544,286

 

Gross profit

 

414,907

 

394,518

 

442,279

 

490,575

 

1,742,279

 

Operating profit

 

20,349

 

31,496

 

47,074

 

80,522

 

179,441

 

Net income

 

35,503

 

42,852

 

52,959

 

95,440

 

226,754

 

Net income per share – basic

 

0.35

 

0.42

 

0.53

 

0.94

 

2.24

 

Net income per share – diluted

 

0.35

 

0.41

 

0.52

 

0.93

 

2.21

 

 

2001 (*)

 

1 quarter

 

2 quarter

 

3 quarter

 

4 quarter

 

Full year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net revenues

 

616,651

 

620,171

 

624,929

 

703,365

 

2,565,116

 

Gross profit

 

417,567

 

447,363

 

432,435

 

494,352

 

1,791,717

 

Operating profit

 

47,888

 

72,516

 

53,839

 

94,142

 

268,385

 

Net income

 

61,536

 

95,381

 

61,854

 

93,764

 

312,535

 

Net income per share - basic

 

0.61

 

0.95

 

0.62

 

0.94

 

3.12

 

Net income per share - diluted

 

0.61

 

0.94

 

0.61

 

0.92

 

3.08

 

 


(*) The 1st Quarter, 2nd Quarter, 3rd Quarter and 4th Quarter Euro amounts have been calculated from previously published US Dollar amounts applying the average exchange rate of the respective periods.

 

165



 

(23) Reconciliation with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States

The Group’s accounting policies differ in certain respects from accounting policies generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”), as follows:

 

Impairment of Indefinite Life Assets

Effective February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the full provisions of FAS 142. Consequently, the Group reassessed the useful lives of previously recognized intangible assets. As a result of this assessment the Yves Saint Laurent trademark was classified as an indefinite-lived intangible asset (“Indefinite-Lived Asset”) under the provisions of FAS 142. This conclusion is supported by the fact that the Yves Saint Laurent trademark right is: perpetual in duration, related to one of the most successful luxury brands, and when the relaunch of the brand is completed expected to generate positive cash flows as long as the company owns it. In fact, the Yves Saint Laurent brand possesses all the qualities (long standing reputation, high awareness, reliably high quality, costumers loyalty due to its recognizable attributes), which permit the Company to achieve superior and very long-term cash flows, fundamental to enhancing the brand’s long-term value. The Indefinite-Lived Asset will no longer be amortized but rather tested for impairment annually or when events and circumstances warrant. The Group will reevaluate the useful life of the Indefinite-Lived Asset each year to determine whether events or circumstances continue to support indefinite useful life.

 

In accordance with the FAS 142 transition provisions, on February 1, 2002 the Group completed the transition impairment test of its Indefinite-Lived Asset and goodwill comparing the fair value of the Indefinite-Lived Asset and of all goodwill to their related current carrying amounts as at that date and determined that no impairment existed at that date. Fair value was derived using a discounted cash flow analysis. Impairment analyses were based on five year business plans consistent with internal planning assumptions. In the valuation model, the Company did not apply a perpetual growth rate and a constant operating margin assumption until the end of the five-year period. The Company assumed a discount rate, which is representative of the Weighted Average Cost of Capital consistent with rates adopted by reputable investment banks. In the forecast period considered for the impairment analysis, the Company budgeted the businesses’ free cash flow; in the subsequent period (perpetuity), constant growth rates were assumed, which correspond to minimal real growth after adjusting for expected inflation.

 

Using the methodologies consistent with those applied for its transitional impairment test

 

166



 

performed, the Group completed its annual impairment test for the Indefinite-Lived Asset and goodwill as at January 31, 2003. These annual impairment tests did not indicate an impairment of either the Yves Saint Laurent trademark or goodwill deriving from any of the Group’s acquisitions.

 

As at January 31, 2003 and 2002 the carrying amount of the Yves Saint Laurent trademark valued in accordance with the U.S. GAAP was € 890.1 million.

 

As at January 31, 2003 and 2002 Trademarks and Other intangible assets subject to amortization valued in accordance with the U.S. GAAP consisted of the following:

 

 

 

January 31, 2003

 

January 31, 2002

 

 

 

Gross

 

Accumulated
amortization

 

Net

 

Gross

 

Accumulated
amortization

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trademarks

 

463,041

 

43,260

 

419,781

 

383,226

 

21,763

 

361,463

 

Other intangible assets

 

305,324

 

64,548

 

240,776

 

249,927

 

49,161

 

200,766

 

Total

 

768,365

 

107,808

 

660,557

 

633,153

 

70,924

 

562,229

 

 

The movements in the carrying amount of goodwill valued in accordance with U.S. GAAP were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

 

832,389

 

616,116

 

Acquisitions

 

29,721

 

242,983

 

Adjustments to prior year value

 

(58,557

)

(3,579

)

Impairment losses

 

 

 

Amortization of the year

 

 

(48,751

)

Currency translation

 

(3,014

)

25,620

 

Closing balance

 

800,539

 

832,389

 

 

167



 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

As required by IAS, the Company amortizes goodwill and acquired trademarks over a maximum period of 20 years. In 2002 the Company adopted FAS 142, under which it did not amortize goodwill nor the Yves Saint Laurent trademark which has an indefinite useful life. The other acquired trademarks were amortized over periods representing their estimated useful lives, which the Company reassessed when first applying FAS 142 as of February 1, 2002 as follows:

 

Trademark

 

Useful life

 

Balenciaga

 

20 years

 

Bottega Veneta

 

40 years

 

Boucheron

 

20 years

 

Roger & Gallet

 

40 years

 

Sergio Rossi

 

40 years

 

Stella McCartney

 

20 years

 

 

The aggregate amortization charge of Trademarks and Other intangible assets determined under U.S. GAAP for the year amounts to € 43.6 million; approximately the same depreciation charge is expected during each of the next five years.

 

Restructuring charges

In accordance with IAS rules, the Group does not recognize a provision with respect to certain exit costs, employee termination costs and other restructuring expenses as at the date of the acquisitions, but rather charges such costs to expense in the periods they are incurred. Under U.S. GAAP these liabilities should be recognized and included in the allocation of the acquisition costs. Accordingly, appropriate adjustments have been reflected in the U.S. GAAP reconciliation.

 

Non-cash compensation expense

In accordance with IAS, no cost is accrued for stock options on the date of grant as well as during the life of the options. Under U.S. GAAP, as permitted under FAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”, the Company accounts for employee stock options under Accounting Principles Board statement No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”, (“APB 25”) as clarified by FASB Interpretation No. 44, “Accounting for Certain Transactions involving Stock Compensation” (“FIN 44”), and FASB Interpretation No. 28, “Accounting for Stock Appreciation and Other Variable Stock Option or Award Plans”.

 

168



 

The Company generally issues options to employees and directors to purchase shares of the Company with an exercise price greater than or equal to the market price of the underlying shares at the date of grant. Prior to 2000, the Supervisory Board contracted to grant options to certain executive officers, subject to the approval of the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”). On June 22, 2000, the AGM authorized the issuance of the options granted in 1999. In accordance with APB 25, in 2000 the compensation cost for stock options was measured as the excess of the quoted market price of Gucci shares on the day shareholder approval was obtained and the strike price of the options (the “Intrinsic Value”). The related compensation expense is being recognized over the vesting period of each grant.

