Document
 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
x
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018
or
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ________to ________
Commission File No. 000-24657
MANNATECH, INCORPORATED
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
Texas
 
75-2508900
(State or other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
1410 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 200, Flower Mound, Texas
 
75028
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code: (972) 471-7400
Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  None

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

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes o No x

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

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit such files). Yes x No o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this Chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer o
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer x
Smaller reporting company x
Emerging growth company o

If an emerging growth company, indicated by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o

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

At June 29, 2018, the last business day of the registrant's most recently completed second quarter, the aggregate market value of the common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant was $33,457,599 based on the closing sale price of $20.50, as reported on The Nasdaq Global Select Market.

The number of shares of the Registrant’s common stock outstanding as of February 28, 2019 was 2,395,717 shares.

Documents Incorporated by Reference

Mannatech, Incorporated incorporates information required by Part III (Items 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14) of this report by reference to its definitive proxy statement for its 2019 annual shareholders’ meeting to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A no later than 120 days after the end of its fiscal year.


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
Page
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 10
Item 11
Item 12
Item 13
Item 14
 
 
Item 16
 


Table of Contents

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain disclosures and analysis in this Form 10-K, including information incorporated by reference, may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance, or other statements other than statements of historical fact are considered forward-looking statements and reflect only current views about future events and financial performance. Some of these forward-looking statements include statements regarding:

management’s plans and objectives for future operations;
existing cash flows being adequate to fund future operational needs;
future plans related to budgets, future capital requirements, market share growth, and anticipated capital projects and obligations;
the realization of net deferred tax assets;
the ability to curtail operating expenditures;
global statutory tax rates remaining unchanged;
the impact of future market changes due to exposure to foreign currency translations;
the possibility of certain policies, procedures, and internal processes minimizing exposure to market risk;
the impact of new accounting pronouncements on financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows;
the outcome of new or existing litigation matters;
the outcome of new or existing regulatory inquiries or investigations; and
other assumptions described in this report underlying such forward-looking statements.

Although we believe that the expectations included in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these forward-looking statements are subject to certain events, risks, assumptions, and uncertainties, including those discussed below and in the “Risk Factors” section in Item 1A of this Form 10-K, and elsewhere in this Form 10-K and the documents incorporated by reference herein. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results and developments could materially differ from those expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, any of the following factors could cause actual results to vary materially from our projections:

overall growth or lack of growth in the nutritional supplements industry;
plans for expected future product development;
changes in manufacturing costs;
shifts in the mix of packs and products;
the future impact of any changes to global associate career and compensation plans or incentives or the regulations governing such plans and incentives;
the ability to attract and retain independent associates and preferred customers;
new regulatory changes that may affect operations, products or compensation plans and incentives;
the competitive nature of our business with respect to products and pricing;
publicity related to our products or network marketing; and
the political, social, and economic climate of the countries in which we operate.

Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by use of phrases or terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “approximates,” “predicts,” “projects,” “hopes,” “potential,” and “continues” or other similar words or the negative of such terms and other comparable terminology. Similarly, descriptions of Mannatech’s objectives, strategies, plans, goals, or targets contained herein are also considered forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned when considering these forward-looking statements to keep in mind these risks, assumptions, and uncertainties and any other cautionary statements in this report, as all of the forward-looking statements contained herein speak only as of the date of this report.

Unless stated otherwise, all financial information throughout this report and in the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes include Mannatech, Incorporated and all of its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis and may be referred to herein as “Mannatech,” “the Company,” “its,” “we,” “our,” “us,” or “their.”

Our products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease, and any statements about our products contained in this report have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, also referred to herein as the “FDA”.

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PART I

Item 1.
Business

Overview

Mannatech is a global wellness solution provider, which was incorporated and began operations in November 1993. We develop and sell innovative, high quality, proprietary nutritional supplements, topical and skin care and anti-aging products, and weight-management products that target optimal health and wellness. We currently sell our products in three regions: (i) the Americas (the United States, Canada, Colombia and Mexico); (ii) Europe/the Middle East/Africa (“EMEA”) (Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom); and (iii) Asia/Pacific (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China).

We primarily sell our products through network marketing via our associates ("independent associate" or “associates”) and directly to our "preferred customers," which we believe is the most cost-effective way to quickly and effectively introduce our products and communicate information about our business to the global marketplace. Network marketing minimizes upfront costs, as compared to conventional marketing methods, and allows us to be more responsive to the ever-changing overall market conditions, as well as continue to research and develop high quality products and focus on controlled successful international expansion. We believe the network marketing channel also allows us to effectively communicate the potential benefits and unique properties of our proprietary products to our consumers. In addition, network marketing provides our business-building associates with an avenue to supplement their income and develop financial freedom by building their own business centered on our business philosophies and unique products. As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately 200,000 active associate and preferred customer positions held by individuals in our network associated with the purchase of our products and packs and/or payment of associate fees within the last 12 months.

The Company also operates a non-direct selling business in mainland China. In 2016, we formed our China subsidiary, Meitai Daily Necessities & Health Products Co., Ltd. (“Meitai”). Unlike Mannatech’s business operations in other markets, Meitai operates under a cross-border e-commerce model, where consumers in China can buy Mannatech products manufactured overseas via Meitai's website. Meitai is currently not a direct selling company in China nor will it operate under a multi-level marketing model in China. Products purchased on Meitai's website are for personal use and not for resale. Meitai offers a rewards program to incentivize existing customers to refer other customers to purchase products from Meitai’s website. Customs regulations in China include purchase limits to ensure that purchased products are for personal consumption.

On July 1, 2017, we revised our 2017 Associate Compensation Plan (the "2017 Associate Compensation Plan"), which was designed to stimulate business growth and development for our active business building associates and to maximize the buying experience for our preferred customers. In doing so, the Company hopes to better utilize commission dollars to stimulate Company growth.  The 2017 Associate Compensation Plan provides revised income streams, new leadership levels and titles, and modified various volume requirements for our independent associates. In addition, the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan re-designated members as preferred customers and modified their pricing structure.

Our common stock is currently trading on The Nasdaq Global Select Market (“Nasdaq”) under the symbol “MTEX”. Information for each of our two most recent fiscal years, with respect to our net sales, results of operations, and identifiable assets is set forth in the Consolidated Financial Statements of this report.

Available Information

On our website (https://www.mannatech.com), we make available free of charge our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and certain other information filed or furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing or furnishing such material. The SEC maintains a website that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers, including Mannatech, that electronically file with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. Additionally, such materials are available in print upon the written request of any shareholder to our principle executive office located at 1410 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 200, Flower Mound, Texas 75028, Attention: Investor Relations, or by contacting our investor relations department at (972) 471-6512 or IR@mannatech.com.

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Business Segment, Products and Product Development

Business Segment.  The Company's sole reporting segment is one where we sell proprietary nutritional supplements, skin care and anti-aging products, and weight-management and fitness products through network marketing distribution channels operating in twenty-five countries. Mannatech’s subsidiary in China, Meitai, operates under a cross-border e-commerce model, where consumers in China can buy Mannatech products directly from Meitai via the internet.

Products. Scientists have discovered that a healthy body consists of many sophisticated components working in harmony to achieve optimal health and wellness and requires cellular communication to function at an optimal level. Scientists also discovered that there are more than 200 monosaccharides that form naturally. Specific monosaccharides are considered vital components for cellular communication in the human body.  Furthermore, scientists discovered that these monosaccharides attach themselves to certain proteins, which then form a molecule called glycoprotein. Harper’s Biochemistry, a leading and nationally recognized biochemistry reference, has recognized that these molecules are found in human glycoproteins, and are believed to be essential in helping to promote and provide effective cell-to-cell communication in the human body.

The history of our proprietary ingredients and products is as follows:

In 1994, we developed and began selling our first products containing Manapol® powder, an ingredient formulated to support cell-to-cell communication.
In 1996, we enhanced our products based on the study of glycoproteins and our scientists developed our own proprietary compound, Ambrotose® complex, which we patented. Our Ambrotose® complex is a blend of polysaccharides (composed of monosaccharides) that helps provide support for the immune system.
In 2001, we broadened our proprietary ingredients by developing the Ambroglycin® blend, a balanced food-mineral matrix which helps deliver nutrients to the body and which is used in our proprietary Catalyst™ and Glycentials® vitamin/mineral supplements.
In 2004, we introduced our proprietary blend of antioxidant nutrients, MTech AO Blend® ingredient, which is used in our proprietary antioxidant Ambrotose AO® product.
In 2006, we introduced a unique blend of plant-based minerals, natural vitamins, and standardized phytochemicals for use in our proprietary PhytoMatrix® product. We also introduced a compound used in reformulated Advanced Ambrotose® complex. This compound allows a more potent concentration of the full range of mannose-containing polysaccharides occurring naturally in aloe to be produced in a stable powdered form.
In 2007, we introduced into the United States market our skin care and anti-aging line of products that supports skin’s natural texture, beauty, and elasticity. We also launched our PhytoMatrix® caplets, Advanced Ambrotose® capsules and Manna•Bears supplement into international markets.
In 2008, we introduced a proprietary proteolytic enzyme and phytosterol dietary supplement that supports the body’s natural recovery processes associated with physical activity in our BounceBack® capsules. We also introduced a proprietary version of whey protein peptide technology that assists targeted fat loss when combined with exercise and a healthy diet in our OsoLean powder.
In 2009, we introduced our Omega-3, which features EPA/DHA essential acids, PhytoBurst Nutritional Chews formulated with vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients from food-sourced ingredients, and GI-ProBalance Slimstick, which is a symbiotic digestive product containing probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes. In addition, we improved our Ambrotose® products to include beta-Carotene.
In 2010, we launched our Mannatech LIFT Skin Care System, which is paraben-free and formulated to give skin a more natural youthful appearance.
In 2011, we introduced our reformulated version of our Omega-3 supplement, which now includes Vitamin D3 and features EPA/DHA essential acids.  We expanded several previously launched products from our domestic line to our international markets.
In 2012, we launched our NutriVerus powder, a single product that features all of our core scientific technologies at a very affordable price. This unique, ground-breaking product combines our core glyconutrient technologies with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and stabilized rice bran, all based on Real Food Technology solutions.

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In 2013, we launched Uth® skin cream, a breakthrough in anti-aging that incorporates Mannatech’s glyconutrient technology along with a microsphere delivery system that supports more thorough delivery of the active ingredients to all levels of the skin.
In 2014, we launched GlycoBOOM™ Advanced Immune Support Supplement (now known as MannaBoom®), packed with nutrients that are designed to support the body’s natural defenses.
In 2015, Mannatech introduced a new brain supplement, Cognitate™, featuring a proprietary blend of natural ingredients to aid memory, recall and cognition.
In 2016, Mannatech rebranded the Company, including all new packaging and labels, introduced a line of Essential Oils, along with an innovative, natural fat-loss system, TruHealthTM. Comprised in the system is the TruPLENISHTM Nutritional Shake, TruPURE® Cleanse Slimsticks and TruSHAPETM Fat-Loss Capsules.
In 2017, Mannatech launched several new products, including: GinMAX®, a fast-acting, long-lasting ginseng supplement that utilizes both fermented red and fermented white ginseng, fortified with glyconutrients; GlycoCafé®, a glyconutritional coffee made with the whole coffee fruit; and Luminovation, a line of mass-market and premium Korean beauty products.
In 2018, Mannatech launched a unique fitness drink, Empact+®, combining fueling, hydration and recovery in one product. Mannatech also introduced significant enhancements to its signature Ambrotose® product with the launch of Ambrotose Life™ , with more than double the Manapol® of its Advanced Ambrotose® formula along with healthy additions of modified citrus pectin, and stabilized rice bran. Ambrotose Life™ is available in a bulk canister (unflavored), along with flavored single serving sachets.
Mannatech offers products that include glyconutrients, a unique category of nutrients sourced from plants and designed to provide a variety of health benefits. We focus on producing products that are from natural sources, as well as other scientifically based efficacious sources.

Integrative Health, which offers a variety of nutritional supplements that aid in optimizing overall health and wellness. This category includes a variety of daily nutritional supplements, health solutions for children, and additional nutrients designed to help keep specific body systems at optimal levels.

Targeted Health, which gives bodies an extra edge with products designed to target specific areas and provide additional nutrients that help support body system health.

Weight and Fitness, which offers products designed to curb appetite and burn fat, build lean muscle tissue, and support recovery from overexertion.

Skin Care, which offers several products formulated with more than 30 botanical ingredients that are designed to give the skin a more natural, youthful appearance by moisturizing, hydrating and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Home Living, a category of products designed to make homes a peaceful haven which supplement wellness.


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The following table summarizes our products by category:

Product Category
Representative Products
Integrative Health
Ambrotose® complex, Ambrotose AO®, Advanced Ambrotose®, Ambrotose Life™
Catalyst, Cognitate, GinMAX, Manapol® Powder, MannaBears , Nutriverus, Optimal Support Packets, PhytoMatrix® and PLUS.
Targeted Health
BounceBack®, CardioBALANCE®, GI Pro Balance®Slimstick, GI-Zyme®, GlycoCafe®, ImmunoSTART®, Manna-C , MannaBOOM® Slimsticks, MannaCLEANSE, Omega-3 with Vitamin D3 and PhytAloe®.
Weight and Fitness
OsoLean, SPORT, TruHealth Fat Loss System, including: TruPLENISH™, TruPURE®, TruSHAPE™, Tru-C and TruCoffee Americano.
Skin Care
Emprizone ®, FIRM with Ambrotose ®, Uth® Facial Cleanser, Uth® Skin Rejuvenation Crème, Uth®  Moisturizer, FreshDen™, Gel Mask, Organt and Luminovation, Uth® Lash Serum.
Home Living
Serenity Home Diffuser, Essential Oils: Eucalyptus, Fractionated Coconut and Aloe, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, No. 1 Protective Blend, Orange, Peppermint, and Sweet Almond and Aloe.

A significant portion of our revenue is derived from our Advanced Ambrotose®, Ambrotose Life™, TruHealth, Manapol® Powder and Ambrotose® products. Revenue from these products were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands, except percentages):
 
2018

2017
 
Sales by
product

% of total
net sales

Sales by
product

% of total
net sales
Advanced Ambrotose®
$
44,054


25.4
%

$
52,592


29.8
%
Ambrotose Life™
18,824


10.9
%



%
TruHealth
17,537


10.1
%

16,652


9.4
%
Manapol® Powder
8,636


5.0
%

11,183


6.3
%
Ambrotose®
7,695


4.4
%

8,459


4.8
%
Total
$
96,746


55.8
%

$
88,886


50.3
%

Product Development. Our product committee continues to focus on potential new products and compounds that help target or promote overall health and wellness. When considering new products and compounds, our product committee considers the following criteria:

marketability and proprietary nature of the product;
demand for the product;
competitors’ products;
regulatory considerations;
availability of ingredients; and
data supporting claims of efficacy and safety.
To maintain a flexible operating strategy and the ability to increase production capacity, we contract with third-parties to manufacture all of our products, which allows us to effectively respond to fluctuations in demand with minimal investment and helps control our operating costs. We believe our suppliers and manufacturers are capable of meeting our current and projected inventory requirements over the next several years. However, as a safety measure, we continue to identify and approve alternative suppliers and manufacturers to ensure that our global demands are met in a timely manner and to help minimize any risk of business interruption.

We procure select products from single vendors who control certain product formulations, ingredients, or other intellectual property rights associated with such products. Certain of our supply agreements contain exclusivity clauses for the supply of certain raw materials and products, some of which are conditioned upon compliance with minimum purchase requirements. In the event we become unable to source any products or ingredients from our suppliers, we believe that we would be able to replace those products with alternate suppliers.

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Industry Overview

Nutrition Industry

We operate in the nutritional supplement industry and distribute and sell our products through our own global network marketing channel. The nutritional supplement industry is fast-paced, highly fragmented, and intensely competitive. It includes companies that manufacture and distribute products that are intended to support the body’s performance and well-being. Nutritional supplements include vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements, herbs, botanicals, and compounds derived therefrom. Prior to 1990, all dietary supplements in the United States were tightly regulated by the FDA and only included essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins. In 1990, the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act expanded the category to include “herbs or similar nutritional substances”, but the FDA maintained control over pre-market approval. However, in 1994, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (“DSHEA”) was passed in the United States, drastically changing the dietary supplement marketplace. The DSHEA was instrumental in expanding the category of dietary supplements to further include herbal and botanical supplements and ingredients such as ginseng, fish oils, enzymes, and various mixtures of these ingredients. Under DSHEA, vendors of dietary supplements are now able to educate consumers regarding the effects of certain component ingredients.

Nutritional supplements are available through mass-market retailers, drug stores, supermarkets, discount stores, health food stores, mail order companies, and direct sales organizations. Direct selling, of which network marketing is a significant segment, has grown significantly and has been enhanced in the past decade as a distribution channel due to advancements in technology and communications resulting in improved product distribution and faster dissemination of information.

Direct Selling/Network Marketing Channel

Since the 1990s, the direct selling and network marketing sales channel has grown in popularity and general acceptance, including acceptance by prominent investors and capital investment groups who have invested in direct selling companies. This has provided direct selling companies with additional recognition and credibility in the growing global marketplace. In addition, many large corporations have diversified their marketing strategy by entering the direct selling arena. Several consumer-product companies have launched their own direct selling businesses with international operations often accounting for the majority of their revenues. Consumers and investors are beginning to realize that direct selling provides unique opportunities and a competitive advantage in today’s markets. Businesses are able to quickly communicate and develop strong relationships with their customers, bypass expensive ad campaigns, and introduce products and services that would otherwise be difficult to promote through traditional distribution channels such as retail stores. Direct selling is a channel of distribution with healthy cash flow, high return on invested capital, and long-term prospects for global expansion. According to the worldwide direct sales data published by the World Federation of Direct Selling Association, in 2017, approximately 116 million global direct sellers collectively generated annual retail sales of $189.6 billion.

Operating Strengths

1.
High-Quality, Innovative, Proprietary Products. We base our product concept on the scientific belief that certain glyconutrients, also known as monosaccharides, are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. We believe the addition of effective nutritional supplements to a well-balanced diet, coupled with an effective exercise program, will enhance and help maintain optimal health and wellness. We focus on producing products that are from all-natural sources with no synthetic or chemically derived additives. We formulate our products with predominately naturally-occurring, plant-derived, carbohydrate-based, safe ingredients that are designed to use nutrients working through normal physiology to help achieve and maintain optimal health and wellness, rather than developing common synthetic, carbohydrate-based products.

We believe that our patented blends and formulas distinguish us as a leader in the global nutritional supplements industry. We also believe the use of unique compounds found in our products allows us to effectively differentiate and distinguish our products from those of our competitors.


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2.
Research and Development Efforts. We are steadfast in our commitment to quality-driven research and development. We use systematic processes for the research and development of our unique proprietary product formulas, as well as the identification of quality suppliers and manufacturers. Our research and quality assurance programs are outlined on our corporate websites www.mannatechscience.org, www.mannatech.com, and www.allaboutmannatech.com.

Mannatech’s team of experienced researchers and scientists continually reviews the latest published research data, attends scientific conferences, and draws upon its vast knowledge and expertise to develop new products and support existing ones. In addition, this team works in collaboration with other research firms, universities, institutes, and scientists. Our products have been the focus of numerous pre-clinical and clinical studies.

To support our research and development efforts, we have strategic alliances with our suppliers, consultants, and manufacturers that allow us to effectively identify and develop high-quality, innovative, proprietary products that increase our competitive advantage in the marketplace.

These efforts include developing and maintaining quality standards, supporting development efforts for new ingredients and compounds, and improving or enhancing existing products or ingredients. In addition, our research and development team identifies other quality-driven suppliers and manufacturers for both our global and regional needs.

Research and development efforts include new product development, enhancement of existing products, clinical studies and trials, FDA compliance studies, and consultants.

3.
Quality Assurance Program. Mannatech uses only qualified manufacturing contractors to produce, test, and package our finished products. These contractors must be compliant and current with required certifications and they must strictly adhere to our own quality standards for all markets. Certifications and guidelines that our contract manufacturers are required to carry and/or follow include:

the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices for manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and holding of dietary supplements;
the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices for human food;
the requirements of the Natural Health Products Directorate of Canada;
the Korean Food and Drug Administration;
certification by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia, when necessary;
the European Union’s Food Supplement Directive and Nutrition and Health Claims Regulations, as well as individual member state legislation;
the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration;
the Japan Ministry of Health Labor and Welfare;
the Singapore Health Sciences Authority;
the South African Department of Health and the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority Board;
the Hong Kong Food and Environmental Hygiene Department and Department of Health Drug Office; and
the China Food and Drug Administration.
We have an established quality assurance program designed to ensure our manufacturers’ compliance with these certifications and guidelines, and to ensure that proper controls are maintained during the manufacturing, evaluation, packaging, storage, and distribution of our products. These controls include a comprehensive supplier audit and surveillance program, third-party certifications, and continuous product monitoring.

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A team of professionals, many of whom have extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry, leads our in-house quality assurance program and continually monitors the quality of our products, including the production process. In addition, they work with suppliers and manufacturers to develop quality standards for raw material components and products, and perform tests and inspections to ensure that finished products are safe and of high quality prior to release.

We require our dietary supplements to be packaged with seals to help minimize the risk of tampering. We also perform stability studies under both controlled ambient and accelerated temperature storage conditions to ensure label claims throughout the shelf life of our products. To further ensure product quality, our third-party manufacturers are certified NSF facilities according to the NSF/ANSI 173 Dietary Supplement Standard, which is the only American national standard for dietary supplements. This certification ensures that that Good Manufacturing Practices are used in the manufacturing facility. All of Mannatech's dietary supplements have been confirmed to be gluten-free.

4.
Global Scientific Advisory Board. A charter for an advisory board has been established and the board is filled by a combination of independent scientists and doctors from multiple disciplines, along with two members of Mannatech staff. Members of the Global Scientific Advisory Board ("GSAB") review each new and reformulated product to ensure ingredients and products are up to Mannatech’s high standards and are in line with the latest, viable research. The GSAB may also make ingredient and product suggestions for new products.

5.
High-Caliber, Industry-Leading Independent Associates. Our global team of independent associates is comprised of dedicated, hard-working, high-caliber individuals, many of whom have been associated with the network marketing industry for decades and have been loyal to us since our beginning in 1993. To capitalize on their wealth of knowledge and experience, we sponsor panels of independent associates in councils based around the world which help identify and effectively relay the needs of our independent business-building associates to us. These advisory councils meet periodically with our team of senior management to recommend changes, discuss issues, and provide new ideas or concepts, including a full spectrum of innovative ideas for additional quality-driven nutritional supplements aimed at maintaining optimal health and wellness.

6.
Support Philosophy for Our Independent Associates and Preferred Customers. We are fully committed to providing the highest level of support services to our independent associates and preferred customers and believe that we meet expectations and build customer loyalty through the following:

offering highly-personalized and responsive customer service;
offering a satisfaction guarantee product return policy;
providing comprehensive corporate websites (www.mannatech.com, www.allaboutmannatech.com, www.mannatechscience.org, www.library.mannatech.com, www.events.mannatech.com, www.mannafest.com and www.system.mannatech.com) that provide instant access to Internet ordering, marketing, technical and educational information, and unique and innovative marketing tools;
maintaining an extensive web-based downline management system called Success Tracker that provides access to web conferencing and downline organization reporting for our independent associates at minimal costs;
providing Mannatech+, an app and web-based platform to provide personalized web pages, to share videos, digital flyers, and more;
offering, in the United States and Canada, an effective compilation of online marketing and training tools;
offering updated training/orientation and compliance programs for our independent associates;
providing strategically based distribution fulfillment centers to ensure products are shipped on time and at minimal cost; and
sponsoring marketing events, designed to provide information, education, and motivation for our dedicated business-building associates and to help stimulate business development. These events provide an interactive venue for introducing new products and services and allow interaction between our management teams, outside researchers, and independent associates.

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7.
Flexible Operating Strategy. We believe efficiency, focus, and flexibility are paramount to our operations. For more than a decade, we have contracted with third parties to supply and manufacture our proprietary raw materials and products, which we believe allows us to minimize capital expenditures, capitalize on such parties’ expertise, and build additional resources for strategic alliances in the areas of distribution and logistics, product registration, and export requirements. By contracting with various suppliers and manufacturers and by outsourcing distribution for all of our operations, we believe we can quickly adapt operations to current demands in a timely, efficient, and cost-effective manner. We monitor the performance of our third party contractors to ensure they maintain a high quality of service. In addition, we identify alternative sources for our raw materials suppliers and finished goods manufacturers to help prevent any risk of interruption in production should any existing contractors become unable to perform satisfactorily.

8.
Experience and Depth of Our Management Team and Board of Directors. We believe that our team of executives has extensive experience in every aspect of business operations and is highly focused on our success. At December 31, 2018, our Board of Directors is composed of eight directors, including six independent directors. We believe our board members have a wealth of knowledge and experience in most aspects of our business operations and are especially well versed in network marketing, finance, nutritional products, regulatory matters, and corporate governance. Our entire management team is committed to delivering high-quality products and superior service.


Business Strategy

Our long-term goal is to be one of the world’s leading network marketing companies founded on the best science-based proprietary products by incorporating a powerful global independent network distribution model into our charitable giving program. To achieve our goal, we believe we must focus on the following business priorities:

Strengthening our Financial Results and Adding Value to Our Shareholders and Independent Associates. We focus on improving financial results by striving to increase our revenues in both our domestic and foreign operations and to control our operating costs.
Attracting New Independent Associates and Retaining Existing Independent Associates. We continually examine our global associate career and compensation plan and periodically offer incentives in order to attract, motivate, and retain independent associates. We believe our global associate career and compensation plan encourages greater associate retention, motivation, and productivity.
Carefully Planning and Executing New Market Entries. In order to expand efficiently around the globe, we must continue to present maximum opportunity to our current independent associates as well as those who will join us in the future.
Developing New Products and Enhancing Existing Products. We continue to focus on new areas for future product development. We continue our research efforts and strive to ensure that all of our products are made from high quality, effective ingredients that contain one or more of our proprietary compounds, which we believe supports our goal to be a cutting-edge industry leader. We expect that any future products we develop will further complement and enhance our existing products.
Provide Outstanding Product Value and Results to Customers. We work to ensure that all associates and their customers have a great experience with each of our products that deliver tangible results, are supported by science, and are backed by a powerful satisfaction guarantee.


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Intellectual Property
Trademarks.  We pursue registrations for various trademarks associated with our key products and branding initiatives. As of December 31, 2018, we had 36 registered trademarks in the United States and 10 trademark applications pending with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. As of December 31, 2018, we had 507 registered trademarks in 37 countries and 81 trademark applications pending in 13 foreign jurisdictions. Globally, the protection available in foreign jurisdictions may not be as extensive as the protection available to us in the United States. Where available, we rely on common law trademark rights to protect our unregistered trademarks, even though such rights do not provide us with the same level of protection as afforded by a United States federal trademark registration. Common law trademark rights are limited to the geographic area in which the trademark is actually used. A United States federal trademark registration enables us to stop infringing use of the trademark by a third party anywhere in the United States provided the unauthorized third party user does not have superior common law rights in the trademark within a specific geographical area of a particular state or region prior to the date our mark federally registers. In the United States (and in many foreign jurisdictions) a registered trademark is valid for ten years and may be renewed subject to the trademark owner demonstrating continued use of the mark in commerce.

Patents.  The Company applies for patent protection in various countries for the technology related to our product formulations. As of December 31, 2018, we had 10 patents for technology related to our Ambrotose® formulation, all of which are in 10 foreign jurisdictions.  Overall, as of December 31, 2018, 89 patents have been assigned, issued, granted or validated to Mannatech in major global markets for the technology relating to our Ambrotose®, Ambrotose AO®, GI-ProBalance™, ImmunoSTART®, PhytoMatrix®, and NutriVerus™ product formulations, as well as in the field of biomarker assays. Currently, we have 13 patent applications pending in various jurisdictions relating to the technology supporting many of the above listed products. Patent protection means that the patented invention cannot be commercially made, used, distributed or sold without the patent owner's consent. These patent rights are usually enforced in a court, which, in most jurisdictions, holds the authority to stop patent infringement. The protection is granted for a limited period, generally 20 years. In most jurisdictions, renewal annuities or maintenance fees must be paid regularly during the term of the patent to keep the patent in force.

Associate Distribution System

Overview. Our sales philosophy is to distribute our products through network marketing channels where consumers purchase products for personal consumption or resale. Independent associates and preferred customers purchase our products at a discounted wholesale value. Independent associates are eligible to participate in our global associate career and compensation plan. All of our associates are independent contractors. We provide each new independent associate with our policies and procedures that require the independent associates to comply with regulatory guidelines and act in a consistent and professional manner.

Our revenues are heavily dependent upon the retention and productivity of independent associates who help us achieve long-term growth. We believe the introduction of innovative incentives, such as travel incentives, will continue to motivate our independent associates and help expand our global purchasing base. We remain actively committed to expanding the number of our independent associates through recruitment, support, motivation, and incentives. We had approximately 200,000 active independent associate and preferred customer positions held by individuals purchasing our products or packs during the 12 months ended December 31, 2018, and we had approximately 215,000 active independent associate and preferred customer positions held by individuals purchasing our products or packs during the 12 months ended December 31, 2017. We have a loyalty program through which consumers earn loyalty points from qualified automatic orders, which can be applied to future purchases.


