UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D. C.  20549

Form 10‑Q

QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarter Ended September 26, 2015
Commission File Number  0-01989
Seneca Foods Corporation
(Exact name of Company as specified in its charter)
New York
16‑0733425
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I. R. S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)

3736 South Main Street, Marion, New York
14505
(Address of principal executive offices)
(Zip Code)

Company's telephone number, including area code          315/926-8100

Not Applicable
Former name, former address and former fiscal year,
if changed since last report

Indicate by check mark whether the Company (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Company was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes  No 

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

Indicate by check mark whether the Company is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer    Accelerated filer  þ Non-accelerated filer  ¨ Smaller reporting company 

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

The number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock at the latest practical date are:

Class
Shares Outstanding at October 23, 2015
Common Stock Class A, $.25 Par
7,922,246
Common Stock Class B, $.25 Par
1,967,858


 
Seneca Foods Corporation
 
 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
 
 
Table of Contents
 
     
   
Page
     
PART 1
 FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
     
  Item 1
Financial Statements:
 
     
 
   
     
   
 
   2
     
   
 
   2
     
   
 
   3
     
   
 
   4
     
 
   5
     
  Item 2
 
 
   12
     
  Item 3
   18
     
  Item 4
   19
     
PART II
 OTHER INFORMATION
 
     
  Item 1
   20
     
  Item 1A
   20
     
  Item 2
   20
     
  Item 3
   20
     
  Item 4
   20
     
  Item 5
   20
     
  Item 6
   20
     
 
   22

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
 
             
   
Unaudited
   
Unaudited
     
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
   
March 31,
 
   
2015
   
2014
   
2015
 
ASSETS
           
             
Current Assets:
           
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
$
9,397
   
$
14,037
   
$
10,608
 
Accounts Receivable, Net
   
83,296
     
80,981
     
69,837
 
Inventories:
                       
  Finished Goods
   
631,467
     
591,841
     
301,705
 
  Work in Process
   
7,107
     
18,358
     
10,167
 
  Raw Materials and Supplies
   
123,129
     
121,328
     
160,540
 
    Total Inventories
   
761,703
     
731,527
     
472,412
 
Deferred Income Taxes, Net
   
6,674
     
8,314
     
6,997
 
Refundable Income Taxes
   
-
     
1,439
     
-
 
Other Current Assets
   
13,251
     
21,614
     
27,439
 
  Total Current Assets
   
874,321
     
857,912
     
587,293
 
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
   
178,370
     
189,397
     
185,557
 
Deferred Income Tax Asset, Net
   
17,335
     
-
     
14,829
 
Other Assets
   
17,583
     
17,380
     
18,015
 
    Total Assets
 
$
1,087,609
   
$
1,064,689
   
$
805,694
 
                         
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                       
                         
Current Liabilities:
                       
  Notes Payable
 
$
-
   
$
4,880
   
$
9,903
 
  Accounts Payable
   
265,578
     
243,624
     
68,105
 
  Accrued Vacation
   
11,499
     
11,206
     
11,347
 
  Accrued Payroll
   
13,440
     
10,917
     
6,344
 
  Other Accrued Expenses
   
25,732
     
35,086
     
23,732
 
  Income Taxes Payable
   
3,886
     
-
     
1,787
 
  Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
   
307,080
     
2,449
     
2,530
 
Total Current Liabilities
   
627,215
     
308,162
     
123,748
 
Long-Term Debt, Less Current Portion
   
37,322
     
342,154
     
271,634
 
Pension Liabilities
   
60,245
     
18,209
     
54,960
 
Deferred Income Taxes, Net
   
-
     
1,126
     
-
 
Other Long-Term Liabilities
   
3,222
     
11,197
     
3,622
 
    Total Liabilities
   
728,004
     
680,848
     
453,964
 
Commitments and Contingencies
                       
Stockholders' Equity:
                       
  Preferred Stock
   
1,344
     
2,119
     
2,119
 
  Common Stock, $.25 Par Value Per Share
   
3,023
     
3,010
     
3,010
 
  Additional Paid-in Capital
   
97,373
     
96,528
     
96,578
 
  Treasury Stock, at Cost
   
(62,913
)
   
(39,095
)
   
(61,277
)
  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
   
(31,804
)
   
(11,252
)
   
(31,804
)
  Retained Earnings
   
352,582
     
332,531
     
343,104
 
    Total Stockholders' Equity
   
359,605
     
383,841
     
351,730
 
      Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
 
$
1,087,609
   
$
1,064,689
   
$
805,694
 
         
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
         

1

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET EARNINGS (LOSS)
 
(Unaudited)
 
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
 
                 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
 
   
2015
   
2014
   
2015
   
2014
 
                 
Net Sales
 
$
313,202
   
$
312,161
   
$
539,460
   
$
552,204
 
                                 
Costs and Expenses:
                               
  Cost of Product Sold
   
284,428
     
295,357
     
490,107
     
518,404
 
  Selling, General and Administrative
   
17,394
     
16,203
     
32,450
     
31,922
 
  Plant Restructuring Charge (Credit)
   
15
     
-
     
(66
)
   
-
 
  Other Operating (Income) Loss
   
(67
)
   
(85
)
   
(403
)
   
194
 
  Total Costs and Expenses
   
301,770
     
311,475
     
522,088
     
550,520
 
      Operating Income
   
11,432
     
686
     
17,372
     
1,684
 
Loss (Earnings) From Equity Investment
   
86
     
80
     
86
     
(286
)
Interest Expense, Net
   
1,590
     
1,417
     
2,962
     
2,486
 
Earnings (Loss) Before Income Taxes
   
9,756
     
(811
)
   