 

In December 2001 the Company paid a US$ 7.00 special dividend to all shareholders, except PPR, related to the settlement of outstanding litigation between the Group, PPR and LVMH (see Note 14). Then, the Company reduced the exercise price of outstanding options to provide equitable compensation to option holders not eligible to receive the special dividend by the same amount. In accordance with FIN 44, for the year ended January 31, 2002 and in subsequent years, the Company is required to account for in-the-money outstanding options, which as a result of the repricing qualified as variable options, using variable accounting. In accordance with FIN 44, the Company recognized as a current period expense for the period ended January 31, 2002 the accumulated intrinsic value of all vested in the money outstanding options amounting to € 114.7 million. In addition the intrinsic value of options, which were in-the-money but not vested  on the date of the repricing have been charged to compensation expense rateably over the period from the date of repricing to the date of vesting adjusted each period for the effects of variable accounting. Finally, periodic changes in the intrinsic value during the period from the date of repricing to the date of exercise of the options are recognized as an increase to or a decrease of compensation expense subsequent to the end of the vesting period.

 

The Company amended and restated the Incentive Stock Option Plan. If the less than the greater of 15 million shares or 15% of the Company’s outstanding shares remain untendered at the end of the Offer Period (see Strategic alliance), options issued under the New Option Plan and (if agreed by the option holders) options issued prior to the amendment and restatement of the Stock Option Plan not tendered into the Offer will convert to Stock Appreciation Rights (“SARs”), which will convert to cash payments by the Company when exercised. The SARs would have the same vesting period as the options and the amount of the related cash payments would be based on a formula, which measures the value of the Company as compared to other stock exchange listed comparator companies.

 

169



 

Consequently, under U.S. GAAP, variable plan accounting is required for options issued under the New Option Plan until the outcome of the Offer is known. Under U.S. GAAP, the Company is not required to accrue a provision related to the Cash Awards, as the con-version of the options into SARs will be confirmed only by the occurrence of future events not within the control of the Group. Had the contingent liability been recorded as at January 31, 2003, it would not have been material.

 

In addition, because the conversion of these options to Cash Awards is outside of the control of either the employee or the Company these instruments would be classified in a mezzanine section of the U.S. GAAP balance sheet between debt and equity. This results in a reconciling difference in the U.S. GAAP equity reconciliation.

 

Hedging

The Company enters into transactions including derivative transactions to manage its foreign exchange exposure related to certain anticipated future revenues and expenses in currencies other than the reporting currency of the Group as at the year end. Until the adoption of IAS 39 “Financial instruments: recognition and measurement”, and FAS 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”, the Company deferred the unrealized gains or losses on hedges in respect of future revenues and expenses; under

U.S. GAAP unrealized gains or losses on hedges, which were not covered by firm commitments as at the balance sheet date, were included in the determination of net income. Upon the adoption of IAS 39 the Company qualifies for hedge accounting and records the fair value movements of Cash flow hedges as a component of equity until the related revenues and expenses are realized. Under U.S. GAAP the Company’s hedges of anticipated future transactions do not qualify for hedge accounting. Accordingly, on adoption of FAS 133 the current U.S. GAAP hedging relationships for the Company’s existing derivative instruments were no longer recognized as hedges. Subsequent to adoption, movements in the fair value of Cash flow hedges have been recorded as adjustments to U.S. GAAP net income. However, as IAS basis shareholders’ equity reflects the Hedging reserve in Other comprehensive income, from January 31, 2002 there is no longer a reconciling item between IAS and U.S. GAAP basis shareholders’ equity.

 

On February 1, 2001 the Company adopted FAS 133 and IAS 39 which establish accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments and hedging activities. Both standards require that all derivatives are recognized as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and measured at fair value at each reporting period. On the adoption date,

 

170



 

under IAS 39, the Company recorded a gain, net of tax, of € 8.7 million directly in share-holders’ equity related to instruments designed to hedge cash flow fluctuations. Under U.S. GAAP this amount is recorded as an adjustment to Other comprehensive income. Accordingly no reconciling item to net equity as at January 31, 2003 and 2002 was required.

 

Construction period store rental expenses

In accordance with IAS these are capitalized as part of the cost of constructing the store and amortized to expense over the lease period. U.S. GAAP (SOP 98-5) requires these to be charged to expense.

 

Deferred taxation on elimination of inter-company profit

As required by IAS, the Company calculates deferred taxation related to the elimination of unrealized inter-company profit on sale of inventories and fixed assets by applying the tax rates prevailing in the countries where the assets will ultimately be sold to third parties or depreciated. U.S. GAAP requires that this deferred taxation be calculated by applying tax rates prevailing in the countries where these assets originated.

 

Tax deduction on stock options

As described in Note 3, the Group reports the tax benefits, which derives upon the exercise of stock options by certain employees as a reduction of income tax expense. As this tax benefit arises from transactions involving the Company’s shares, U.S. GAAP requires that this benefit be credited directly to shareholders’ equity.

 

171



 

Summarized below are the adjustments to net income that would have been required if U.S. GAAP had been applied instead of IAS:

 

2002
Net Income

 

Pre-tax
result

 

Tax

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income net of minority interests as reported in the consolidated statement of income

 

246,040

 

(19,286

)

226,754

 

Items increasing (decreasing) reported income net of minority interests:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash compensation expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  compensation expense related to certain stock options granted at an exercise price below market on the date of the grant

 

(583

)

 

(583

)

•  change in intrinsic value of outstanding options

 

(37,703

)

4,280

 

(33,423

)

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

104,873

 

(17,267

)

87,606

 

Unrealized exchange gain (loss) on hedge transactions

 

111,771

 

(5,190

)

106,581

 

Construction period store rental expenses, net of related amortization

 

(9,566

)

3,593

 

(5,973

)

Deferred taxation on elimination of inter-company profit

 

 

(708

)

(708

)

Tax deduction on stock options exercise

 

 

(786

)

(786

)

Income net of minority interests in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

414,832

 

(35,364

)

379,468

 

Basic net income per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

3.75

 

Diluted net income per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

3.70

 

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

Gross

 

Tax

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ equity as reported in the consolidated balance sheet

 

 

 

 

 

4,671,433

 

Items increasing (decreasing) reported shareholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring charges

 

101,887

 

(34,653

)

67,234

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

184,582

 

(37,385

)

147,197

 

Construction period store rental expenses, net of related amortization

 

(11,248

)

4,196

 

(7,052

)

Change in Fair value of outstanding option

 

(1,773

)

 

(1,773

)

Deferred taxes on elimination of inter-company profit

 

 

(27,143

)

(27,143

)

Shareholders’ equity in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

4,849,896

 

 

172



 

2001
Net Income

 

Pre-tax
result

 

Tax

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income net of minority interests as reported in the consolidated statement of income

 

371,214

 

(58,679

)

312,535

 

Items increasing (decreasing) reported income net of minority interests:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring

 

(750

)

1,210

 

460

 

Non-cash compensation expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  compensation expense related to certain stock options granted at an exercise price below market on the date of the grant

 

(6,413

)

 

(6,413

)

•  cumulative intrinsic value of vested in-the-money options on the date of the US$7.00 exercise price reduction

 

(114,701

)

11,056

 

(103,645

)

•  change in intrinsic value of outstanding options through year end

 

(6,999

)

1,001

 

(5,998

)

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

42,658

 

(9,661

)

32,997

 

Unrealized exchange gain (loss) on hedge transactions

 

(16,450

)

430

 

(16,020

)

Construction period store rental expenses, net of related amortization

 

(1,631

)

585

 

(1,046

)

Deferred taxation on elimination of inter-company profit

 

 