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Independent Associate Development. Network marketing consists of enrolling individuals who build a network of independent associates, preferred customers, and retail customers who purchase products. We support our independent associates by providing an array of support services that can be tailored to meet individual needs, including:

offering educational meetings and corporate-sponsored events that emphasize business-building and compliance related information;
sponsoring various informative and science-based conference calls, web casts, and seminars;
providing automated services through the Internet and telephone that offer a full spectrum of information and business-building tools;
maintaining an efficient decentralized ordering and distribution system;
providing highly personalized and responsive order processing and customer service support accessible by multiple communication channels including telephone, Internet, or e-mail;
offering 24-hour, seven days a week access to information and ordering through the Internet;
offering Success Tracker, a customized business-building genealogy system, which contains graphs, maps, alerts, reports, and web video conferencing for our independent associates;
offering, in the United States and Canada, a compilation of online marketing and training tools, including personalized web pages; and
providing a wide assortment of business-building and educational materials to help stimulate product sales and simplify enrollment.
We provide product and network marketing training and education for new independent associates. This includes a unique global training/orientation program that uses audio, video and web components to familiarize new associates with the Company, and includes short, segmented trainings on how to succeed as part of the sales force. We also regularly provide training on using online tools such social media and our own suite of web marketing tools specifically designed for associates to use. We also offer a variety of brochures, monthly newsletters, and other promotional materials to associates to assist in their sales efforts, training, and continuing education. We continually update our training and promotional materials to provide our associates with the most current information and motivational tools.

Our global associate career and compensation plan consists of 19 independent associate achievement levels; from lowest to highest, these include Associate, Silver Associate, Gold Associate, Director, Silver Director, Gold Director, Executive, Silver Executive, Gold Executive, Presidential, Bronze Presidential, Silver Presidential, Gold Presidential, Platinum Presidential, 1-Star Platinum, 2-Star Platinum, 3-Star Platinum, 4-Star Platinum and Crown Platinum Ambassador. These achievement levels are determined by the growth and volume of the independent associates’ direct and indirect commissionable net sales, as well as expanding their networks, which are all assigned a point volume. Promotional materials and training aids are not assigned a point volume. This point volume system, referred to as our global seamless downline structure, allows independent associates to build their network by expanding their existing downlines into all international markets except China. Our global associate career and compensation plan is intended to comply with all applicable governmental regulations that govern the various aspects of payments to independent associates in each country.

Based upon our knowledge of industry-related network marketing compensation plans, we believe our global associate career and compensation plan remains strong in the industry. Together, our commissions and incentives range approximately from 35% to 43% of our consolidated net sales.

Our global associate career and compensation plan pays various types of commissions and incentives based upon a point system that calculates a percentage of the independent associate’s commissionable direct and indirect net product sales and the attainment of certain associate achievement levels. All payments to our independent associates are made after they have earned their commissions. We believe our global associate career and compensation plan fairly compensates our independent associates at every stage of building their business by quickly rewarding an independent associate for both the breadth and depth of their global seamless downline structure.


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Our global associate career and compensation plan identifies and pays 6 types of commissions to our qualified independent associates, which are based on the following:

generating product sales to preferred customers from an independent associate’s global downline to earn certain achievement levels;
generating product sales from newly enrolled independent associates or preferred customers who place a product order;
obtaining certain achievement levels and enrolling other independent associates who place qualifying orders;
obtaining and developing certain achievement levels within their downline organizations to qualify for additional bonuses; and
various other incentive programs.

Management of Independent Associates. We actively monitor our independent associates’ activities related to sales of our products and the promotion of certain business opportunities by requiring our independent associates to abide by our policies and procedures. However, we have limited control over the actions of our independent associates. To aid in our monitoring efforts, we provide each independent associate with a copy of our policies and procedures prior to or upon signing up as an independent associate. We engage a third-party service provider to assist in managing our compliance monitoring process. We also use various media formats to distribute changes to our mandatory policies and procedures, including our corporate website, conference calls, educational meetings, corporate events, seminars, and webcasts.

Our program also provides our independent associates with a standardized and anonymous complaint process. When a complaint is filed against an independent associate, our business ethics department conducts a mandatory investigation of the allegations to determine whether a violation of the policies and procedures has occurred. If a violation is found, the complaint moves through the compliance process where the person against whom the complaint has been filed has an opportunity to respond to the allegations. Depending on the nature of the violation, we may impose various sanctions, including written warnings, mandatory training, probation, withholding commissions, and termination of associate status. We will terminate any associate’s agreement for making claims that our products can treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease, unless such claim is found to be de minimus and isolated.

Product Return Policy. We stand behind our packs and products and believe we offer a reasonable and industry-standard product return policy to all of our customers. We do not resell returned products. Refunds are not processed until proper approval is obtained. Refunds are processed and returned in the same form of payment that was originally used in the sale. Each country in which we operate has specific product return guidelines. However, we allow our associates and preferred customers to exchange products as long as the products are unopened and in good condition. Our return policies for our retail customers and our associates and preferred customers are as follows:

Retail Customer Product Return Policy. This policy allows a retail customer to return any of our products to the original associate who sold the product and receive a full cash refund from the associate for the first 180 days following the product’s purchase if located in the United States and Canada, and for the first 90 days following the product’s purchase in other countries where we sell our products. In China, where we sell our products under a cross-border e-commerce model, we have a 14-day return policy. The associate may then return or exchange the product based on the associate product return policy.
Associate and Preferred Customer Product Return Policy. This policy allows the associate or preferred customer to return an order within one year of the purchase date upon terminating his/her account. If an associate or preferred customer returns a product unopened and in good condition, he/she may receive a full refund minus a 10% restocking fee. We may also allow the associate or preferred customer to receive a full satisfaction guarantee refund if they have tried the product and are not satisfied for any reason, excluding promotional materials. This satisfaction guarantee refund applies in the United States and Canada, only for the first 180 days following the product’s purchase, and applies in other countries where we sell our products for the first 90 days following the product’s purchase; however, any commissions earned by an associate will be deducted from the refund. If we discover abuse of the refund policy, we may terminate the associate's or preferred customer’s account.


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Information Technology Systems

Our information technology and e-commerce systems include a transaction-processing database, financial systems, an associate management system, and comprehensive management tools that are designed to:

minimize the time required to process orders and distribute products;
provide customized ordering information;
quickly respond to information requests, including providing detailed and accurate information to independent associates about qualification and downline activity;
provide detailed reports about paid commissions and incentives;
support order processing and customer service departments; and
help monitor, analyze, and report operating and financial results.

To complement our transaction database, we developed a comprehensive management tool called Success Tracker that is used both internally and by our independent associates to manage and optimize their business organizations. With this tool, independent associates have constant access to graphs, maps, alerts, and reports on the status of their individual organizations, which may help to optimize their earnings.

We also maintain a written business continuity plan, which was developed using the guidelines published by the National Institute of Standards of Technology, to minimize the risk of data loss due to any interruption in business. Our business continuity plan encompasses all critical aspects of our business and identifies contacts and resources. Additionally, we perform daily backup procedures using a combination of onsite and cloud-based services to ensure all data is recoverable. We proactively monitor various software, hardware, and network infrastructure systems to ensure optimal performance and security. We also perform routine maintenance procedures and periodically upgrade our software and hardware to help ensure that our systems are secure and work efficiently and effectively to minimize the risk of business interruption. Although we maintain an extensive business continuity plan, a long-term failure or impairment of any of our information technology systems could adversely affect our ability to conduct day-to-day business. Please see “Risk Factors - If our information technology system fails, our operations could suffer.”

We continue to enhance our information technology, websites, and e-commerce platforms to remain competitive, efficient and secure.

Government Regulations

Domestic Regulations.  In the United States, governmental regulations, laws, administrative determinations, court decisions, and similar legal requirements at the federal, state, and local levels regulate companies such as ours and network marketing activities. Such regulations address, among other things:

direct selling and network marketing systems;
transfer pricing and similar regulations affecting the amount of foreign taxes and customs duties paid;
taxation of independent associates and requirements to collect taxes and maintain appropriate records;
how a company manufactures, packages, labels, distributes, imports, sells, and stores products;
product ingredients;
product claims;
marketing and advertising; and
the extent to which companies may be responsible for claims made by independent associates.

The following governmental agencies regulate various aspects of our business and our products in the United States:

the Food and Drug Administration (the “FDA”);
the Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”);
the Consumer Product Safety Commission;
the Department of Agriculture;
the Environmental Protection Agency;
the United States Postal Service;
state attorney general offices; and
various agencies of the states and localities in which our products are sold.


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The FDA regulates the formulation, manufacturing, packaging, storage, labeling, promotion, distribution, and sale of foods, dietary supplements, over-the-counter drugs, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. In January 2000, the FDA issued a final rule called “Statements Made for Dietary Supplements Concerning the Effect of the Product on the Structure or Function of the Body”. In the rule and its preamble, the FDA distinguished between permitted claims under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (the “FFDC Act”) relating to the effect of dietary supplements on the structure or functions of the body, and impermissible direct or implied claims of the effect of dietary supplements on any disease. In June 2007, the FDA issued a rule, as authorized under the FFDC Act, that defined current Good Manufacturing Practices in the manufacture and holding of dietary supplements. Effective January 1, 2006, legislation required specific disclosures in labeling where a food, including a dietary supplement, contains an ingredient derived from any of eight named allergens. Legislation passed at the end of 2006 now requires us to report to the FDA any reports of “serious adverse events” associated with the use of a dietary supplement or an over-the-counter drug that is not covered by new drug approval reporting. The FDA created the Office of Dietary Supplements (“ODSP”) on December 21, 2015. The creation of this new office elevates the FDA’s program from its previous status as a division under the Office of Nutrition and Dietary Supplements. ODSP will continue to monitor the safety of dietary supplements.

The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, referred to as DSHEA, revised the provisions of the FFDC Act concerning the composition and labeling of dietary supplements and statutorily created a new class entitled “dietary supplements.” Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and other dietary substances used to supplement diets. A majority of our products are considered dietary supplements as outlined in the FFDC Act, which requires us to maintain evidence that a dietary supplement is reasonably safe. A manufacturer of dietary supplements may make statements concerning the effect of a supplement or a dietary ingredient on the structure or any function of the body, in accordance with the regulations described above. As a result, we make such statements with respect to our products. In some cases, such statements must be accompanied by a statutory statement that the claim has not been evaluated by the FDA and that the product is not intended to treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease, and the FDA must be notified of such claim within 30 days of first use.

The FDA oversees product safety, manufacturing, and product information, such as claims on a company's website, product’s label, package inserts, and accompanying literature. The FDA has promulgated regulations governing the labeling and marketing of dietary and nutritional supplement products. The regulations include:

the identification of dietary or nutritional supplements and their nutrition and ingredient labeling;
requirements related to the wording used for claims about nutrients, health claims, and statements of nutritional support;
labeling requirements for dietary or nutritional supplements for which “high potency,” “antioxidant,” and “trans-fatty acids” claims are made;
notification procedures for statements on dietary and nutritional supplements; and
pre-market notification procedures for new dietary ingredients in nutritional supplements.

We develop and maintain product substantiation dossiers, which contain the scientific literature pertinent to each product and its ingredients. An independent scientist reviews these dossiers, which provide the scientific basis for product claims. We periodically update our substantiation program for evidence for each of our product claims and notify the FDA of certain types of performance claims made in connection with our products.

In certain markets, including the United States, specific claims made with respect to a product may change the regulatory status of a product. For example, a product sold as a dietary supplement but marketed as a treatment, prevention, or cure for a specific disease or condition would likely be considered by the FDA or other regulatory bodies as unapproved and thus an illegal drug. To maintain the product’s status as a dietary supplement, its labeling and marketing must comply with the provisions in DSHEA and the FDA’s extensive regulations. As a result, we have procedures in place designed to promote and assure compliance by our employees and independent associates related to the requirements of DSHEA, the FFDC Act, and various other regulations.

Dietary supplements are also subject to the Nutrition, Labeling and Education Act and various other acts that regulate health claims, ingredient labeling, and nutrient content claims that characterize the level of nutrients in a product. These acts prohibit the use of any specific health claim for dietary supplements unless the health claim is supported by significant scientific research and is pre-approved by the FDA.


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The FTC and other regulators regulate marketing practices and advertising of a company and its products. In the past several years, regulators have instituted various enforcement actions against numerous dietary supplement companies for false and/or misleading marketing practices, as well as misleading advertising of products. These enforcement actions have resulted in consent decrees and significant monetary judgments against the companies and/or individuals involved. Regulators require a company to convey product claims clearly and accurately and further require marketers to maintain adequate substantiation for their claims. More specifically, the FTC requires such substantiation to be competent and reliable scientific evidence and requires a company to have a reasonable basis for the expressed and implied product claim before it disseminates an advertisement. A reasonable basis is determined based on the claims made, how the claims are presented in the context of the entire advertisement, and how the claims are qualified. The FTC’s standard for evaluating substantiation is designed to ensure that consumers are protected from false and/or misleading claims by requiring scientific substantiation of product claims at the time such claims are first made. The failure to have this substantiation violates the Federal Trade Commission Act.

Due to the diverse scope of regulations applicable to our products and the various regulators enforcing these requirements, determining how to conform to all requirements is often open to interpretation and debate. However, our policy is to fully cooperate with any regulatory agency in connection with any inquiries or other investigations. We can make no assurances that regulators will not question our actions in the future, even though we continue to make efforts to comply with all applicable regulations, inquiries, and investigations.

International Regulations. We are also subject to extensive regulations in each country in which we operate. Currently we sell our products in three regions: (i) the Americas (the United States, Canada, Colombia and Mexico); (ii) EMEA (Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom);  and (iii) Asia/Pacific (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China). Some of the country-specific regulations include the following:

the National Provincial Laws, Natural Health Product Regulations of Canada, and the Federal Competition Act in Canada;

the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Trade Practices Act in Australia;

federal and state regulations in Australia;

national regulations including the Local Trading Standards Offices in the United Kingdom;

regulations from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry in Japan;

regulations from the Commerce Commission and the Fair Trade Act of 1993 in New Zealand;

the Fair Trade Commission, which oversees the Door to Door Sales Act and the Health and Functional Food Act enforced by the Korea Food and Drug Administration in the Republic of Korea;

the Fair Trade Law, which is enforced by the Taiwan Fair Trade Commission and the Administration of Food Hygiene, Health Food Products Administration Act enforced by the Taiwan Department of Health;

the Danish Health Board, the Danish Marketing Practice Act, the Danish Consumer Ombudsman, the Danish Executive Order on Dietary Supplements, the Guidelines for food supplements, and the Danish Act on Foodstuffs in Denmark;

the German Unfair Competition Act, German Regulation on food supplements, and German Law on food and feed;

regulations governing business practices in South Africa;

the Consumer Protection Act, the Sale of Food Act, and various regulations that are governed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry in Singapore;

the Austrian Trade Law (1994), the Food Safety and Consumer Protection Law (2006), and the Food Code in Austria;

the Food and Consumer Products and the Unfair Trade Practices Act, Door to Door Selling Act and Provisions of the General Dutch Civil Code relating to terms and conditions and misleading advertising in the Netherlands;


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the Consumer Sales Act, Marketing Practices Act, Distance and Doorstep Sales Act, the Product Liability Act, Product Safety Act, the Companies Act and the Food Act in Sweden;

the Law on Marketing and Contract Conditions, the Law on Repentance Right, the Statutory Order on Self Inspection of Food Provisions, the Law on Food products and Food Safety, and various guidelines from the Norwegian Consumers Agency on telephone selling and internet marketing, in Norway;

the Health Law and various Official Mexican Standards, the consumer protection law, the Mexican Corporate law, the Foreign Investment Law, the Federal Labor law in Mexico, as well as various municipal and state regulations and codes;

various Business, Civil, and Labor Codes in the Czech Republic as well as the Consumer Protection Act, and regulations and edicts of various government agencies such as The Ministry of Health, National Institute of Public Health, State Institute of Drug Control and the Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority;

the Consumer Protection Act in Estonia, and in the area of food supplements the Veterinary and Food Board also enforces local legislation including Estonia Food Act and Medicine Act;

the Finnish Food Act, the Finnish Food Packaging and Consumer Protection Acts, Act on Unfair Business Practice Act, Decrees and other regulations in Finland;

the Consumer Protection Act of 2007, the Distance Selling Regulations Act of 2001 in Ireland;

various European Union (“EU”) regulations and pronouncements, subject to local statutes and regulations, address both our selling activities and the sale of food supplements in EU member nations, including, primarily, the EU Food Supplement Directive (2002/46/EC) and Nutrition and Health Claims Regulations (2006/1924/EC);

the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labeling) Regulations, the Pyramid Schemes Prohibition Ordinance, the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance, and the Import and Export Ordinance in Hong Kong;

the Retail Trade Act of January 15, 1996, regulating both multi-level marketing (article 22) and pyramid sales (article 23), and Spanish Law 1/2007 on Consumer Protection (“Spanish Consumers Act”), regulating consumer protection, including warranties and product liability, in Spain;

the Regulation of Act 1700 of 2013, Article 2.2.50 on December 27, 2013 governs the Activities of Network Marketing or Multilevel Marketing companies through monitoring compensation plans, contract conditions and enacting preventive suspension, in Colombia; and

the Regulation on the Prohibition of Pyramid Selling, the Regulation on Administration of Direct Sales, the Law on Protection of Consumer Rights, the Food Safety Law, and the Anti-Unfair Competition Law in China.

Regulations Regarding Network Marketing System and Our Products. Our network marketing system and our global associate career and compensation plan are also subject to a number of governmental regulations including various federal and state statutes administered by the FTC, various state authorities, and foreign government agencies. The legal requirements governing network marketing organizations are directed, in part, to ensure that product sales are ultimately made to consumers. In addition, earnings within a network marketing company must be based on the sale of products rather than compensation for (i) the recruitment of distributors or associates, (ii) investments in the organization, or (iii) other non-retail sales-related criteria. For instance, some countries limit the amount associates may earn from commissions on sales by other distributors or independent associates that are not directly sponsored by that distributor or independent associate. Prior to expanding our operations into any foreign jurisdiction, we must first obtain regulatory approval for our network marketing system in jurisdictions requiring such approval. To help ensure regulatory compliance, we rely on the advice of our outside legal counsel and regulatory consultants in each specific country.

As a network marketing company, we are also subject to regulatory oversight, including routine inquiries and enforcement actions, from various United States state attorneys general offices. Each state has specific acts referred to as Little FTC Acts. Each state act is similar to the federal laws. As a result, each state may perform its own inquiries about our organization and business practices, including allegations related to distributors or independent associates. To combat such industry-specific risk, we provide a copy of our published associate policies and procedures to each independent associate, publish these policies on our corporate website, and provide educational seminars and publications. In addition, we maintain a legal and business ethics department to cooperate with all regulatory agencies and investigate allegations of improper conduct by our independent associates.

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In Canada, our network marketing system is regulated by both national and provincial laws. Under Canada’s Federal Competition Act, we must make sure that any representations relating to compensation to our independent associates or made to prospective new independent associates constitute fair, reasonable, and timely disclosure and that such representations meet other legal requirements of the Federal Competition Act. All Canadian provinces and territories, other than Ontario, have legislation requiring that we register or become licensed as a direct seller within that province to maintain the standards of the direct selling industry and to protect consumers. Some other Canadian provinces require that both we and our independent associates be licensed as direct sellers.

In Colombia, our network marketing system is governed by the Regulation Act of 1700 of 2013 on Activities of Network Marketing or Multilevel Marketing. It specifies requirements for our compensation plan, contracts, corporate governance and penalties for violations. Data processing is regulated by Act No. 1581 of 2012 and Regulatory Decree No. 1377 of 2013 which protects personal data and requires that Mannatech to obtain authorization from the owner to collect personal data. The distribution of nutritional supplement products is governed by Invima, which is in charge of inspecting and monitoring the marketing and manufacturing of health products.
    
In Mexico, as in many other markets, there are no specific regulations directly related to the direct selling or network marketing industry. However, all product sales and business offerings must comply with the Consumer Protection Law, which is enforced by the Consumer Protection Agency. Food supplements and medicines are subject to the Health Law and various Official Mexican Standards, which are enforced by the Health Ministry and The Federal Commission for Protection Against Sanitary Risk. Mexican Customs Law and its regulations govern the general importation of our products into Mexico. We are subject to the Mexican Corporate Law, which is enforced by the Mexican courts and to the Federal Labor Law enforced by the Labor Courts. In Mexico, we are also subject to the Foreign Investment Law and its regulations administered by the Ministry of Economy. We are required to register before the Mexican System for Business Information at the appropriate Business Chamber under the Organizations Law.

In Australia, our network marketing system is subject to Australia’s federal and local regulations. Our global associate career and compensation plan is designed to comply with Australian law and the requirements of Australia’s Trade Practices Act. The Australian Trade Practices Administration and various other governmental entities regulate our business and trade practices, as well as those of our independent associates. Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Act, together with the Trade Practices Act, regulates any claims or representations relating to our products and our global associate career and compensation plan.

In New Zealand, our network marketing system and our operations are subject to regulations of the Commerce Commission and the Ministry of Health, New Zealand Medical Devices Safety Authority, the Unsolicited Goods Act of 1975, the Privacy Act of 1993, and the Fair Trading Act of 1993. These regulations enforce specific kinds of business or trade practices and regulate the general conduct of network marketing companies. The Commerce Commission also enforces the Consumer Guarantees Act, which establishes specific rights and remedies with respect to transactions involving the provisions of goods and services to consumers. Finally, the New Zealand Commerce Commission and the Ministry of Health both enforce the Door-to-Door Sales Act of 1967 and the NZ Medicines Act, which govern the conduct of our independent associates.

In Japan, our network marketing system, overall business operations, trade practices, global associate career and compensation plan, and our independent associates are governed by Japan’s Door-to-Door Sales Law as enacted in 1976 by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry. Our global associate career and compensation plan is designed to meet Japan’s governmental requirements. Our product claims are subject to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Law, which prohibits the making and publication of “drug effectiveness” claims regarding products that have not received approval from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor.

In Singapore, the network marketing industry is governed by the Multi-Level Marketing and Pyramid Selling (Prohibition) (Amendment) Act and the accompanying Pyramid Selling (Excluded Schemes and Arrangements) Order 2000 and Order 2001. General business practices and advertising are regulated under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act 2003, as amended, and its accompanying regulations. The products are classified as food and supplements of a food nature, which are governed by the Sale of Food Act and the Singapore Food Regulations. Cosmetics and products that rise to the level of medicinal and other health-related products are regulated under various regulations such as the Medicines Act, the Poisons Act, the Sale of Drugs Act, the Medicines (Advertisement and Sale) Act and the Misuse of Drug Regulations.

In the Republic of Korea, the primary body of law applicable to our operations is the Door-to-Door Sales Act, which governs the behavior of network marketing companies and affiliated distributors. The Door-to-Door Sales Act is enforced by the Fair Trade Commission. In the Republic of Korea, our products are categorized as health and functional foods and are regulated by the Health and Functional Food Act of 2004, with which the Company complies.

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In Taiwan, our network marketing system, overall operations and trade practices are governed by the Fair Trade Law and the Consumer Protection Law. Such laws contain a wide range of provisions covering trade practices. Our products are governed by the Taiwan Department of Health and various legislation in Taiwan including the Health Food Control Act of 1999. This Act was enacted to enhance the management and supervision of matters relating to health, food, protecting the health of people and safeguarding the rights and interests of consumers.

In Hong Kong, our network marketing system, overall operations and trade practices are governed by a number of Ordinances including the Sale of Goods Ordinance, the Control of Exemption Clauses Ordinance, the Pyramid Schemes Prohibition Ordinance and the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance. Such Ordinances include a number of consumer protections (including data privacy) and regulate trading practices.  Importation and registration of our products permitting their sale in Hong Kong are controlled by the Import and Export Ordinance and its subsidiary legislation, the Import and Export (Registration) Regulations.

In China, multi-level marketing is prohibited by the Regulation on the Prohibition of Pyramid Selling. While selling products via a direct sales channel is permitted, persons or entities conducting direct selling activities must have a direct selling license per the Regulation on the Administration of Direct Sales. In addition, under the Food Safety Law, most of our dietary supplements are not allowed to be sold in physical stores unless registered with the China Food Safety Administration. However, those products are allowed to be sold under a retail cross-border e-commerce model. Lastly, overall operations and trade practices are governed by the Consumer Protection Law and the Anti-Unfair Competition Law.

In the United Kingdom, our network marketing system is subject to national regulations of the United Kingdom. Our global associate career and compensation plan is designed to comply with the United Kingdom’s national requirements, the requirements of the Fair Trading Act of 1973, the Data Protection Act of 1998, the Trading Schemes Regulations of 1997, and other similar regulations. The U.K. Code of Advertising and Sales Promotion regulates our business and trade practices and the activities of our independent associates, while the Trading Standards Office regulates any claims or representations relating to our operations. Our products are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency.

In Denmark, the notion of door-to-door selling is prohibited. As a result, under Danish law, the trader is not allowed to contact the consumer at his home, place of work, or other non-public place in order to conclude a contract on certain subjects. However, the prohibition has an exemption when the consumer asks the trader for a contact in writing or upon written prior consent. In addition, the Danish Marketing Practices Act, the Guidelines from the Danish Consumer Ombudsman and the rules contained in the Danish Consumer Contracts Act govern our network marketing system. There is no requirement for pre-approval of our products in Denmark; however, our products are subject to a yearly inspection carried out by the Food authorities. Further, all our activities are subject to Self Inspection, the results of which are also controlled once a year by the Food authorities. The rules for marketing and sale of dietary supplements are covered by the Danish Executive Order on Food Supplements, as well as by the Danish Act on Foodstuffs and various EU-regulations. Denmark also subjects the marketing of a company’s food supplements to a notification procedure (with a pre-market approval process for certain substances), before a product may be lawfully marketed in Denmark. Full product compliance with all Danish provisions is reviewed by the Food authorities once a year.

In Germany, there is no specific legal regulation covering network marketing company practices. However, under certain circumstances network marketing systems may have to follow the German Unfair Competition Act. Our independent associates’ conduct is subject to the German statute that governs the conduct of a commercial agent. In addition, direct selling operations are governed by the Industrial Code, which requires direct sellers to hold itinerant trader’s cards. The German Regulation on food supplements and the German Law on food and feed govern vitamin and mineral substances and herbs and other substances, respectively.

In Austria, the Austrian Trade Law of 1994 (Novelle 2002) prohibits the offer of direct sale to an individual consumer of food supplement and cosmetic products. The provision, however, has generally not been enforced in recent years and sales made via the Internet or mail order or made to a non-consumer distributor do not fall under this prohibition. The Austrian Trade Law is predominantly administered through the National Ministry of Economy and Labor. Our business operations within Austria are conducted from beyond the borders of Austria, which is the common practice in our industry. Our distributors qualify as “traders” for purposes of Austrian state and municipal laws. Traders are regulated by the local chambers of commerce and must obtain licenses from the respective chambers of commerce. Regulation of food supplements and cosmetics is generally harmonized throughout the EU and must conform to EU standards. Austrian-specific food regulations include the Food Safety and Consumer Protection Law (2006), supporting ordinances to this law, the Food Supplement Law, and the Austrian Food Codex, which is primarily administered by the National Ministry of Health, Office for Health and Food Security, and the Local Health Authority.


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In Sweden, various provisions of the Consumer Sales Act (1990), the Marketing Practices Act (2008), the Distance and Doorstep Sales Act (2005), the Product Liability Act (1992), the Product Safety Act (2004), and the Companies Act (2005) all serve to govern our multi-level marketing and business activities. The Food Act (2006) provides regulations and guidelines for the sale of food and food supplements. We are subject to the authority of the Swedish Consumer Office, the Swedish Companies Registration Office, the Swedish Tax Office, Swedish Customs, Medical Products Agency, and the National Food Administration. As in all EU countries, various EU regulations and guidelines apply.

In the Netherlands, the Food and Consumer Product and the Unfair Trade Practices Act are the most relevant legislations relating to our business practices. The first is enforced by the Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority and the latter is enforced by the Consumer Authority. Furthermore, various EU regulations apply as well as the Dutch Door to Door Selling Act, and all provisions of the Dutch Civil Code with particular emphasis to those regulations dealing with general terms and conditions, and those regarding misleading advertising.

Norway exercises a border control of products and their composition upon importation. Import products must be registered in an Import Reporting Registry, and the regulations are enforced by the customs authorities. Our products must be compliant with Norwegian regulations in order to be admitted for admission through customs into Norway. In Norway, door-to-door selling is allowed, provided the Guidelines from the Norwegian Consumer Agency are followed. Likewise, telephone-selling is allowed provided the agency’s guidelines are followed. Home-selling in Norway is also allowed. All of our sales in Norway are subject to a 14-day right to cancel by the consumers.

In the Czech Republic, there are no specific regulations or special legislation that limit the network marketing industry.  Network marketing is considered to be a specific form of general sale and is generally subject to various provisions of the Business Code (Act. Nr. 513/1992 Coll.), Civil Code (Act. Nr. 40/1964 Coll.), Labor Code (Act. No. 262/2006 Coll.), Trade License Act (Act. Nr. 455/1991 Coll.), Consumer Protection Act (Act. Nr. 634/1992 Coll.) and related legislation.  The status of independent contractor/sales distributor is primarily regulated by the Trade License Act (Act. Nr. 455/1991 Coll), which requires sales distributors to maintain a trade license. Additionally, the regulation of food supplements is harmonized throughout the EU and, therefore, the supplements must conform to the EU standards.  Enforcement of Czech-specific regulations is undertaken by the Ministry of Health, National Institute of Public Health, State Institute of Drug Control and the Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority.

In Estonia, there are no specific regulations governing the network marketing business, but the business is generally regulated under the Consumer Protection Act.  Also, independent distributors are required to register as sole proprietors with the Tax and Customs Board before entry into associate agreements.  Mannatech must also comply with various EU regulations.  The Veterinary and Food Board also enforces local legislation including Estonia Food Act and Medicine Act.