14,324
     
(516
)
                                 
Income Taxes Expense (Benefit)
   
3,234
     
(233
)
   
4,834
     
169
 
Net Earnings (Loss)
 
$
6,522
   
$
(578
)
 
$
9,490
   
$
(685
)
                                 
  Earnings (Loss) Applicable to Common Stock
 
$
6,456
   
$
(576
)
 
$
9,376
   
$
(684
)
                                 
  Basic Earnings (Loss) per Common Share
 
$
0.65
   
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.95
   
$
(0.06
)
                                 
  Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Common Share
 
$
0.65
   
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.94
   
$
(0.06
)
                                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
 

 
SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
 
(Unaudited)
 
(In Thousands)
 
         
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
September 26,
 
September 27,
 
September 26,
 
September 27,
 
 
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
 
         
Comprehensive income (loss):
       
  Net earnings (loss)
 
$
6,522
   
$
(578
)
 
$
9,490
   
$
(685
)
  Change in pension and post retirement benefits (net of tax)
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
    Total
 
$
6,522
   
$
(578
)
 
$
9,490
   
$
(685
)
                                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
         
 
2

 
SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
(Unaudited)
 
(In Thousands)
 
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
September 26, 2015
   
September 27, 2014
 
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
       
  Net Earnings (Loss)
 
$
9,490
   
$
(685
)
  Adjustments to Reconcile Net Earnings (Loss) to
               
    Net Cash Used in Operations:
               
      Depreciation & Amortization
   
10,487
     
11,142
 
      Gain on the Sale of Assets
   
(143
)
   
(56
)
      Impairment Provision
   
(66
)
   
-
 
      Loss (Earnings) From Equity Investment
   
86
     
(286
)
      Deferred Income Tax (Benefit) Expense
   
(2,183
)
   
885
 
      Changes in Operating Assets and Liabilities:
               
        Accounts Receivable
   
(13,459
)
   
(4,017
)
        Inventories
   
(289,291
)
   
(280,277
)
        Other Current Assets
   
14,448
     
11,980
 
        Income Taxes
   
2,099
     
(2,352
)
        Accounts Payable, Accrued Expenses
               
            and Other Liabilities
   
211,664
     
189,787
 
  Net Cash Used in Operations
   
(56,868
)
   
(73,879
)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
               
  Additions to Property, Plant and Equipment
   
(3,111
)
   
(19,304
)
  Proceeds from the Sale of Assets
   
155
     
270
 
  Purchase Equity Method Investment
   
-
     
(16,308
)
  Net Cash Used in Investing Activities
   
(2,956
)
   
(35,342
)
Cash Flow from Financing Activities:
               
  Long-Term Borrowing
   
154,763
     
199,232
 
  Payments on Long-Term Debt
   
(84,525
)
   
(73,145
)
  Payment on Notes Payable
   
(9,903
)
   
(7,375
)
  Other
   
(74
)
   
(80
)
  Purchase of Treasury Stock
   
(1,636
)
   
(9,201
)
  Dividends
   
(12
)
   
(12
)
  Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities
   
58,613
     
109,419
 
                 
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
   
(1,211
)
   
198
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of the Period
   
10,608
     
13,839
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of the Period
 
$
9,397
   
$
14,037
 
 
                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
3

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
(Unaudited)
 
(In Thousands)
 
                         
           
Additional
       
Accumulated Other
     
   
Preferred
   
Common
   
Paid-In
   
Treasury
   
Comprehensive
   
Retained
 
   
Stock
   
Stock
   
Capital
   
Stock
   
Loss
   
Earnings
 
                         
Balance March 31, 2015
 
$
2,119
   
$
3,010
   
$
96,578
   
$
(61,277
)
 
$
(31,804
)
 
$
343,104
 
Net earnings
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
9,490
 
Cash dividends paid
                                               
  on preferred stock
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
(12
)
Equity incentive program
   
-
     
-
     
33
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Stock issued for profit sharing plan
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Preferred stock conversion
   
(775
)
   
13
     
762
     
-
     
-
     
-
 
Purchase treasury stock
   
-
     
-
     
-
     
(1,636
)
   
-
     
-
 
Balance September 26, 2015
 
$
1,344
   
$
3,023
   
$
97,373
   
$
(62,913
)
 
$
(31,804
)
 
$
352,582
 
                                                 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
4

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015

1. Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments, which are normal and recurring in nature, necessary to present fairly the financial position of Seneca Foods Corporation (the "Company") as of September 26, 2015 and results of its operations and its cash flows for the interim periods presented.  All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation.  The March 31, 2015 balance sheet was derived from the audited consolidated financial statements.

The results of operations for the three and six month periods ended September 26, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.


During the six months ended September 26, 2015, the Company sold $32,765,000 of Green Giant finished goods inventory to General Mills Operations, LLC ("GMOL") for cash, on a bill and hold basis, as compared to $37,373,000 for the six months ended September 27, 2014.  Under the terms of the bill and hold agreement, title to the specified inventory transferred to GMOL.  The Company believes it has met the criteria required for bill and hold treatment.

The accounting policies followed by the Company are set forth in Note 1 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company's 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Other footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States have been condensed or omitted.  These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes included in the Company's 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

All references to years are fiscal years ended or ending March 31 unless otherwise indicated.  Certain percentage tables may not foot due to rounding.

Reclassifications—Certain previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period classification.