(13,310

)

(13,310

)

Tax deduction on stock options exercise

 

 

(264

)

(264

)

Income net of minority interests in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

266,928

 

(67,632

)

199,296

 

Basic net income per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

1.99

 

Diluted net income per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

1.96

 

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

Gross

 

Tax

 

Net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ equity as reported in the consolidated balance sheet

 

 

 

 

 

4,558,423

 

Items increasing (decreasing) reported shareholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring charges

 

101,887

 

(34,653

)

67,234

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

79,709

 

(20,118

)

59,591

 

Construction period store rental expenses, net of related amortization

 

(1,682

)

603

 

(1,079

)

Deferred taxes on elimination of inter-company profit

 

 

(26.435

)

(26,435

)

Shareholders’ equity in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

4,657,734

 

 

173



 

2000
Net Income

 

Pre-tax
result

 

Tax

 

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income net of minority interests as reported in the consolidated statement of income

 

415,748

 

(48,823

)

366,925

 

Items increasing (decreasing) reported income net of minority interests:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restructuring

 

96,630

 

(33,792

)

62,838

 

Non-cash compensation expense:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  compensation cost related to certain stock options granted at an exercise price below market on the date of the grant

 

(33,843

)

 

(33,843

)

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

33,615

 

(9,558

)

24,057

 

Unrealized exchange gain (loss) on hedge transactions

 

19,908

 

(1,226

)

18,682

 

Deferred taxation on elimination of inter-company profit

 

 

6,821

 

6,821

 

Tax deduction on stock options exercise

 

 

(3,691

)

(3,691

)

Income net of minority interests in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

532,058

 

(90,269

)

441,789

 

Basic net income per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

4.42

 

Diluted net income per share in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

 

 

 

 

4.35

 

 

Pro-forma income statement (unaudited)

Effective February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the full provisions of FAS 142. On a pro-forma basis assuming the new standard had been applied since February 1, 2000 the net result of the period prepared on a U.S. GAAP basis for the years ended January 31, 2003,

2002 and 2001 would have reflected the following amounts:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income as reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

379,468

 

199,296

 

441,789

 

Add back: Trademark amortization, net of tax

 

 

12,309

 

12,930

 

Add back: Goodwill amortization

 

 

48,751

 

24,334

 

Pro-Forma Net income

 

379,468

 

260,356

 

479,053

 

Net income per share - basic

 

3.75

 

2.60

 

4.79

 

Net income per share - diluted

 

3.70

 

2.56

 

4.72

 

 

174



 

During 2002 the Group made minor acquisitions. Should these acquisitions been made on February 1, 2002, the effect on the 2002 income statement would not have been material. Accordingly no related pro-forma information is disclosed.

 

During 2001 the Group made several acquisitions. On a pro-forma basis, assuming the acquisitions of these businesses had been made on February 1, 2001, the acquisitions had been financed by third parties since this date and the results of these companies had been the same as originally reported, income statements prepared on a U.S. GAAP basis for the years ended January 31, 2002 would have reflected the following amounts:

 

 

 

2001

 

Net revenues

 

2,579,313

 

Goodwill and trademark amortization

 

88,033

 

Operating profit

 

162,833

 

Net income

 

195,574

 

Net income per share of common stock – diluted

 

1.93

 

 

Management believes that the pro-forma results of operations are not indicative of what actually would have occurred if the acquisitions had taken place on February 1, 2001.

 

Stock-based compensation

For purposes of the reconciliation of the reported net income with net income in accordance with U.S. GAAP, stock-based compensation is accounted for by using the intrinsic value based method.

 

Pro-forma U.S. GAAP amounts, had compensation expense been calculated based on the options’ fair value at their respective grant dates for awards under the stock option plans, are presented below:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net Income as reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP

 

379,468

 

199,296

 

441,789

 

Add: compensation expense included in the Net Income, net of related tax effect

 

34,006

 

116,056

 

33,843

 

Deduct: total stock based employee compensation determined under fair value based method, net of related tax effect

 

61,082

 

95,516

 

109,139

 

Pro-Forma Net income

 

352,392

 

219,836

 

366,493

 

Net income per share - basic

 

3.49

 

2.19

 

3.67

 

Net income per share – diluted

 

3.44

 

2.17

 

3.61

 

 

175



 

The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted in 2002, 2001 and 2000 for the Incentive Stock Option Plan was US$ 17.61, US$ 19.93 and US$ 36.04, respectively.

 

The fair values at the date of grant were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

3.87

%

4.16

%

6.46

%

Expected life (years)

 

3.5

 

3.5

 

2.6

 

Volatility

 

14.4

%

21.3

%

55.0

%

Dividend yield

 

0.57

%

0.60

%

0.48

%

 

(24) Subsequent events

The Company purchased 3,203,987 shares for an aggregate cost of € 281.6 million between February 1 and April 30, 2003. As at April 30, 2003, the Company held a total of 4,120,387 shares in treasury, and there were 98,556,351 shares outstanding.

 

On May 28, 2003 the Company announced that the Supervisory Board had declared, subject to approval by Shareholders at the Annual General Meeting, to distribute € 13.50 per share in the form of a return of capital. Based on the number of shares outstanding on that date, the payment would approximate € 1,340 million.

 

Subject to the affirmative vote of Shareholders and in compliance with Dutch statutory procedures, the € 13.50 per share payment is expected on the Euronext Amsterdam shares on October 2, 2003 and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) shares promptly thereafter.

 

As a result of the payment the US$ 101.50 per share “put price” that PPR is committed to offer for all Gucci Group shares in March 2004 (see Strategic Alliance in Note 14) will be reduced by € 13.50 per share, plus a small adjustment for the time value of money. The per share US dollar equivalent of € 13.50 will be determined by the US dollar reference exchange rate against the euro, published by the European Central Bank (ECB), on October 2, 2003. The time value of money will be set at 3-month US dollar LIBOR on October 2, 2003, increased by 100 basis points.

 

176



 

(25) Consolidated Companies

 

The consolidated companies at January 31, 2003 are shown in the following table (unless otherwise stated, the Company’s interest is 100% or almost 100% as of January 31, 2003):

 

Gucci Division

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Guccio Gucci S.p.A. (*) (**)

 

Florence, Italy

Gucci Logistica S.p.A. (*) (**)

 

Florence, Italy

Luxury Goods Italia S.p.A. (*) (**)

 

Florence, Italy

G.F. Services S.r.l. (**)

 

Milan, Italy

G.F. Logistica S.r.l. (*)

 

Milan, Italy

Luxury Goods France S.A. (*)

 

Paris, France

Gucci Limited (*)(**)

 

London, United Kingdom

GG Luxury Goods Gmbh (*) (**)

 

Neustadt, Germany

Luxury Goods International S.A. (*)

 

Cadempino, Switzerland

Gucci Finance S.A. (**)

 

Cadempino, Switzerland

Gucci Belgium S.A. (*) (**)

 

Brussels, Belgium

La Meridiana Fashion S.A. (**)

 

Brussels, Belgium

Luxury Goods Spain S.L. (*)

 

Madrid, Spain

Gucci S.a.m. (*) (**)

 

Montecarlo, Monaco

Gucci Austria Gmbh (*) (**)

 

Vienna, Austria

Gucci Netherlands B.V. (*) (**)

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Luxury Goods Outlet S.r.l. (*) (**)

 

Florence, Italy

Capri Group S.r.l. (*) (75%)

 

Naples, Italy

Gucci Venezia S.p.A. (*) (51%)

 

Venice, Italy

Gucci International N.V. (**)

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Gucci Group N.V.