In Finland, the Finnish Food Act, the Finnish Food Packaging and Consumer Protection Acts, Act on Unfair Business Practice Act, Decrees and other regulations, as well as applicable EU regulations, regulate Mannatech products, product information, and the way Mannatech promotes its products.  Additionally, certain principles applicable to multi-level marketing under the Money Collection Act (255/2006) apply to Mannatech’s activities. Lastly, persons engaged in the manufacture, commission of manufacture or import of food supplements must submit a written notification to the Finnish Food Safety Authority when marketing and selling in Finland.  A notification is also required when the composition of preparation changes in terms of characteristics of substances or the preparation is withdrawn from the market.

In the Republic of Ireland, the primarily relevant legislation is the Consumer Protection Act of 2007, the Distance Selling Regulations Act of 2001, and the codes of practice of the Direct Selling Association of Ireland and the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland.  There is no equivalent in Irish law to the UK Trading Schemes Regulations, but the Direct Selling Association of Ireland codes, while not as prescriptive, contain many similar requirements.  Lastly, the regulation of food and food supplements are generally harmonized throughout the EU and must conform to EU standards.

In Spain, our network marketing system, overall operations, and trade practices are governed by the Retail Trade Act and the Spanish Consumers Act. Such laws contain a wide range of provisions covering trade practices, including multi-level marketing, pyramid sales, warranties and product liability. While regulation of food supplements and cosmetics is generally harmonized throughout the EU and must conform to EU standards, the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products oversees cosmetics and the Spanish Agency for Consumer Affairs, Food Safety and Nutrition oversees food supplements.

In South Africa, the Consumer Affairs Act 1988, the Competition Act 1998, and the Advertising Standards Authority Code of Advertising Practice (a voluntary code enforced by the media) govern business practices. The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act 1972, and the Medicines and Related Substances Act 1965 currently apply.


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Other Regulations. Our operations are also subject to a variety of other regulations, including:

social security taxes;
value-added taxes;
goods and services taxes;
sales taxes;
consumption taxes;
income taxes;
customs duties;
employee/independent contractor regulations;
employment, service pay, retirement pay, and profit sharing requirements;
import/export regulations;
federal securities laws; and
antitrust laws.
In many markets, we are limited by the types of rules we can impose on our independent associates, including rules in connection with cooling off periods and termination criteria. If we do not comply with these requirements, we may be required to pay social security, unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation, or other tax or tax-type assessments on behalf of our independent associates and may incur severance obligations if we terminate one of our independent associates.

In some countries, including the United States, we are also governed by regulations concerning the activities of our independent associates. Regulators may find that we are ultimately responsible for the conduct of our independent associates and may request or require that we take additional steps to ensure that our independent associates comply with these regulations. The types of conduct governed by these types of regulations may include:

claims made about our products;
promises or claims of income or other promises or claims by our independent associates; and
sales of products in markets where the products have not been approved or licensed.

In some markets, including the United States, improper product claims by independent associates could result in our products being scrutinized by regulatory authorities. This review could result in our products being re-classified as drugs or classified into another product category that requires stricter regulations or labeling changes.

We continuously research and monitor the laws governing the conduct of our independent associates, our operations, our global associate career and compensation plan, and our products and sales aids within each of the countries in which we sell our products. We provide education for our independent associates regarding acceptable business conduct in each market through our policies and procedures, seminars, and other training materials and programs. However, we cannot guarantee that our independent associates will always abide by our policies and procedures and/or act in a professional and consistent manner.


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Competition

Other Nutritional Supplement Companies.  The nutritional supplement industry is steadily gaining momentum and is intensely competitive. Our current direct competitors selling similar nutritional products include:

AdvoCare International
GNC Holdings, Inc.;
Herbalife Nutrition Ltd.;
Nature’s Sunshine Products, Inc.;
NOW Foods;
Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc.;
Reliv’ International, Inc;
Solgar Vitamin and Herb Company, Inc.;
Swanson Health Products;
Usana Health Sciences, Inc.; and
Vitamin Shoppe Industries, Inc.

Network Marketing. Nutritional supplements are offered for sale in a variety of ways. Network marketing has a limited number of individuals interested in participating in the industry, and we must compete for those types of individuals. We believe network marketing is the best sales approach to sell our products for the following reasons:

our products can be introduced into the global marketplace at a much lower up-front cost than through conventional methods;
our key ingredients and differential components found in our proprietary products can be better explained through network marketing;
the network marketing approach can quickly and easily adapt to changing market conditions;
consumers appreciate the convenience of ordering from home, through a sales person, by telephone, or on the Internet; and
network marketing enables independent associates to earn financial rewards.
We compete with other direct selling and network marketing companies for new independent associates and for retention of continuing independent associates. Some of our competitors have longer operating histories, are better known, or have greater financial resources. These companies include:

Amway Corporation;
Forever Living Products, Inc.;
Herbalife Nutrition Ltd.;
Mary Kay, Inc.;
Nature’s Sunshine Products, Inc.;
Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc.;
Shaklee Worldwide; and
Usana Health Sciences, Inc.

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The availability of independent associates decreases when other network marketing companies successfully recruit and retain independent associates for their operations. We believe we can successfully compete for independent associates by emphasizing the following:

our exclusive, proprietary blend of high-quality products;
our 25 year track record in the business of selling nutritional products;
our model which does not require our independent associates to carry inventory or accounts receivable;
our unique and financially rewarding global associate career and compensation plan;
our innovative marketing and educational tools; and
our easy and convenient delivery system.
Employees

At December 31, 2018 and 2017, we employed 248 and 252 people, respectively, as set forth below:

 
2018
 
2017
Americas
159

 
162

Asia/Pacific
75

 
79

EMEA
14

 
11

Total
248

 
252


 
2018
 
2017
Full-time employees
247

 
250

Part-time employees
1

 
2

Total
248

 
252


These numbers do not include our independent associates, who are independent contractors and are not employees.

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Item 1A.
Risk Factors

In addition to the other risks described in this report, the risk factors outlined below should be considered in evaluating our business and future prospects. Several of the risks are part of conducting business in the industry and sales channel in which we operate and will likely remain ongoing. The fact that these risks are characteristic of the dietary supplement industry or the direct selling channel does not lessen their significance. The risks outlined below are not the only risks we may encounter. Additional risks not currently known to us or that may currently reasonably seem immaterial also may have an adverse effect on our business.

1.
If we are unable to attract and retain independent associates, our business may suffer.

Our future success depends largely upon our ability to attract and retain a large active base of independent associates and preferred customers. We rely on our non-employee independent associates to market and sell our products to customers to generate growth and to attract new independent associates who are interested in building a business. Our ability to increase sales depends on our ability to increase the number of customers in each of our markets around the world. Our success will also depend on our ability to retain and motivate our existing independent associates and attract new independent associates. We cannot give any assurances that the number of our independent associates will continue at their current levels or increase in the future. Several factors affect our ability to attract and retain independent associates and preferred customers, including:

on-going motivation of our independent associates;
general economic conditions;
significant changes in the amount of commissions paid;
public perception and acceptance of the wellness industry;
public perception and acceptance of network marketing;
public perception and acceptance of our business and our products, including any negative publicity;
the limited number of people interested in pursuing network marketing as a business;
our ability to provide proprietary quality-driven products that the market demands; and
competition in recruiting and retaining independent associates.

2.
The loss of key high-level independent associate leaders could negatively impact our associate growth and our revenue.

As of December 31, 2018, we had approximately 200,000 active independent associates and preferred customer positions held by individuals who purchased our products within the last 12 months, of which 216 occupied the highest associate levels under our global compensation plan. These independent associate leaders are important in maintaining and growing our revenue. As a result, the loss of a high-level independent associate or a group of leading associates in the independent associates’ networks of downlines, whether by their own choice or through disciplinary actions by us for violations of our policies and procedures, could negatively impact our associate growth and our revenue.

3.
Changes to our associate compensation arrangements could be viewed negatively by some independent associates, could cause failure to achieve desired long-term results and have a negative impact on revenue.

Our associate compensation plan includes components that differ from market to market. We modify components of our compensation plan from time to time in an attempt to remain competitive and attractive to existing and potential independent associates, including such modifications:

to address changing market dynamics;
to provide incentives to independent associates that are intended to help grow our business;
to conform to local regulations; and
to address other business needs.

We launched the first phase of a new associate compensation plan in July 2017 and made adjustments to the plan as part of the second phase in 2018. The 2017 Associate Compensation Plan was designed to stimulate business growth and development

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for our active business-building associates and to maximize the buying experience for our preferred customers. In doing so, the Company hopes to better utilize commission dollars to stimulate Company growth. The 2017 Associate Compensation Plan provides revised income streams, new leadership levels and titles, and modified various volume requirements for our associates. Because of the size of our associate force and the complexity of our compensation plans, it is difficult to predict how independent associates will view such changes and whether such changes will negatively impact our revenue and profitability.

4.
An increase in the amount of commissions and incentives paid to independent associates reduces our profitability.

The payment of commissions and incentives, including bonuses and prizes, is our most significant expense. Together, our commissions and incentives range approximately from 35% to 43% of our consolidated net sales. We closely monitor the amount of commissions and incentives as a percentage of net sales, and may periodically adjust our compensation plan to better manage these costs. There can be no assurance that changes to the compensation plan will be successful in achieving target levels of commissions and incentives as a percentage of net sales and preventing these costs from having a significant adverse effect on our earnings. Furthermore, such changes may make it difficult to attract and retain independent associates or cause us to lose some of our existing independent associates.

5.
The loss of key management personnel could adversely affect our business.

We depend on the continued services of our executive officers and senior management team as they work closely with independent associate leaders and are responsible for our day-to-day operations. Our success depends in part on our ability to retain our executive officers, to compensate our executive officers at attractive levels, and to continue to attract additional qualified individuals to our management team. Although we have entered into employment agreements with certain senior executive officers, and do not believe that any of them are planning to leave or retire in the near term, we cannot assure that our senior executive officers or members of our senior management team will remain with us. The loss or limitation of the services of any of our executive officers or members of our senior management team, including our regional and country managers, or the inability to attract additional qualified management personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or independent associate relations.

6.
If government regulations regarding network marketing change or are interpreted or enforced in a manner adverse to our business, we may be subject to new enforcement actions and material limitations regarding our overall business model.

Network marketing is always subject to extensive governmental regulations, including foreign, federal, and state regulations. Any change in legislation and regulations could affect our business. Furthermore, significant penalties could be imposed on us for failure to comply with various statutes or regulations. Violations may result from:

ambiguity in statutes;
regulations and related court decisions;
the discretion afforded to regulatory authorities and courts interpreting and enforcing laws;
new regulations affecting our business; and
changes to, or interpretations of, existing regulations affecting our business.

On January 4, 2018, The Federal Trade Commission (the “FTC”) issued “Business Guidance Concerning Multi-Level Marketing” a non-binding guidance in question-and-answer format clarifying the FTC’s enforcement position regarding multi-level marketing. The guidance focuses on the characteristics of multi-level marketing and delineates the factors that the FTC staff is likely to consider in assessing whether or not a compensation structure is problematic. The FTC has broad enforcement authority and, while it issues guidance on how it interprets the applicable law, that guidance is not ultimately binding on the FTC. As a result, the FTC could decide to investigate or bring an enforcement action regarding practices that we interpret to be in line with applicable law and/or FTC guidance. For example, the FTC has challenged the distributor compensation plans used by other multi-level-marketing companies over the last few years. The FTC obtained consent decrees with those companies requiring those companies to (i) discontinue using all, or certain components of, their compensation plans; and (ii) implement a compensation plan that received prior approval from the FTC. While we prioritize ensuring that our business and compensation model are compliant, we cannot be certain that the FTC or similar regulatory body in another country will not modify or otherwise amend its guidance, laws, or regulations or interpret in a way that would render our current practices inconsistent with the same.

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7.
Independent associates could fail to comply with our associate policies and procedures or make improper product, compensation, marketing or advertising claims that violate laws or regulations, which could result in claims against us that could harm our financial condition and operating results.

We sell our products worldwide to a sales force of independent associates. The independent associates are independent contractors and, accordingly, we are not in a position to provide the same direction, motivation, and oversight as we would if associates were our own employees.  As a result, there can be no assurance that our associates will participate in our marketing strategies or plans, accept our introduction of new products, or comply with our associate policies and procedures. All independent associates sign a written contract and agree to adhere to our policies and procedures, which prohibit associates from making false, misleading or other improper claims regarding products or income potential from the distribution of the products. However, independent associates may from time to time, without our knowledge and in violation of our policies, create promotional materials or otherwise provide information that does not accurately describe our marketing program. In addition to policies prohibiting improper product claims, we also have polices that prohibit our independent associates from selling our products or otherwise conducting business in markets outside of the countries in which we operate or in a manner inconsistent with how we operate in a specific country.

There is a possibility that some jurisdictions could seek to hold us responsible for independent associate activities that violate applicable laws or regulations, which could result in government or third party actions or fines against us, which could harm our financial condition and operating results. For example, Meitai does not operate as a direct selling company in mainland China and does not hold a direct selling license in China. Additionally, direct selling regulations in China prevent persons who are not Chinese nationals from engaging in direct selling in China. While we have policies that prohibit our independent associates from conducting business in markets other than those in which we currently operate and we have provided information on how Meitai operates in China as a non-direct selling business under an e-commerce model, we cannot guarantee that our independent associates will not violate our policies or violate Chinese law or other applicable regulations, and therefore, might result in regulatory action and adverse publicity, which would harm our business in China or our business generally.

8.
We may be held responsible for certain taxes or assessments relating to the activities of our independent associates, which could harm our financial condition and operating results.

Our independent associates are subject to taxation and, in some instances, legislation or governmental agencies impose an obligation on us to collect taxes, such as value added taxes, and to maintain appropriate tax records. In addition, we are subject to the risk in some jurisdictions of being responsible for social security and similar taxes with respect to our distributors. In the event that local laws and regulations require us to treat our independent distributors as employees, or if our distributors are deemed by local regulatory authorities to be our employees, rather than independent contractors, we may be held responsible for social security and related taxes in those jurisdictions, plus any related assessments and penalties, which could harm our financial condition and operating results.

9.
Challenges by private parties to the form of our network marketing system could harm our business.
We may be subject to challenges by private parties, including our independent associates and preferred customers, to the form of our network marketing system or elements of our business. In the United States, the network marketing industry and regulatory authorities have relied on the implementation of distributor rules and policies designed to promote retail sales to protect consumers, prevent inappropriate activities, and distinguish between legitimate network marketing distribution plans and unlawful pyramid schemes. We have adopted rules and policies based on case law, rulings of the FTC, discussions with regulatory authorities in several states, and domestic and global industry standards. As a member of the U.S. Direct Selling Association (the “DSA”), we are required to adhere to a code of ethics that protects our associates and their customers, and ensures all DSA members remain accountable to regulators, consumers, independent distributors, and the public.
On January 4, 2019, the DSA established a third party self-regulatory program to be administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus (the “CBBB”). The new entity, the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”), will engage in active monitoring of the entire direct selling marketplace, including websites and social media of direct selling companies and their respective independent distributors in the areas of income representations and product claims. The DSSRC will report potentially non-compliant companies to the appropriate government agencies and will manage consumer/company complaint resolution.

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Legal and regulatory requirements concerning network marketing systems, however, involve a high level of subjectivity, are inherently fact-based, and are subject to judicial interpretation. Because of this, we can provide no assurance that we would not be harmed by the application or interpretation of statutes or regulations governing network marketing, particularly in any civil challenge by a current or former independent associate or preferred customer.
10.
If our network marketing activities do not comply with government regulations, our business could suffer.

Many governmental agencies regulate our network marketing activities. A government agency’s determination that our business or our independent associates have significantly violated a law or regulation could adversely affect our business. The laws and regulations for network marketing intend to prevent fraudulent or deceptive schemes. Our business faces constant regulatory scrutiny due to the interpretive and enforcement discretion given to regulators, periodic misconduct by our independent associates, adoption of new laws or regulations, and changes in the interpretation of new or existing laws or regulations.

On December 5, 2018, our Korean subsidiary, Mannatech Korea (“MK”), received a visit from three officials with the Korean Fair Trade Commission (“KFTC”). They advised MK’s management that they would be conducting a routine audit of commissions and bonuses paid to MK’s independent associates. The physical audit was concluded on December 10, 2018. We’ve been informed that the audit will continue as the auditors review requested documentation and could take approximately 2 to 3 months for the auditors to issue an Examiners Report. We cannot currently predict the outcome of the audit or any potential impact to our business, but a negative outcome could have an adverse effect on our business.

In addition, in the past, and because of the industry in which we operate, we have experienced inquiries regarding specific independent associates.

11.
If we violate governmental regulations or fail to obtain necessary regulatory approvals, our operations could be adversely affected.

Our operation is subject to extensive laws, governmental regulations, administrative determinations, court decisions, and similar constraints at the federal, state, and local levels in our domestic and foreign markets. These regulations primarily involve the following:

the formulation, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, distribution, importation, sale, and storage of our products;
the health and safety of dietary supplements, cosmetics and foods;
trade practice laws and network marketing laws (e.g., licensing and registration requirements; regulations pertaining to commission payments);
our product claims and advertising by our independent associates;
our network marketing system;
pricing restrictions regarding transactions with our foreign subsidiaries or other related parties and similar regulations that affect our level of foreign taxable income;
the assessment of customs duties;
further taxation of our independent associates, which may obligate us to collect additional taxes and maintain additional records; and
export and import restrictions.

Any unexpected new regulations or changes in existing regulations could significantly restrict our ability to continue operations, which could adversely affect our business. For example, changes regarding health and safety and food and drug regulations for our nutritional products could require us to reformulate our products to comply with such regulations.

On October 16, 2018, inspectors from the FDA arrived at the Company’s headquarters to conduct an inspection of the facility and an audit of the Company’s policies and processes. The audit included a review of the remedial steps taken by the Company in response to the Warning Letter issued by the FDA on November 14, 2017. The FDA closed its audit on October 24, 2018 and issued its report to the Company. The investigators had no objections to the corrective actions taken by the Company in response to the November 2017 Warning Letter. The Company responded with corrective actions to the 2018 report on November

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13, 2018. On March 1, 2019, we received a notice from the FDA requesting a meeting to discuss and clarify the corrective actions taken in response to the audit. The Company has 30 days to schedule a meeting with division personnel. We believe our response met the concerns raised by the FDA and do not anticipate further action; however, there remains the possibility that additional information or action may be requested following the meeting.

In some foreign countries, nutritional products are considered foods, while other countries consider them drugs. Future health and safety or food and drug regulations could delay or prevent our introduction of new products or suspend or prohibit the sale of existing products in a given country or marketplace. In addition, if we expand into other foreign markets, our operations or products could also be affected by the general stability of such foreign governments and the regulatory environment relating to network marketing and our products. If our products are subject to high customs duties, our sales and competitive position could suffer as compared to locally produced goods. Furthermore, import restrictions in certain countries and jurisdictions could limit our ability to import products from the United States.
    
We operate a non-direct selling business in mainland China. In 2016, we formed our China subsidiary, Meitai. Unlike Mannatech’s business operations in other markets, Meitai operates under a cross-border e-commerce model, where consumers in China can buy Mannatech products manufactured overseas via Meitai's website. Meitai is currently not a direct selling company in China nor will it operate under a multi-level marketing model in China. Products purchased on Meitai's website are for personal use and not for resale. Meitai offers a rewards program to incentivize existing customers to refer other customers to purchase products from Meitai’s website. Customs regulations in China include purchase limits to ensure that purchased products are for personal consumption. Regulators in China may change how they interpret and enforce regulations regarding e-commerce sales and how goods are imported through the free trade zone for sale to consumers in China. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Chinese government’s current or future interpretation and application of existing and new regulations will not negatively impact our business in China, result in regulatory investigations, or lead to fines or penalties against us.

12.
Increased regulatory scrutiny of nutritional supplements as well as new regulations that are being adopted in some of our markets with respect to nutritional supplements could result in more restrictive regulations and harm our results if our supplements or advertising activities are found to violate existing or new regulations or if we are not able to effect necessary changes to our products in a timely and efficient manner to respond to new regulations.

There has been an increasing movement in the United States and other markets to increase the regulation of dietary supplements, which could impose additional restrictions or requirements on us and increase the cost of doing business. On February 11, 2019, the FDA issued a statement from FDA Commissioner, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, regarding the agency's efforts to strengthen the regulation of dietary supplements. The FDA will be prioritizing and focusing resources on misbranded products bearing unproven claims to treat, cure, or mitigate disease. Commissioner Gottlieb established a Dietary Supplement Working Group tasked with reviewing the agency's organizational structure, process, procedures, and practices to identify opportunities to modernize the oversight of dietary supplements. Additionally, on December 21, 2015, the FDA created the Office of Dietary Supplements (“ODSP”). The creation of this new office elevates the FDA’s program from its previous status as a division under the Office of Nutrition and Dietary Supplements. ODSP will continue to monitor the safety of dietary supplements. In markets outside of the United States, prior to commencing operations or marketing new products, we may be required to obtain approvals, registrations, licenses, or certifications from an agency comparable to the FDA for the specific market. Approvals or registration may require reformulation of our products or may be unavailable to us with respect to certain products or ingredients. We must also comply with product labeling regulations, which vary by jurisdiction.

In several of our markets, new regulations have been adopted, or are likely to be adopted, in the near-term that will impose new requirements, make changes in some classifications of supplements under the regulations, or limit the claims we can make. In addition, there has been increased regulatory scrutiny of nutritional supplements and marketing claims under existing and new regulations. In Europe, for example, we are unable to market supplements that contain ingredients that have not been previously marketed in Europe without going through an extensive registration and approval process. Europe is also expected to adopt additional regulations in the future to set new limits on acceptable levels of nutrients. South Africa has also implemented new “complementary medicine” legislation, which requires a significant dossier in order to register current and new products. Mannatech is working toward complying with the new legislation and is in contact with the Direct Selling Association in South Africa. In August 2016, the FDA published its revised draft guidance on Dietary Supplements: New Dietary Ingredient Notifications and Related Issues. If a company sells a dietary supplement containing an ingredient that FDA considers either not a dietary ingredient or a new dietary ingredient (“NDI”) that needs an NDI notification, the agency may threaten or initiate enforcement against the Company. For example, it might send a warning letter that can trigger consumer lawsuits, demand a product recall, or even work with the Department of Justice to bring a criminal action. Our operations could be harmed if new guidance or regulations require us to reformulate products or effect new registrations, if regulatory authorities make determinations that any of our products do not comply with applicable regulatory requirements, if the cost of complying with regulatory requirements increases materially,

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or if we are not able to effect necessary changes to our products in a timely and efficient manner to respond to new regulations. In addition, our operations could be harmed if governmental laws or regulations are enacted that restrict the ability of companies to market or distribute nutritional supplements or impose additional burdens or requirements on nutritional supplement companies.

13.
If we are unable to protect the proprietary rights of our products, our business could suffer.

Our success and competitive position largely depend on our ability to protect the following proprietary rights:

our Ambrotose® complex, a glyconutritional dietary supplement ingredient consisting of a blend of monosaccharides, or sugar molecules, used in the majority of our products;
the MTech AO Blend® formulation, our proprietary antioxidant technology used in the Ambrotose AO® complex; and
a compound used in our reformulated Advanced Ambrotose® complex that allows for a more potent concentration of the full range of mannose-containing polysaccharides occurring naturally in aloe.

We have filed patent applications for the technology relating to our Ambrotose®, Ambrotose AO®, PhytoMatrix®, NutriVerus™, PhytoBurst®, and GI-ProBalance® products in the United States and certain foreign countries. As of December 31, 2018, we had 10 patents for the technology relating to our Ambrotose formulation, all of which were issued, granted, and validated in 10 foreign jurisdictions. In addition, we have entered into confidentiality agreements with our independent associates, suppliers, manufacturers, directors, officers, and consultants to help protect our proprietary rights. Nevertheless, we continue to face the risk that our pending patent applications for our products may not issue or that the patent protection granted is more limited than originally requested. As a precaution, we consult with outside legal counsel and consultants to help ensure that we protect our proprietary rights. However, our business, profitability, and growth prospects could be adversely affected if we fail to receive adequate protection of our proprietary rights.

Although several patents pertaining to Ambrotose® technology have expired, Mannatech continues to actively explore additional patent protection of its technology and pursue expanded patent protection strategies.  Our Ambrotose® product formulation has proprietary elements and we have contractual arrangements with certain suppliers affording us exclusive access to certain ingredients in those formulations. We have a number of pending patent applications for additional protection of Ambrotose®-related technology. The pending patent applications are at various stages of processing, depending on the timeline of each market’s patent offices.

Most of our patents for the Ambrotose AO®, GI-ProBalance®™, PhytoMatrix®, NutriVerus™, and PhytoBlend® formulations and our patents in the field of biomarker assays do not expire for another seven or more years.

14.
Our inability to develop and introduce new products that gain independent associate, preferred customer, and market acceptance could harm our business.

A critical component of our business is our ability to develop new products that create enthusiasm among our independent associates and preferred customers. If we are unable to introduce new products, our independent associate productivity could be harmed. In addition, if any new products fail to gain market acceptance, are restricted by regulatory requirements or have quality problems, this would harm our results of operations. Factors that could affect our ability to continue to introduce new products include, among others, government regulations, the inability to attract and retain qualified research and development staff, the termination of third-party research and collaborative arrangements, proprietary protections of competitors that may limit our ability to offer comparable products, and the difficulties in anticipating changes in consumer tastes and buying preferences.


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15.
Our failure to appropriately respond to changing consumer preferences and demand for new products or product enhancements could significantly harm our relationship with independent associates and preferred customers, our product sales, as well as our financial condition and operating results.

Our business is subject to changing consumer trends and preferences, including rapid and frequent changes in demand for products, new product introductions, and enhancements. Our failure to accurately predict these trends could negatively impact consumer opinion of our products, which in turn could harm our independent associate and preferred customer relationships and cause the loss of sales. The success of our new product offerings and enhancements depends upon a number of factors, including our ability to:

accurately anticipate consumer needs;
innovate and develop new products or product enhancements that meet these needs;
successfully commercialize new products or product enhancements in a timely manner;
price our products competitively;
manufacture and deliver our products in sufficient volumes and in a timely manner; and
differentiate our product offerings from those of our competitors.

If we do not introduce new products or make enhancements to meet the changing needs of our independent associates and preferred customers in a timely manner, some of our products could be rendered obsolete, which could negatively impact our revenues, financial condition, and operating results.

16.
If our outside suppliers and manufacturers fail to supply products in sufficient quantities and in a timely fashion, our business could suffer.

Outside manufacturers make all of our products. Our profit margins and timely product delivery are dependent upon the ability of our outside suppliers and manufacturers to supply us with products in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Our ability to enter new markets and sustain satisfactory levels of sales in each market depends on the ability of our outside suppliers and manufacturers to provide required levels of ingredients and products and to comply with all applicable regulations. As a precaution, we have approved alternate suppliers and manufacturers for our products. However, the failure of our primary suppliers or manufacturers to supply ingredients or produce our products could adversely affect our business operations.

We believe we have dependable suppliers for all of our ingredients and we have identified alternative sources for all of our ingredients, except Arabinogalactan. Due to the unique nature of Arabinogalactan, an important component used in the formulation of our Ambrotose ® complex, we are unable to identify an alternative supplier at this time. If our suppliers are unable to perform, any delay in replacing or substituting such ingredients could affect our business.

17.
The loss of suppliers or shortages of raw materials could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.

We depend on outside suppliers for raw materials.  Our contract manufacturers acquire all of the raw materials for manufacturing our products from third-party suppliers.  In the event we were to lose any significant suppliers and have trouble in finding or transitioning to alternative suppliers, it could result in product shortages or product back orders, which could harm our business.  There can be no assurance that suppliers will be able to provide our contract manufacturers the raw materials in the quantities and at the appropriate level of quality that we request or at a price that we are willing to pay.  We are also subject to delays caused by any interruption in the production of these materials including weather, crop conditions, climate change, transportation interruptions and natural disasters or other catastrophic events.


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18.
If we are exposed to product liability claims, we may be liable for damages and expenses, which could affect our overall financial condition.

We could face financial liability from product liability claims if the use of our products results in significant loss or injury. We can make no assurances that we will not be exposed to any substantial future product liability claims. Such claims may include claims that our products contain contaminants, that we provide our independent associates and consumers with inadequate instructions regarding product use, or that we provide inadequate warnings concerning side effects or interactions of our products with other substances. We believe that we, our suppliers, and our manufacturers maintain adequate product liability insurance coverage. However, a substantial future product liability claim could exceed the amount of insurance coverage or could be excluded under the terms of an existing insurance policy, which could adversely affect our overall future financial condition.

In recent years, a discovery of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (“BSE”), which is commonly referred to as “Mad Cow Disease”, has caused concern among the general public. As a result, some countries have banned the importation or sale of products that contain bovine materials sourced from locations where BSE has been identified. We have changed the vast majority of our capsules to a vegetable base. However, if a vegetable base is not available or practical for use, certifications are required to ensure the capsule material is BSE-free. The higher costs could affect our financial condition, results of operations, and our cash flows.

19.
Concentration Risk

A significant portion of our revenue is derived from our Advanced Ambrotose®, Ambrotose Life™, TruHealth, Manapol® Powder and Ambrotose® products. A decline in sales value of such products could have a material adverse effect on our earnings, cash flows, and financial position. Revenue from these products were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands, except percentages):

 
2018

2017
 
Sales by
product

% of total
net sales

Sales by
product

% of total
net sales
Advanced Ambrotose®
$
44,054


25.4
%

$
52,592


29.8
%
Ambrotose Life™
18,824


10.9
%



%
TruHealth
17,537


10.1
%

16,652


9.4
%
Manapol® Powder
8,636


5.0
%

11,183


6.3
%
Ambrotose®
7,695


4.4
%

8,459


4.8
%
Total
$
96,746


55.8
%

$
88,886


50.3
%

Our business is not currently exposed to customer concentration risk given that no independent associate has ever accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated net sales.

