1128916v.3
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
(Rule 14a-101)
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Filed by the Registrant X
Filed by a party other than the
Registrant
Check the appropriate box:
Preliminary proxy statement Confidential For Use
of the Commission
Only, (as permitted,
by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
Confidential, for use of Commission
only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)).
X Definitive proxy statement
Definitive additional materials
Soliciting material pursuant to
240.14a-11(c)or 240.14a-12
LIFETIME HOAN CORPORATION
(Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the
Registrant)
Payment of filing fee (Check the appropriate box):
X No fee required.
Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6 (i)
(1) and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction
applies:
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction
computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11:1
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
(5) Total fee paid:
Fee paid previously with preliminary materials:
Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by
Exchange Act Rule 0-11
(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was
paid previously.
Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the
form or schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount previously paid:
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement no.:
(3) Filing Party:
(4) Date Filed:
_______________________________
1 Set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and
state how it was determined.
LIFETIME HOAN CORPORATION
One Merrick Avenue
Westbury, New York 11590
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To be held on June 8, 2004
Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of Stockholders
of Lifetime Hoan Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the "Company"),
will be held at the offices of the Company, One Merrick Avenue,
Westbury, New York 11590 on Tuesday June 8, 2004, at 10:30 a.m.,
local time, for the following purposes:
(1) To elect a board of nine directors to
serve until the next Annual Meeting of
Stockholders or until their successors are
duly elected and qualified;
(2) To approve and ratify the appointment
of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent
accountants of the Company;
(3) To transact such other business as may
properly come before the meeting, or any
adjournment(s) or postponement(s) thereof.
Stockholders of record at the close of business on April 26,
2004 are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Annual Meeting and
any adjournment(s) or postponement(s) thereof. A complete list of
the stockholders entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting will be
available for examination by any stockholder at the Company's
offices, One Merrick Avenue, Westbury, New York 11590, for any
purpose germane to the Annual Meeting, during ordinary business
hours, for a period of at least 10 days prior to the Annual Meeting.
By Order of the Board of Directors
Craig Phillips, Secretary
Westbury, New York
April 26, 2004
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXTENDS A CORDIAL INVITATION TO ALL
STOCKHOLDERS TO ATTEND THE MEETING. WHETHER OR NOT YOU PLAN TO
ATTEND THE MEETING, PLEASE COMPLETE, DATE, SIGN AND RETURN AS
PROMPTLY AS POSSIBLE THE ENCLOSED PROXY IN THE ACCOMPANYING REPLY
ENVELOPE. STOCKHOLDERS WHO ATTEND THE MEETING MAY REVOKE THEIR
PROXIES AND VOTE IN PERSON.
LIFETIME HOAN CORPORATION
One Merrick Avenue
Westbury, New York 11590
PROXY STATEMENT
ANNUAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
To be held on June 8, 2004
INTRODUCTION
This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the
solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors (the "Board") of
Lifetime Hoan Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the "Company"),
for use at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company (the
"Meeting") to be held on the date, at the time and place and for the
purposes set forth in the accompanying Notice of Annual Meeting of
Stockholders. Stockholders of record at the close of business on
April 26, 2004 are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Meeting.
This Proxy Statement and the accompanying Proxy shall be mailed to
stockholders on or about May 10, 2004.
THE MEETING
Voting at the Meeting
On April 26, 2004, there were 10,901,448 shares of the Company's
common stock, $.01 par value (the "Common Stock"), issued and
outstanding. Each share of Common Stock entitles the holder thereof
to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders at the
Meeting.
A majority of the Company's outstanding shares of Common Stock
represented at the Meeting, in person or by proxy, shall constitute a
quorum. Assuming a quorum is present, (1) the affirmative vote of a
plurality of the shares so represented is necessary for the election
of directors and 2) the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares
so represented is necessary to approve and ratify the appointment of
Ernst & Young LLP as the independent auditors of the Company.
Proxies and Proxy Solicitation
All shares of Common Stock represented by properly executed
proxies will be voted at the Meeting in accordance with the
directions marked on the proxies, unless such proxies have previously
been revoked. If no directions are indicated on such proxies, they
will be voted for the election of each nominee named below under
"Election of Directors" and for the approval and ratification of the
appointment of Ernst & Young LLP as the independent auditors of the
Company. If any other matters are properly presented at the Meeting
for action, the proxy holders will vote the proxies (which confer
discretionary authority upon such holders to vote on such matters) in
accordance with their best judgment. Each proxy executed and
returned by a stockholder may be revoked at any time before it is
voted by timely submission of a written notice of revocation or by
submission of a duly executed proxy bearing a later date (in either
case directed to the Secretary of the Company), or, if a stockholder
is present at the Meeting, he may elect to revoke his proxy and vote
his shares personally. Abstentions and broker non-votes are counted
for purposes of determining the presence or absence of a quorum for
the transaction of business. If a stockholder, present in person or
by proxy, abstains on any matter, such stockholder's shares of Common
Stock will not be voted on such matter. Thus, an abstention from
voting on any matter has the same legal effect as a vote "against"
the matter, even though the stockholder may interpret such action
differently. Except for determining the presence or absence of a
quorum for the transaction of business, broker non-votes are not
counted for any purpose in determining whether a matter has been
approved.