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

GG France Holding S.a.r.l. (**)

 

Paris, France

Gucci Luxembourg S.A. (**)

 

Luxembourg

Gucci Services Limited (**)

 

London, United Kingdom

Gucci Participation B.V. (**)

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Gucci Finanziaria S.p.A. (**)

 

Florence, Italy

Bamboo S.r.l. (90%)

 

Florence, Italy

Gucci Ireland Limited (**)

 

Dublin, Ireland

Luxury Goods Operations (L.G.O.) S.A. (*) 51%

 

Cadempino, Switzerland

 

177



 

North America

 

 

Gucci North American Holdings, Inc. (**)

 

Delaware, U.S.A.

Gucci America, Inc. (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

Gucci Shops of Canada, Inc.

 

New Brunswick, Canada

Gucci Boutiques, Inc. (*)(**)

 

New Brunswick, Canada

 

 

 

Asia

 

 

Gucci Group Japan Limited (*)

 

Tokyo, Japan

Gucci Group (Hong Kong) Limited (*) (**)

 

Hong Kong, China

Gucci Thailand Co, Ltd (**)

 

Bangkok, Thailand

Gucci Group Guam, Inc. (*)

 

Tumon, Guam

Gucci Group Korea Ltd (*) (**)

 

Seoul, South Korea

Gucci Taiwan Limited (*) (**)

 

Taipei, Taiwan

Gucci (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (*) (65%)

 

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Gucci Singapore Pte Limited (*) (65%)

 

Singapore, Singapore

Gucci Australia PTY Limited (*)

 

Victoria, Australia

Gucci Group Japan Holding Limited (*)

 

Tokyo, Japan

Yugen Kaisha Gucci (*) (**)

 

Tokyo, Japan

 

 

 

Rest of World

 

 

Gemini Aruba N.V.

 

Aruba, Netherlands Antilles

 

Gucci Group Watches

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Luxury Timepieces International S.A. (*)

 

Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Luxury Timepieces (U.K.) Ltd. (*) (**)

 

London, United Kingdom

Luxury Timepieces España, S.L. (51%)

 

Madrid, Spain

Luxury Timepiece Design S.A.

 

La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland

Luxury Timepiece Manufacturing S.A. (*)

 

La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland

Bédat Group Holding S.A. (85%)

 

Geneva, Switzerland

Bédat & Co. S.A. (*) (85%)

 

Geneva, Switzerland

 

 

 

North America

 

 

Luxury Timepieces (Canada), Inc. (*) (**)

 

Markham, Canada

Bédat & Co. U.S.A., LLC (*) (85%)

 

San Francisco, U.S.A.

 

178



 

Asia

 

 

Luxury Timepieces (Hong Kong) Limited (*) (**)

 

Hong Kong, China

Luxury Timepieces Japan Limited (*)

 

Tokyo, Japan

 

Yves Saint Laurent

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent, S.A.S. (*)

 

Paris, France

Yves Saint Laurent Boutique France, S.A.S. (*)

 

Paris, France

Yves Saint Laurent Fashion B.V.

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Yves Saint Laurent France B.V.

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

S.A.M. Yves Saint Laurent Monaco S.a.m. (*)

 

Montecarlo, Monaco

Yves Saint Laurent Spain S.A. (*)

 

Madrid, Spain

Yves Saint Laurent UK Ltd (*)

 

London, United Kingdom

Yves Saint Laurent Belgium S.P.R.L.

 

Brussels, Belgium

C. Mendès S.A. (*)

 

Paris, France

Yves Saint Laurent Germany Gmbh (*)

 

Düsseldorf, Germany

Yves Saint Laurent Services, S.A.S.

 

Paris, France

 

 

 

North America

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent America, Inc. (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

Yves Saint Laurent of South America, Inc. (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

Yves Saint Laurent America Holding, Inc.

 

New York, U.S.A.

 

 

 

Asia

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent Fashion Japan Ltd

 

Tokyo, Japan

 

YSL Beauté

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

YSL Beauté (S.A.S.)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

Yves Saint Laurent Parfums S.A.

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

Roger & Gallet (S.A.S.) (*)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

YSL Beauté Recherche et Industries (S.A.S.) (*)

 

Bernay, France

Yves Saint Laurent Parfums Lassigny (S.A.S.)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

Parfums Van Cleef and Arpels S.A. (*)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

 

179



 

YSL Beauté Gmbh (*)

 

Munich, Germany

YSL Beauté S.A. (*)

 

Barcelona, Spain

Fendi Profumi S.p.A. (*)

 

Florence, Italy

Florbath Profumi di Parma S.p.A. (*)

 

Florence, Italy

YSL Beauté Nederland B.V. (*)

 

Eg Maassluis, The Netherlands

Parfums Stern (S.A.S.) (*)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

YSL Beauté S.A. N.V. (*)

 

Brussels, Belgium

YSL Beauté AEBE (*) (51%)

 

Athens, Greece

YSL Beauté S.A. (*) (51%)

 

Lisbon, Portugal

YSL Beauté Suisse

 

Geneva, Switzerland

YSL Beauté Ltd (*)

 

Haywards Heath, United Kingdom

YSL Beauté Italia S.p.A. (*)

 

Florence, Italy

YSL Beauté HGmbh (*)

 

Vienna, Austria

Fildema XXI S.L.

 

Barcelona, Spain

Alexander McQueen Parfums (S.A.S.)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

Classic Parfums (S.A.S.)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

Parfums Balenciaga (S.A.S.)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

Stella McCartney Parfums (S.A.S.)

 

Neuilly sur Seine, France

 

 

 

North America

 

 

YSL Beauté, Inc. (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

YSL Beauté Miami, Inc.

 

Miami, U.S.A.

 

 

 

Asia

 

 

Yves Saint Laurent Parfums KK (*)

 

Tokyo, Japan

YSL Beauté Hong Kong Ltd (*)

 

Hong Kong, China

YSL Beauté Singapore PTE Ltd (*)

 

Singapore, Singapore

 

 

 

Rest of World

 

 

YSL Beauté Canada, Inc. (*)

 

Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

YSL Beauté Australia PTY Ltd (*)

 

Sydney, Australia

YSL Beauté NZ Ltd (*)

 

Auckland, New Zealand

YSL Beautè Middle East FZCO

 

Dubai, UAE

 

180



 

Sergio Rossi

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Sergio Rossi S.p.A. (*) (70%)

 

San Mauro Pascoli, Italy

Ascot S.r.l. (70%)

 

Florence, Italy

Sergio Rossi U.K. Limited (*) (70%)

 

London, United Kingdom

Sergio Rossi International S.A.R.L. (70%)

 

Luxembourg

Sergio Rossi Netherlands B.V. (70%)

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

 

 

 

North America

 

 

Sergio Rossi U.S.A., Inc. (*) (70%)

 

New York, U.S.A.

 

 

 

Asia

 

 

Sergio Rossi Japan Limited (*) (70%)

 

Tokyo, Japan

Sergio Rossi Korea Ltd (*) (70%)

 

Seoul, South Korea

 

Boucheron

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Boucheron S.A.S. (*)

 

Paris, France

Boucheron Holding S.A.

 

Paris, France

Parfums et Cosmetiques International S.A.S. (*)

 

Paris, France

Boucheron Parfums S.A.S. (*)

 

Paris, France

Boucheron U.K. Ltd (*)

 

London, United Kingdom

Boucheron International S.A. (*)

 

Cadempino, Switzerland

Boucheron Luxembourg S.A.R.L

 

Luxembourg

 

 

 

North America

 

 

Boucheron (U.S.A.) Ltd (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

Luxury Distribution, Inc.