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20.
If we incur substantial liability from litigation, complaints, or enforcement actions or incur liabilities or penalties resulting from misconduct by our independent associates, our financial condition could suffer.

Routine enforcement actions and complaints are common in our industry. Although we believe we fully cooperate with regulatory agencies and use various means to address misconduct by our independent associates, including maintaining policies and procedures to govern the conduct of our independent associates and conducting training seminars, it is still difficult to detect and correct all instances of misconduct. Violations of our policies and procedures by our independent associates could lead to litigation, formal or informal complaints, enforcement actions, and inquiries by various federal, state, or foreign regulatory authorities against us and/or our independent associates in each country. Because we have expanded into foreign countries, our policies and procedures for our independent associates differ depending on the different legal requirements of each country in which an independent associate does business. Any future litigation, complaints, and enforcement actions involving us and/or our independent associates could consume considerable amounts of financial and other corporate resources, which could have a negative impact on our business, profitability, and growth prospects.

21.
The global nutrition and skin care industries are intensely competitive and the strengthening of any of our competitors could harm our business.

The global nutrition and skin care industries are intensely fragmented and competitive. We compete for independent associates with other network marketing companies outside the global nutrition and skin care industries. Many of our competitors have greater name recognition and financial resources, which may give them a competitive advantage. Our competitors may also be able to devote greater resources to marketing, promotional, and pricing campaigns that may influence our continuing and potential independent associates and preferred customers to buy products from competitors rather than from us. Such competition could adversely affect our business and current market share.

22.
A downturn in the economy could affect consumer purchases of discretionary items such as the health and wellness products that we offer, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, profitability, and cash flows.

We appeal to a wide demographic consumer profile and offer a broad selection of health and wellness products. A downturn in the economy could adversely impact consumer purchases of discretionary items such as health and wellness products. The United States and global economies may slow dramatically as a result of a variety of problems, including turmoil in the credit and financial markets, concerns regarding the stability and viability of major financial institutions, the state of the housing markets, and volatility in worldwide stock markets. In the event of such economic downturn, the U.S. and global economies could become significantly challenged in a recessionary state for an indeterminate period of time. These economic conditions could cause many of our existing and potential associates to delay or reduce purchases of our products for some time, which in turn could harm our business by adversely affecting our revenues, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. We cannot predict these economic conditions or the impact they would have on our consumers or business.


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23.
If our international markets are not successful, our business could suffer.

We currently sell our products in the international markets of Canada, Mexico, Colombia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Namibia, Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China. We operate in China on a non-direct selling business model instead of our traditional network marketing model. In China, multi-level marketing is prohibited by the Prohibition of Pyramid Selling and direct selling without a license is prohibited by the Regulation on the Administration of Direct Sales. Our international operations could experience changes in legal and regulatory requirements, as well as difficulties in adapting to new foreign cultures and business customs. If we do not adequately address such issues, our international markets may not meet growth expectations. Our international operations and future expansion plans are subject to political, economic, and social uncertainties, including:

inflation;
the renegotiation or modification of various agreements;
increases in custom duties and tariffs;
changes and limits in export controls;
complex U.S. and foreign laws, treaties and regulations, including without limitation, tax laws, the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), and similar anti-bribery and corruption acts and regulations in many of the markets in which we operate;
trademark availability and registration issues;
changes in exchange rates;
changes in taxation;
wars, civil unrest, acts of terrorism and other hostilities;
political, economic, and social conditions;
changes to trade practice laws or regulations governing direct selling and network marketing;
increased government scrutiny surrounding direct selling and network marketing;
changes in the perception of network marketing; and
risk of our independent associates offering business opportunities in China.

The risks outlined above could adversely affect our ability to sell products, obtain international customers, or to operate our international business profitably, which would have a negative impact on our overall business and results of operations. Furthermore, any negative changes in our distribution channels may force us to invest significant time and money related to our distribution and sales to maintain our position in certain international markets.


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24.
Adverse or negative publicity could cause our business to suffer.

Our business depends, in part, on the public’s perception of our integrity and the safety and quality of our products. Any adverse publicity could negatively affect the public’s perception about our industry, our products, or our reputation and could result in a significant decline in our operations and/or the number of our independent associates. Specifically, we are susceptible to adverse or negative publicity regarding:

the nutritional supplements industry;
skeptical consumers;
competitors;
the safety and quality of our products and/or our ingredients;
regulatory investigations of our products or our competitors’ products;
the actions of our independent associates;
the direct selling/network marketing industry; and
scandals within the industries in which we operate.

25.
If our information technology system fails or if the implementation of new information technology systems is not executed efficiently and effectively, our business, financial position, and our operating results could be adversely affected.

Like many companies, our business is heavily dependent upon our information technology infrastructure to effectively manage and operate many of our key business functions, including:
order processing;
supply chain management;
customer service;
product distribution;
commission processing;
cash receipts and payments; and
financial reporting.

These systems and operations are vulnerable to damage and interruption from fires, earthquakes, telecommunications failures, and other events. They are also subject to break-ins, sabotage, intentional acts of vandalism and similar misconduct. Although we maintain an extensive security system and business continuity program that was developed under the guidelines published by the National Institute of Standards of Technology, a long-term failure or impairment of any of our information technology systems could adversely affect our ability to conduct day-to-day business.

Occasionally information technology systems must be upgraded or replaced and if this system implementation is not executed efficiently and effectively, the implementation may cause interruptions in our primary management information systems, which may make our website or services unavailable thereby preventing us from processing transactions, which would adversely affect our financial position or operating results.


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The regulatory climate for data privacy and protection continues to grow in scope and complexity both domestically and in the international markets in which we operate. Although there is no single federal law in the United States imposing a cross-sectoral data breach notification obligation, virtually every state has enacted breach notification requirements. Additionally, many of the international countries in which we operate have proposed or enacted laws or regulations on the appropriate use and disclosure of financial and personal data. The European Union (“EU”) adopted the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) on April 27, 2016. The GDPR went into effect on May 25, 2018. The GDPR applies to organizations based in the EU and organizations based outside of the EU that offer products or services to individuals in the EU or that otherwise monitor individuals in the EU. While U.S. state laws generally cover specific categories of sensitive personal data (e.g., social security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers), the GDPR notification requirements will apply to incidents involving any personal data, meaning any data related to an identified person. In Canada, the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (“PIPEDA”) went into effect on November 1, 2018. PIPEDA applies to foreign organizations with a real and substantial link to Canada that collect, use, or disclose the personal information of Canadians in the course of their commercial activities. Under PIPEDA, an organization must notify individuals of any breach of the security of safeguards involving their personal information if it is reasonable to believe that the breach creates a “real risk of significant harm.” Concurrently, the organization must also report to the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. Our failure or inability to comply with data protection regimes domestically and in foreign countries could result in fines, penalties, injunctions, or material litigation expenditures.


With increased frequency in recent years, cyber-attacks against companies have resulted in breaches of data security. Our business requires the storage and transmission of suppliers’ data and our independent associates’ and customers’ personal, credit card, and other confidential information. Our information technology systems are susceptible to a growing and evolving threat of cybersecurity risk. Any substantial compromise of our data security, whether externally or internally, or misuse of associate, customer, or employee data, could cause considerable damage to our reputation, cause the public disclosure of confidential information, and result in lost sales, significant costs, and litigation, which would negatively affect our financial position and results of operations. Although we maintain policies and processes surrounding the protection of sensitive data, which we believe to be adequate, there can be no assurances that we will not be subject to such claims in the future.

26.
Taxation and transfer pricing affect our operations and we could be subjected to additional taxes, duties, interest, and penalties in material amounts, which could harm our business.

As a multinational corporation, in many countries, including the United States, we are subject to transfer pricing and other tax regulations designed to ensure that our intercompany transactions are consummated at prices that have not been manipulated to produce a desired tax result, that appropriate levels of income are reported as earned by the local entities, and that we are taxed appropriately on such transactions. Regulators closely monitor our corporate structure, intercompany transactions, and how we effectuate intercompany fund transfers. If regulators challenge our corporate structure, transfer pricing methodologies or intercompany transfers, our operations may be harmed and our effective tax rate may increase. Scrutiny has increased with the advent of the OECD Base Erosion and Profit Shifting project.

On December 22, 2017, the U.S. enacted the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Act"). The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") continues to issue guidance related to the passage of the Act. As new guidance is issued it may have a material impact on our financial statements. In addition, there is a risk that U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions may amend their tax laws in response to the Act, which could have a material impact on our future results. Our existing tax structure was designed prior to this legislation. Under the Act, our future taxes might be higher, which may have a material impact on our profitability.

We are subject to income taxes in the U.S. and numerous international jurisdictions. Our income tax provision and cash tax liability in the future could be adversely affected by changes in earnings in countries with differing statutory tax rates, changes in the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, changes in tax laws and the discovery of new information in the course of our tax return preparation process. We are also subject to ongoing tax audits. These audits can involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve and can be highly judgmental. Tax authorities may disagree with certain tax reporting positions taken by us and, as a result, assess additional taxes against us. We regularly assess the likely outcomes of these audits in order to determine the appropriateness of our tax provision. The amounts ultimately paid upon resolution of these or subsequent tax audits could be materially different from the amount previously included in our income tax provision, and, therefore, could have a material impact on our profitability.


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Table of Contents

27.
Currency exchange rate fluctuations could reduce our overall profits.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, we recognized 73.9% of net sales in markets outside of the United States and 66.2% in markets outside of the Americas. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we recognized 72.2% of net sales in markets outside of the United States and 63.7% in markets outside of the Americas. In preparing our consolidated financial statements, we are required to translate certain financial information from foreign currencies to the United States dollar using either the spot rate or the weighted-average exchange rate. If the United States dollar changes relative to applicable local currencies, there is a risk our reported sales, operating expenses, and net income could significantly fluctuate. For example, while our 2018 net sales declined 2.7% on a Constant dollar basis (see Item 7, Non-GAAP Financial Measures), favorable foreign exchange caused a $1.7 million increase in GAAP net sales as compared to 2017.  In other words, sales would have been $1.7 million lower, except for the impact of foreign exchange. There can be no assurance that foreign currency fluctuations will not have a material adverse effect on our business, assets, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations or cash flows. We are not able to predict the degree of exchange rate fluctuations, nor can we estimate the effect any future fluctuations may have upon our future operations. To date, we have not entered into any hedging contracts or participated in any hedging or derivative activities.

28.
Our stock price is volatile and may fluctuate significantly.

The price of our common stock is subject to sudden and material increases and decreases. Decreases could adversely affect investments in our common stock. The price of our common stock and the price at which we could sell securities in the future could significantly fluctuate in response to:
broad market fluctuations and general economic conditions;
fluctuations in our financial results;
future securities offerings;
changes in the market’s perception of our products or our business, including false or negative publicity;
governmental regulatory actions;
the outcome of any lawsuits;
financial and business announcements made by us or our competitors;
the demand and daily trading volume of our shares;
the general condition of the industry; and
the sale of large amounts of stock by insiders.

In addition, the stock market has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations in recent years that have significantly affected the quoted prices of the securities of many companies. The changes sometimes appear to occur without regard to specific operating performance. The price of our common stock in the open market could fluctuate based on factors that have little or nothing to do with us or that are outside of our control. For example, general economic conditions, such as recession or interest rate or currency rate fluctuations in the United States or abroad, could negatively affect the market price of our common stock in the future.

29.
Certain shareholders, directors, and officers own a significant amount of our stock, which could allow them to influence corporate transactions and other matters.

As of December 31, 2018, our directors and executive officers collectively with their families and affiliates, beneficially owned approximately 32.6% of our total outstanding common stock. As a result, if two or more of these shareholders choose to act together based on their current share ownership, they may be able to control a significant percentage of the total outstanding shares of our common stock, which could affect the outcome of a shareholder vote on the election of directors, the adoption of stock option plans, the adoption or amendment of provisions in our articles of incorporation and bylaws, or the approval of mergers and other significant corporate transactions.


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Table of Contents

30.
We have implemented anti-takeover provisions that may help discourage a change of control.

Certain provisions in our articles of incorporation, bylaws, and the Texas Business Organizations Code help discourage unsolicited proposals to acquire our Company, even if the proposal may benefit our shareholders. Our articles of incorporation authorize the issuance of preferred stock without shareholder approval. Our Board of Directors has the power to determine the price and terms of any preferred stock. The ability of our Board of Directors to issue one or more series of preferred stock without shareholders’ approval could deter or delay unsolicited changes of control by discouraging open market purchases of our common stock or a non-negotiated tender or exchange offer for our common stock. Discouraging open market purchases may be disadvantageous to our shareholders who may otherwise desire to participate in a transaction in which they would receive a premium for their shares.

In addition, other provisions may also discourage a change of control by means of a tender offer, open market purchase, proxy contest or otherwise. Our charter documents provide for three classes of directors on our Board of Directors with members of each class serving staggered three year terms. Our bylaws provide that directors are elected by a plurality vote and that directors can only be removed for cause upon the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares entitled to be cast for the election of such directors.  Furthermore, our bylaws establish advance notice requirements for nominations for election to our board of directors or for proposing matters that can be acted on by shareholders at shareholder meetings. In addition, the Texas Business Organization Code restricts, subject to exceptions, business combinations with any “affiliated shareholder.” Any or all of these provisions could delay, deter or help prevent a takeover of our Company and could limit the price investors are willing to pay for our common stock.

31.
Our failure to comply with The Nasdaq Global Select Market continued listing standards may adversely affect the price and liquidity of our shares of common stock as well as our ability to raise capital in the future.

Our common stock is currently listed on The Nasdaq Global Select Market. Continued listing of a security on Nasdaq is conditioned upon compliance with various continued listing standards. There can be no assurance that we will continue to satisfy the requirements for maintaining listing on Nasdaq. If we are unsuccessful in maintaining compliance with the continued listing requirements of Nasdaq, then our common stock could be delisted. If our common stock is delisted and we cannot obtain listing on another major market or exchange, our common stock’s liquidity would suffer, and we would likely experience reduced investor interest. Such factors may result in a decrease in our common stock’s trading price. Delisting may also restrict us from issuing additional securities or securing financing.

As of the date of issuance of this report, we were in compliance with the continued listing requirements. However, we cannot assure you that we will be successful in continuing to meet all requisite continued listing criteria.

32.
We are not required to pay dividends, and our Board of Directors may decide not to declare dividends in the future.

The declaration of dividends on our common stock is solely within the discretion of our Board of Directors, subject to limitations under Texas law stipulating that dividends may not be paid if payment therefore would cause the corporation to be insolvent or if the amount of the dividend would exceed the surplus of the corporation. Our Board of Directors may decide not to declare dividends or we could be prevented from declaring a dividend because of legal or contractual restrictions. The failure to pay dividends could reduce our stock price.


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Table of Contents

33.
We rely upon our existing cash balances and cash flow from operations to fund our business and meet our contractual obligations. In the event that we do not generate adequate cash flow from operations, we will need to raise money through a debt or equity financing, if available, or curtail operations.

The adequacy of our cash resources to continue to meet our future operational needs depends, in large part, on our ability to increase product sales and/or reduce operating costs and some of these costs are fixed contractual obligations. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, cash and cash equivalents held in bank accounts in foreign countries totaled $19.9 million and $30.6 million, respectively.

We maintain supply agreements with our suppliers and manufacturers.  Certain of our supply agreements contain exclusivity clauses for the supply of certain raw materials and products, some of which are conditioned upon compliance with minimum purchase requirements.  One of our supply agreements, under which the supplier provides us with certain aloe vera-based products, requires us to purchase products in an aggregate amount of $9.8 million through 2020.  Failure to satisfy minimum purchase requirements could result in the loss of exclusivity, which could adversely affect our business.

If we are unsuccessful in generating positive cash flow from operations, we could exhaust our available cash resources and be required to secure additional funding through a debt or equity financing, transfer cash in a manner that could be taxed, significantly scale back our operations, and/or discontinue many of our activities, which could negatively affect our business and prospects. Additional funding may not be available or may only be available on unfavorable terms.

34.
The reduced disclosure requirements applicable to us as a "smaller reporting company" may make our common stock less attractive to investors.

We are a "smaller reporting company" as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. As a smaller reporting company we prepare and file SEC forms similar to other SEC reporting companies; however, the information disclosed may differ and be less comprehensive. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result of less comprehensive information we may disclose pursuant to the exemptions available to us as a smaller reporting company, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile than that of an otherwise comparable company that does not avail itself of the same or similar exemptions.

Circumstances and conditions may change. Accordingly, additional risks and uncertainties not currently known, or that we currently deem not material, may also adversely affect our business operations.

Item 1B.
Unresolved Staff Comments

None.


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Item 2.
Properties

We lease property at several locations for our headquarters and distribution facilities, including:
Location
 
Size
 
Expiration date
 
 
 
 
 
Flower Mound, Texas (corporate headquarters)
 
52,992 sq. feet
 
May 2028
St. Leonards, Australia (Australian headquarters)
 
850 sq. meters(1) 
 
December 2020
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan (Japanese headquarters)
 
150 Tsubos(2)
 
September 2019
Chuo-ku, Osaka, Japan (Japanese training center)
 
73 Tsubos(3)
 
August 2020
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea (Republic of Korea headquarters)
 
298 Pyong(4)
 
June 2020
Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea (Seoul training center)
 
519 Pyong(4)
 
June 2020
Seo-gu, Daejun, Korea (Regional center)
 
113 Pyong(5)
 
June 2019
Haewoondae-gu, Busan, Korea (Pusan training center)
 
191 Pyong(6)
 
March 2019
Incheon, South Korea (Incheon training center)
 
218 Pyong(7)
 
April 2019
Taipei, Taiwan (Taiwan headquarters)
 
172 Pings(8)
 
February 2020
Zug, Switzerland (Switzerland headquarters)
 
680 sq. meters(9)
 
(17)
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong (office)
 
4,334 sq. feet
 
June 2019
Hengqin, Zhuhai, China (office)
 
677 sq. feet
 
November 2019
Tianhe, Guangzhou, China (office)
 
129 sq. feet
 
July 2019
Richmond, BC (Canada training center)
 
1,963 sq. feet
 
September 2022
Markham, ON (office)
 
1,714 sq. feet
 
September 2019
Bedfordview, South Africa (office)
 
383 sq. meters(10)
 
(18)
Guadalajara, Mexico (customer service center)
 
389 sq. meters(11)
 
(19)
Mexico City, 1st flr Mexico (customer service center)
 
123 sq. meters(12)
 
August 2019
Mexico City, 3rd flr Mexico
 
123 sq. meters(13)
 
June 2019
Monterrey, Mexico (office)
 
149.16 sq. meters(14)
 
June 2019
Colima, Mexico (office)
 
68 sq. meters(15)
 
December 2019
Bogota, Columbia (office)
 
19.2 sq. meters(16)
 
April 2019
 
(1) Approximately 9,150 square feet & subleases 2,153 sq. ft. to Morrison Design Partnership.
(2) Approximately 5,338 square feet.
(3) Approximately 2,598 square feet.
(4) Approximately 29,071 square feet.
(5) Approximately 4,021 square feet. 
(6) Approximately 6,796 square feet.
(7) Approximately 7,757 square feet.
(8) Approximately 6,118 square feet.
(9) Approximately 7,319 square feet.
(10) Approximately 4,122 square feet.
(11) Approximately 4,187 square feet.
(12) Approximately 1,324 square feet.
(13) Approximately 1,324 square feet.
(14) Approximately 1,606 square feet.
(15) Approximately 732 square feet.
(16) Approximately 207 square feet.
(17) Renewable annually.
(18) Renewable annually.
(19) Renewable monthly.


To maximize our operating strategy and minimize costs, we contract with third-party distribution and fulfillment facilities in our three regions: (i) the Americas, (ii) EMEA and (iii) Asia/Pacific. By entering into these third-party distribution facility agreements, our offices maintain flexible operating capacity, minimize shipping costs, and are able to process an order within 24-hours after order placement and receipt of payment.

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Table of Contents

    
Item 3.
Legal Proceedings

See Note 12 to our Consolidated Financial Statement, Litigation, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.


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Table of Contents

PART II

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

Market for Our Common Stock . On February 12, 1999, we completed our initial public offering. Our common stock is currently trading on Nasdaq under the symbol “MTEX.”

Holders. As of February 28, 2019, there were 1,275 shareholders of record.

Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities. None.

Uses of Proceeds from Registered Securities. None.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

The following information is provided pursuant to Item 703 of Regulation S-K:
Period
 
Total number
of shares
purchased
 
Average
price
paid per share
 
Total number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced programs(a)
 
Dollar value of
shares that may yet
 be purchased (b)
(in thousands)
October 1, 2018 - October 31, 2018
 

 
$

 

 
$

November 1, 2018 - November 30, 2018
 

 
$

 

 

December 1, 2018 - December 31, 2018
 
5,095

 
$
19.63

 
5,095

 
18,902

Total
 
5,095

 
 

 
5,095

 
 

(a)We have an ongoing authorization, originally approved by our Board of Directors on August 28, 2006, and subsequently reactivated by our Board of Directors in August of 2016 and December of 2017, to repurchase up to $0.5 million (of the original $20.0 million authorization), respectively, in shares of our common stock in the open market. In August of 2018 and November of 2018, our Board of Directors reactivated an additional $0.5 million (of the original $20.0 million authorization), respectively, in shares of our common stock to be repurchased in the open market.
(b)Remaining value of the original $20.0 million approved on August 28, 2006 (the “August 2006 Plan”).

Item 6.
Selected Financial Data

Not applicable for a Smaller Reporting Company.

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

The following discussion is intended to assist in the understanding of our consolidated financial position and our results of operations for each of the two years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. This discussion should be read in conjunction with “Item 15. – Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes,” beginning on page F-1 of this report and with other financial information included elsewhere in this report. Unless stated otherwise, all financial information presented below, throughout this report, and in the consolidated financial statements and related notes includes Mannatech and all of our subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. Refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Measure section herein for a description of how Constant dollar (“Constant dollar”) growth rate (a Non-GAAP financial metric) is determined.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Mannatech is a global wellness solution provider, which was incorporated and began operations in November 1993. We develop and sell innovative, high quality, proprietary nutritional supplements, topical and skin care and anti-aging products, and weight-management products that target optimal health and wellness. We currently sell our products in three regions: (i) the Americas (the United States, Canada, Colombia and Mexico); (ii) Europe/the Middle East/Africa (“EMEA”) (Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom); and (iii) Asia/Pacific (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China).

On July 1, 2017, we revised our 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was designed to stimulate business growth and development for our active business building associates and to maximize the buying experience for our preferred customers. In doing so, the Company hopes to better utilize commission dollars to stimulate Company growth.  The 2017 Associate Compensation Plan provides revised income streams, new leadership levels and titles, and modified various volume requirements for our associates. In addition, the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan re-designated members as preferred customers and modified their pricing structure.

We conduct our business as a single reporting segment and primarily sell our products through a network of approximately 200,000 active associates and preferred customer positions held by individuals that had purchased our products and/or packs or paid associate fees during the last 12 months, who we refer to as current associates and preferred customers. New pack sales and the receipt of new associate fees in connection with new positions in our network are leading indicators for the long-term success of our business. New associate or preferred customer positions are created in our network when our associate fees are paid or packs and products are purchased for the first time under a new account. We operate as a seller of nutritional supplements, topical and skin care and anti-aging products, and weight-management products through our network marketing distribution channels operating in 25 countries and cross-border e-commerce retail in China. We review and analyze net sales by geographical location and by packs and products on a consolidated basis. Each of our subsidiaries sells similar products and exhibits similar economic characteristics, such as selling prices and gross margins.

Because we sell our products through network marketing distribution channels, the opportunities and challenges that affect us most are: recruitment of new and retention of current associates and preferred customers that occupy sales or purchasing positions in our network; entry into new markets and growth of existing markets; niche market development; new product introduction; and investment in our infrastructure. Our subsidiary in China, Meitai, is currently operating as a traditional retailer under a cross-border e-commerce model. Meitai cannot legally conduct a direct selling business in China until it acquires a direct selling license in China.


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Current Economic Conditions and Recent Developments

Overall net sales decreased $3.1 million, or 1.8%, for 2018, as compared to 2017. While our 2018 net sales declined $4.8 million, or 2.7%, on a Constant dollar basis (see Non-GAAP Financial Measures, below), favorable foreign exchange caused a $1.7 million increase in GAAP net sales as compared to 2017.
 
Our operations outside of the Americas accounted for approximately 66.2% and 63.7% of our consolidated net sales for 2018 and 2017, respectively.

The net sales comparisons for the year ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 were primarily affected by our 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was strategically designed to de-emphasize the importance of pack sales in order to stay current and competitive with industry changes.

In connection with the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, pack sales have been replaced with associate fees for the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom . Associate fees, which an associate must pay annually in order to be entitled to earn commissions, benefits and incentives in these regions, now average approximately $26 annually (which may vary across geographic markets). Pack sales had an average value of $197 during fiscal year 2017 before we implemented the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan. As we roll out associate fees (and replace pack sales) across our remaining markets, we expect to see a decrease in future sales volumes from pack sales. However, actual results may vary from our expectations.

As a result of this aforementioned change associated with implementing the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, pack sales (as well as other revenue metrics related to packs) decreased relative to comparative periods. The number of packs sold to, and associate fees paid by, new and continuing independent associates and preferred customers decreased 7.6% during 2018 to approximately 96,700 as compared to 104,600 during 2017. In addition, average pack value decreased by $110, to $26 for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to $136 for the same period in 2017.

The number of product orders decreased 5.2% during the year ended December 31, 2018 to approximately 893,500 as compared to 942,300 during the same period in 2017. This decrease was partially offset by a $15 increase in the average product order sale, to $197 for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to $182 for the same period in 2017.

Excluding the effects due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, net sales would have decreased $4.8 million for 2018. These adjusted net sales expressed in Constant dollars are a non-GAAP financial measure discussed in further detail below.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Year Ended December 31, 2018 compared to Year Ended December 31, 2017

The tables below summarize our consolidated operating results in dollars and as a percentage of net sales for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands, except percentages).

 
2018
 
2017
 
Change
 
Total
Dollars
 
% of
net sales
 
Total
dollars
 
% of
net sales
 
Dollar
 
Percentage
Net sales
$
173,558

 
100.0
 %
 
$
176,696

 
100.0
 %
 
$
(3,138
)
 
(1.8
)%
Cost of sales
34,476

 
19.9
 %
 
35,667

 
20.2
 %
 
(1,191
)
 
(3.3
)%
Gross profit
139,082

 
80.1
 %
 
141,029

 
79.8
 %
 
(1,947
)
 
(1.4
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Commissions and incentives
73,514

 
42.4
 %
 
74,550

 
42.2
 %
 
(1,036
)
 
(1.4
)%
Selling and administrative expenses
34,156

 
19.7
 %
 
35,470

 
20.1
 %
 
(1,314
)
 
(3.7
)%
Depreciation and amortization
2,064

 
1.2
 %
 
1,864

 
1.0
 %
 
200

 
10.7
 %
Other operating costs
29,438

 
17.0
 %
 
26,626

 
15.1
 %
 
2,812

 
10.6
 %
Total operating expenses
139,172

 
80.2
 %
 
138,510

 
78.4
 %
 
662

 
0.5
 %
Income (loss) from operations
(90
)
 
(0.1
)%
 
2,519

 
1.4
 %
 
(2,609
)
 
(103.6
)%
Interest income
288

 
0.2
 %
 
274

 
0.2
 %
 
14

 
5.1
 %
Other income (expense), net
291

 
0.2
 %
 
(333
)
 
(0.2
)%
 
624

 
187.4
 %
Income (Loss) before income taxes
489

 
0.3
 %
 
2,460

 
1.4
 %
 
(1,971
)
 
80.1
 %
Income tax provision
(4,375
)
 
(2.5
)%
 
(4,247
)
 
(2.4
)%
 
(128
)
 
3.0
 %
Net loss
$
(3,886
)
 
(2.2
)%
 
$
(1,787
)
 
(1.0
)%
 
$
(2,099
)
 
(117.5
)%


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Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement our financial results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"), we disclose operating results that have been adjusted to exclude the impact of changes due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, including changes in: Net Sales, Gross Profit, and Income from Operations. We refer to these adjusted financial measures as Constant dollar items, which are Non-GAAP financial measures. We believe these measures provide investors an additional perspective on trends. To exclude the impact of changes due to the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, we calculate current year results and prior year results at a constant exchange rate, which is the prior year’s rate. Currency impact is determined as the difference between actual growth rates and constant currency growth rates.

 
2018
 
2017
 

Constant $ Change
 
GAAP
Measure:
Total $
 
Non-GAAP Measure:
Constant $
 
GAAP
Measure:
Total $
 
Dollar
 
Percent
Net sales
$
173.6

 
$
171.9

 
$
176.7

 
$
(4.8
)
 
(2.7
)%
Product
$
170.2

 
$
168.6

 
$
157.9

 
$
10.7

 
6.8
 %
Pack and associate fees(a)
$
2.5

 
$
2.4

 
$
14.2

 
$
(11.8
)
 
(83.1
)%
Other
$
0.9

 
$
0.9

 
$
4.6

 
$
(3.7
)
 
(80.4
)%
Gross profit
$
139.1

 
$
137.7

 
$
141.0

 
$
(3.3
)
 
(2.3
)%
Income (loss) from operations
$
(0.1
)
 
$
(0.5
)
 
$
2.5

 
$
(3.0
)
 
(120.0
)%
a)Coincident with the introduction of the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was implemented on July 1, 2017, the Company collects associate fees, which each associate pays to the Company annually in order to be entitled to earn commissions, benefits and incentives for that year. The Company collected associate fees within the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom during the year ended December 31, 2018. Prior to the change, associates purchased packs that were bundles of products within these respective geographic markets. Since implementing the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, total associate fees represented an immaterial amount of total sales.