2. In April 2014, the Company purchased a 50% equity interest in Truitt Bros. Inc. ("Truitt") for $16,308,000.  The purchase agreement grants the Company the right to acquire the remaining 50% ownership of Truitt in the future under certain conditions.  Truitt is known for its industry innovation related to packing shelf stable foods in trays, pouches and bowls.  Truitt has two state-of-the-art plants located in Oregon and Kentucky.  This investment is included in Other Assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and is accounted for using the equity method of accounting.

3. First-In, First-Out ("FIFO") based inventory costs exceeded LIFO based inventory costs by $162,480,000 as of the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2016 as compared to $158,955,000 as of the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2015.  The change in the LIFO Reserve for the three months ended September 26, 2015 was an increase of $50,000 as compared to an increase of $5,919,000 for the three months ended September 27, 2014.  The LIFO Reserve decreased by $1,587,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2016 compared to an increase of $5,570,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2015.  This reflects the projected impact of an overall cost decrease expected in fiscal 2016 versus fiscal 2015.
 
5

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015


4. Maximum borrowings under the Revolver total $300,000,000 from April through July and $400,000,000 from August through March.   The Revolver balance as of September 26, 2015 was $304,468,000 and is included in Current Portion of Long-Term Debt in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet since the Revolver matures on July 20, 2016. The Company utilizes its Revolver for general corporate purposes, including seasonal working capital needs, to pay debt principal and interest obligations, and to fund capital expenditures and acquisitions.  Seasonal working capital needs are affected by the growing cycles of the vegetables and fruits the Company processes.  The majority of vegetable and fruit inventories are produced during the months of June through November and are then sold over the following year.  Payment terms for vegetable and fruit produce are generally three months but can vary from a few days to seven months.  Accordingly, the Company's need to draw on the Revolver may fluctuate significantly throughout the year.

The increase in average amount of Revolver borrowings during the first six months of fiscal 2016 compared to the first six months of fiscal 2015 was attributable to the stock buyback of $25,941,000 made during the last year ended September 2015 and total Inventories which are $30,176,000 higher than the same period last year, partially offset by increased operating results in the first six months of fiscal 2016 as compared to the first six months of fiscal 2015.

General terms of the Revolver include payment of interest at LIBOR plus a defined spread.

The following table documents the quantitative data for Revolver borrowings during the second quarter and year-to-date periods of fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2015:

   
Second Quarter
   
Year-to-Date
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2016
   
2015
 
   
(In thousands)
   
(In thousands)
 
Reported end of period:
               
  Outstanding borrowings
 
$
304,468
   
$
302,220
   
$
304,468
   
$
302,220
 
  Weighted average interest rate
   
1.99
%
   
1.45
%
   
1.99
%
   
1.45
%
Reported during the period:
                               
  Maximum amount of borrowings
 
$
304,468
   
$
302,220
   
$
304,468
   
$
302,220
 
  Average outstanding borrowings
 
$
242,255
   
$
239,585
   
$
225,112
   
$
205,880
 
  Weighted average interest rate
   
1.96
%
   
1.42
%
   
1.95
%
   
1.49
%
6

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015

5.
During the six-month period ended September 26, 2015 the Company repurchased 57,400 shares or $1,634,000 of its Class A Common Stock as Treasury Stock and 60 shares or $2,000 of its Class B Common Stock also as Treasury Stock.  As of September 26, 2015, there are 2,203,774 shares or $62,913,000 of repurchased stock.  These shares are not considered outstanding.
 
6. The net periodic benefit cost for the Company's pension plan consisted of:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
 
   
2015
   
2014
   
2015
   
2014
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Service  Cost
 
$
2,519
   
$
1,868
   
$
5,039
   
$
3,736
 
Interest Cost
   
2,177
     
2,032
     
4,355
     
4,064
 
Expected Return on Plan Assets
   
(2,625
)
   
(2,740
)
   
(5,252
)
   
(5,479
)
Amortization of Actuarial Loss
   
844
     
31
     
1,687
     
61
 
Amortization of Transition Asset
   
27
     
-
     
55
     
-
 
  Net Periodic Benefit Cost
 
$
2,942
   
$
1,191
   
$
5,884
   
$
2,382
 

There was a contribution of $600,000 to the pension plan in the six month period ended September 26, 2015.  No contributions were required or made in the six month period ended September 27, 2014.




7. The following table summarizes the restructuring charges and related asset impairment charges recorded and the accruals established:

       
Long-Lived
         
   
Severance
   
Asset Charges
   
Other Costs
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Balance March 31, 2015
   $
715
     $
264
     $
270
     $
1,249
 
First quarter credit
   
(81
)
   
-
     
-
     
(81
)
Second quarter charge
   
15
     
-
     
-
     
15
 
Cash payments/write offs
   
(649
)
   
-
     
(240
)
   
(889
)
Balance September 26, 2015
 
$
-
   
$
264
   
$
30
   
$
294
 
                                 
Balance March 31, 2014
   $
10
     $
-
     $
-
     $
10
 
Cash payments/write offs
   
(5
)
   
-
     
-
     
(5
)
Balance September 27, 2014
   $
5
   
$
-
   
$
-
   
$
5
 


During fiscal 2015, the Company recorded a restructuring charge of $1,376,000 related to the closing of a plant in the Midwest of which $842,000 was related to severance cost, $264,000 was related to equipment costs (contra fixed assets), and $270,000 was related to equipment relocation costs.  During the first quarter of fiscal 2016, the Company reduced the severance portion of this accrual by $81,000.  During the second quarter of fiscal 2016, the Company increased the severance portion of this accrual by $15,000.