 

New York, U.S.A.

Parfums Boucheron Corp. (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

Mode et Parfums Corp. (*)

 

New York, U.S.A.

Boucheron Joaillerie (USA) Inc.

 

New York, U.S.A.

 

181



 

Asia

 

 

Boucheron Japan (*)

 

Tokyo, Japan

Boucheron Taiwan CO. Ltd (*)

 

Taipei, Taiwan

 

Balenciaga

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Balenciaga S.A. (*) (91%)

 

Paris, France

 

 

 

America

 

 

Balenciaga America, Inc. (*) (91%)

 

New York, U.S.A.

 

Bottega Veneta

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Bottega Veneta U.K. Co. Limited (*) (78.5%)

 

London, United Kingdom

Bottega Veneta France Holding S.A.S. (78.5%)

 

Paris, France

B.V. Italia S.r.l. (*) (78.5%)

 

Vicenza, Italy

B.V S.r.l. (*) (78.5%)

 

Vicenza, Italy

B.V. International S.A.R.L. (78.5%)

 

Luxembourg

Bottega Veneta B.V. (78.5%)

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Bottega Veneta France S.A. (*) (78.5%)

 

Paris, France

B.V Servizi S.r.l. (78.5%)

 

Vicenza, Italy

Bottega Veneta España S.L. (78.5%)

 

Madrid, Spain

 

 

 

America

 

 

Bottega Veneta Inc (*) (78.5%)

 

New York, U.S.A.

 

 

 

Asia

 

 

Bottega Veneta Hong Kong Limited (*) (78.5%)

 

Hong Kong, China

Bottega Veneta Japan Limited (*) (78.5%)

 

Tokyo, Japan

Bottega Veneta Singapore Private Limited (*) (78.5%)

 

Singapore, Singapore

Bottega Veneta Korea Ltd (*) (78.5%)

 

Seoul, South Korea

Bottega Veneta Guam (78.5%)

 

Guam, Guam

 

182



 

Alexander McQueen

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Autumnpaper Limited (*) (51%)

 

London, United Kingdom

Birdswan Solutions Ltd (51%)

 

London, United Kingdom

Paintgate Limited

 

London, United Kingdom

Alexander McQueen Trading Ltd (*) (51%)

 

London, United Kingdom

 

Stella McCartney

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Stella McCartney Limited (*) (50%)

 

London, United Kingdom

Stella McCartney France S.A.S. (*) (50%)

 

Paris, France

 

 

 

America

 

 

Stella McCartney America Inc. (*) (50%)

 

City of Wilmington, U.S.A

 

Industrial Operations

 

Region

 

Registered Office

Europe

 

 

Baruffi S.r.l. (*) (67%)

 

Milan, Italy

Conceria Blu Tonic S.p.A. (*) (51%)

 

Pisa, Italy

Caravel Pelli Pregiate S.r.l. (*) (51%)

 

Florence, Italy

Regain 1957 S.r.l. (*) (70%)

 

Florence, Italy

Paoletti S.r.l. (*) (51%)

 

Florence, Italy

Tiger Flex S.r.l. (*) (75%)

 

Florence, Italy

Rembrandt S.r.l. (40%)

 

Florence, Italy

Gauguin S.r.l.

 

Florence, Italy

Gucci Immobiliare Leccio S.r.l. (*) (64%)

 

Florence, Italy

Design Management S.r.l. (*)

 

Florence, Italy

 


(*) Principal operating companies

(**) Companies directly owned by Gucci Group N.V.

 

183



 

(This page has been left blank intentionally.)

 

184



 

CORPORATE

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NOTES

 

185



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Corporate balance sheets before appropriation of profit

 

(In thousands of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

4,162

 

78,284

 

Receivables due from Group companies

 

55,675

 

18,715

 

Other current assets

 

2,591

 

2,824

 

Total current assets

 

62,428

 

99,823

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non current assets

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

 

58

 

75

 

Deferred charges and intangible assets, net

 

2,023

 

3,581

 

Investments in Group companies

 

4,695,978

 

4,704,433

 

Other non-current assets

 

286

 

295

 

Total non-current assets

 

4,698,345

 

4,708,384

 

Total assets

 

4,760,773

 

4,808,207

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Due to Group companies

 

66,079

 

227,904

 

Other current liabilities

 

23,261

 

21,880

 

Total current liabilities

 

89,340

 

249,784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

 

 

 

Total liabilities

 

89,340

 

249,784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

 

Share capital

 

104,688

 

103,654

 

Contributed surplus

 

2,790,401

 

2,795,369

 

Retained earnings

 

968,745

 

707,515

 

Treasury stock, at cost

 

(173,274

)

(60,142

)

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

754,119

 

699,492

 

Net result for the year

 

226,754

 

312,535

 

Shareholders’ equity

 

4,671,433

 

4,558,423

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

4,760,773

 

4,808,207

 

 

The Euro amounts have been calculated from previously published US Dollar amounts using the exchange rate at the end of 2001 (€/US$ 0.8637).

 

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

 

186



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Corporate statements of income

 

(In thousands of Euro)

 

2002

 

2001

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net profit of Group companies

 

233,727

 

324,496

 

372,085

 

Other (expenses), net

 

(6,973

)

(11,961

)

(5,160

)

Net result for the year

 

226,754

 

312,535

 

366,925

 

 

The Euro amounts have been calculated from previously published US Dollar amounts using the average exchange rate of the respective year ( € /US$ 0.8908 and € /US$ 0.9176 in 2001 and 2000, respectively).

 

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

 

As the financial statements of Gucci Group N.V. are included in the consolidated financial statements, the corporate statements of income are presented in an abridged form (article 402, Title 9, Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code).

 

187



 

GUCCI GROUP N.V.

Notes to the corporate financial statements

 

(1) General

Gucci Group N.V. (the “Company”), a corporation limited by shares, has its statutory seat in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The Company’s shares are listed on the New York and Amsterdam Stock Exchanges.

 

(2) Activities of the Company

The principal activities of the Company are to act as a holding and finance company.

 

(3) Basis of preparation

Starting from February 1, 2002 the Group adopted the Euro as its reporting currency. This change is justified by the Euro’s introduction on January 1, 2002 and the substantial recent increase in the portion of Group revenue and expenses denominated in this currency resulting principally from acquisitions made during 1999, 2000 and 2001. Accordingly, both the consolidated and corporate financial statements have been prepared in Euro. Amounts included in the financial statements and notes are stated in thousands of Euro, except percentages and per share and share amounts and/or where otherwise noted.

 

(4) Accounting policies

The corporate financial statements of the Company are included in the financial statements of the Group. The accounting policies used are similar to those used in the consolidated financial statements with the exception of investments in Group companies which are valued at net asset value in accordance with the accounting policies for the valuation of assets and liabilities as stated in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements.

 

(5) Receivables due from Group companies

The amount includes receivables from Group subsidiaries arising from service fees invoiced and/or accrued by the Company.

 

188



 

(6) Other current assets

Other current assets at January 31, 2003 and 2002 were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Receivables from tax authorities

 

1,392

 

1,652

 

Other

 

1,199

 

1,172

 

Other current assets

 

2,591

 

2,824

 

 

(7) Deferred charges and intangible assets, net

Deferred charges and intangible assets, net at January 31, 2003 and 2002 include the following:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Software

 

12,020

 

10,980

 

Other

 

721

 

648

 

Deferred charges and intangible assets, gross

 

12,741

 

11,628

 

Accumulated amortization

 

(10,718

)

(8,047

)

Deferred charges and intangible assets, net

 

2,023

 

3,581

 

 

In 2002 the amortization charge was € 2.7 million ( € 2.6 million in 2001).