Net Sales in Dollars and as a Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales

Consolidated net sales by region for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows (in millions, except percentages):

 
2018
 
2017
Americas
$
58.7

 
33.8
%
 
$
64.2

 
36.3
%
Asia/Pacific
101.7

 
58.6
%
 
98.8

 
55.9
%
EMEA
13.2

 
7.6
%
 
13.7

 
7.8
%
Total
$
173.6

 
100.0
%
 
$
176.7

 
100.0
%

Net Sales

Overall net sales decreased by $3.1 million, or 1.8%, for 2018, as compared to 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2018, our operations outside of the Americas accounted for approximately 66.2% of our consolidated net sales, whereas in the same period in 2017, our operations outside of the Americas accounted for approximately 63.7% of our consolidated net sales.

Sales for the Americas decreased by $5.5 million, or 8.6%, to $58.7 million for 2018 as compared to $64.2 million for the same period in 2017. This decrease was primarily due to a 5.3% decrease in revenue per active independent associate and preferred customer and a 1.2% decline in the number of active independent associates and preferred customers.

During 2018, Asia/Pacific sales increased by $2.9 million, or 2.9%, to $101.7 million as compared to $98.8 million for 2017. This increase was primarily due to a 20.9% increase in revenue per active independent associate and preferred customer and a 16.1% decrease in the number of active independent associates and preferred customers. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the loyalty program in Asia/Pacific increased sales by $1.6 million, as compared to the same period in 2017. Foreign currency exchange had the effect of decreasing revenue by $1.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to the same period in 2017. The currency impact is primarily due to the weakening of the Korean Won, Japanese Yen, Chinese Yuan,

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Singapore Dollar and Taiwanese Dollar, which was partially offset by the strengthening of the Australian Dollar, New Zealand Dollar and Hong Kong Dollar.

During 2018, EMEA sales decreased by $0.5 million, or 3.6%, to $13.2 million as compared to $13.7 million for 2017. This decrease was primarily due to a 10.8% decrease in revenue per active independent associate and preferred customer, which was partially offset by a 15.4% increase in the number of active independent associates and preferred customers. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the loyalty program in EMEA decreased net sales by $0.1 million. Foreign currency exchange had the effect of decreasing revenue by $0.2 million when the year ended December 31, 2018 is compared to the same period in 2017.  The currency impact is primarily due to the weakening of the South African Rand, British Pound and Euro.

Our total sales and sales mix could be influenced by any of the following:

changes in our sales prices;
changes in consumer demand;
changes in the number of independent associates and preferred customers;
changes in competitors’ products;
changes in economic conditions;
changes in regulations;
announcements of new scientific studies and breakthroughs;
introduction of new products;
discontinuation of existing products;
adverse publicity;
changes in our commissions and incentives programs;
direct competition; and
fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
Our sales mix for the years ended December 31, was as follows (in millions, except percentages):

 
 
Change
 
2018
 
2017
 
Dollar
 
Percentage
Consolidated product sales
$
170.2

 
$
157.9

 
$
12.3

 
7.8
 %
Consolidated pack sales and associate fees(a) 
2.5

 
14.2

 
(11.7
)
 
(82.4
)%
Consolidated other, including freight
0.9

 
4.6

 
(3.7
)
 
(80.4
)%
Total consolidated net sales
$
173.6

 
$
176.7

 
$
(3.1
)
 
(1.8
)%
a)Coincident with the introduction of the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was implemented on July 1, 2017, the Company collects associate fees, which each associate pays to the Company annually in order to be entitled to earn commissions, benefits and incentives for that year. The Company collected associate fees within the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom during the year ended December 31, 2018. Prior to the change, associates purchased packs that were bundles of products within these respective geographic markets. Since implementing the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, total associate fees represented an immaterial amount of total sales.

Product Sales

Our product sales are made to independent associates and preferred customers at published wholesale prices. Product sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 increased by $12.3 million, or 7.8%, to $170.2 million, as compared to $157.9 million for the same period in 2017. Of this increase, $3.2 million related to freight revenues that were included in product revenue in 2018 as a result of adopting Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 606 - Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASC 606"). The increase in product sales was primarily due to an increase in average order size. The average order value in 2018 was $197, as compared to $182 for the same period in 2017. The number of orders processed during the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased by 5.2% as compared to the same period in 2017.
 

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Table of Contents

Pack Sales and Associate Fees

As a result of the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was implemented on July 1, 2017, the Company now collects associate fees in lieu of selling packs in certain markets. Associate fees are paid annually by new and continuing associates to the Company, which entitle them to earn commissions, benefits and incentives for that year. The Company collected associate fees in lieu of pack sales within the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom during the year ended December 31, 2018. Prior to the change, pack sales represented sales of packs that were bundles of products within these respective geographic markets. Since implementing the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, total associate fees for these respective geographic markets represented an immaterial amount of total sales. In order to stay current and competitive with the industry changes, the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan was strategically designed to deemphasize the importance of pack sales.


In markets other than the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom, packs may still be purchased by our associates who wish to build a Mannatech business. We also do not collect associate fees or sell packs in our non-direct selling business in mainland China. These packs contain products that are discounted from both the published retail and associate prices. There are several pack options available to our associates. In certain of these markets, pack sales are completed during the final stages of the registration process and can provide new associates with valuable training and promotional materials, as well as products for resale to retail customers, demonstration purposes, and personal consumption. Business-building associates in these markets can also purchase an upgrade pack, which provides the associate with additional promotional materials, additional products, and eligibility for additional commissions and incentives.
 
The dollar amount of pack sales and associate fees associated with new and continuing independent associate positions held by individuals in our network was as follows, for the years ended December 31 ( in millions, except percentages):

 
 
 
Change
 
2018
 
2017
 
Dollar
 
Percentage
New
$
0.7

 
$
6.7

 
$
(6.0
)
 
(89.6
)%
Continuing
1.8

 
7.5

 
(5.7
)
 
(76.0
)%
Total
$
2.5

 
$
14.2

 
$
(11.7
)
 
(82.4
)%

Total pack sales and associate fees for the year ended December 31, 2018 decreased by $11.7 million, or 82.4%, to $2.5 million, as compared to $14.2 million for the same period in 2017 as the number of packs sold and associate fees collected decreased by 7.6%. Also, the average pack value for the year ended December 31, 2018 was $26, as compared to $136 for the same period in 2017.

During 2018 and 2017, we took the following actions in an effort to increase the number of independent associates and preferred customers:

registered our most popular products with the appropriate regulatory agencies in all countries of operations;
rolled out new products;
launched an aggressive marketing and educational campaign;
continued to strengthen compliance initiatives;
concentrated on publishing results of research studies and clinical trials related to our products;
initiated additional incentives;
explored new advertising and educational tools to broaden name recognition; and
implemented changes to our global associate career and compensation plan.


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Table of Contents

The approximate number of active new and continuing active associates and preferred customers who purchased our packs or products or paid associate fees during the twelve months ended December 31 was as follows:

 
2018

2017
New
86,000


43.0
%

96,000


44.7
%
Continuing
114,000


57.0
%

119,000


55.3
%
Total
200,000


100.0
%

215,000


100.0
%

Other Sales

Other sales consisted of: (i) sales of promotional materials; (ii) monthly fees collected for the Success Tracker™ and Mannatech+ customized electronic business-building and educational materials, databases and applications; and (iii) training and event registration fees. Promotional materials, training, database applications and business management tools to support our independent associates, which in turn helps stimulate product sales.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, other sales decreased by $3.7 million, or 80.4%, to $0.9 million, as compared to $4.6 million for the same period in 2017. The decrease was primarily due to freight revenues being included in product revenue as a result of adopting ASC 606.

Gross Profit

For the year ended December 31, 2018, gross profit decreased by $1.9 million, or 1.4%, to $139.1 million, as compared to $141.0 million for the same period in 2017. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales increased to 80.1% for 2018, as compared to 79.8% for 2017. The increase in gross profit percentage was primarily due to favorable effects of foreign exchange and a change in sales mix towards products with a better margin.

Commission and Incentives

Commission expenses decreased for the year ended December 31, 2018, by 3.1%, or 2.2 million to $69.1 million, as compared to $71.3 million for the same period in 2017. Commissions as a percentage of net sales were 39.8% for the year ending December 31, 2018 and 40.4% for the same period in the prior year. This decrease was due to transition costs of adopting the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan on July 1, 2017 and transitioning away from the legacy associate compensation plan.

Incentive costs increased for the year ended December 31, 2018 by 37.5%, or $1.2 million, to $4.4 million as compared to $3.2 million for the same period in 2017. The costs of incentives, as a percentage of net sales increased to 2.5% for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to 1.8% for the same period in 2017. This increase was related to new incentives in growth markets.

Selling and Administrative Expenses

Selling and administrative expenses include a combination of both fixed and variable expenses. These expenses consist of compensation and benefits for employees, temporary and contract labor and marketing-related expenses.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, overall selling and administrative expenses decreased by $1.3 million, or 3.7%, to $34.2 million, as compared to $35.5 million for the same period in 2017. The decrease in selling and administrative expenses consisted of a $1.8 million decrease in payroll related costs as we had a greater number of employees in the prior comparative period, and a $0.2 million decrease in marketing costs. These decreases were partially offset by a $0.6 million increase in stock based compensation expense and a $0.1 million increase in contract labor costs.

Other Operating Costs

Other operating costs include accounting/legal/consulting fees, travel and entertainment expenses associated with corporate sponsored events, credit card processing fees, off-site storage fees, utilities, bad debt, and other miscellaneous operating expenses.

For the year ended December 31, 2018, other operating costs increased by $2.8 million, or 10.6%, to $29.4 million, as compared to $26.6 million for the same period in 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2018, other operating costs, as a percentage

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Table of Contents

of net sales, were 17.0%, as compared to 15.1% for the same period in 2017. The increase was due to a $1.5 million increase in office expenses, largely attributed to the $1.3 million non-recurring cost of moving to a new corporate headquarters, a $0.7 million increase in travel and entertainment costs associated with corporate sponsored events, a $0.5 million increase in legal and consulting fees, a $0.2 million increase in bad debt expense, a $0.1 million increase in accounting and auditing fees, offset by a $0.1 million decrease in credit card fees and a $0.1 million decrease in auto and equipment leases.

Depreciation and Amortization Expense

For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, depreciation and amortization expense was $2.1 million and $1.9 million, respectively.

Other Income (Expense), net

Primarily due to foreign exchange gains, other income (expense) was $0.3 million and $(0.3) million for the years ending December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.


Provision for Income Taxes

Provision for income taxes include current and deferred income taxes for both our domestic and foreign operations. Our statutory income tax rates by jurisdiction are as follows, for the years ended December 31:

Country
2018
 
2017
Australia
30.0
%
 
30.0
%
Canada
26.5
%
 
26.5
%
Denmark
22.0
%
 
22.0
%
Japan
30.2
%
 
34.8
%
Mexico
30.0
%
 
30.0
%
Norway
23.0
%
 
24.0
%
Republic of Korea
22.0
%
 
22.0
%
Singapore
17.0
%
 
17.0
%
South Africa
28.0
%
 
28.0
%
Sweden
22.0
%
 
22.0
%
Switzerland
9.2
%
 
16.2
%
Taiwan
20.0
%
 
17.0
%
United Kingdom
19.0
%
 
19.3
%
United States
21.0
%
 
35.0
%
Cyprus
12.5
%
 
12.5
%
Hong Kong
16.5
%
 
16.5
%
Ukraine(1)
18.0
%
 
18.0
%
Gibraltar
10.0
%
 
10.0
%
Colombia
33.0
%
 
34.0
%
China
25.0
%
 
25.0
%
Russia(2)
20.0
%
 
20.0
%
(1)On March 21, 2014, the Company suspended operations in the Ukraine, but maintains the legal entity, Mannatech Ukraine LLC.
(2)On August 1, 2016, the Company established a legal entity in Russia called Mannatech RUS Ltd., but currently does not operate in Russia.
 
Foreign Tax

Income from our international operations is subject to taxation in the countries in which we operate. Although we may receive foreign income tax credits that would reduce the total amount of income taxes owed in the United States, we may not be able to fully utilize our foreign income tax credits in the United States.


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Table of Contents

U.S. Tax
On December 22, 2017, President Trump signed into law H.R. 1/Public Law No. 115-97, “An Act to provide for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018.” Pursuant to ASC 740-10-25-47, the effects of the new federal legislation are recognized upon enactment, which is the date the president signs a bill into law.

On December 22, 2017, the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) 118, Income Tax Accounting Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (“TCJA”) (“SAB 118”), which provides guidance on accounting for the impact of the Act, in effect allowing an entity to use a methodology similar to the measurement period in a business combination. Pursuant to the disclosure provisions of SAB 118, as of September 30, 2018, the Company had completed its accounting for the tax effects of the Act.

In Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) staff Q&A Topic 740, No. 5, Accounting for Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income, the FASB staff noted that ASC 740, Income Taxes (“Topic 740”), was not clear with respect to the appropriate accounting for Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income ("GILTI"), and accordingly, an entity may either: (1) elect to treat taxes on GILTI as period costs similar to special deductions, or (2) recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities when basis differences exist that are expected to affect the amount of GILTI inclusion upon reversal (the deferred method). The Company will account for GILTI in the year the tax is incurred as a period cost.

We use the recognition and measurement provisions of Topic 740 to account for income taxes. The provisions of Topic 740 require a company to record a valuation allowance when the “more likely than not” criterion for realizing net deferred tax assets cannot be met. Furthermore, the weight given to the potential effect of such evidence should be commensurate with the extent to which it can be objectively verified. As a result, we reviewed the operating results, as well as all of the positive and negative evidence related to realization of such deferred tax assets to evaluate the need for a valuation allowance in each tax jurisdiction.

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we maintained or increased our valuation allowance for deferred tax assets in the following table (in millions), as we believe the “more likely than not” criterion for recognition and realization purposes, as defined in Topic 740, cannot be met. The U.S. valuation allowance increased due to the carryover of foreign tax credits that we do not anticipate to utilize in future years.

Country
2018
 
2017
Australia
$
0.3

 
$

China
0.3

 

Colombia
0.6

 
0.6

Hong Kong
0.1

 

Mexico
3.1

 
2.8

Norway
0.1

 

South Africa
0.2

 
0.1

Sweden
0.1

 
0.1

Taiwan
0.9

 
0.8

Ukraine
0.1

 
0.1

United Kingdom
0.1

 
0.1

United States
6.9

 
6.8

Other Jurisdictions

 

Total
$
12.8

 
$
11.4


For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s effective tax rate was 894.7% and 172.7%, respectively. For 2018, the Company had a significant increase in its rate due to the mix of earnings across jurisdictions, valuation allowance recorded on losses in certain jurisdictions, and the impact of GILTI as a result of the Act passed last year.


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SEASONALITY

We believe the impact of seasonality on our consolidated results of operations is minimal. We have experienced and believe we will continue to experience variations on our quarterly results of operations in response to, among other things:

the timing of the introduction of new products and incentives;
our ability to attract and retain associates and preferred customers;
the timing of our incentives and contests;
the general overall economic outlook;
government regulations;
the outcome of certain lawsuits;
the perception and acceptance of network marketing; and
the consumer perception of our products and overall operations.

As a result of these and other factors, our quarterly results may vary significantly in the future. Period-to-period comparisons should not be relied upon as an indication of future performance since we can give no assurances that revenue trends in new markets, as well as in existing markets, will follow our historical patterns. The market price of our common stock may also be adversely affected by the above factors.


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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash and Cash Equivalents

As of December 31, 2018, our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash decreased by 34.6%, or $16.2 million, to $30.6 million from $46.8 million as of December 31, 2017. The Company is required to restrict cash for direct selling insurance premiums and credit card sales in the Republic of Korea. The current portion of restricted cash remained the same at $1.5 million at both December 31, 2018 and 2017. Fluctuations in currency rates produced a decrease of $1.6 million in cash and cash equivalents in 2018 as compared to an increase of $4.2 million in 2017.

Our principal use of cash is to pay for operating expenses, including commissions and incentives, capital assets, inventory purchases, and periodic cash dividends. We fund our business objectives, operations, and expansion of our operations through net cash flows from operations rather than incurring long-term debt.

Working Capital

Working capital represents total current assets less total current liabilities. At December 31, 2018, our working capital decreased by $14.0 million, or 61.5%, to $8.8 million from $22.8 million at December 31, 2017. The decrease in working capital is primarily due to a decrease in cash, offset by an increase in inventory and a decrease in deferred commissions.

Net Cash Flows

Our net consolidated cash flows consisted of the following, for the years ended December 31 (in millions):

Provided by / (used in):
2018
 
2017
Operating activities
$
(0.2
)
 
$
10.3

Investing activities
$
(2.3
)
 
$
(1.3
)
Financing activities
$
(12.1
)
 
$
(3.1
)

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operating activities decreased by $10.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, as compared to the same period in 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2018, sources of cash include commissions and incentives payable, deferred commissions, accounts payable, and income tax receivable. During this period, uses of cash include inventories, deferred revenue, and accounts receivable.

Investing Activities

For the year ended December 31, 2018, our investing activities used cash of $2.3 million, as compared to cash used of $1.3 million for the same period of 2017. During the year ended December 31, 2018, we invested $2.2 million in computer hardware and software, $1.9 million for leasehold improvements and $0.5 million in office furniture and equipment as we moved our corporate headquarters to a new building. Of this $4.6 million investment, $2.3 million was funded from a capital financing agreement. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we invested $1.1 million in computer hardware and software, $0.1 million in leasehold improvements, and $0.1 in office furniture and equipment.

Financing Activities

For the year ended December 31, 2018, our financing activities used cash of $12.1 million compared to cash used of $3.1 million for the same period of 2017. For the year ended December 31, 2018, we used approximately $1.5 million in the repayment of capital lease obligations, $3.1 million in the payment of dividends to shareholders, and $7.5 million in the repurchase of common stock, which was partially offset by cash provided by the exercise of stock options. For the year ended December 31, 2017, we used cash of approximately $1.5 million to repay capital lease obligations, $1.4 million for payment of dividends to shareholders, and $0.2 million for the repurchase of common stock, which was partially offset by cash provided by the exercise of stock options.

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General Liquidity and Cash Flows

Short Term Liquidity

We believe our existing liquidity and cash flows from operations are adequate to fund our normal expected future business operations for the next 12 months. As our primary source of liquidity is our cash flows from operations, this will be dependent on our ability to maintain and/or continue to improve revenue as compared to our operational expenses. However, if our existing capital resources or cash flows become insufficient to meet current business plans, projections, and existing capital requirements, we may be required to raise additional funds, which may not be available on favorable terms, if at all. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, cash and cash equivalents held in bank accounts in foreign countries totaled $19.9 million and $30.6 million, respectively.

We are engaged in ongoing audits in various tax jurisdictions and other disputes in the normal course of business. It is impossible at this time to predict whether we will incur any liability, or to estimate the ranges of damages, if any, in connection with these matters. Adverse outcomes on these uncertainties may lead to substantial liability or enforcement actions that could adversely affect our cash position. For more information, see Note 7 Income Taxes and Note 12 Litigation to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Long Term Liquidity

We believe our cash flows from operations should be adequate to fund our normal expected future business operations and possible international expansion costs for the long term. As our primary source of liquidity is from our cash flows from operations, this will be dependent on our ability to maintain and and/or improve revenue as compared to operational expenses.

However, if our existing capital resources or cash flows become insufficient to meet anticipated business plans and existing capital requirements, we may be required to raise additional funds, which may not be available on favorable terms, if at all.

Our future access to the capital markets may be adversely impacted if we fail to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Marketplace Rules for the continued listing of our stock. We continuously monitor our compliance with the Nasdaq continued listing rules.


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CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

 The following summarizes our future commitments and obligations associated with various agreements and contracts as of December 31, 2018, for the years ending December 31 (in thousands):

 
2019
 
2020
 
2021
 
2022
 
2023
 
Thereafter
 
Total
Capital lease obligations
$
81

 
$
40

 
$
28

 
$
7

 
$

 
$

 
$
156

Purchase obligations (1)(2)
5,169

 
4,675

 

 

 

 

 
9,844

Operating leases
1,850

 
977

 
583

 
586

 
586

 
2,737

 
7,319

Note payable and other financing arrangements
767

 
555

 
370

 

 

 

 
1,692

Employment agreements
420

 

 

 

 

 

 
420

Royalty agreement
59

 
59

 
6

 

 

 

 
124

Tax liability (3)

 

 

 

 

 
177

 
177

Other obligations (4)
215

 
27

 
143

 
84

 
59

 
613

 
1,141

Total commitments and obligations
$
8,561

 
$
6,333

 
$
1,130

 
$
677

 
$
645

 
$
3,527

 
$
20,873


(1)For purposes of the table, a purchase obligation is defined as an agreement to purchase goods or services that is non-cancelable, enforceable and legally binding on the Company that specifies all significant terms, including: fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased; fixed, minimum or variable price provisions; and the approximate timing of the transaction.
(2)Excludes approximately $11.7 million of finished product purchase orders that may be canceled or with delivery dates that have changed as of December 31, 2018.
(3)Represents the tax liability associated with uncertain tax positions, see Note 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, Income Taxes to our consolidated financial statements.
(4)Other obligations are composed of pension obligations related to the Company's international operations (approximately $0.8 million) and lease restoration obligations (approximately $0.3 million).

We have maintained purchase commitments with certain raw material suppliers to purchase minimum quantities and to ensure exclusivity of our raw materials and the proprietary nature of our products. Currently, we have one supply agreement that requires minimum purchase commitments. We also maintain other supply agreements and manufacturing agreements to protect our products, regulate product costs, and help ensure quality control standards. These agreements do not require us to purchase any set minimums. We have no present commitments or agreements with respect to acquisitions or purchases of any manufacturing facilities; however, management from time to time explores the possibility of the benefits of purchasing a raw material manufacturing facility to help control costs of our raw materials and help ensure quality control standards.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

We do not have any special-purpose entity arrangements, nor do we have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

MARKET RISKS

Please see “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk” under Item 7A of this Form 10-K for additional information about our Market Risks.


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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). The application of GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported values of assets and liabilities at the date of our financial statements, the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period, and the related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. We use estimates throughout our financial statements, which are influenced by management’s judgment and uncertainties. Our estimates are based on historical trends, industry standards, and various other assumptions that we believe are applicable and reasonable under the circumstances at the time the consolidated financial statements are prepared. Our Audit Committee reviews our critical accounting policies and estimates. We continually evaluate and review our policies related to the portrayal of our consolidated financial position and consolidated results of operations that require the application of significant judgment by our management. We also analyze the need for certain estimates, including the need for such items as allowance for doubtful accounts, inventory reserves, long-lived fixed assets and capitalization of internal-use software development costs, reserve for uncertain income tax positions and tax valuation allowances, revenue recognition, sales returns, and deferred revenues, accounting for stock-based compensation, and contingencies and litigation. Historically, actual results have not materially deviated from our estimates. However, we caution readers that actual results could differ from our estimates and assumptions applied in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements. If circumstances change relating to the various assumptions or conditions used in our estimates, we could experience an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows. We have identified the following applicable critical accounting policies and estimates as of December 31, 2018:

Inventory Reserves

Inventory consists of raw materials, finished goods, and promotional materials that are stated at the lower of cost (using standard costs that approximate average costs) or net realizable value. We record the amounts charged by the vendors as the costs of inventory. Typically, the net realizable value of our inventory is higher than the aggregate cost. Determination of net realizable value can be complex and, therefore, requires a high degree of judgment. In order for management to make the appropriate determination of net realizable value, the following items are considered: inventory turnover statistics, current selling prices, seasonality factors, consumer demand, regulatory changes, competitive pricing, and performance of similar products. If we determine the carrying value of inventory is in excess of estimated net realizable value, we write down the value of inventory to the estimated net realizable value.

We also review inventory for obsolescence in a similar manner and any inventory identified as obsolete is reserved or written off. Our determination of obsolescence is based on assumptions about the demand for our products, product expiration dates, estimated future sales, and general future plans. We monitor actual sales compared to original projections, and if actual sales are less favorable than those originally projected by us, we record an additional inventory reserve or write-down. Historically, our estimates have been close to our actual reported amounts. However, if our estimates regarding inventory obsolescence are inaccurate or consumer demand for our products changes in an unforeseen manner, we may be exposed to additional material losses or gains in excess of our established estimated inventory reserves. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, our inventory reserves were $0.5 million and $0.6 million, respectively.

Long Lived Fixed Assets and Capitalization of Software Development Costs

In addition to capitalizing long-lived fixed asset costs, we also capitalize costs associated with internally developed software projects (collectively “fixed assets”) and amortize such costs over the estimated useful lives of such fixed assets. Fixed assets are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation computed using the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the remaining lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the improvements. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. If a fixed asset is sold or otherwise retired or disposed of, the cost of the fixed asset and the related accumulated depreciation or amortization is written off and any resulting gain or loss is recorded in other operating costs in our consolidated statement of operations.


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We review our fixed assets for impairment whenever an event or change in circumstances indicates the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable, such as plans to dispose of an asset before the end of its previously estimated useful life. Our impairment review includes a comparison of future projected cash flows generated by the asset, or group of assets, with its associated net carrying value. If the net carrying value of the asset or group of assets exceeds expected cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges), an impairment loss is recognized to the extent the carrying amount exceeds the fair value. The fair value is determined by calculating the discounted expected future cash flows using an estimated risk-free rate of interest. Any identified impairment losses are recorded in the period in which the impairment occurs. The carrying value of the fixed asset is adjusted to the new carrying value and any subsequent increases in fair value of the fixed asset are not recorded. In addition, if we determine the estimated remaining useful life of the asset should be reduced from our original estimate, the periodic depreciation expense is adjusted prospectively, based on the new remaining useful life of the fixed asset.

The impairment calculation requires us to apply judgment and estimates concerning future cash flows, strategic plans, useful lives, and discount rates. If actual results are not consistent with our estimates and assumptions, we may be exposed to an additional impairment charge, which could be material to our results of operations. In addition, if accounting standards change, or if fixed assets become obsolete, we may be required to write off any unamortized costs of fixed assets; or if estimated useful lives change, we would be required to accelerate depreciation or amortization periods and recognize additional depreciation expense in our consolidated statement of operations.

Historically, our estimates and assumptions related to the carrying value and the estimated useful lives of our fixed assets have not materially deviated from actual results. As of December 31, 2018, the estimated useful lives and net carrying values of fixed assets are as follows:
 
 
Estimated useful life 
Net carrying value at December 31, 2018
Office furniture and equipment
5 to 7 years
$0.8 million
Computer hardware and software
3 to 5 years
3.1 million
Automobiles
3 to 5 years
0.1 million
Leasehold improvements(1)
2 to 10 years
1.9 million
Total net carrying value at December 31, 2018
  
$5.9 million
(1) We amortize leasehold improvements over the shorter of the useful estimated life of the leased asset or the lease term.
The net carrying costs of fixed assets and construction in progress are exposed to impairment losses if our assumptions and estimates of their carrying values change, there is a change in estimated future cash flow, or there is a change in the estimated useful life of the fixed asset. Based on management’s analysis, no material impairments existed during the year ended December 31, 2018. During the year ended December 31, 2017, no material impairments existed.


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Uncertain Income Tax Positions and Tax Valuation Allowances

As of December 31, 2018, we recorded $0.2 million in other long-term liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet related to uncertain income tax positions. As required by FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, we use judgments and make estimates and assumptions related to evaluating the probability of uncertain income tax positions. We base our estimates and assumptions on the potential liability related to an assessment of whether the income tax position will “more likely than not” be sustained in an income tax audit. We are also subject to periodic audits from multiple domestic and foreign tax authorities related to income tax and other forms of taxation. These audits examine our tax positions, timing of income and deductions, and allocation procedures across multiple jurisdictions. Depending on the nature of the tax issue, we could be subject to audit over several years. Therefore, our estimated reserve balances and liability related to uncertain income tax positions may exist for multiple years before the applicable statute of limitations expires or before an issue is resolved by the taxing authority. Additionally, we may be requested to extend the statute of limitations for tax years under audit. It is reasonably possible the tax jurisdiction may request that the statute of limitations be extended, which may cause the classification between current and long-term to change. We believe our tax liabilities related to uncertain tax positions are based upon reasonable judgment and estimates; however, if actual results materially differ, our effective income tax rate and cash flows could be affected in the period of discovery or resolution. There are ongoing income tax audits in various international jurisdictions that we believe are not material to our financial statements.

We also review the estimates and assumptions used in evaluating the probability of realizing the future benefits of our deferred tax assets and record a valuation allowance when we believe that a portion or all of the deferred tax assets may not be realized. If we are unable to realize the expected future benefits of our deferred tax assets, we are required to provide a valuation allowance. We use our past history and experience, overall profitability, future management plans, and current economic information to evaluate the amount of valuation allowance to record. As of December 31, 2018, we maintained a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets arising from our operations of $12.8 million because they did not meet the “more likely than not” criteria as defined by the recognition and measurement provisions of FASB ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes. In addition, as of December 31, 2018, we had net deferred tax assets, after valuation allowance, totaling $1.9 million, which may not be realized if our assumptions and estimates change, which would affect our effective income tax rate and cash flows in the period of discovery or resolution.