7

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015


8. During the six months ended September 26, 2015, the Company sold unused fixed assets which resulted in a gain of $143,000 as compared to a gain of $56,000 during the six months ended September 27, 2014.  During the quarter ended June 27, 2015, the Company reversed a provision for the Prop 65 litigation of $200,000 and reduced an environmental accrual by $60,000.  In addition, during the six months ended September 27, 2014, there was a $250,000 charge related to an environmental remediation.  These items are included in other operating income in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings (Loss).


9. In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods or services to customers. The ASU will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. The new standard is effective for the Company on April 1, 2018 (beginning of fiscal 2019). Early adoption is permitted. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. The Company has not yet selected a transition method nor has it determined the effect of the standard on its ongoing financial reporting.

There were no other recently issued accounting pronouncements that impacted the Company's condensed consolidated financial statements. In addition, the Company did not adopt any new accounting pronouncements during the quarter ended September 26, 2015.
8

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015

10. Earnings (loss) per share for the Quarters Ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014 are as follows:


   
Q U A R T E R
   
YEAR TO DATE
 
   
Fiscal
   
Fiscal
   
Fiscal
   
Fiscal
 
   
2016
   
2015
   
2016
   
2015
 
   
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Basic
               
                 
Net earnings (loss)
 
$
6,522
   
$
(578
)
 
$
9,490
   
$
(685
)
Deduct preferred stock dividends paid
   
6
     
6
     
12
     
12
 
                                 
Undistributed earnings (loss)
   
6,516
     
(584
)
   
9,478
     
(697
)
Earnings (loss) attributable to participating preferred
   
60
     
(8
)
   
102
     
(13
)
                                 
Earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders
 
$
6,456
   
$
(576
)
 
$
9,376
   
$
(684
)
                                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding
   
9,901
     
10,774
     
9,895
     
10,787
 
                                 
Basic earnings (loss)  per common share
 
$
0.65
   
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.95
   
$
(0.06
)
                                 
Diluted
                               
                                 
Earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders
 
$
6,456
   
$
(576
)
 
$
9,376
   
$
(684
)
Add dividends on convertible preferred stock
   
5
     
5
     
10
     
10
 
                                 
Earnings (loss) attributable to common stock on a diluted basis
 
$
6,461
   
$
(571
)
 
$
9,386
   
$
(674
)
                                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding-basic
   
9,901
     
10,774
     
9,895
     
10,787
 
Additional shares issuable related to the
                               
  equity compensation plan
   
2
     
4
     
2
     
4
 
Additional shares to be issued under full
                               
  conversion of preferred stock
   
67
     
67
     
67
     
67
 
                                 
Total shares for diluted
   
9,970
     
10,845
     
9,964
     
10,858
 
                                 
Diluted earnings (loss) per common share
 
$
0.65
   
$
(0.05
)
 
$
0.94
   
$
(0.06
)




11. As required by Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 825, "Financial Instruments," the Company estimates the fair values of financial instruments on a quarterly basis.  The estimated fair value for long-term debt (classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy) is determined by the quoted market prices for similar debt (comparable to the Company's financial strength) or current rates offered to the Company for debt with the same maturities.  Long-term debt, including current portion had a carrying amount of $344,401,000 and an estimated fair value of $345,120,000 as of September 26, 2015.  As of March 31, 2015, the carrying amount was $274,164,000 and the estimated fair value was $274,999,000.  The fair values of all the other financial instruments approximate their carrying value due to their short-term nature.
9

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015

12. In June 2010, the Company received a Notice of Violation of the California Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, commonly known as Proposition 65, from the Environmental Law Foundation ("ELF").  This notice was made to the California Attorney General and various other government officials, and to 49 companies including Seneca Foods Corporation whom ELF alleges manufactured, distributed or sold packaged peaches, pears, fruit cocktail and fruit juice that contain lead without providing a clear and reasonable warning to consumers.  Under California law, proper notice must be made to the State and involved firms at least 60 days before any suit under Proposition 65 may be filed by private litigants like ELF.  That 60-day period has expired and to date neither the California Attorney General nor any appropriate district attorney or city attorney has initiated an action against the Company.  However, private litigant ELF filed an action against the Company and 27 other named companies on September 28, 2011, in Superior Court of Alameda County, California, alleging violations of Proposition 65 and seeking various measures of relief, including injunctive and declaratory relief and civil penalties.  The Company, along with the other named companies, vigorously defended the claim.  A responsive answer was filed, the discovery process was completed and a trial on liability was held beginning in April of 2013 in accordance with court schedules.  The trial was completed on May 16, 2013 and, on July 15, 2013 the judge issued a tentative and proposed statement of decision agreeing with the Company, and the other defendants, that the "safe harbor" defense had been met under the regulations relating to Proposition 65 and the Company will not be required to place a Proposition 65 warning label on the products at issue in the case.  The trial decision was finalized and the decision was appealed by ELF with a filing dated October 3, 2013.  The California Court of Appeal, First Appellate District, Division One unanimously rejected the appeal by ELF in a decision dated March 17, 2015.  ELF filed a petition for review with the California Supreme Court on April 28, 2015, and the petition was denied on July 8, 2015.   With the successful defense of the case, the remedies portion of the case was not litigated and the denial of review by the California Supreme Court effectively ends the action, with only a few procedural matters to clean-up as a result of the denial of review.  Our portion of legal fees in defense of this action have been sizable, as would be expected with litigation resulting in trial, and the appeal, but have not had a material adverse impact on the Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows. Additionally, in the ordinary course of its business, the Company is made party to certain legal proceedings seeking monetary damages, including proceedings invoking product liability claims, either directly or through indemnification obligations, and we are not able to predict the probability of the outcome or estimate of loss, if any, related to any such matter.