 

189



 

(8) Investments in Group companies

The summary of activity in Group companies (as detailed in Note 25 to the consolidated financial statements) was as follows:

 

Balance at February 1, 2002

 

4,704,433

 

 

 

 

 

Dividends received

 

(280,139

)

Hedging reserve

 

106,581

 

Fair value reserve

 

5,207

 

Additions at cost

 

2,945

 

Others

 

(2,046

)

Translation adjustment

 

(74,730

)

Net profit of Group companies

 

233,727

 

Balance at January 31, 2003

 

4,695,978

 

 

(9) Current liabilities to Group Companies

The amount included € 61.3 million concerning a financial payable to Gucci Luxembourg S.A.. The remaining part arose from service fees invoiced and/or accrued by the Company and a payable to Gucci International N.V..

 

(10) Other current liabilities

Other current liabilities at January 31, 2003 and 2002 were as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current tax payables

 

891

 

941

 

Accrued operating expenses

 

22,370

 

20,939

 

Other current liabilities

 

23,261

 

21,880

 

 

Accrued operating expenses include dividends payable of € 8.6 million (€ 9.3 million as at January 31, 2002).

 

190



 

(11) Shareholders’ equity

The statement of changes in shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income is included in the consolidated financial statements of Gucci Group N.V..

 

On August 8, 2002 the articles of association of Gucci Group N.V. were amended by notarial deed, providing for an increase in par value of shares by € 0.01 to € 1.02. According to the notarial deed, the paid-up share capital was increased by € 1,026,277.03 to € 104,680,257.06. € 1,026,277.03 was debited against Gucci Group’s Contributed Surplus.

 

The treasury stock at cost represents repurchased shares, which are reserved for the exercise of personnel options.

 

(12) Commitments and contingencies

As disclosed in Note 20 to the consolidated financial statements, the Group has entered into a number of currency contracts and derivative transactions to hedge its foreign exchange exposure related to anticipated future net cash flows in currencies other than the reporting currency of the Group. The Group entered into agreements with certain suppliers, which included minimum supply commitments over periods up to four years. The Group procured a letter of credit in an amount not to exceed US$ 230 million, which will be available to all the Group shareholders, other than PPR and LVMH, in the event that PPR fails to consummate the Offer. The Group is committed to certain minority shareholders of the Group’s companies due to their right through put options to sell their interests in these companies to the Gucci Group in the future. Finally, the Group committed with third parties mainly for the acquisition of certain fixed assets.

 

191



 

(13) Employees

The Company employed an average number of 94 people in 2002 with a cost for remuneration of € 20.5 million of which € 2.3 million as social contributions. In 2001, the Company employed an average of 82 people, with a cost for remuneration of € 16.2 million of which € 1.8 million as social contributions.

 

(14) Directors

During 2002 the Management Board was increased by one member, accordingly as at January 31, 2003 the Management Board consists of 3 members. Mr. Tom Ford was appointed new Management Board member starting from July 15, 2002.

 

As at January 31, 2003, the Supervisory Board consists of 8 members who will be proposed for election during the Annual General Meeting.

 

192



 

The members of the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V. as a group received emoluments in 2002 and 2001 as follows:

 

 

 

2002

 

2001

 

 

 

Remuneration

 

Bonuses

 

Pension
Plan

 

Remuneration

 

Bonuses

 

Pension
Plan

 

Members of the Management Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Domenico De Sole (1)

 

2,307

 

 

6

 

2,456

 

2,750

(**)

6

 

•  Tom Ford (2)

 

3,952

 

1,561

(*)

6

 

 

 

 

•  Aart Cooiman

 

20

 

 

 

32

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members of the Supervisory Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Adrian D.P. Bellamy

 

131

 

 

 

129

 

 

 

•  Patricia Barbizet

 

79

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

•  Aureliano Benedetti

 

79

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

•  Reto Domeniconi

 

66

 

 

 

68

 

 

 

•  Patrice Marteau

 

79

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

•  François Henri Pinault (3)

 

79

 

 

 

41

 

 

 

•  François Pinault (4)

 

 

 

 

26

 

 

 

•  Karel Vuursteen

 

89

 

 

 

68

 

 

 

•  Serge Weinberg

 

79

 

 

 

67

 

 

 

•  Charles Mackay (5)

 

 

 

 

62

 

 

 

Total

 

6,960

 

1,561

 

12

 

3,150

 

2,750

 

6

 

 


(*)        Guaranteed bonus, as specified in the employment contract

(**)     Discretionary bonus, awarded based on the Company’s fiscal 2000 results

(1)                        Includes € 520.5 thousand in charitable contributions paid to match equal € 520.5 thousand charitable contribution by De Sole

(2)        Elected on July 15, 2002

(3)        Elected on June 20, 2001

(4)        Resigned on June 19, 2001

(5)        Resigned on November 9, 2001

 

The pension plans of the members of the Management Board are administered by “Diversified Investment Advisor”. The plans qualify as a Defined Contribution Plan (401K Profit Sharing Plan) and not as a Defined Benefit Plan under the provision of “Employee Retirement Income Security Act”. Each member is eligible to participate in the plan after completing 1 year of service and must be 21 years of age or older. Participants elect the amount to contribute within the cap fixed

 

193



 

by the competent authority. The company will contribute an amount equal to 100% of employee’s elected contribution not to exceed 3% of the employee compensation.

The members of the Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V. are not entitled to future remuneration, severance payment or profit sharing.

 

Options granted to the members of the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V. are generally issued with an exercise price greater or equal to the market value of the underlying shares at the date of the grant.

 

Options granted to the members of Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V. generally vest immediately and expire ten years from the date of issuance.

 

Options granted to the members of Management Board of Gucci Group N.V. vest over a period up to five years from the date of issuance and expire ten years from that date.

 

As at January 31, 2003 options issued to the members of the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V. were as follows:

 

 

 

Unexercised
at the beginning
of the period

 

Granted
during
the period

 

Exercised
during
the period

 

Cancelled
during
the period

 

Unexercised
at the end
of the period

 

Members of the Management Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Domenico De Sole

 

1,405,363

 

 

36,363

 

 

1,369,000

 

•  Tom Ford

 

5,000,000

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

4,000,000

 

•  Aart Cooiman

 

2,000

 

 

 

 

2,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members of the Supervisory Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Adrian D.P. Bellamy

 

12,500

 

5,000

 

 

5,000

 

12,500

 

•  Patricia Barbizet

 

7,500

 

5,000

 

 

 

12,500

 

•  Aureliano Benedetti

 

15,000

 

5,000

 

2,500

 

5,000

 

12,500

 

•  Reto Domeniconi

 

12,500

 

5,000

 

2,500

 

2,500

 

12,500

 

•  Patrice Marteau

 

7,500

 

5,000

 

 

 

12,500

 

•  François Henri Pinault

 

2,500

 

5,000

 

 

 

7,500

 

•  Karel Vuursteen

 

7,500

 

5,000

 

 

 

12,500

 

•  Serge Weinberg

 

7,500

 

5,000

 

 

 

12,500

 

Total

 

6,479,863

 

40,000

 

1,041,363

 

12,500

 

5,466,000

 