In February 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) ("ASU 2018-02"). The guidance in ASU 2018-02 allows an entity to elect to reclassify the stranded tax effects related to the Act from accumulated other comprehensive income into retained earnings. ASU 2018-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the effect this standard will have on its Consolidated Financial Statements.



Revenue Recognition

Our revenue is derived from sales of individual products and associate fees or, in certain geographic markets, starter and renewal packs. Substantially all of the Company’s product sales are made at published wholesale prices to associates and preferred customers. The Company records revenue net of any sales taxes and records a reserve for expected sales returns based on its historical experience. The Company recognizes revenue from shipped products when control of the product transfers to the customer, thus the performance obligation is satisfied. Corporate-sponsored event revenue is recognized when the event is held.

As a result of the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was implemented on July 1, 2017, we collect associate fees, which relate to providing associates with the right to earn commissions, benefits and incentives for that year. Associate fees are recognized evenly over the course of the annual period of the associate’s contract and revenue from software tools included in the first contractual year is recognized over three months. Almost all orders are paid via credit card. We collected associate fees within the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom during the year ended December 31, 2018.

Orders placed by associates or preferred customers constitute our contracts. Product sales placed in the form of an automatic order contain two performance obligations - a) the sale of the product and b) the loyalty program. For these contracts, the Company accounts for each of these obligations separately as they are each distinct. The transaction price is allocated between the product sale and the loyalty program on a relative standalone selling price basis. Sales placed through a one-time order contain only the first performance obligation noted above - the sale of the product.

The Company provides associates with access to a complimentary three-month package for the Success TrackerTM and Mannatech+ online business tools with the first payment of an associate fee. The first payment of an associate fee contains three

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performance obligations a) the associate fee, whereby the Company provides an associate with the right to earn commissions, bonuses and incentives for a year, b) three months of complimentary access to utilize the Success Tracker™ online tool and c) three months of complimentary access to utilize the Mannatech+ online business tool. The transaction price is allocated between the three performance obligations on a relative standalone selling price basis. Associates do not have complimentary access to online business tools after the first contractual period.

With regard to both of the aforementioned contracts, the Company determines the standalone selling prices based on our overall pricing objectives, taking into consideration market conditions and other factors, including the value of the contracts.

Deferred Commissions
 
We defer commissions on (i) the sales of products shipped but not received by the customers by the end of the respective period and (ii) the loyalty program. Deferred commissions are incremental costs and are amortized to expense consistent with how the related revenue is recognized. Deferred commissions were $2.4 million and $3.9 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

Deferred Revenue

We defer certain components of revenue. Deferred revenue consists of: (i) sales of products shipped but not received by the customers by the end of the respective period; (ii) revenue from the loyalty program; (iii) prepaid registration fees from customers planning to attend a future corporate-sponsored event; and (iv) prepaid annual associate fees. At December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, deferred revenue was $5.3 million and $8.6 million, respectively.

Our customer loyalty program conveys a material right to the customer as it provides the promise to redeem loyalty points for the purchase of products, which is based on earning points through placing consecutive qualified automatic orders. The timing and recognition of loyalty points has not changed with the adoption of ASC 606. The Company factors in breakage rates, which is the percentage of the loyalty points that are expected to be forfeited or expire, for purposes of revenue recognition. Breakage rates are estimated based on historical data and can be reasonably and objectively determined. There have not been significant changes for the breakage estimate as a result of adopting ASC 606. The deferred revenue associated with the loyalty program at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 was $4.2 million and $6.4 million, respectively.

Loyalty program
(in thousands)

Loyalty deferred revenue as of January 1, 2017
$
7,033

Loyalty points forfeited or expired
(5,895
)
Loyalty points used
(14,316
)
Loyalty points vested
17,836

Loyalty points unvested
1,748

Loyalty deferred revenue as of December 31, 2017
$
6,406


Loyalty deferred revenue as of January 1, 2018
$
6,406

Loyalty points forfeited or expired
(4,332
)
Loyalty points used
(11,398
)
Loyalty points vested
12,469

Loyalty points unvested
1,086

Loyalty deferred revenue as of December 31, 2018
$
4,231



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Product Return Policy

We stand behind our packs and products and believe we offer a reasonable and industry-standard product return policy to all of our customers. We do not resell returned products. Refunds are not processed until proper approval is obtained. Refunds are processed and returned in the same form of payment that was originally used in the sale. Each country in which we operate has specific product return guidelines. However, we allow our associates and preferred customers to exchange products as long as the products are unopened and in good condition. Our return policies for our retail customers and our associates and preferred customers are as follows:

Retail Customer Product Return Policy. This policy allows a retail customer to return any of our products to the original associate who sold the product and receive a full cash refund from the associate for the first 180 days following the product’s purchase if located in the United States and Canada, and for the first 90 days following the product’s purchase in other countries where we sell our products. In China, where we sell our products under a cross-border e-commerce model, we have a 14-day return policy. The associate may then return or exchange the product based on the associate product return policy.
Associate and Preferred Customer Product Return Policy. This policy allows the associate or preferred customer to return an order within one year of the purchase date upon terminating his/her account. If an associate or preferred customer returns a product unopened and in good condition, he/she may receive a full refund minus a 10% restocking fee. We may also allow the associate or preferred customer to receive a full satisfaction guarantee refund if they have tried the product and are not satisfied for any reason, excluding promotional materials. This satisfaction guarantee refund applies in the United States and Canada, only for the first 180 days following the product’s purchase, and applies in other countries where we sell our products for the first 90 days following the product’s purchase; however, any commissions earned by an associate will be deducted from the refund. If we discover abuse of the refund policy, we may terminate the associate's or preferred customer’s account.
The Company utilizes the expected value method, as set forth by ASC 606, to estimate the sales returns and allowance liability by taking the weighted average of the sales return rates over a rolling six-month period. The Company allocates the total amount recorded within the sales return and allowance liability as a reduction of the overall transaction price for the Company’s product sales. The Company deems the sales refund and allowance liability to be a variable consideration. The method for estimating the sales returns and allowance liability has remained consistent as a result of adopting ASC 606.
Historically, sales returns estimates have not materially deviated from actual sales returns, as the majority of our customers who return merchandise do so within the first 90 days after the original sale. Sales returns have historically averaged 1.5% or less of our gross sales. For the year ended December 31, 2018, our sales return reserve was composed of the following (in thousands):

Sales reserve as of January 1, 2017
$
129

Provision related to sales made in current period
1,274

Adjustment related to sales made in prior periods
3

Actual returns or credits related to current period
(1,156
)
Actual returns or credits related to prior periods
(133
)
Sales reserve as of December 31, 2017
$
117

 
 
Sales reserve as of January 1, 2018
$
117

Provision related to sales made in current period
1,198

Adjustment related to sales made in prior periods
(10
)
Actual returns or credits related to current period
(1,125
)
Actual returns or credits related to prior periods
(104
)
Sales reserve as of December 31, 2018
$
76



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Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation

We grant stock options to our employees, board members, and consultants. At the date of grant, we determine the fair value of a stock option award and recognize compensation expense over the requisite service period, or the vesting period of such stock option award, which is two or three years. The fair value of the stock option award is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model (the “calculated fair value”). The Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires us to apply judgment and use highly subjective assumptions, including expected stock option life, expected volatility, expected average risk-free interest rates, and expected forfeiture rates. For the year ended December 31, 2018, our assumptions and estimates used for the calculated fair value of stock options granted in 2018 were as follows:

2018 Grants
April
 
June
Estimated fair value per share of options granted:
$
7.17

 
$
8.59

Assumptions:
 

 
 
Dividend yield
2.9
%
 
2.4
%
Risk-free rate of return
2.5
%
 
2.8
%
Common stock price volatility
55.6
%
 
56.4
%
Expected average life of stock options (in years)
4.5

 
4.5


Historically, our estimates and underlying assumptions have not materially deviated from our actual reported results and rates. However, we base assumptions we use on our best estimates, which involves inherent uncertainties based on market conditions that are outside of our control. If actual results are not consistent with the assumptions we use, the stock-based compensation expense reported in our consolidated financial statements may not be representative of the actual economic cost of stock-based compensation. For example, if actual employee forfeitures significantly differ from our estimated forfeitures, we may be required to adjust our consolidated financial statements in future periods. As of December 31, 2018, using our current assumptions and estimates, we anticipate recognizing $0.6 million in gross compensation expense through 2019 related to unvested stock options outstanding.

If we grant additional stock options in the future, we would be required to recognize additional compensation expense over the vesting period of such stock options in our consolidated statement of operations. As of December 31, 2018, we had 39,002 shares available for grant in the future.

Contingencies and Litigation

Each quarter, we evaluate the need to establish a reserve for any legal claims or assessments. We base our evaluation on our best estimates of the potential liability in such matters. The legal reserve includes an estimated amount for any damages and the probability of losing any threatened legal claims or assessments. The legal reserve is developed in consultation with our general and outside counsel and is based upon a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. Although we believe that our legal reserves and accruals are based on reasonable judgments and estimates, actual results could differ, which may expose us to material gains or losses in future periods. If actual results differ, if circumstances change, or if we experience an unanticipated adverse outcome of any legal action, including any claim or assessment, we would be required to recognize the estimated amount that could reduce net income, earnings per share, and cash flows.


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RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ("ASU 2016-02"). Under ASU 2016-02, an entity will be required to recognize right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities on its balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 offers specific accounting guidance for a lessee, a lessor and sale and leaseback transactions. Lessees and lessors are required to disclose qualitative and quantitative information about leasing arrangements to enable a user of the financial statements to assess the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. For public companies, ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within that reporting period. The Company adopted the new standard on January 1, 2019 using a modified retrospective approach. Under the modified retrospective approach, the Company will not adjust the comparative period financial information or make the new required lease disclosures for periods before the effective date. The Company will elect the short-term lease recognition exemption and will not recognize ROU assets or lease liabilities for leases with a term less than 12 months. While the Company continues to assess all of the effects of adoption, the Company believes the most significant effects relate to (i) the recognition of new ROU assets and lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and (ii) providing significant new disclosures about the Company's leasing activities. The Company expects adoption of this new standard will not have a material impact on its results of operations or cash flows. The new ROU assets and lease liabilities, which will be recognized on the consolidated balance sheet, consist primarily of offices. We started the transition plan in the third quarter of 2018 and continued to perform the scoping work in the fourth quarter of 2018. We identified a total of 22 lease agreements that are subject to Topic 842, and four of them meet the short-term lease exception as of December 31, 2018. We are continuing to analyze and evaluate the ROU assets and lease liability using the incremental borrowing rate at January 1, 2019 because the implicit rate is not readily determinable in the lease agreement. Upon adoption of ASC 842, all existing leases will be classified as either operating lease or finance lease. The Company plans to modify its business processes and controls to support the adoption of the new standard, including expanded review of new contracts. After the adoption of Topic 842, we will first report the ROU assets and lease liabilities as of March 31, 2019 in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q based on our lease portfolio as of that date.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). This standard adds to U.S. GAAP an impairment model (known as the current expected credit loss ("CECL") model) that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. Under the new guidance, an entity recognizes as an allowance its estimate of expected credit losses, which is intended to result in the more timely recognition of losses. Under the CECL model, entities will estimate credit losses over the entire contractual term of the instrument (considering estimated prepayments, but not expected extensions or modifications) from the date of initial recognition of the financial instrument. Measurement of expected credit losses are to be based on relevant forecasts that affect collectability. The scope of financial assets within the CECL methodology is broad and includes trade receivables from certain revenue transactions and certain off-balance sheet credit exposures. Different components of the guidance require modified retrospective or prospective adoption. ASU 2016-13 will be effective for us as of January 1, 2020. While our review is ongoing, we believe ASU 2016-13 will only have applicability to our receivables from revenue transactions. Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when, among other criteria, it is probable that the entity will collect the consideration to which it is entitled for goods or services transferred to a customer. At the point that trade receivables are recorded, they become subject to the CECL model and estimates of expected credit losses on trade receivables over their contractual life will be required to be recorded at inception based on historical information, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company is currently evaluating whether the new guidance will have an impact on our consolidated financial statements or existing internal controls.    
In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), which amended its standard on comprehensive income to provide an option for an entity to reclassify the stranded tax effects of the Act that was passed in December of 2017 from accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") directly to retained earnings. The stranded tax effects result from the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities which were originally recorded in comprehensive income but whose remeasurement is reflected in the income statement. This is a one-time amendment applicable only to the changes resulting from the Act. The standard will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, and may be reflected retroactively to any period in which the impacts of the Act are recognized. The standard permits early adoption for any financial statements that have not been released as of the date of the revised standard. The Company is still evaluating the potential financial impact of adopting this standard.
    
See Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for further information on recent accounting pronouncements.


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Item 7A.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We do not engage in trading market risk sensitive instruments and do not purchase investments as hedges or for purposes “other than trading” that are likely to expose us to certain types of market risk, including interest rate, commodity price, or equity price risk. Although we have investments, we believe there has been no material change in our exposure to interest rate risk. We have not issued any debt instruments, entered into any forward or futures contracts, purchased any options, or entered into any swap agreements.

We are exposed, however, to other market risks, including changes in currency exchange rates as measured against the United States dollar. Because the change in value of the United States dollar measured against foreign currency may affect our consolidated financial results, changes in foreign currency exchange rates could positively or negatively affect our results as expressed in United States dollars. For example, when the United States dollar strengthens against foreign currencies in which our products are sold or weakens against foreign currencies in which we may incur costs, our consolidated net sales or related costs and expenses could be adversely affected. We translate our revenues and expenses in foreign markets using an average rate. We believe inflation has not had a material impact on our consolidated operations or profitability.

We maintain policies, procedures, and internal processes in an effort to help monitor any significant market risks and we do not use any financial instruments to manage our exposure to such risks. We assess the anticipated foreign currency working capital requirements of our foreign operations and maintain a portion of our cash and cash equivalents denominated in foreign currencies sufficient to satisfy most of these anticipated requirements.

We caution that we cannot predict with any certainty our future exposure to such currency exchange rate fluctuations or the impact, if any, such fluctuations may have on our future business, product pricing, operating expenses, and on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. However, to combat such market risk, we closely monitor our exposure to currency fluctuations. The regions and countries in which we currently have exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk include (i) North America/South America (Canada, Colombia and Mexico); (ii) EMEA (Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom); (iii) Asia/Pacific (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China). The current (spot) rate, average currency exchange rates, and the low and high of such currency exchange rates as compared to the United States dollar, for each of these countries as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 were as follows:

 
Year ended December 31, 2018
 
As of December 31, 2018
Country (foreign currency name)
Low
 
High
 
Average
 
Spot
Australia (Australian Dollar)
0.70413

 
0.81136

 
0.74791

 
0.70461

Canada (Canadian Dollar)
0.73347

 
0.81321

 
0.77216

 
0.73349

China (Renminbi)
0.14348

 
0.15963

 
0.15143

 
0.14543

Columbia (Peso)
0.00030


0.00037


0.00034


0.00031

Czech Republic (Koruna)
0.04338

 
0.04953

 
0.04608

 
0.04436

Denmark (Kroner)
0.15091

 
0.16766

 
0.15851

 
0.15335

Hong Kong (Hong Kong Dollar)
0.12739

 
0.12810

 
0.12760

 
0.12772

Japan (Yen)
0.00876

 
0.00955

 
0.00906

 
0.00907

Mexico (Peso)
0.04815

 
0.05555

 
0.05210

 
0.05090

New Zealand (New Zealand Dollar)
0.64419

 
0.74054

 
0.69270

 
0.67168

Norway (Krone)
0.11399

 
0.13033

 
0.12307

 
0.11508

Republic of Korea (Won)
0.00088

 
0.00095

 
0.00091

 
0.00090

Singapore (Singapore Dollar)
0.72164

 
0.76541

 
0.74163

 
0.73231

South Africa (Rand)
0.06483

 
0.08675

 
0.07608

 
0.06939

Sweden (Krona)
0.10881

 
0.12733

 
0.11529

 
0.11171

Switzerland (Franc)
0.99073

 
1.08306

 
1.02274

 
1.01693

Taiwan (New Taiwan Dollar)
0.03220

 
0.03448

 
0.03321

 
0.03272

United Kingdom (British Pound)
1.25629

 
1.43218

 
1.33541

 
1.27047

Various countries (1) (Euro)
1.12584

 
1.24812

 
1.18127

 
1.14474

(1) Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Estonia, Finland, the Republic of Ireland and Spain 

61

Table of Contents

Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Our Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data required by this Item 8 are set forth in Item 15 of this report.

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

None.

Item 9A.
Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) and our Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer), have concluded, based on their evaluation as of the end of the period covered by this report, that our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) or Rule 15d – 15(e) under the Exchange Act) are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and include controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in such reports is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the quarter ended December 31, 2018, there were no changes in our internal control over our financial reporting that we believe materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


62

Table of Contents

REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a – 13(f) or Rule 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) for the Company. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes: maintaining records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect our transactions; providing reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary for preparation of our consolidated financial statements; providing reasonable assurance that receipts and expenditures of company assets are made in accordance with management authorization; and providing reasonable assurance that unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of company assets that could have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements would be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting is not intended to provide absolute assurance that a misstatement of our consolidated financial statements would be prevented or detected.

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013). Based on this evaluation, management concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2018.

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Table of Contents

Item 9B.
Other Information
 
None.

 
PART III

Documents Incorporated by Reference

The information required by Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 of Part III of Form 10-K is incorporated by reference to the definitive proxy statement for our annual meeting to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2018.

PART IV

Item 15.
Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule

(a) Documents filed as a part of the report:

1.   Consolidated Financial Statements

The following financial statements and Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm are filed as a part of this report on the pages indicated:

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017

2. Financial Statement Schedule

The financial statement schedule required by this item is included as an Exhibit to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.



3. Exhibit List

See Index to Exhibits following Item 16 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.


Item 16.
Form 10-K Summary

Not Applicable.


64

Table of Contents


INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
 
Incorporated by Reference
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
Form
 
File No.
 
Exhibit (s)
 
Filing Date
3.1
S-1
 
333-63133
 
3.1
 
October 28, 1998
3.2
8-K
 
000-24657
 
3.1
 
January 17, 2012
3.3
8-K
 
000-24657
 
3.1
 
August 27, 2014
4.1
S-1
 
333-63133
 
4.1
 
October 28, 1998
10.1
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.1
 
August 8, 2017
10.2
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.2
 
August 8, 2017
10.3
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.3
 
August 8, 2017
10.4
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.4
 
August 8, 2017
10.5
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.5
 
August 8, 2017
10.6
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.6
 
August 8, 2017
10.7
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.7
 
August 8, 2017
10.8
10-K
 
000-24657
 
10.1
 
March 15, 2004
10.9
10-K
 
000-24657
 
10.1
 
March 15, 2004
10.10
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.2
 
August 9, 2004
10.11
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.4
 
November 4, 2010
10.12
10-K
 
000-24657
 
10.12
 
March 26, 2018
10.13
8-K
 
000-24657
 
10.1
 
September 24, 2007
10.14
10-Q
 
000-24657
 
10.1
 
May 12, 2015
10.15
10-K
 
00-24657
 
10.61
 
March 14, 2017
14.1
10-K
 
000-24657
 
14.1
 
March 16, 2007
21*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
23.1*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
24*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
31.1*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*

65

Table of Contents

 
 
Incorporated by Reference
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
Form
 
File No.
 
Exhibit (s)
 
Filing Date
31.2*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
32.1*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
32.2*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
99.1*
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
101.INS*
XBRL Instance Document
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
101.SCH*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
101.CAL*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
101.LAB*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
101.PRE*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
101.DEF*
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
*
 
*
 
*
 
*
 
*  Filed herewith.

66

Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

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


 
MANNATECH, INCORPORATED
 
 
Dated: March 11, 2019
By:
/s/ Alfredo Bala
 
 
Alfredo Bala
 
 
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
(principal executive officer)
 
Dated: March 11, 2019
By:
/s/ David A. Johnson
 
 
David A. Johnson
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
(principal financial officer)

67

Table of Contents

POWER OF ATTORNEY

The undersigned directors and officers of Mannatech, Incorporated hereby constitute and appoint Larry A. Jobe and David A. Johnson, and each of them, with the power to act without the other and with full power of substitution and resubstitution, our true and lawful attorneys-in fact and agents with full power to execute in our name and behalf in the capacities indicated below any and all amendments to this report and to file the same, with all exhibits and other documents relating thereto and hereby ratify and confirm all that such attorneys-in-fact, or either of them, or their substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

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

Signature
 
Title
 
Date
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Alfredo Bala
  
Chief Executive Officer
(principal executive officer)
 
March 11, 2019
Alfredo Bala
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ David A. Johnson
 
Chief Financial Officer
(principal financial officer)
 
March 11, 2019
David A. Johnson
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ J. Stanley Fredrick
 
Chairman of the Board
 
March 11, 2019
J. Stanley Fredrick
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert A. Toth
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Robert A. Toth
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Gerald E. Gilbert
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Gerald E. Gilbert
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Kevin Andrew Robbins
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Kevin Andrew Robbins
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Larry A. Jobe
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Larry A. Jobe
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Linda K. Ferrell
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Linda K. Ferrell
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Eric W. Schrier
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Eric W. Schrier
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Tyler Rameson
 
Director
 
March 11, 2019
Tyler Rameson
 
 

68

Table of Contents

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Page
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017

F-1

Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Shareholders and Board of Directors
Mannatech, Incorporated
Flower Mound, Texas
Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Mannatech, Incorporated (the “Company”) and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes and financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company and subsidiaries at December 31, 2018 and 2017, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.




(Signed BDO USA, LLP)
We have served as the Company's auditor since 2007.
Dallas, Texas
March 11, 2019


F-2

Table of Contents

MANNATECH, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share information)
 
December 31, 2018
 
December 31, 2017
ASSETS
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
21,845

 
$
37,682

Restricted cash
1,514

 
1,514

Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $770 and $582 in 2018 and 2017, respectively
106

 
273

Income tax receivable
291

 
907

Inventories, net
12,821

 
9,385

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
3,361

 
2,607

Deferred commissions
2,449

 
3,880

Total current assets
42,387

 
56,248

Property and equipment, net
5,860

 
3,537

Construction in progress
904

 
777

Long-term restricted cash
7,225

 
7,565

Other assets
3,894

 
3,876

Deferred tax assets, net
1,928

 
4,239

Total assets
$
62,198

 
$
76,242

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 

 
 

Current portion of capital leases
$
75

 
$
228

Accounts payable
6,724

 
6,008

Accrued expenses
5,995

 
5,771

Commissions and incentives payable
12,189

 
9,658

Taxes payable
2,655

 
2,404

Current notes payable
702

 
815

Deferred revenue
5,274

 
8,561

Total current liabilities
33,614

 
33,445

Capital leases, excluding current portion
72

 
144

Deferred tax liabilities
3

 
1,147

Long-term notes payable
883

 

Other long-term liabilities
2,302

 
1,265

Total liabilities
36,874

 
36,001

Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)


 


Shareholders’ equity:
 

 
 

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued or outstanding

 

Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 99,000,000 shares authorized, 2,742,857 shares issued and 2,381,149 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2018 and 2,742,857 shares issued and 2,702,940 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2017

 

Additional paid-in capital
33,939

 
34,928

Retained earnings (deficit)
(2,782
)
 
4,190

Accumulated other comprehensive income
4,337

 
5,984

Treasury stock, at average cost, 361,708 shares as of December 31, 2018 and 39,917 shares as of December 31, 2017, respectively
(10,170
)
 
(4,861
)
Total shareholders’ equity
25,324

 
40,241

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
62,198

 
$
76,242

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-3

Table of Contents

MANNATECH, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share information)

 
For the years ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
Net sales
$
173,558

 
$
176,696

Cost of sales
34,476

 
35,667

Gross profit
139,082

 
141,029

Operating expenses:
 

 
 

Commissions and incentives
73,514

 
74,550

Selling and administrative expenses
34,156

 
35,470

Depreciation and amortization
2,064

 
1,864

Other operating costs
29,438

 
26,626

Total operating expenses
139,172

 
138,510

Income (loss) from operations
(90
)
 
2,519

Interest income
288

 
274

Other expense (income), net
291

 
(333
)
Income before income taxes
489

 
2,460

Income tax provision
(4,375
)
 
(4,247
)
Net loss
$
(3,886
)
 
$
(1,787
)
Loss per common share:
 

 
 

Basic
$
(1.53
)
 
$
(0.66
)
Diluted
$
(1.53
)
 
$
(0.66
)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
 

 
 

Basic
2,541

 
2,708

Diluted
2,541

 
2,708



CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in thousands)

 
2018
 
2017
Net loss
$
(3,886
)
 
$
(1,787
)
Foreign currency translations gain (loss)
(1,661
)
 
4,169

Pension obligations, net of tax provision of $8 and $10 in 2018 and 2017, respectively
14

 
(19
)
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
(5,533
)
 
$
2,363


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-4

Table of Contents

MANNATECH, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(in thousands)

 
Common
stock
 
Additional
paid in
capital
 
Retained
earnings (deficit)
 
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income
 
Treasury
stock
 
Total
shareholders’
equity
Balance at December 31, 2016
$

 
$
38,190

 
$
7,331

 
$
1,834

 
$
(8,470
)
 
$
38,885

Charge related to stock-based compensation

 
246

 

 

 

 
246

Issuance of unrestricted shares

 
(1,228
)
 

 

 
1,472

 
244

Release of restricted stock

 
(306
)
 

 

 
306

 

Stock option exercises

 
(1,748
)
 

 

 
1,831

 
83

Foreign currency translation

 

 

 
4,169

 

 
4,169

Pension obligations, net of tax of $10

 

 

 
(19
)
 

 
(19
)
Repurchase of common stock

 
(226
)
 

 

 

 
(226
)
Declared and paid dividends

 

 
(1,354
)
 

 

 
(1,354
)
Net loss

 

 
(1,787
)
 

 

 
(1,787
)
Balance at December 31, 2017
$

 
$
34,928

 
$
4,190

 
$
5,984

 
$
(4,861
)
 
$
40,241

Charge related to stock-based compensation

 
888

 

 

 

 
888

Issuance of unrestricted shares

 
(1,748
)
 

 

 
1,993

 
245

Release of restricted stock

 
(73
)
 

 

 
71

 
(2
)
Stock option exercises

 
(56
)
 

 

 
170

 
114

Foreign currency translation

 

 

 
(1,661
)
 

 
(1,661
)
Pension obligations, net of tax of $8

 

 

 
14

 

 
14

Repurchase of common stock

 

 

 

 
(7,543
)
 
(7,543
)
Declared and paid dividends

 

 
(3,086
)
 

 

 
(3,086
)
Net loss

 

 
(3,886
)
 

 

 
(3,886
)
Balance at December 31, 2018
$

 
$
33,939

 
$
(2,782
)
 
$
4,337

 
$
(10,170
)
 
$
25,324


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

MANNATECH, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
 
For the years ended December 31,
 
2018
 
2017
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Net loss
$
(3,886
)
 
$
(1,787
)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:
 

 
 

Depreciation and amortization
2,064

 
1,864

Provision for inventory losses
710

 
714

Provision for doubtful accounts
543

 
351

Loss on disposal of assets
4

 
1

Stock-based compensation expense
1,145

 
490

Deferred income taxes
1,167

 
2,143

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 

 
 

Accounts receivable
(376
)
 
(308
)
Income tax receivable
616

 
686

Inventories
(4,145
)
 
2,379

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
407

 
1,540

Other assets
(17
)
 
477

Deferred commissions
1,431

 
(549
)
Accounts payable
716

 
710

Accrued expenses and other liabilities
(96
)
 
(315
)
Taxes payable
251

 
1,226

Commissions and incentives payable
2,531

 
518

Deferred revenue
(3,287
)
 
184

Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
(222
)
 
10,324

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 

 
 

Acquisition of property and equipment
(2,338
)
 
(1,340
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
62

 
1

Net cash used in investing activities
(2,276
)
 
(1,339
)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 

 
 

Proceeds from stock options exercised
114

 
83

Repurchase of common stock
(7,543
)
 
(226
)
Payment of cash dividends
(3,086
)
 
(1,354
)
Repayment of capital lease obligations
(1,540
)
 
(1,567
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(12,055
)
 
(3,064
)
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(1,624
)
 
4,214

Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
(16,177
)
 
10,135

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the year
46,761

 
36,626

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of  the year
$
30,584

 
$
46,761

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
 

 
 

Income taxes paid, net
$
800

 
$
1,694

Interest paid on capital leases
$
64

 
$
68

Accrued asset purchases
$
261

 
$
238

Assets acquired through financing arrangements
$
2,281

 
$
130

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

MANNATECH, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1: ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Mannatech, Incorporated (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”), located in Flower Mound, Texas, was incorporated in the state of Texas on November 4, 1993 and is listed on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “MTEX”. The Company develops, markets, and sells high-quality, proprietary nutritional supplements, topical and skin care and anti-aging products, and weight-management products. We currently sell our products into three regions: (i) the Americas (the United States, Canada, Colombia and Mexico); (ii) EMEA (Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom); and (iii) Asia/Pacific (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and China).

On July 1, 2017, the Company revised its 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was designed to stimulate business growth and development for our active business building associates and to maximize the buying experience for our preferred customers. In doing so, the Company hopes to better utilize commission dollars to stimulate Company growth.  The 2017 Associate Compensation Plan provides revised income streams, new leadership levels and titles, and modified various volume requirements for our associates. In addition, the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan re-designated members as preferred customers and modified their pricing structure.

Associates and now preferred customers purchase the Company’s products at published wholesale prices. The Company cannot distinguish products sold for personal use from other sales, when sold to associates, because it is not involved with the products after delivery, other than usual and customary product warranties and returns. Only associates are eligible to earn commissions and incentives. The Company operates a non-direct selling business in mainland China. Our subsidiary in China, Meitai Daily Necessity & Health Products Co., Ltd. (“Meitai”), is operating as a traditional retailer under a cross-border e-commerce model in China. Meitai cannot legally conduct a direct selling business in China unless it acquires a direct selling license in China.