13. The effective tax rate was 33.7% and (32.8%) for the six month periods ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014, respectively.  The majority of the 66.5 percentage point increase is made up of the following items:  In the prior year a valuation allowance related to the New York State Investment Tax Credit was re-established which created a $384,000 charge.  Due to the prior year-to-date pre-tax loss, this charge created a significant negative reconciling item.  The absence of this reconciling item is a major contributor to the difference in effective tax rate (72.8 percentage points).  The valuation allowance was re-established due to a change in the law. This is a discrete item and therefore was required to be booked in the quarter ended June 28, 2014.  Another major contributor to the change in effective tax rate is the decrease in the domestic manufacturer's deduction in relation to pre-tax book income (6.6 percentage points).  These differences were partially offset by the absence of an $81,000 credit (15.7 percentage points) related to interest received on tax refunds recorded during the quarter ended June 28, 2014.  Due to the prior year pre-tax loss, this credit had created a significant positive reconciling item.

10

SENECA FOODS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
September 26, 2015



14. During fiscal 2015 and 2014, the Company entered into some interim lease notes which financed down payments for various equipment orders at market rates.  As of September 26, 2015, all of these interim notes have been converted into operating leases.  In the prior year, some of the notes, which total $4,880,000 as of September 27, 2014, were included in Notes Payable in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets since they had not been converted into leases yet.


15. Subsequent Events:  On October 30, 2015, the Company, B&G Foods North America ("B&G"), General Mills, Inc. and GMOL entered into a Relationship Transfer Agreement.  Pursuant to the terms of the Relationship Transfer Agreement (i) the Company has consented to the assignment by GMOL of the Second Amended and Restated Alliance Agreement ("Alliance Agreement") and certain related agreements to B&G in connection with the sale by GMOL of its Green Giant and Le Sueur businesses to B&G, (ii) effective upon such assignment, each of the Company and General Mills have released the other party from any future obligations under the Alliance Agreement and certain related agreements; (iii) effective upon such assignment, the Company and B&G have agreed to amend certain terms of the Alliance Agreement; (iv) the Company and B&G have agreed to cooperate and negotiate in good faith to enter into new agreements to replace or supplement the Alliance Agreement and certain related agreements as soon as practicable and (v) GMOL has agreed to pay Seneca for this assignment $24,275,000 at the closing of the sale of GMOL's Green Giant and Le Sueur business to B&G. The effective date of the assignment is expected to be November 2, 2015.
Acquisition--On October 30, 2015, the Company completed the acquisition of 100% of the stock of Gray & Company.  The business, based in Hart, Michigan, is a processor of maraschino cherries and a provider of glace or candied fruit products.  This acquisition includes a plant in Dayton, Oregon. The purchase price was approximately $24,496,000 plus the assumption of certain liabilities.  In conjunction with the closing, the Company paid off $12,034,000 of liabilities acquired.  The rationale for the acquisition was twofold: (1) the business is a complementary fit with our existing business and (2) it provides an extension of our product offerings.



 
 
11

ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
September 26, 2015

Seneca Foods Corporation (the "Company") is a leading provider of packaged fruits and vegetables, with facilities located throughout the United States.  The Company's product offerings include canned, frozen and bottled produce and snack chips.  Its products are sold under private label as well as national and regional brands that the Company owns or licenses, including Seneca®, Libby's®, Aunt Nellie's® and READ®.  The Company's canned fruits and vegetables are sold nationwide by major grocery outlets, including supermarkets, mass merchandisers, limited assortment stores, club stores and dollar stores.  The Company also sells its products to foodservice distributors, industrial markets, other food processors, export customers in over 80 countries and federal, state and local governments for school and other food programs.  In addition, the Company packs Green Giant®, Le Sueur® and other brands of canned vegetables as well as select Green Giant® frozen vegetables for General Mills Operations, LLC ("GMOL") under a long-term Alliance Agreement.

The Company's raw product is harvested mainly between June through November.
 
Results of Operations:

Sales:

Second fiscal quarter 2016 results include net sales of $313,202,000, which represents a 0.3% increase, or $1,041,000, from the second quarter of fiscal 2015.  The increase in sales is attributable to higher selling prices/sales mix of $3,977,000 partially offset by a sales volume decrease of $2,936,000.  The increase in sales is primarily from a $12,181,000 increase in Canned Vegetable sales and a $28,000 increase in Snack sales partially offset by a $6,836,000 decrease in GMOL sales, a $3,649,000 decrease in Canned Fruit sales, and a $165,000 decrease in Frozen sales.

Six months ended September 26, 2015 include net sales of $539,460,000, which represents a 2.3% decrease, or $12,744,000, from the first six months of fiscal 2015.  The decrease in sales is attributable to a sales volume decrease of $19,521,000, partially offset by higher selling prices/sales mix of $6,777,000.  The decrease in sales is primarily from an $7,119,000 decrease in GMOL sales, a $5,969,000 decrease in Canned Fruit sales, and a $3,164,000 decrease in Frozen sales, partially offset by a $4,519,000 increase in Canned Vegetable sales and a $314,000 increase in Snack sales.

The following table presents sales by product category (in millions):

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
   
September 26,
   
September 27,
 
   
2015
   
2014
   
2015
   
2014
 
Canned Vegetables
 
$
188.7
   
$
176.6
   
$
335.2
   
$
330.7
 
GMOL*
   
42.8
     
49.6
     
47.6
     
54.7
 
Frozen
   
22.8
     
23.0
     
44.1
     
47.3
 
Fruit Products
   
49.9
     
53.5
     
94.6
     
100.6
 
Snack
   
3.5
     
3.5
     
6.7
     
6.3
 
Other
   
5.5
     
6.0
     
11.3
     
12.6
 
   
$
313.2
   
$
312.2
   
$
539.5
   
$
552.2
 
                                 
*GMOL includes frozen vegetable sales exclusively for GMOL.
                         