 

194



 

Unexercised options as at January 31, 2003 present characters as follows:

 

 

 

Number
outstanding

 

Weighted
average
price (*)

 

Weighted
average
remaining
contractual life(**)

 

Number
exercisable

 

Weighted
average
price (*)

 

Members of the Management Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Domenico De Sole

 

1,369,000

 

74.49

 

72.5

 

1,144,000

 

68.88

 

•  Tom Ford

 

4,000,000

 

95.50

 

88.7

 

2,400,000

 

80.08

 

•  Aart Cooiman

 

2,000

 

58.69

 

76.0

 

2,000

 

58.69

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members of the Supervisory Board:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Adrian D.P. Bellamy

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

•  Patricia Barbizet

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

•  Aureliano Benedetti

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

•  Reto Domeniconi

 

12,500

 

80.69

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

80.69

 

•  Patrice Marteau

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

•  François Henri Pinault

 

7,500

 

89.04

 

111.7

 

7,500

 

89.04

 

•  Karel Vuursteen

 

12,500

 

80.69

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

80.69

 

•  Serge Weinberg

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

102.2

 

12,500

 

84.89

 

Total

 

5,466,000

 

90.03

 

N/A

 

3,641,000

 

76.65

 

 


(*) Amounts in US Dollar

(**) Months

 

550,000 out of the total options granted to Mr. Domenico De Sole were issued with an exercise price (on average US$ 81.8) lower than the market value of the underlying shares at the date of the grant (US$ 97).

 

2,000,000 out of the total options granted to Mr. Tom Ford were issued with an exercise price (on average US$ 82.5) lower than the market value of the underlying shares at the date of the grant (US$ 97).

 

195



 

During 2002, no loans, significant advance payments and guarantees were granted by either the Gucci Group N.V., or any of its subsidiaries to the members of the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Gucci Group N.V..

 

In Note 15 to the consolidated financial statements disclosures have been made regarding the Company’s stock option plans.

 

Amsterdam, May 30, 2003

 

The Management Board

 

 

D. De Sole

 

(Chairman)

T. Ford

 

(Vice Chairman)

A. Cooiman

 

 

 

 

 

The Supervisory Board

 

 

A. D. P. Bellamy

 

(Chairman, first elected on September 27, 1995)

P. Barbizet

 

(member, first elected on July 8, 1999)

A. Benedetti

 

(member, first elected on September 27, 1995)

R. F. Domeniconi

 

(member, first elected on June 27, 1997)

P. Marteau

 

(member, first elected on July 8, 1999)

F. H. Pinault

 

(member, first elected on June 20, 2001)

K. Vuursteen

 

(member, first elected on June 28, 1996)

S. Weinberg

 

(member, first elected on July 8, 1999)

 

196



 

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

 

Appropriation of profit

 

Article 33.4 of the Articles of Association reads as follows:

 

“The supervisory board shall determine what portion of the profit - the positive balance of the profit and loss accounts - shall be retained by way of reserve”.

 

Article 35.1 of the Articles of Association reads as follows:

 

“The remaining portion of the profit after application of Article 33.4 shall be at the disposal of the supervisory board”.

 

Proposed appropriation of profit

 

Subject to the approval of the accounts by the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting, the Company intends to issue a dividend from the net result for the year ended January 31, 2003 and transfer the balance to retained earnings. This proposal has not been reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

 

197



 

AUDITOR’ S REPORT

 

To the Supervisory Board and

the General Meeting of Shareholders of

Gucci Group N.V.

 

Introduction

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated and corporate balance sheets (“the financial statements”) of Gucci Group N.V. as of January 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders’ equity and comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

Scope

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with International Standards on Auditing issued by the International Federation of Accountants and with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and the Netherlands, which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial state-ments are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

Opinion

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above, present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Gucci Group N.V. as of January 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2003 in conformity with International Accounting Standards and accounting principles generally accepted in The Netherlands and comply with the financial reporting requirements in Part 9, Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code.

 

198



 

Additional Matters

 

International Accounting Standards and accounting principles generally accepted in The Netherlands vary in certain respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The application of the latter would have affected the determination of net income for the years ended January 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 and the determination of shareholders’ equity as of January 31, 2003 and 2002 to the extent summarized in Note 23 to the financial statements.

 

 

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

May 30, 2003

 

 

PricewaterhouseCoopers Accountants N.V.

 

199



 

CORPORATE INFORMATION

 

200



 

Supervisory Board

 

Mr. Adrian D.P. Bellamy (Chairman)

Executive Chairman of The Body Shop International PLC, Chairman of Reckitt Benckiser plc, Director of Gap Inc., Director of The Robert Mondavi Corporation, Director of Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

 

Ms. Patricia Barbizet

Chief Executive Officer of Artemis S.A., Chairman of the Supervisory Board of PPR, Member of the Board of several operating companies affiliated with Artemis S.A. and PPR

 

Mr. Aureliano Benedetti

Chairman of the Board of Directors of Cassa di Risparmio di Firenze S.p.A., Centro Vita Assicurazioni S.p.A., Eptaconsors S.p.A., Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of A.B.I. Associazione Bancaria Italiana, Member of the Board of several industrial and financial companies

 

Mr. Reto F. Domeniconi

Director of several international industrial and financial companies

 

Mr. Patrice Marteau

Chief Financial Officer of PPR, Member of the Board of several operating companies affiliated with PPR

 

Mr. François Henri Pinault

General Partner and Manager of Financière Pinault, Managing Director of Artemis S.A. and Member of the Supervisory Board of PPR, Member of the Board of several operating companies affiliated with Artemis S.A. and PPR

 

Mr. Karel Vuursteen

Ex-Chairman Executive Board of Heineken N.V., Director of AB Electrolux, Director of Randstad Holding N.V., Director of Ahold N.V., Director of Akzo Nobel N.V., Director of ING Group N.V., Vice Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Nyenrode University

 

Mr. Serge Weinberg

Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board of PPR, Member of the Board of several operating companies affiliated with Artemis S.A. and PPR, Member of AFEP (Association Française des Entreprises Privées)

 

 

Management Board

 

Mr. Domenico De Sole (Chairman)

President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board

 

Mr. Tom Ford (Vice Chairman)

Creative Director and Vice Chairman of the Management Board

 

Mr. Aart Cooiman

Executive of “Staten” Trust en Administratiekantoor B.V.

 

201



 

 

Robert Singer
Gucci Group
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

Brian Blake
Gucci Group
Executive Vice President Gucci Group Watches
President
Boucheron President and CEO

 

 

James McArthur
Gucci Group
Executive Vice President and Director of Strategy and Acquisitions
Emerging Brands President

 

 

Renato Ricci
Gucci Group
Worldwide Director of Human Resources

 

 

Chantal Roos
YSL Beauté
President and CEO

 

202



 

 

Mark Lee
Yves Saint Laurent
President and CEO

 

 

Giacomo Santucci
Gucci Division
President and CEO

 

 

Patrizio Di Marco
Bottega Veneta
President and CEO

 

203



 

Management Committee

 

Domenico De Sole

President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Management Board

 

Tom Ford

Creative Director and Vice Chairman of the Management Board

 

Brian Blake

Executive Vice President; President of Gucci Group Watches; President and Chief Executive Officer of

Boucheron

 

Patrizio di Marco

President and Chief Executive Officer of Bottega Veneta

 

Mark Lee

President and Chief Executive Officer of Yves Saint Laurent

 

James McArthur

Executive Vice President;  Director of Strategy and Acquisitions and President of Emerging Brands

 

Renato Ricci

Worldwide Director of Human Resources

 

Chantal Roos

President and Chief Executive Officer of YSL Beauté

 

Giacomo Santucci

President and Chief Executive Officer of Gucci Division

 

Robert Singer

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 

204



 

Other Executive Officers for

Gucci Group N.V.