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statements and footnotes include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles requires the use of estimates that affect the reported value of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. These estimates are based on historical experience and various other factors. The Company continually evaluates the information used to make these estimates as the business and economic environment changes. Historically, actual results have not varied materially from the Company’s estimates and the Company does not currently anticipate a significant change in its assumptions related to these estimates. However, actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

The use of estimates is pervasive throughout the consolidated financial statements, but the accounting policies and estimates considered the most significant are described in this note to the consolidated financial statements, Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

Foreign Currency Translation

The United States dollar is the functional currency for the majority of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries. As a result, nonmonetary assets and liabilities are remeasured at their approximate historical rates, monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured at exchange rates in effect at the end of the year, and revenues and expenses are remeasured at weighted-average exchange rates for the year. The local currency is the functional currency of our subsidiaries in Columbia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Mexico and China. These subsidiaries’ assets and liabilities are translated into United States dollars at exchange rates existing at the balance sheet dates, revenues and expenses are translated at weighted-average exchange rates, and shareholders’ equity and intercompany balances are translated at historical exchange rates. The foreign currency translation adjustment is recorded as a separate component of shareholders’ equity and is included in accumulated other comprehensive income.

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Table of Contents


Transaction gains totaled approximately $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018 and transaction losses totaled approximately $0.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, and are included in other expense, net in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. The Company includes in its cash and cash equivalents credit card receivables due from its credit card processor, as the cash proceeds from credit card receivables are received within 24 to 72 hours. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, credit card receivables were $1.6 million and $2.0 million, respectively, and cash and cash equivalents held in bank accounts in foreign countries totaled $19.9 million and $30.6 million, respectively. The Company invests cash in liquid instruments, such as money market funds and interest bearing deposits. The Company also holds cash in high quality financial institutions and does not believe it has an excessive exposure to credit concentration risk.

At December 31, 2018, a portion of our cash and cash equivalent balances were concentrated within the Republic of South Korea, with total net assets within this foreign location totaling $14.4 million. In addition, for the year ended December 31, 2018, a concentrated portion of our operating cash flows were earned from operations within the Republic of South Korea.  An adverse change in economic conditions within the Republic of South Korea could negatively affect the Company’s results of operations.   

Restricted Cash

The Company is required to restrict cash for: (i) direct selling insurance premiums and credit card sales in the Republic of Korea; (ii) reserve on credit card sales in the United States and Canada; and (iii) Australia building lease collateral. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, our total restricted cash was $8.7 million and $9.1 million, respectively. The Company classifies the restricted cash held in Korea and Australia as long-term since it relates to assets and services contracted for longer than one year.

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the Company's consolidated balance sheets to the total amount presented in the consolidated statement of cash flows (in thousands):

 
December 31, 2018
December 31, 2017

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
$
37,682

$
28,687

Current restricted cash at beginning of period
1,514

1,510

Long-term restricted cash at beginning of period
7,565

6,429

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period
$
46,761

$
36,626

 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
21,845

$
37,682

Current restricted cash at end of period
1,514

1,514

Long-term restricted cash at end of period
7,225

7,565

Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period
$
30,584

$
46,761


Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable are carried at their estimated collectible amounts. Receivables are created upon shipment of an order if the credit card payment is rejected or does not match the order total. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, receivables consisted primarily of amounts due from preferred customers and associates. The Company periodically evaluates its receivables for collectability based on historical experience, recent account activities, and the length of time receivables are past due and writes-off receivables when they become uncollectible. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company held an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.8 million and $0.6 million, respectively.


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Table of Contents

Inventories

Inventories consist of raw materials, finished goods, and promotional materials that are stated at the lower of cost (using standard costs that approximate average costs) or net realizable value. The Company periodically reviews inventories for obsolescence and any inventories identified as obsolete are reserved or written off.

Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets

Prepaid expenses and other current assets were $3.4 million and $2.6 million at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Included in the December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances were $1.8 million and $1.7 million in prepaid deposits, respectively. Also included in the balances at December 31, 2018 and 2017 were $1.0 million and $0.9 million for other prepaid assets, respectively. At December 31, 2018 the balance in prepaid inventory was $0.6 million.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of each asset. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the improvements. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The cost of property and equipment sold or otherwise retired and the related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in other operating costs in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. The estimated useful lives of fixed assets are as follows:

 
Estimated useful life
Office furniture and equipment
5 to 7 years
Computer hardware and software
3 to 5 years
Automobiles
3 to 5 years
Leasehold improvements (1)
2 to 10 years
(1) The Company amortizes leasehold improvements over the shorter of the useful estimated life of the leased asset or the lease term.

Property and equipment are reviewed for impairment whenever an event or change in circumstances indicates that the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. The impairment review includes a comparison of future projected cash flows generated by the asset or group of assets with its associated net carrying value. If the net carrying value of the asset or group of assets exceeds expected cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges), an impairment loss is recognized to the extent the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.
    
Other Assets
At December 31, 2018 and 2017, other assets were $3.9 million and $3.9 million, respectively. Included in the December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances were deposits for building leases in various locations of $2.0 million and $1.9 million, respectively. Also included in each of the December 31, 2018 and 2017 balances were $1.7 million, representing a deposit with Mutual Aid Cooperative and Consumer in the Republic of Korea, an organization established by the Republic of Korea’s Fair Trade Commission’s approval to compensate and  protect consumers who participate  in network marketing activities from damages. Other assets at each of December 31, 2018 and 2017 also include $0.2 million of indefinite lived intangible assets relating to the Manapol ® powder trademark.

Notes Payable
Notes payable were $1.6 million and $0.8 million as of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively, as a result of funding from a capital financing agreement related to our investment in leasehold improvements, computer hardware and software and other financing arrangements. Payments are made monthly according to the terms of the agreements which have a weighted average effective interest rate of 4.89% and are collateralized by leasehold improvements and computer hardware and software. At December 31, 2018, the current portion was $0.7 million and the long-term portion was $0.9 million. At December 31, 2017, the current portion was $0.8 million and the long-term portion was $0.0 million.


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Other Long-Term Liabilities

Other long-term liabilities were $2.3 million and $1.3 million for the years ending December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. At December 31, 2018, we recorded $1.3 million of lease incentive obligation for leasehold improvements at our corporate headquarters. At each of December 31, 2018 and 2017, we recorded $0.2 million, respectively, in other long-term liabilities related to uncertain income tax positions (see Note 7, Income Taxes). Certain operating leases for the Company’s regional office facilities contain a restoration clause that requires the Company to restore the premises to its original condition. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, accrued restoration costs related to these leases amounted to $0.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively. At December 31, 2018 and 2017, government mandated severance accruals in certain international offices amounted to $0.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively. The Company also recorded a long-term liability for an estimated defined benefit obligation related to a non-U.S. defined benefit plan for its Japan operations of $0.4 million and $0.4 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively (See Note 9, Employee Benefit Plans).

Revenue Recognition

The Company’s revenue is derived from sales of individual products and associate fees or, in certain geographic markets,
starter and renewal packs. Substantially all of the Company’s product sales are made at published wholesale prices to associates and preferred customers. The Company records revenue net of any sales taxes and records a reserve for expected sales returns based on its historical experience. The Company recognizes revenue from shipped products when control of the product transfers to the customer, thus the performance obligation is satisfied. Corporate-sponsored event revenue is recognized when the event is held.

As a result of the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was implemented on July 1, 2017, we collect associate fees, which relate to providing associates with the right to earn commissions, benefits and incentives for that year. Associate fees are recognized evenly over the course of the annual period of the associate’s contract and revenue from software tools included in the first contractual year is recognized over three months. Almost all orders are paid via credit card. We collected associate fees within the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom during the year ended December 31, 2018.

Orders placed by associates or preferred customers constitute our contracts. Product sales placed in the form of an automatic order contain two performance obligations - a) the sale of the product and b) the loyalty program. For these contracts, the Company accounts for each of these obligations separately as they are each distinct. The transaction price is allocated between the product sale and the loyalty program on a relative standalone selling price basis. Sales placed through a one-time order contain only the first performance obligation noted above - the sale of the product.

The Company provides associates with access to a complimentary three-month package for the Success TrackerTM and Mannatech+ online business tools with the first payment of an associate fee. The first payment of an associate fee contains three performance obligations a) the associate fee, whereby the Company provides an associate with the right to earn commissions, bonuses and incentives for a year, b) three months of complimentary access to utilize the Success Tracker™ online tool and c) three months of complimentary access to utilize the Mannatech+ online business tool. The transaction price is allocated between the three performance obligations on a relative standalone selling price basis. Associates do not have complimentary access to online business tools after the first contractual period.

With regard to both of the aforementioned contracts, the Company determines the standalone selling prices based on our overall pricing objectives, taking into consideration market conditions and other factors, including the value of the contracts.

Our sales mix for the years ended December 31, was as follows (in millions, except percentages):
 
2018
 
Percentage
 
2017
 
Percentage
Consolidated product sales
$
170.2

 
98.0
%
 
$
157.9

 
89.4
%
Consolidated pack sales and associate fees(a)
2.5

 
1.5
%
 
14.2

 
8.0
%
Consolidated other, including freight
0.9

 
0.5
%
 
4.6

 
2.6
%
Total consolidated net sales
$
173.6

 
100.0
%
 
$
176.7

 
100.0
%

Revenues by reporting segment are presented in Note 15 of our consolidated financial statements. We believe that the disaggregation of our revenues as reflected above, coupled with further discussion below, and the reporting segment in Note 15, depicts how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of our revenues and cash flows are affected by economic factors.

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Table of Contents

Deferred Commissions

The Company defers commissions on (i) the sales of products shipped but not received by customers by the end of the
respective period and (ii) the loyalty program. Deferred commissions are incremental costs and are amortized to expense consistent with how the related revenue is recognized. Deferred commissions were $2.4 million and $3.9 million at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. Of this balance $2.6 million was amortized to commissions expense for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018.

Deferred Revenue

The Company defers certain components of its revenue. Deferred revenue consisted of: (i) sales of products shipped but not received by the customers by the end of the respective period; (ii) revenue from the loyalty program; (iii) prepaid registration fees from customers planning to attend a future corporate-sponsored event; and (iv) prepaid annual associate fees. At December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company’s deferred revenue was $5.3 million and $8.6 million, respectively. Of this balance, $6.6 million was recognized as revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2018.
    
The Company's customer loyalty program conveys a material right to the customer as it provides the promise to redeem loyalty points for the purchase of products, which is based on earning points through placing consecutive qualified automatic orders. The timing and recognition of loyalty points has not changed with the adoption of ASC 606. The Company factors in breakage rates, which is the percentage of the loyalty points that are expected to be forfeited or expire, for purposes of revenue recognition. Breakage rates are estimated based on historical data and can be reasonably and objectively determined. There have not been significant changes for the breakage estimate as a result of adopting ASC 606. The deferred revenue associated with the loyalty program at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 was $4.2 million and $6.4 million, as follows:

Loyalty program
(in thousands)

Loyalty deferred revenue as of January 1, 2017
$
7,033

Loyalty points forfeited or expired
(5,895
)
Loyalty points used
(14,316
)
Loyalty points vested
17,836

Loyalty points unvested
1,748

Loyalty deferred revenue as of December 31, 2017
$
6,406


Loyalty deferred revenue as of January 1, 2018
$
6,406

Loyalty points forfeited or expired
(4,332
)
Loyalty points used
(11,398
)
Loyalty points vested
12,469

Loyalty points unvested
1,086

Loyalty deferred revenue as of December 31, 2018
$
4,231


Sales Refund and Allowances

The Company utilizes the expected value method, as set forth by ASC 606, to estimate the sales returns and allowance liability by taking the weighted average of the sales return rates over a rolling six-month period. The Company allocates the total amount recorded within the sales return and allowance liability as a reduction of the overall transaction price for the Company’s product sales. The Company deems the sales refund and allowance liability to be a variable consideration. The method for estimating the sales returns and allowance liability has remained consistent as a result of adopting ASC 606.

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Table of Contents

Historically, our sales returns have not materially changed through the years, as the majority of our customers who return their merchandise do so within the first 90 days after the original sale. Sales returns have historically averaged 1.5% or less of our gross sales. For the years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, our sales return reserve consisted of the following (in thousands):

Sales reserve as of January 1, 2017
$
129

Provision related to sales made in current period
1,274

Adjustment related to sales made in prior periods
3

Actual returns or credits related to current period
(1,156
)
Actual returns or credits related to prior periods
(133
)
Sales reserve as of December 31, 2017
$
117

 
 
Sales reserve as of January 1, 2018
$
117

Provision related to sales made in current period
1,198

Adjustment related to sales made in prior periods
(10
)
Actual returns or credits related to current period
(1,125
)
Actual returns or credits related to prior periods
(104
)
Sales reserve as of December 31, 2018
$
76



Shipping and Handling Costs

The Company records inbound freight as a component of inventory and cost of sales. The Company records freight and shipping fees collected from its customers as fulfillment costs. In accordance with ASC 606-10-25-18a, freight and shipping fees are not deemed to be separate performance obligations as these activities occur before the customer receives the product.
Commission and Incentive Expenses

Associates earn commissions and incentives based on their direct and indirect commissionable net sales over each month of the fiscal year. The Company accrues commissions and incentives when earned by associates and pays commissions on product and pack sales on a monthly basis.

Advertising Expenses

The Company expenses advertising and promotions in selling and administrative expenses when incurred. Advertising and promotional expenses were approximately $5.6 million and $5.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Educational and promotional items, called sales aids, are sold to associates to assist in their sales efforts and are included in inventories and charged to cost of sales when sold.

Research and Development Expenses

The Company expenses research and development expenses as incurred. Research and development expenses related to new product development, enhancement of existing products, clinical studies and trials, Food and Drug Administration compliance studies, general supplies, internal salaries, third-party contractors, and consulting fees were approximately $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. Salaries and contract labor are included in selling and administrative expenses and all other research and development costs are included in other operating costs.


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Table of Contents

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company currently has one active stock-based compensation plan, the Mannatech, Incorporated 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2017 Plan”), which was adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors on April 17, 2017 and was approved by its shareholders on June 8, 2017. The 2017 Plan supersedes the Mannatech, Incorporated 2008 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, which was set to expire on February 20, 2018. The 2008 Plan provided, and the 2017 Plan provides, for grants of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock and performance stock units to our employees, board members, and consultants. However, only employees of the Company and its corporate subsidiaries are eligible to receive incentive stock options. The exercise price per share for all stock options will be no less than the market value of a share of common stock on the date of grant. Any incentive stock option granted to an employee owning more than 10% of our common stock will have an exercise price of no less than 110% of our common stock’s market value on the grant date.

The majority of stock options vest over two or three years, and generally are granted with a term of ten years, or five years in the case of an incentive option granted to an employee who owns more than 10% of our common stock. At date of grant, the Company determines the fair value of the stock option award and recognizes compensation expense over the requisite service period, or the vesting period of the award. The fair value of the stock option award is calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The Company records stock-based compensation expense in selling and administrative expenses.

Software Development Costs

The Company capitalizes qualifying internal payroll and external contracting and consulting costs related to the development of internal use software that are incurred during the application development stage, which includes design of the software configuration and interfaces, coding, installation, and testing. Costs incurred during the preliminary project along with post-implementation stages of internal use software are expensed as incurred. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company capitalized $0.3 million and $0.4 million, respectively, of qualifying internal payroll costs. The Company amortizes such costs over the estimated useful life of the software, which is three to five years once the software is placed in service.

Other Operating Costs

Other operating costs include travel, accounting/legal/consulting fees, credit card processing fees, banking fees, off-site storage fees, utilities, and other miscellaneous operating expenses.

Income Taxes

The Company determines the provision for income taxes using the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized as income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company evaluates the probability of realizing the future benefits of its deferred tax assets and provides a valuation allowance for the portion of any deferred tax assets where the likelihood of realizing an income tax benefit in the future does not meet the more likely than not criterion for recognition.  The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being recognized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. The Company recognizes both interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as part of the income tax provision.

Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income is defined as the change in equity of a business enterprise during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources and includes all changes in equity during a period except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. The Company’s comprehensive income consists of the Company’s net income, foreign currency translation adjustments from its Japan, Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Colombia, Mexico and China operations, remeasurement of intercompany balances classified as equity from its Taiwan, Mexico and Cyprus operations, and changes in the pension obligation for its Japanese employees.


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Table of Contents

Concentration Risk

A significant portion of our revenue is derived from our Advanced Ambrotose®, Ambrotose Life™, TruHealth, Manapol® Powder and Ambrotose® products. A decline in sales value of such products could have a material adverse effect on our earnings, cash flows, and financial position. Revenue from these products were as follows for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands, except percentages):
 
2018

2017
 
Sales by
product

% of total
net sales

Sales by
product

% of total
net sales
Advanced Ambrotose®
$
44,054


25.4
%

$
52,592


29.8
%
Ambrotose Life™
18,824


10.9
%



%
TruHealth
17,537


10.1
%

16,652


9.4
%
Manapol® Powder
8,636


5.0
%

11,183


6.3
%
Ambrotose®
7,695


4.4
%

8,459


4.8
%
Total
$
96,746


55.8
%

$
88,886


50.3
%

Our business is not currently exposed to customer concentration risk given that no independent associate has ever accounted for more than 10% of our consolidated net sales.

The Company maintains supply agreements with its suppliers and manufacturers. Some of the supply agreements contain exclusivity clauses and/or minimum annual purchase requirements. Failure to satisfy minimum purchase requirements could result in the loss of exclusivity. During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company purchased finished goods from four suppliers that accounted for 72.4% of the year's cost of sales. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company purchased finished goods from two suppliers that accounted for 34.4% of the year's cost of sales. The Company maintains other supply and manufacturing agreements to minimize exposure to supplier risk.

Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, investments, receivables, and restricted cash. The Company utilizes financial institutions that the Company considers to be of high credit quality and periodically evaluates the credit rating of such institutions and the allocation of their investments to minimize exposure to credit concentration risk.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, time deposits, money market investments, receivables, payables, and accrued expenses, approximate their carrying values due to their relatively short maturities. See Note 2 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, Fair Value, for more information.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

The Company adopted ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, as of January 1, 2018. In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This new standard requires companies to recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which a company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Under the new standard, revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of a good or service. The standard allows for two transition methods - entities can either apply the new standard (i) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented or (ii) retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the standard recognized at the date of initial adoption. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which deferred the effective date by one year to December 15, 2017 for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after that date. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue versus Net), in April 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, and in May 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-12, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients, which provide additional clarification on certain topics addressed in ASU 2014-09. ASU 2016-08, ASU 2016-10, and ASU 2016-12 follow the same implementation guidelines as ASU 2014-09 and ASU 2015-14. All of these aforementioned ASUs have been codified under ASC 606. We adopted this standard on January 1, 2018 utilizing the modified retrospective approach applied to open contracts at the date of initial application. As the cumulative effect of applying the modified retrospective approach was immaterial, no adjustment was recorded to the opening balance of retained earnings. The adoption of this standard has led to increased footnote disclosures and reclassification of $3.2 million related to freight revenues that were included in product revenue

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Table of Contents

in 2018 as a result of adopting ASC 606. The overall financial impact of adopting this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, financial condition, changes in financial condition or results of operations.

The Company adopted ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows, Restricted Cash (Topic 230), during the first quarter of 2018. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows, Restricted Cash (Topic 230), which addresses the diversity in the classification and presentation of changes in restricted cash on the statement of cash flows. The amendment requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash. Restricted cash amounts are to be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning and ending amounts of cash on the statement of cash flows. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our financial statements, financial condition, changes in financial condition or results of operations.

The Company adopted ASU 2017-09, Compensation, Stock Compensation (Topic 718), during the first quarter of 2018. In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation, Stock Compensation (Topic 718), to clarify which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting. The new standard is required to be applied prospectively. The guidance was effective January 1, 2018, and the adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on our financial statements, financial condition, changes in financial condition or results of operations.

Accounting Pronouncements Issued But Not Yet Effective

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ("ASU 2016-02"). Under ASU 2016-02, an entity will be required to recognize right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities on its balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. ASU 2016-02 offers specific accounting guidance for a lessee, a lessor and sale and leaseback transactions. Lessees and lessors are required to disclose qualitative and quantitative information about leasing arrangements to enable a user of the financial statements to assess the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. For public companies, ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within that reporting period. The Company adopted the new standard on January 1, 2019 using a modified retrospective approach. Under the modified retrospective approach, the Company will not adjust the comparative period financial information or make the new required lease disclosures for periods before the effective date. The Company will elect the short-term lease recognition exemption and will not recognize ROU assets or lease liabilities for leases with a term less than 12 months. While the Company continues to assess all of the effects of adoption, the Company believes the most significant effects relate to (i) the recognition of new ROU assets and lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and (ii) providing significant new disclosures about the Company's leasing activities. The Company expects adoption of this new standard will not have a material impact on its results of operations or cash flows. The new ROU assets and lease liabilities, which will be recognized on the consolidated balance sheet, consist primarily of offices. We started the transition plan in the third quarter of 2018 and continued to perform the scoping work in the fourth quarter of 2018. We identified a total of 22 lease agreements that are subject to Topic 842, and four of them meet the short-term lease exception as of December 31, 2018. We are continuing to analyze and evaluate the ROU assets and lease liability using the incremental borrowing rate at January 1, 2019 because the implicit rate is not readily determinable in the lease agreement. Upon adoption of ASC 842, all existing leases will be classified as either operating lease or finance lease. The Company plans to modify its business processes and controls to support the adoption of the new standard, including expanded review of new contracts. After the adoption of Topic 842, we will first report the ROU assets and lease liabilities as of March 31, 2019 in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q based on our lease portfolio as of that date.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). This standard adds to U.S. GAAP an impairment model (known as the current expected credit loss ("CECL") model) that is based on expected losses rather than incurred losses. Under the new guidance, an entity recognizes as an allowance its estimate of expected credit losses, which is intended to result in the more timely recognition of losses. Under the CECL model, entities will estimate credit losses over the entire contractual term of the instrument (considering estimated prepayments, but not expected extensions or modifications) from the date of initial recognition of the financial instrument. Measurement of expected credit losses are to be based on relevant forecasts that affect collectability. The scope of financial assets within the CECL methodology is broad and includes trade receivables from certain revenue transactions and certain off-balance sheet credit exposures. Different components of the guidance require modified retrospective or prospective adoption. ASU 2016-13 will be effective for us as of January 1, 2020. While our review is ongoing, we believe ASU 2016-13 will only have applicability to our receivables from revenue transactions. Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when, among other criteria, it is probable that the entity will collect the consideration to which it is entitled for goods or services transferred to a customer. At the point that trade receivables are recorded, they become subject to the CECL model and estimates of expected credit losses on trade receivables over their contractual life will be required to be recorded at inception based on historical information, current conditions, and

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reasonable and supportable forecasts. The Company is currently evaluating whether the new guidance will have an impact on our consolidated financial statements or existing internal controls.    

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income, Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), which amended its standard on comprehensive income to provide an option for an entity to reclassify the stranded tax effects of the Act that was passed in December of 2017 from accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") directly to retained earnings. The stranded tax effects result from the remeasurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities which were originally recorded in comprehensive income but whose remeasurement is reflected in the income statement. This is a one-time amendment applicable only to the changes resulting from the Act. The standard will be effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, and may be reflected retroactively to any period in which the impacts of the Act are recognized. The standard permits early adoption for any financial statements that have not been released as of the date of the revised standard. The Company is still evaluating the potential financial impact of adopting this standard.

Other recently issued accounting pronouncements did not or are not believed by management to have a material impact on the Company's present or future financial statements.

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Table of Contents

NOTE 2: FAIR VALUE

The Company utilizes fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain financial assets and to determine fair value disclosures.

Fair Value Measurements (Topic 820) of the FASB establishes a fair value hierarchy that requires the use of observable market data, when available, and prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value in the following categories:

Level 1—Quoted unadjusted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2—Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-derived valuations in which all observable inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.
Level 3—Model derived valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value drivers are unobservable, including assumptions developed by the Company.

The primary objective of the Company’s investment activities is to preserve principal while maximizing yields without significantly increasing risk. The investment instruments held by the Company are interest bearing deposits for which quoted market prices are readily available. The Company considers these highly liquid investments to be cash equivalents. These investments are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued based on quoted market prices in active markets.

The tables below presents the recorded amount of financial assets measured at fair value, which approximately equates to the carrying value due to the relatively short maturities of these respective assets, (in thousands) on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2018 and 2017. The Company did not have any material financial liabilities that were required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis at December 31, 2018 and 2017.

2018
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest bearing deposits – various banks
$
11,391

 
$

 
$

 
$
11,391

Total assets
$
11,391

 
$

 
$

 
$
11,391

Amounts included in:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
4,633

 
$

 
$

 
$
4,633

Restricted cash
741

 

 

 
741

Long-term restricted cash
6,017

 

 

 
6,017

Total
$
11,391

 
$

 
$

 
$
11,391


2017
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest bearing deposits – various banks
$
23,695

 
$

 
$

 
$
23,695

Total assets
$
23,695

 
$

 
$

 
$
23,695

Amounts included in:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
16,651

 
$

 
$

 
$
16,651

Restricted cash
741

 

 

 
741

Long-term restricted cash
6,303

 

 

 
6,303

Total
$
23,695

 
$

 
$

 
$
23,695



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NOTE 3: INVENTORIES

Inventories consist of raw materials, finished goods, and promotional materials. The Company provides an allowance for any slow-moving or obsolete inventories. Inventories as of December 31, 2018 and 2017, consisted of the following (in thousands):

 
2018
 
2017
Raw materials
$
803

 
$
879

Finished goods
12,542

 
9,072

Inventory reserves for obsolescence
(524
)
 
(566
)
Total
$
12,821

 
$
9,385


NOTE 4: PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

For the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, construction in progress was $0.9 million and $0.8 million, respectively, which is primarily comprised of back-office software projects with in service dates that are currently indeterminable. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):

 
2018
 
2017
Office furniture and equipment
$
3,441

 
$
7,648

Computer hardware
4,239

 
5,209

Computer software
43,416

 
49,687

Automobiles
81

 
81

Leasehold improvements
4,812

 
11,530

 
55,989

 
74,155

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
(50,129
)
 
(70,618
)
Property and equipment, net
5,860

 
3,537

Construction in progress
904

 
777

Total
$
6,764

 
$
4,314


NOTE 5: CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the net book value of leased assets was $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively for leased equipment and purchased licenses. The future minimum lease payments (in thousands) are as follows:

2019
$
81

2020
40

2021
28

2022
7

Total future minimum lease payments
156

Less: Amounts representing interest (effective interest rate 5.61%)
(9
)
Present value of minimum lease payments
147

Current portion of capital lease obligations
75

Long-term portion of capital lease obligations
$
72



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NOTE 6: ACCRUED EXPENSES

As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, accrued expenses consisted of the following (in thousands):

 
2018
 
2017
Accrued asset purchases
$
261

 
$
238

Accrued compensation
1,912

 
1,685

Accrued royalties
59

 
55

Accrued sales and other taxes
344

 
260

Other accrued operating expenses
677

 
785

Customer deposits and sales returns
425

 
153

Accrued travel expenses related to corporate events
411

 
1,156

Accrued shipping and handling costs
755

 
691

Rent expense
442

 
211

Accrued legal and accounting fees
709

 
537

 
$
5,995

 
$
5,771

 
NOTE 7: INCOME TAXES

The components of the Company’s income before income taxes are attributable to the following jurisdictions for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):

 
2018
 
2017
United States
$
(11,762
)
 
$
(6,911
)
Foreign
12,251

 
9,371

Income before income taxes
$
489

 
$
2,460


The components of the Company’s income tax expense for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):


Current provision (benefit):
2018
 
2017
Federal
$
13

 
$
(1,157
)
State
(25
)
 
75

Foreign
3,220

 
3,186

 
3,208

 
2,104

Deferred provision (benefit):
 
 
 
Federal
1,074

 
1,185

State
1,027

 
(425
)
Foreign
(934
)
 
1,383

 
1,167

 
2,143

 
$
4,375

 
$
4,247



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Table of Contents

A reconciliation of the Company’s effective income tax rate and the United States federal statutory income tax rate is summarized as follows, for the years ended December 31:

 
2018
 
2017
Federal statutory income taxes
21.0
 %
 
35.0
 %
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
(40.3
)
 
(8.0
)
Difference in foreign and United States tax on foreign operations
(75.6
)
 
(68.6
)
Effect of changes in valuation allowance
920.1

 
121.1

Effect of change in uncertain tax positions (net)
(0.5
)
 
(22.6
)
Federal Sub-Part F Income from foreign operations
0.4

 
6.6

Global Intangible Low Taxed Income (GILTI)
43.2

 

Federal Transition Tax (net of deduction)

 
191.4

Effect of changes in tax rates
(23.6
)
 
32.5

Foreign Exchange
(8.4
)
 
9.4

Prior year adjustments
(4.1
)
 
17.4

Other deferred - NOL expiration

 
26.0

Foreign tax credits and withholding tax
6.3

 
(180.8
)
Meals and entertainment
11.9

 
5.5

Stock Option Expense
25.8

 

Other permanent items
14.4

 
4.4

Other
4.1

 
3.4

 
894.7
 %
 
172.7
 %

For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s effective tax rate was 894.7% and 172.7%, respectively. In 2018, the Company had a significant increase in its rate due to the mix of earnings across jurisdictions, valuation allowance recorded losses in certain jurisdictions, and the impact of Global Intangible Low-Tax Income ("GILTI") as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Act") passed last year. For 2017, the Company had a significant increase in its rate due to the impact of the Act. Items decreasing the effective income tax rate included the favorable rate difference from foreign jurisdictions, utilization of foreign tax credits against the transition tax, and certain tax reserve items removed due to expiration of applicable statute of limitations. Items increasing the effective income tax rate included transition tax, return to provision and prior year adjustments, and change in valuation allowance.