12



ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
September 26, 2015

Operating Income:


The following table presents components of operating income as a percentage of net sales:

 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
September 26,
 
September 27,
 
September 26,
 
September 27,
 
 
2015
 
2014
 
2015
 
2014
 
  Gross Margin
9.2
%
5.4
%
9.1
%
6.1
%
                 
  Selling
2.9
%
2.7
%
3.1
%
3.0
%
  Administrative
2.7
%
2.5
%
2.9
%
2.8
%
  Other Operating Income
-
%
-
%
(0.1)
%
-
%
                 
  Operating Income
3.6
%
0.2
%
3.2
%
0.3
%
                 
  Interest Expense, Net
0.5
%
0.5
%
0.5
%
0.5
%
                 

For the three month period ended September 26, 2015, the gross margin increased from the prior year quarter from 5.4% to 9.2% due primarily to higher net selling prices (after considering promotions) compared to prior year.  The LIFO charge for the second quarter ended September 26, 2015 was $50,000 as compared to a charge of $5,919,000 for the second quarter ended September 27, 2014 and reflects the impact on the quarter of smaller cost increases expected in fiscal 2016, compared with larger cost increases to fiscal 2015.  On an after-tax basis, LIFO net earnings decreased by $33,000 for the quarter ended September 26, 2015 and decreased LIFO net earnings by $3,847,000 for the quarter ended September 27, 2014, based on the statutory federal income tax rate.

For the six month period ended September 26, 2015, the gross margin increased from the prior year period from 6.1% to 9.1% due primarily to higher net selling prices (after considering promotions) compared to the prior year and a lower LIFO credit in the current year as compared to a charge the prior year.  The LIFO credit for the six months ended September 26, 2015 was $1,587,000 as compared to a charge of $5,570,000 for the six months ended September 27, 2014 and reflects the impact on the six months of cost decreases expected in fiscal 2016, compared to cost increases fiscal 2015.  On an after-tax basis, LIFO increased net earnings by $1,032,000 for the six months ended September 26, 2015 and decreased net earnings by $3,621,000 for the six months ended September 27, 2014, based on the statutory federal income tax rate.

For the three month period ended September 26, 2015, selling costs as a percentage of sales increased from 2.7% to 2.9% for the same period in the prior year.  For the six month period ended September 27, 2014, selling costs as a percentage of sales increased from 3.0% to 3.1% for the same period in the prior year. The three and six month increases are primarily as a result of the Green Giant Alliance sales decrease, which don't incur selling costs.

For the three month period ended September 26, 2015, administrative expense as a percentage of sales increased from 2.5% to 2.7% due primarily to higher employment costs in the current year than the prior year.  For the six month period ended September 26, 2015, administrative expense as a percentage of sales increased from 2.8% to 2.9% due primarily to higher employment costs in the current year than the prior year.
 
13

ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
September 26, 2015
 
During the six months ended September 26, 2015, the Company sold some unused fixed assets which resulted in a gain of $143,000 and the Company reversed a provision for the Prop 65 litigation of $200,000.  During the six months ended September 27, 2014, the Company sold some unused fixed assets which resulted in a gain of $56,000. In addition, during the six month period ended September 27, 2014, there was a $250,000 charge related to an environmental remediation.  These items are included in other operating income in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Net Earnings.

Interest expense for the second quarter ended September 26, 2015, as a percentage of sales, remained the same at 0.5% compared to second quarter ended September 27, 2014.  For the six month period ended September 26, 2015, interest expense as a percentage of sales remained the same at 0.5% compared to six months ended September 27, 2014.

Income Taxes:

The effective tax rate was 33.7% and (32.8%) for the six month periods ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014, respectively.  The majority of the 66.5 percentage point increase is made up of the following items:  In the prior year a valuation allowance related to the New York State Investment Tax Credit was re-established which created a $384,000 charge.  Due to the prior year-to-date pre-tax loss, this charge created a significant negative reconciling item.  The absence of this reconciling item is a major contributor to the difference in effective tax rate (72.8 percentage points).  The valuation allowance was re-established due to a change in the law. This is a discrete item and therefore was required to be booked in the quarter ended June 28, 2014.  Another major contributor to the change in effective tax rate is the decrease in the domestic manufacturer's deduction in relation to pre-tax book income (6.6 percentage points).  These differences were partially offset by the absence of an $81,000 credit (15.7 percentage points) related to interest received on tax refunds recorded during the quarter ended June 28, 2014.  Due to the prior year pre-tax loss, this credit had created a significant positive reconciling item.

Earnings per Share:

Basic earnings (loss) per share were $0.65 and $(0.05) for the three months ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014, respectively.  Diluted earnings (loss) per share were $0.65 and $(0.05) for the three months ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014, respectively.  Basic earnings (loss) per share were $0.95 and $(0.06) for the six months ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014, respectively.  Diluted earnings (loss) per share were $0.94 and $(0.06) for the six months ended September 26, 2015 and September 27, 2014, respectively.  For details of the calculation of these amounts, refer to footnote 10 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


Liquidity and Capital Resources:

The financial condition of the Company is summarized in the following table and explanatory review:
 
 
 
14

ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
September 26, 2015

   
September 26,
   
September 27,
   
March 31,
   
March 31,
 
   
2015
   
2014
   
2015
   
2014
 
                 
Working capital:
               
  Balance
 
$
247,106
   
$
549,750
   
$
463,545
   
$
452,771
 
  Change during quarter
   
(187,993
)
   
119,275
                 
Long-term debt, less current portion
   
37,322
     
342,154
     
271,634
     
216,239
 
Total stockholders' equity per equivalent
                               
      common share (see Note)
   
35.79
     
35.08
     
34.81
     
35.25
 
Stockholders' equity per common share
   
36.22
     
35.56
     
35.33
     
36.12
 
Current ratio
   
1.39
     
2.78
     
4.75
     
4.45
 

Note: Equivalent common shares are either common shares or, for convertible preferred shares, the number of common shares that the preferred shares are convertible into.  See Note 7 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company's 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K for conversion details.