 

Marco Biagioni

Director of Tax Planning and Treasury

 

Emilio Foà

Group Controller

 

Tomaso Galli

Worldwide Director of Corporate Communications

 

Alexandra Gillespie

Director of Advertising

 

Karen Joyce

Director of Corporate Image

 

Cedric Magnelia

Director of Investor Relations and Corporate Development

 

Lee Pearce

Worldwide Director of Store Planning and Architectural Services

 

Richard Swanson

Director of Internet Activities

 

Lisa Schiek

Worldwide Director of Communications

 

Allan Tuttle

General Counsel

 

Marco Forneris

Chief Information Officer

 

205



 

Other Executive Officers for

Operating Divisions

 

David Bamber

Vice President of Creative Services, Gucci

 

Francesco Buccola

Chief Financial Officer, Gucci

 

Isabella Kron

Vice President of Accessory Design, Gucci

 

Patricia Malone

President of Gucci America, Inc., Gucci

 

Tom Mendenhall

Worldwide Director of Merchandising, Gucci

 

Mimi Pun

President of Gucci Group, Asia (excluding Japan)

 

John Ray

Men’s Ready-to-Wear Design Director, Gucci

 

Toshiaki Tashiro

President of Gucci Group, Japan

 

Oliver Yang

General Manager of European and Middle East, Gucci

 

Simonetta Ciampi

Design Director of Leather goods, Yves Saint Laurent

 

Alberto Da Passano

Chief Financial Officer, Yves Saint Laurent

 

Fabienne Mandaron

Director of Stores, Europe and Middle East, Yves Saint Laurent

 

Stefano Pilati

Design Director, Yves Saint Laurent

 

Luc Rafflin

Director of Human Resources, Yves Saint Laurent

 

Joshua Schulman

Worldwide Director of Merchandising, Yves Saint Laurent

 

Yann Kerlau

Deputy General Manager, YSL Beauté

 

Jean-Guillaume Lecomte

Chief Financial Officer, YSL Beauté

 

Philippe Pourille

Vice President International Subsidiaries, YSL Beauté

 

206



 

Jürg Alispach

Chief Executive Officer, Gucci Group Watches

 

Jonathan Wood

Chief Operating Officer, Gucci Group Watches

 

 

William Kim

Chief Financial Officer, Gucci Group Watches

 

Dino Modolo

Chief Executive Officer, Luxury Timepieces Design

 

Christian Bédat

Managing Director and Creative Director, Bédat & Co.

 

Solange Azagury-Partridge

Creative Director, Boucheron

 

Thomas Indermuhle

Chief Financial Officer, Boucheron

 

Massimo Piombini

General Manager Jewelry and Watches, Boucheron

 

Sergio Rossi

President, Sergio Rossi

 

Marco Gentile

Chief Financial Officer, Sergio Rossi

 

Tomas Maier

Creative Director, Bottega Veneta

 

Francesco Giannaccari

Chief Financial Officer, Bottega Veneta

 

Stella McCartney

Creative Director, Stella McCartney

 

James Seuss

Chief Executive Officer, Stella McCartney

 

207



 

Fabio Bacci

Chief Financial Officer, Stella McCartney

 

Alexander McQueen

Creative Director, Alexander McQueen

 

Sue Whiteley

Chief Executive Officer, Alexander McQueen

 

Rodrigo Bazan

Chief Financial Officer, Alexander McQueen

 

Nicolas Ghesquière

Creative Director, Balenciaga

 

Pascal Perrier

Chief Executive Officer, Balenciaga

 

Patrick de Vismes

Chief Financial Officer, Balenciaga

 

208



 

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

 

Corporate Headquarters

Registered address:

Gucci Group N.V.

Rembrandt Tower, 1 Amstelplein,

1096 HA Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Phone: 31-20-462-1700

Fax: 31-20-465-3569

 

Investor Contact

Cedric Magnelia and Enza Dominijanni

Directors of Investor Relations

Amsterdam:

Phone: 31-20-462-1707

Fax: 31-20-465-3569

Florence:

Phone: 39-055-7592-2456

Fax: 39-055-7592-2478

Email: investor_relations@gucci.it

Website: www.guccigroup.com

 

Gucci Group N.V. Shares

Gucci Group is listed and traded on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange under the symbol GCCI.AS and is a component of the AEX index. The Company’s shares also are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol GUC

 

Annual General Meeting

The annual meeting of the Company’s shareholders will be held on:

Wednesday, July 16, 2003 at 11:00 am

Amstel Intercontinental Hotel

Professor Tulpplein No.1

1018 GX Amsterdam, The Netherlands

 

Independent Accountants

PricewaterhouseCoopers Accountants N.V.

Prins Bernhardplein 200

1097 JB Amsterdam, The Netherlands

 

Annual Report

Copies of the most recent annual report on Form 20-F and a copy of the current articles of association of the Company are available upon request from the Investor Contact

 

209



 

Dividend payments

An annual dividend on Gucci Group N.V. Common Stock is subject to declaration of the Supervisory Board. The Supervisory Board may resolve that the Company pay an interim dividend subject to certain statutory restrictions. Cash dividends payable to holders of New York shares will be paid to the New York Transfer Agent and Registrar who will, if necessary convert such dividends into US Dollars at the rate of exchange on the date such dividends are paid for disbursement to such holders.

 

Transfer Agents

The Bank of New York

Investor Relations

P.O. Box 11258

Church Street Station

New York, NY 10286-1258 U.S.A.

 

Toll Free for domestic callers:

1-888-BNY-ADRS (1-888-269-2377)

International Callers can call:

1-610-312-5315

 

shareowner-svcs@bankofny.com

www.adrbny.com or

www.stock.bankofny.com.

 

Kas Associatie N.V.

Spuistraat 172

1012 VT Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Phone: 31-20-557-5134

Fax: 31-20-557-6100

 

Stock Price Information

 

New York Stock Exchange

 

Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange

 

Fiscal Quarter

 

High

 

Low

 

High

 

Low

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First

 

US$

116.19

 

US$

72.94

 

€uro

119.0

 

€uro

77.0

 

Second

 

 

101.38

 

 

78.63

 

 

98.5

 

 

86.6

 

Third

 

 

105.38

 

 

92.50

 

 

122.0

 

 

101.5

 

Fourth

 

 

104.50

 

 

79.19

 

 

121.0

 

 

81.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First

 

US$

94.70

 

US$

73.70

 

€uro

102.0

 

€uro

81.6

 

Second

 

 

93.75

 

 

78.25

 

 

109.1

 

 

89.3

 

Third

 

 

88.60

 

 

66.75

 

 

101.5

 

 

66.5

 

Fourth

 

 

92.10

 

 

82.52

 

 

103.5

 

 

90.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First

 

US$

97.35

 

US$

84.80

 

€uro

110.9

 

€uro

97.3

 

Second

 

 

99.45

 

 

85.18

 

 

108.9

 

 

85.0

 

Third

 

 

91.06

 

 

82.53

 

 

94.0

 

 

83.9

 

Fourth

 

 

94.50

 

 

88.60

 

 

92.4

 

 

85.4

 

 

210



 

May 2003
Arti Grafiche Omnia
Milano

 

211