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Table of Contents

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following at December 31 (in thousands):
Deferred tax assets:
2018
 
2017
Deferred Revenue
$
277

 
$
353

Inventory capitalization
109

 
147

Inventory reserves
141

 
112

Accrued expenses
804

 
917

Disallowed Interest Expense
123

 

Depreciation and amortization

 
1,506

Net operating loss(1)
9,293

 
6,549

Non-cash accounting charges related to stock options and warrants
584

 
464

Foreign tax credit carryover
3,621

 
5,544

Other
876

 
365

Total deferred tax assets
$
15,828

 
$
15,957

Valuation allowance
(12,793
)
 
(11,436
)
Total deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance
$
3,035

 
$
4,521

Deferred tax liabilities:
 

 
 

Prepaid expenses
$
262

 
$
239

Deferred commissions
255

 
543

Internally-developed software
326

 
381

Fixed assets
267

 
266

Total deferred tax liabilities
$
1,110

 
$
1,429

 
 
 
 
Total net deferred tax asset
$
1,925

 
$
3,092


(1) The Company’s net operating loss will expire as follows (dollar amounts in thousands):
Jurisdiction
Gross NOL
 
Tax Effected NOL
 
Expiration Years
Australia
$
597

 
$
179

 
Indefinite
Bermuda
$
32

 
$

 
N/A
Canada
$
40

 
$
10

 
2026
China
$
278

 
$
70

 
2024
Colombia
$
1,857

 
$
613

 
Indefinite
Gibraltar
$
116

 
$

 
Indefinite
Hong Kong
$
323

 
$
53

 
Indefinite
Japan
$
203

 
$
70

 
Indefinite
Mexico
$
10,195

 
$
3,059

 
2020-2028
Norway
$
287

 
$
66

 
Indefinite
Russia(1)
$
43

 
$
9

 
Indefinite
Singapore
$
127

 
$
22

 
Indefinite
South Africa
$
687

 
$
192

 
Indefinite
Sweden
$
490

 
$
108

 
Indefinite
Switzerland
$
9,249

 
$
850

 
2019-2025
Taiwan
$
4,901

 
$
980

 
2019-2028
Ukraine(2)
$
568

 
$
102

 
Indefinite
United States - Federal
$
9,091

 
$
1,878

 
Indefinite
United Kingdom
$
415

 
$
79

 
Indefinite
 
(1) 
On August 1, 2016, the Company established a legal entity in Russia.
(2) 
On March 21, 2014, the Company suspended operations in the Ukraine, but maintains the legal entity.

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In addition to net operating loss attributes, the Company has recorded a foreign tax credit carryforward of $3.6 million, which will begin to expire in 2025 and a charitable contribution carryforward of $0.2 million, which will expire between 2019 and 2022. The Company maintains a full valuation against both the foreign tax credits and the charitable contribution carryforward.
 
At December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company’s valuation allowance was $12.8 million and $11.4 million, respectively. The provisions of ASC Topic 740 require a company to record a valuation allowance when the “more likely than not” criterion for realizing a deferred tax asset cannot be met. A company is to use judgment in reviewing both positive and negative evidence of realizing a deferred tax asset. Furthermore, the weight given to the potential effect of such evidence is commensurate with the extent the evidence can be objectively verified.

The valuation allowances presented below (in millions) at December 31, 2018 and 2017, represented a reserve against the Company’s net deferred tax asset the Company believed the “more likely than not” criterion for recognition purposes could not be met. The U.S. valuation allowance increased due to the carryover of foreign tax credits that we do not anticipate to utilize in future years.
Country
2018
 
2017
Australia
$
0.3

 
$

China
0.3

 

Colombia
0.6

 
0.6

Hong Kong
0.1

 

Mexico
3.1

 
2.8

Norway
0.1

 

South Africa
0.2

 
0.1

Sweden
0.1

 
0.1

Taiwan
0.9

 
0.8

Ukraine
0.1

 
0.1

United Kingdom
0.1

 
0.1

United States
6.9

 
6.8

Other Jurisdictions

 

Total
$
12.8

 
$
11.4


U.S. Tax

On December 22, 2017, President Trump signed into law H.R. 1/Public Law No. 115-97, “An Act to provide for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018.” Pursuant to ASC 740-10-25-47, the effects of the new federal legislation are recognized upon enactment, which is the date the president signs a bill into law. The Securities and Exchange Commission staff (“SEC Staff”) recognized that entities may not have the necessary information available, prepared, or analyzed in reasonable detail to complete the accounting under ASC 740 for certain income tax effects of the Act in the reporting period that includes the date of enactment. SEC Staff issued guidance in SAB 118 to address this situation. SAB 118 provides that to the extent an entity can complete the income tax accounting effects of the Act, the completed amount is reported. As of the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company has completed its analysis and no material adjustments resulted from the analysis.

Deferred tax assets (liabilities) are classified in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets of December 31 as follows (in thousands):


 
2018
 
2017
Deferred tax assets
$
1,928

 
$
4,239

Deferred tax liabilities
(3
)
 
(1,147
)
Net deferred tax assets
$
1,925

 
$
3,092


    

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On January 1, 2007, the Company adopted FIN 48, which was codified into Topic 740, which prescribes a comprehensive model for how a company should recognize, measure, present, and disclose in its financial statements, uncertain tax positions that it has taken or expects to take on a tax return. Topic 740 requires that a company recognize in its financial statements the impact of tax positions that meet a “more likely than not” threshold, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. As of December 31, 2018, the Company recorded $0.2 million in other long-term liabilities related to uncertain income tax positions and income tax reserves associated with various audits. At December 31, 2018, the Company had unrecognized tax benefits of $0.1 million that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows, for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):
 
2018
 
2017
Balance as of January 1
$
79

 
$
515

Additions for tax positions related to the current year

 

Additions for tax positions of prior years

 

Reductions of tax positions of prior years

 
(436
)
Balance as of December 31
$
79

 
$
79


The Company recognizes interest and/or penalties related to uncertain tax positions in current income tax expense. As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, the Company had accrued interest and penalties of $0.1 million in the consolidated balance sheet, of which $11 thousand were accrued in the consolidated statement of operations. Although it is not reasonably possible to estimate the amount by which unrecognized tax benefits may increase or decrease within the next twelve months due to uncertainties regarding the timing of any examinations, the Company does not expect its unrecognized tax benefits to decrease during the next twelve months.

The Company files income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and various state and foreign jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2018, the tax years that remained subject to examination by a major tax jurisdiction for the Company’s most significant subsidiaries were as follows:

Jurisdiction
Open Years
Australia
2014-2018
Canada
2014-2018
China
2016-2018
Denmark
2015-2018
Japan
2015-2018
Mexico
2014-2018
Norway
2011-2018
Republic of Korea
2012-2018
Singapore
2014-2018
South Africa
2015-2018
Sweden
2013-2018
Switzerland
2014-2018
Taiwan
2013-2018
United Kingdom
2015-2018
United States
2015-2018


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Table of Contents

NOTE 8: TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES AND AFFILIATES

The Company made cash donations of $0.8 million and $0.5 million to the M5M Foundation for the year ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively. The M5M Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that works to combat the epidemic of childhood malnutrition on a global scale. Several of the Company’s directors and officers and their family members serve on the board of the M5M Foundation, including:

Al Bala, the Company’s CEO and President;
Chris Simons, the Company’s Regional Vice President EMEA; and
Landen Fredrick, the Company's Chief Global Sales Officer and President, North America and son of J. Stanley Fredrick, the Company’s Chairman of the Board and a major shareholder.

We paid employment compensation of approximately $321,000 in 2018 and $275,000 in 2017 for salary, bonus, auto allowance, and other compensation to Landen Fredrick. Landen Fredrick is the son of J. Stanley Fredrick, the Company’s Chairman of the Board and a major shareholder. In addition, Landen Fredrick participated in the employee health care benefit plans available to all employees of the Company. Effective January 1, 2018, Landen Fredrick was promoted from Senior Vice President of Global Operations to Chief Global Sales Officer and President, North America. Mr. Fredrick had served as Senior Vice President, Global Operations since August of 2016. Prior to that, Mr. Fredrick served as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain and IT since August of 2015, Vice President, Global Operations since May of 2013, Vice President, North American Sales and Operations since January of 2011, Vice President, North American Sales since February of 2010 and as Senior Director of Tools and Training since his hire in May of 2006. Landen Fredrick also serves on the Board of the M5M Foundation.

Mr. Kevin Robbins is a member of the Company's Board of Directors, serving on the Science and Marketing Committee, and is also an independent associate, holding a position in the Company's associate global downline network marketing system. He has also consulted on the associate commission plan. In addition, several of Mr. Robbins’ family members are independent associates. The Company pays commissions and incentives to its independent associates and, during 2018 and 2017, the Company paid aggregate commissions and incentives to Mr. Robbins and his family of approximately $2.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively. The aggregate amount of commissions and incentives paid to Mr. Robbins was approximately $0.2 million and $0.2 million in 2018 and 2017, respectively. The aggregate amount of commission and incentives paid to family members was approximately $2.2 million in 2018 and $2.4 million in 2017, of which $2.0 million was paid in 2018 and $2.2 million in 2017 to Mr. Robbins' father, Ray Robbins, who holds positions in the Company's associate global downline network marketing system. In addition, less than $0.1 million in 2017 was paid to his sister, Marla Finley, and sister-in-law, Demra Robbins, who both shared an account. All commissions and incentives paid to Mr. Robbins and his family members are in accordance with the Company’s global associate career and compensation plan. The Company paid less than $0.1 million to Mr. Kevin Robbins for consulting fees in 2018. The Company has also contracted with a software development firm owned by Ryan Robbins, the brother of Mr. Robbins. The value of services performed during each of 2018 and 2017 were less than $0.1 million.

Johanna Bala, the wife of Al Bala, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and President, is an independent associate who earns commissions and incentives. The aggregate amount of commission and incentives paid to Johanna Bala was approximately $0.2 million in 2018 and $0.1 million in 2017. The Company paid less than $0.1 million of commissions and incentives to other members of Al Bala's family in both years. All commissions and incentives paid to Al Bala's family members are in accordance with the Company’s global associate career and compensation plan.



F-24

Table of Contents

NOTE 9: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Employee Retirement Plan

Effective May 9, 1997, the Company adopted a Defined Contribution 401(k) and Profit Sharing Plan (the “401(k) Plan”) for its United States and Canada employees. The 401(k) Plan covers all regular full-time and part-time employees who have completed three months of service and attained the age of twenty-one. United States employees can contribute up to 100 percent of their annual compensation but are limited to the maximum annual dollar amount allowable under the Internal Revenue Code. The 401(k) plan permits matching and discretionary employer contributions. The Company’s matching contributions for its United States and Canada employees vest ratably over a five-year period. During each of the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company contributed approximately $0.3 million and $0.3 million to the 401(k) Plan for matching contributions, respectively.

The Company also sponsors a non-U.S. defined benefit plan covering its employees in its Japan subsidiary (the “Benefit Plan”). Benefits under the Benefit Plan are based on a point system for position grade and years of service. The Company utilizes actuarial methods. Inherent in the application of these actuarial methods are key assumptions, including, but not limited to, discount rates and expected long-term rates of return on plan assets. Changes in the related Benefit Plan costs may occur in the future due to changes in the underlying assumptions, changes in the number and composition of plan participants, and changes in the level of benefits provided. The Company uses a measurement date of December 31 to evaluate and record any post-retirement benefits related to the Benefit Plan.

Projected Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Plan Assets

The Benefit Plan’s projected benefit obligation and valuation of plan assets were as follows for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):

Projected benefit obligation:
2018
 
2017
Balance, beginning of year
$
367

 
$
451

Service cost
61

 
76

Interest cost
1

 
2

Liability (gain) loss
(18
)
 
(9
)
Benefits paid to participants
(31
)
 
(170
)
Foreign currency
8

 
17

Balance, end of year
$
388

 
$
367

 
 
 
 
Plan assets:
2018
 
2017
Fair value, beginning of year
$

 
$

Company contributions
31

 
170

Benefits paid to participants
(31
)
 
(170
)
Fair value, end of year
$

 
$


Funded status of the Benefit Plan as of December 31 (in thousands):
2018
 
2017
Benefit obligation
$
(388
)
 
$
(367
)
Fair value of plan assets

 

Excess of benefit obligation over fair value of plan assets
$
(388
)
 
$
(367
)

Amounts recognized in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of, as of December 31 (in thousands):
2018
 
2017
Accrued benefit liability
$
(388
)
 
$
(367
)
Transition obligation and unrealized gain
(273
)
 
(289
)
Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets
$
(661
)
 
$
(656
)


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Years Ended December 31,
Other changes recognized in comprehensive income (in thousands):
2018
 
2017
Net periodic cost
$
21

 
$
40

Current year actuarial (gain) loss
(18
)
 
(9
)
Amortization of transition obligation
(4
)
 
(4
)
Total recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)
(22
)
 
(13
)
Total recognized in comprehensive income
$
(1
)
 
$
27


 
As of December 31,
Amounts not yet reflected in net periodic benefit cost and included in accumulated other comprehensive gain (in thousands):
2018
 
2017
Transition obligation
$
40

 
$
28

Prior service cost
215

 
252

Net actuarial gain (loss)
18

 
9

Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive gain
$
273

 
$
289


2017 estimated amounts of amortized transition obligation (in thousands):
2018
Transition obligation
$
(4
)

 
As of December 31,
Aggregate Benefit Plan information and accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets (in thousands):
2018
 
2017
Projected benefit obligation
$
388

 
$
367

Accumulated benefit obligation
388

 
367

Fair value of plan assets

 


The weighted-average assumptions to determine the benefit obligation and net cost are as follows:

 
2018
 
2017
Discount rate
0.30
%
 
0.30
%
Rate of increase in compensation levels

 


Components of Expense

In accordance with ASU 2017-07, Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715 - Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost), Service Cost for the Benefit Plan is included within selling, general and administrative expenses and all other items noted in the table below (Interest Cost, Amortization of Transition Obligation, and Prior Service Cost) are included within other income and expense. Pension costs, which are included within Consolidated Statement of Operations are detailed below for the years ended December 31 (in thousands):

 
2018
 
2017
Service cost
$
61

 
$
76

Interest cost
1

 
2

Amortization of transition obligation
4

 
4

Gain (loss)
(3
)
 

Prior service cost
(42
)
 
(42
)
Total pension expense
$
21

 
$
40



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Table of Contents

Estimated Benefits and Contributions

The Company expects to contribute approximately $26,000 to the Benefit Plan in 2019. As of December 31, 2018, benefits expected to be paid by the Benefit Plan for the next ten years is approximately as follows (in thousands):

2019
$
26

2020
28

2021
25

2022
61

2023
26

Next five years
286

Total expected benefits to be paid
$
452


NOTE 10: STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

Summary of Stock Plan

The Company currently has one active stock-based compensation plan, the 2017 Plan, which was adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors on April 17, 2017 and was approved by its shareholders on June 8, 2017. The 2017 Plan supersedes the Mannatech, Incorporated 2008 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, which was set to expire on February 20, 2018. The Board has reserved a maximum of 250,000 shares of our common stock that may be issued under the 2017 Plan, consisting of 181,674 newly reserved shares and 68,326 shares that remained available for issuance under the 2008 Plan (subject to adjustments for stock splits, stock dividends or other changes in corporate capitalization). As of December 31, 2018, the Company had a total of 39,002 shares available for grant under the 2017 Plan, which expires on April 16, 2027.

The 2008 Plan provided, and the 2017 Plan provides, for grants of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance stock and performance stock units to our employees, board members, and consultants. However, only employees of the Company and its corporate subsidiaries are eligible to receive incentive stock options. The exercise price per share for all stock options will be no less than the market value of a share of common stock on the date of grant. Any incentive stock option granted to an employee owning more than 10% of our common stock will have an exercise price of no less than 110% of our common stock’s market value on the grant date.

The majority of stock options vest over two or three years, and generally are granted with a term of ten years, or five years in the case of an incentive option granted to an employee who owns more than 10% of our common stock.

A summary of changes in stock options outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2018, is as follows:

 
2018
 
Number of
Options
(in thousands)
 
Weighted
average
exercise
price
 
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual
life
(in years)
 
Aggregate
intrinsic
value (in
thousands)
Outstanding at beginning of year
247

 
$
17.23

 
 
 
 
Granted
185

 
16.18

 
 
 
 
Exercised
(6
)
 
18.95

 
 
 
 
Expired
(5
)
 
25.62

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at end of year
421

 
$
16.64

 
6.65
 
$
909

Options exercisable at year end
295

 
$
16.87

 
5.55
 
$
570



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During 2018, the Company issued 6,000 new shares upon the exercise of options, and granted 184,667 new options to management and members of the Board. Options exercised during the year ending December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 had a total intrinsic value, calculated as the difference between the exercise date stock price and the exercise price of less than $0.1 million and less than $0.2 million, respectively. Non-vested shares at December 31, 2018 and 2017 were approximately 126,000 and 15,000, respectively.

Valuation and Expense Information Under FASB ASC Topic 718 Compensation – Stock Compensation
Under the provisions of FASB ASC Topic 718, the Company is required to measure and recognize compensation expense related to any outstanding and unvested stock options previously granted, and thereafter recognize, in its consolidated financial statements, compensation expense related to any new stock options granted after implementation using a calculated fair-value based option-pricing model.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to calculate the fair value of all of its stock options and its assumptions are based on historical information. The following assumptions were used to calculate the compensation expense and the calculated fair value of stock options granted each year:
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
Dividend yield:
2.4 - 2.9
%
3.5
%
Risk-free interest rate:
2.5 - 2.8
%
1.7
%
Expected market price volatility:
55.6 - 56.4
%
64.4
%
Average expected life of stock options:
4.5 years
 
4.5 years
 

The computation of the expected volatility assumption used in the Black-Scholes calculations for new grants is based on historical volatilities of the Company’s stock. The expected life assumptions are based on the Company’s historical employee exercise and forfeiture behavior.

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $7.29 and $5.87 per share, respectively. The total fair value of awards vested during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $0.6 million and $0.3 million, respectively.

The Company recorded the following amounts related to the expense of the fair values of options and restricted share awards during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):
 
 
2018
 
2017
Selling, general and administrative expenses and income from operations before income taxes
$
888

 
$
246

Benefit for income taxes
(50
)
 
(45
)
Effect on net income
$
838

 
$
201


As of December 31, 2018, the Company had approximately $0.6 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options and restricted share awards currently outstanding, to be recognized in future years, ending December 31, as follows (in thousands):

 
Total gross unrecognized
compensation expense
 
Total tax benefit associated
with unrecognized
compensation expense
 
Total net
unrecognized
compensation expense
2019
$
481

 
$
19

 
$
462

2020
137

 
7

 
130

 
$
618

 
$
26

 
$
592


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NOTE 11: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Operating Leases

The Company leases certain office space, automobiles, computer hardware, and warehouse equipment under various non-cancelable operating leases. Some of these leases have renewal options. The Company also leases equipment under various month-to-month cancelable operating leases. For each of the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, total rent expense was approximately $3.7 million.

Approximate future minimum rental commitments for non-cancelable operating leases (in thousands) are as follows:

Years ending December 31,
 
2019
$
1,850

2020
977

2021
583

2022
586

2023
586

Thereafter
2,737

 
$
7,319


Purchase Commitments

The Company maintains supply agreements with its suppliers and manufacturers. Some of the supply agreements contain exclusivity clauses and/or minimum annual purchase requirements. In November 2016, the Company entered into a four-year supply agreement to purchase an aloe vera powder in whole leaf aloe form and an aloe vera gel extract from Natural Aloe de Costa Rica, S.A. As of December 31, 2018, the Company is required to purchase an aggregate of $9.8 million through 2020. Failure to satisfy minimum purchase requirements could result in the loss of exclusivity.

Royalty and Consulting Agreements

The Company utilizes royalty agreements with individuals and entities to provide compensation for items relating to developed products, websites and emails provided to our associates. The Company paid royalties of $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively.

Employment Agreements

The Company has non-cancelable employment agreements with certain executives. If the employment relationships with these executives were terminated, as of December 31, 2018, the Company would continue to be indebted to the executives for $0.4 million, payable through 2019.


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Table of Contents

NOTE 12: LITIGATION

Administrative Proceedings

Mannatech Korea, Ltd. v. Busan Custom Office, Busan District Court, Korea

On or before April 12, 2015, Mannatech Korea, Ltd. filed a suit against the Busan Custom Office (“BCO”) to challenge BCO’s method of calculation regarding its assessment notice issued on July 11, 2013.  The assessment notice included an audit of the Company’s imported goods covering fiscal years 2008 through 2012 and required the Company to pay $1.0 million for this assessment, all of which was paid in January 2014. Both parties submitted a response to the Court’s inquiry on January 15, 2016. The final hearing for the case was held on May 26, 2016 where each party presented their respective arguments. The Court set the decision hearing on October 27, 2016, and the Court decided the case in the Company’s favor. However, on November 18, 2016, BCO filed an appeal to the Busan High Court. The first hearing occurred on March 31, 2017, and the second hearing occurred on April 21, 2017. The final hearing was held on June 2, 2017. The Court issued its decision on June 30, 2017 in favor of the BCO. The Company appealed this decision on August 24, 2017. The Company anticipates a final decision on the appeal during the second quarter of 2019.This matter remains open.

Litigation in General

The Company has incurred several claims in the normal course of business. The Company believes such claims can be resolved without any material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

The Company maintains certain liability insurance; however, certain costs of defending lawsuits are not covered by or only partially covered by its insurance policies, including claims that are below insurance deductibles. Additionally, insurance carriers could refuse to cover certain claims, in whole or in part. The Company accrues costs to defend itself from litigation as they are incurred.

The outcome of litigation is uncertain, and despite management’s views of the merits of any litigation, or the reasonableness of the Company’s estimates and reserves, the Company’s financial statements could nonetheless be materially affected by an adverse judgment. The Company believes it has adequately reserved for the contingencies arising from current legal matters where an outcome was deemed to be probable, and the loss amount could be reasonably estimated.



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NOTE 13: SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Preferred Stock

On May 19, 1998, the Company amended its Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to reduce the number of authorized shares of common stock from 100.0 million to 99.0 million and the Company authorized 1.0 million shares of preferred stock with a par value of $0.01 per share. No shares of preferred stock have ever been issued or outstanding.

Treasury Stock

On June 30, 2004, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase, in the open market, the lesser of (i) 131,756 shares of its common stock and (ii) $1.3 million of its shares, (the “June 2004 Plan”). On August 28, 2006, a second program permitting the Company to purchase, in the open market, up to $20 million of its outstanding shares was approved by our Board of Directors (the “August 2006 Plan”). On July 14, 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the Company to reactivate the June 2004 Plan. On August 31, 2016, the Company's Board of Directors reactivated the August 2006 Plan. In August of 2016 and December of 2017, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the Company to repurchase up to $0.5 million, respectively, of the Company's outstanding common shares in open market transactions. In August of 2018 and November of 2018, the Company's Board of Directors reactivated an additional $0.5 million (of the original $20.0 million authorization), respectively, in shares of the Company's common stock to be repurchased in the open market. As of August 8, 2017, the maximum number of shares available for repurchase under the June 2004 Plan was 19,084, and the total number of shares purchased in the open market under the June 2004 Plan was 112,672. As of December 31, 2018, there was $18.9 million remaining for repurchase under the August 2006 Plan, and the total value of shares repurchased in the open market under the August 2006 Plan was $1.1 million. The Company does not have any stock repurchase plans or programs other than the June 2004 Plan and the August 2006 Plan.

On May 17, 2018, we announced our intention to commence a modified Dutch auction cash tender offer to purchase up to $16.0 million of our common stock. The tender offer commenced on May 18, 2018 and expired on June 15, 2018. As a result of the tender offer, we accepted for purchase 316,659 shares of our common stock at a purchase price of $21.00 per share, for an aggregate purchase price of $6.6 million, excluding fees and expenses relating to the tender offer, which was funded from cash on hand.

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company repurchased 29,963 shares at an average price of $20.02. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company repurchased 15,418 shares at an average price of $14.69.


Equity-Based Compensation

During 2018, 6,000 shares were issued for stock option exercises and a total of 16,331 shares were issued to the members of the Board as compensation for their work on the Board.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Accumulated other comprehensive income displayed in the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity represents the results of certain shareholders’ equity changes not reflected in the consolidated statements of operations, such as foreign currency translation and certain pension and postretirement benefit obligations.


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Table of Contents

The after-tax components of accumulated other comprehensive income, are as follows (in thousands):

 
Foreign
Currency
Translation
 
Pension
Postretirement
Benefit
Obligation
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income, Net
Balance as of December 31, 2016
$
1,534

 
$
300

 
$
1,834

Current-period change before reclassifications
4,169

 

 
4,169

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 
(29
)
 
(29
)
Income tax provision

 
10

 
10

Balance as of December 31, 2017
$
5,703

 
$
281

 
$
5,984

Current-period change before reclassifications
(1,661
)
 

 
(1,661
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 
4

 
4

Income tax provision

 
10

 
10

Balance as of December 31, 2018
$
4,042

 
$
295

 
$
4,337



Dividends

On March 12, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.125 per share that was paid on March 28, 2018 to shareholders of record on March 21, 2018.

On May 10, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.125 per share that was paid on May 30, 2018 to shareholders of record on May 23, 2018.

On August 10, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.500 per share that was paid on September 26, 2018 to shareholders of record on September 17, 2018.

On November 14, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.500 per share that was paid on December 27, 2018 to shareholders of record on December 6, 2018.

During the year ended December 31, 2018, the Company declared and paid dividends amounting to an aggregate of $3.1 million. During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Company declared and paid dividends amounting to an aggregate of $1.4 million. Payment of future dividends is at the discretion of our Board of Directors.


NOTE 14: EARNINGS PER SHARE
 
The Company calculates basic Earnings per Share ("EPS") by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS also reflects the potential dilution that could occur if common stock were issued for awards outstanding under the Mannatech, Incorporated 2017 Stock Incentive Plan.

For each of the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, shares of the Company's stock subject to options were excluded from the diluted EPS calculation as their effect would have been antidilutive. The Company reported a net loss for each of the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

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NOTE 15: SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company's sole reporting segment is one where we sell proprietary nutritional supplements, skin care and anti-aging products, and weight-management and fitness products through network marketing distribution channels operating in twenty-five countries. Each of the business units sells similar packs (with the exception of the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan where packs have been replaced with associate fees, see Note 1 Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies) and products and possesses similar economic characteristics, such as selling prices and gross margins. In each country, the Company markets its products and pays commissions and incentives in similar market environments. The Company’s management reviews its financial information by country and focuses its internal reporting and analysis of revenues by packs and product sales. The Company sells its products through its independent associates who occupy positions in our network and distribute products through similar distribution channels in each country. No single independent associate has ever accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s consolidated net sales. The Company also operates a non-direct selling business in mainland China. Our subsidiary in China, Meitai, is operating as a traditional retailer under a cross-border e-commerce model. Meitai cannot legally conduct a direct selling business in China until it acquires a direct selling license in China.

The Company operates facilities in fourteen countries and sells product in twenty-six countries around the world. These facilities are located in the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, the Republic of Korea (South Korea), Taiwan, South Africa, Mexico, Hong Kong, Singapore, Colombia and China. Each facility services different geographic areas. We currently sell our products in three regions: (i) the Americas (the United States, Canada, Colombia and Mexico); (ii) EMEA (Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom); (iii) Asia/Pacific (Australia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China).
Consolidated net sales shipped to customers in these regions, along with pack and product information for the years ended December 31, are as follows (in millions, except percentages):

Region
2018
 
2017
Americas
$
58.7

 
33.8
%
 
$
64.2

 
36.3
%
Asia/Pacific
101.7

 
58.6
%
 
98.8

 
55.9
%
EMEA
13.2

 
7.6
%
 
13.7

 
7.8
%
Total
$
173.6

 
100.0
%
 
$
176.7

 
100.0
%


 
2018
 
2017
Consolidated product sales
$
170.2

 
$
157.9

Consolidated pack sales and associate fees(a)
2.5

 
14.2

Consolidated other, including freight
0.9

 
4.6

Total
$
173.6

 
$
176.7

a)Coincident with the introduction of the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, which was implemented on July 1, 2017, the Company collects associate fees, which each associate pays to the Company annually in order to be entitled to earn commissions, benefits and incentives for that year. The Company collected associate fees within the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom during the year ended December 31, 2018. Prior to the change, associates purchased packs that were bundles of products within these respective geographic markets. Since implementing the 2017 Associate Compensation Plan, total associate fees represented an immaterial amount of total sales.


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Long-lived assets by region, which include property and equipment and construction in progress for the Company and its subsidiaries, as of December 31, reside in the following regions, as follows (in millions):

Region
2018
 
2017
Americas
$
5.5

 
$
2.9

Asia/Pacific
1.3

 
1.3

EMEA

 
0.1

Total
$
6.8

 
$
4.3


Inventory balances by region, which consist of raw materials and finished goods, including promotional materials, and offset by obsolete inventories, for the Company and its subsidiaries, reside in the following regions as of December 31, as follows (in millions):

Region
2018
 
2017
Americas
$
4.5

 
$
3.5

Asia/Pacific
6.3

 
4.5

EMEA
2.0

 
1.4

Total
$
12.8

 
$
9.4


F-34