As shown in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, net cash used in operating activities was $56,868,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2016, compared to $73,879,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2015.  The $17,011,000 decrease in cash used is primarily attributable to a $21,877,000 increase in cash provided by accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities and increased net earnings of $10,175,000 as previously discussed, a $2,468,000 increase in cash provided by other current assets, and a $1,383,000 decrease in cash used by income taxes, partially offset by a $289,291,000 increase in inventory in the first six months of fiscal 2016 as compared to $280,277,000 increase in inventory in the first six months of fiscal 2015, and an $9,442,000 increase in cash used by accounts receivable.

As compared to September 27, 2014, inventory increased $30,176,000 to $761,703,000 at September 26, 2015.  The components of the inventory increase reflect a $39,626,000 increase in finished goods, an $11,251,000 decrease in work in process and a $1,801,000 increase in raw materials and supplies.  The finished goods increase reflects higher inventory quantities due to the magnitude and timing of the fiscal year 2016 pack versus fiscal year 2015 pack partially offset by decreased sales volume as compared to the prior year.  The raw materials and supplies increase is primarily due to an increase in cans and raw steel quantities compared to the prior year.  FIFO based inventory costs exceeded LIFO based inventory costs by $162,480,000 as of the end of the second quarter of 2016 as compared to $158,955,000 as of the end of the second quarter of 2015.

Cash used in investing activities was $2,956,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2016 compared to cash used in investing activities of $35,342,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2015.  In April 2014, the Company purchased a 50% equity interest in Truitt Bros. Inc. for $16,308,000.  Additions to property, plant and equipment were $3,111,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2016 as compared to $19,304,000 in first six months of fiscal 2015.

Cash provided by financing activities was $58,613,000 in the first six months of fiscal 2016, which included borrowings of $154,763,000 and the repayment of $84,525,000 of long-term debt, principally consisting of borrowing and repayment on the revolving credit facility ("Revolver").  Other than borrowings under the Revolver, there was no new long-term debt during the first six months of fiscal 2016.  During the six months ended September 26, 2015, the Company repurchased $1,634,000 of its Class A Common Stock as treasury stock. In addition, the Company paid down Notes Payable of $9,903,000 during the six month period ended September 26, 2015 related to some interim notes which became operating leases.

Available borrowings on the Revolver total $300,000,000 from April through July and $400,000,000 from August through March.  The Revolver balance as of September 26, 2015 was $304,468,000 and is included in Current Portion of Long-Term Debt in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet since the Revolver matures on July 20, 2016.    The interest rate on the Revolver is based on LIBOR plus an applicable margin based on excess availability and the Company's fixed charge coverage ratio.  As of September 26, 2015, the interest rate was approximately 1.99% on a balance of $304,468,000.  We believe that cash flows from operations, availability under our Revolver and other financing sources will provide adequate funds for our working capital needs, planned capital expenditures, and debt obligations for at least the next 12 months.
 
15

ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
September 26, 2015

The Company's credit facilities contain standard representations and warranties, events of default, and certain affirmative and negative covenants, including various financial covenants.  At September 26, 2015, the Company was in compliance with all such financial covenants.

New Accounting Standards

Refer to footnote 9 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Seasonality

The Company's revenues are typically higher in the second and third fiscal quarters. This is due in part because the Company sells, on a bill and hold basis, Green Giant canned and frozen vegetables to GMOL at the end of each pack cycle, which typically occurs during these quarters.  GMOL buys the product from the Company at cost plus a specified fee for each equivalent case.  See the Critical Accounting Policies section below for further details.  The Company's non-Green Giant sales also exhibit seasonality with the third fiscal quarter generating the highest retail sales due to holidays that occur during that quarter.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained in this report contains, or may contain, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  These statements appear in a number of places in this report and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company or its officers (including statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words "believes," "expects," "anticipates" or similar expressions) with respect to various matters, including (i) the Company's anticipated needs for, and the availability of, cash, (ii) the Company's liquidity and financing plans, (iii) the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquisitions into its operations, (iv) trends affecting the Company's financial condition or results of operations, including anticipated sales price levels and anticipated expense levels, in particular higher production, fuel and transportation costs, (v) the Company's plans for expansion of its business (including through acquisitions) and cost savings, and (vi) the impact of competition.

Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.  Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made.  Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are:

·
general economic and business conditions;
·
cost and availability of commodities and other raw materials such as vegetables, steel and packaging materials;
·
transportation costs;
·
climate and weather affecting growing conditions and crop yields;
·
the availability of financing;
·
leverage and the Company's ability to service and reduce its debt;
·
foreign currency exchange and interest rate fluctuations;
·
effectiveness of the Company's marketing and trade promotion programs;
·
changing consumer preferences;
·
competition;
·
product liability claims;
·
the loss of significant customers or a substantial reduction in orders from these customers;
·
changes in, or the failure or inability to comply with, U.S., foreign and local governmental regulations, including environmental and health and safety regulations; and
·
other risks detailed from time to time in the reports filed by the Company with the SEC.
 
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ITEM 2 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
September 26, 2015

Except for ongoing obligations to disclose material information as required by the federal securities laws, the Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the filing of this report or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Critical Accounting Policies

During the six months ended September 26, 2015, the Company sold $32,765,000 of Green Giant finished goods inventory to General Mills Operations, LLC ("GMOL") for cash, on a bill and hold basis, as compared to $37,373,000 for the six months ended September 27, 2014.  Under the terms of the bill and hold agreement, title to the specified inventory transferred to GMOL.  The Company believes it has met the criteria required for bill and hold treatment.

Trade promotions are an important component of the sales and marketing of the Company's branded products, and are critical to the support of the business. Trade promotion costs, which are recorded as a reduction of net sales, include amounts paid to encourage retailers to offer temporary price reductions for the sale of our products to consumers, amounts paid to obtain favorable display positions in retailers' stores, and amounts paid to retailers for shelf space in retail stores. Accruals for trade promotions are recorded primarily at the time of sale of product to the retailer based on expected levels of performance. Settlement of these liabilities typically occurs in subsequent periods primarily through an authorized process for deductions taken by a retailer from amounts otherwise due to us. As a result, the ultimate cost of a trade promotion program is dependent on the relative success of the events and the actions and level of deductions taken by retailers for amounts they consider due to them. Final determination of the permissible deductions may take extended periods of time.

The Company assesses its long-lived assets for impairment whenever there is an indicator of impairment. Property, plant, and equipment are depreciated over their assigned lives. The assigned lives and the projected cash flows used to test impairment are subjective. If actual lives are shorter than anticipated or if future cash flows are less than anticipated, a future impairment charge or a loss on disposal of the assets could be incurred. Impairment losses are evaluated if the estimated undiscounted value of the cash flows is less than the carrying value. If such is the case, a loss is recognized when the carrying value of an asset exceeds its fair value.
 
17

ITEM 3 Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is exposed to various market risk factors, including changes in general economic conditions, competition and raw material pricing and availability.  In addition, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates, primarily related to its revolving credit facility.  To manage interest rate risk, the Company uses both fixed and variable interest rate debt.  There have been no material changes to the Company's exposure to market risk since March 31, 2015.
 
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ITEM 4 Controls and Procedures

The Company maintains a system of internal and disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported on a timely basis. The Company's Board of Directors, operating through its Audit Committee, which is composed entirely of independent outside directors, provides oversight to the financial reporting process.

An evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of September 26, 2015, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.  The Company continues to examine, refine and formalize its disclosure controls and procedures and to monitor ongoing developments in this area.

There have been no changes during the period covered by this report to the Company's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
19


Item 1.                            Legal Proceedings

Refer to footnote 12 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.

Item 1A.                            Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors disclosed in the Company's Form 10-K for the period ended March 31, 2015.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds


   
Total Number of
   
Average Price Paid
   
Total Number
 
Maximum Number
   
Shares Purchased
   
per Share
   
of Shares
 
(or Approximate
                   
Purchased as
 
Dollar Value) or
                   
Part of Publicly
 
Shares that May
                   
Announced
 
Yet Be Purchased
   
Class A
   
Class B
 
Class A
   
Class B
   
Plans or
 
Under the Plans or
Period
 
Common
   
Common
 
Common
   
Common
   
Programs
 
Programs
7/01/2015 –
                            
7/31/2015
   
17,500
(1)
   
-
   
$
27.75
   
$
-
     
-
   
8/01/2015 –
                                                
8/31/2015
   
-
     
60
   
$
-
   
$
33.34
     
60
   
9/01/2015 –
                                                
9/30/2015
   
16,300
(1)
   
-
   
$
27.34
   
$
-
     
-
   
Total
   
33,800
     
60
   
$
27.55
   
$
33.34
     
60
 
1,267,354

(1)  Of these shares, all 33,800 were purchased in open market transactions by the trustees under the Seneca Foods Corporation Employees' Savings Plan 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to provide employee matching contributions under the plan.

Item 3.                                Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4.                                Mine Safety Disclosures

None.

Item 5.                                Other Information

Acquisition--On October 30, 2015, the Company completed the acquisition of 100% of the stock of Gray & Company.  The business, based in Hart, Michigan, is a processor of maraschino cherries and a provider of glace or candied fruit products.  This acquisition includes a plant in Dayton, Oregon. The purchase price was approximately $24,496,000 plus the assumption of certain liabilities.  In conjunction with the closing, the Company paid off $12,034,000 of liabilities acquired.  The rationale for the acquisition was twofold: (1) the business is a complementary fit with our existing business and (2) it provides an extension of our product offerings.

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Item 6.                                Exhibits

31.1 Certification of Kraig H. Kayser pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith)
31.2 Certification of Timothy J. Benjamin pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith)
32 Certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith)
101 The following materials from Seneca Foods Corporation's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and six months ended September 26, 2015, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language):  (i) condensed consolidated balance sheets, (ii) condensed consolidated statements of net earnings (loss), (iii) condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), (iv) condensed consolidated statements of cash flows, (v) condensed consolidated statement of stockholders' equity and (vi) the notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

21

SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.





Seneca Foods Corporation
      (Company)



/s/Kraig H. Kayser                                      
November 2, 2015
                                                                                                                                                                                                 Kraig H. Kayser
President and
Chief Executive Officer


/s/Timothy J. Benjamin                                                      
November 2, 2015
                                                                                                                                                                                               Timothy J. Benjamin
                                                                                                                                                                                               Chief Financial Officer

22