The Company will bear the cost of preparing, printing,
assembling and mailing the proxy, this Proxy Statement and other
material which may be sent to stockholders in connection with this
solicitation. It is contemplated that brokerage houses will forward
the proxy materials to beneficial holders at the request of the
Company. In addition to the solicitation of proxies by the use of
the mails, officers and other employees of the Company may solicit
proxies by telephone without being paid any additional compensation.
The Company will reimburse such persons for their reasonable out-of-
pocket expenses in accordance with the regulations of the Securities
and Exchange Commission.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following table sets forth information regarding beneficial
ownership of the Common Stock as of April 26, 2004(except where
otherwise noted) based on a review of information filed with the
United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the
Company's stock records with respect to (a) each person known to be
the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding shares of
Common Stock, (b) each Director or nominee for a directorship of the
Company, (c) each executive officer of the Company named in the
Summary Compensation Table, and (d) all Directors, nominees and
executive officers as a group. Unless otherwise stated, each of such
persons has sole voting and investment power with respect to such
shares.
Percent of
Outstanding
Shares
Amount and Nature of Beneficially
Name and Address Beneficial Ownership Owned (16)
Jeffrey Siegel (1) 1,319,024(2) 12.1%
Ronald Shiftan (1) 105,845(3) 1.0%
Craig Phillips (1) 939,392(4) 8.6%
Howard Bernstein (1) 5,000(5) 0.0%
Cherrie Nanninga (1) 5,000(5) 0.0%
William Westerfield (1) -0- -
Sheldon Misher (1) -0- -
Robert McNally (1) 170,372(6) 1.5%
Bruce Cohen (1) 1,084,571(7) 9.9%
Evan Miller (1) 54,871(8) 0.5%
Robert Reichenbach (1) -0- -
Larry Sklute (1) 105,000(9) 1.0%
Leonard Florence (1) 125,700 1.2%
Daniel Siegel (1) 639,733(10) 5.9%
Milton L. Cohen 1,503,914(11) 13.8%
133 Everit Avenue
Hewlett Bay Park, NY 11557
Jodie Glickman 1,063,067(12) 9.8%
1233 Beech Street - Unit 35
Atlantic Beach, NY 11509
Laura Miller 1,050,550(13) 9.6%
1312 Harbor Road
Hewlett Harbor, NY 11598
Tracy Wells 950,665(14) 8.7%
30 Wedgewood Drive
Hopkinton, MA 01748
All Directors and Executive
Officers as a Group (9 persons) 3,914,775(15) 34.7%
(1) The address of such individuals is c/o the Company, One Merrick
Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590.
(2) Does not include 968,423 shares owned by ten separate
irrevocable trusts for the benefit of Mr. Siegel's children, nieces
and nephews. Mr. Siegel, who is not a trustee of the trusts,
disclaims beneficial ownership of the shares held by the trusts. Mr.
Jeffrey Siegel is the father of Mr. Daniel Siegel and Mrs. Tracy
Wells and is a cousin of Mr. Craig Phillips.
(3) Includes 80,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days.
(4) Includes 28,278 shares held by a trust of which Mr. Phillips is a
beneficiary and 12,700 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days.
(5) Includes 5,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of options which
are exercisable within 60 days.
(6) Includes 119,157 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days.
(7) Includes 261,638 shares held in an irrevocable trust of which Mr.
Bruce Cohen is the beneficiary. Also includes the following shares,
for which Mr. Bruce Cohen disclaims beneficial ownership: 322,276
shares held in an irrevocable trust for the benefit of Mrs. Jodie
Glickman, of which Mr. Bruce Cohen and Mrs. Miller are co-trustees,
352,123 shares held in an irrevocable trust for the benefit of Mrs.
Laura Miller of which Mr. Bruce Cohen and Mrs. Glickman are co-
trustees, and 144,366 shares held in the irrevocable trusts referred
to in footnote (8) for the benefit of members of Mr. Bruce Cohen's
immediate family of which Mr. Bruce Cohen is the sole trustee. Does
not include 50,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of options which
are not exercisable within 60 days.
(8) Includes 16,600 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 50,000 shares
issuable upon the exercise of options which are not exercisable
within 60 days.
(9) Includes 105,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days.
(10) Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership and Percent of
Outstanding Shares Beneficially Owned is based on Schedule 13G dated
July 24, 2002 filed with the SEC reporting beneficial ownership of
securities of the Company held by Mr. Dan Siegel as of December 31,
2002 and subsequent information provided to the Company.
(11) Includes 30,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 10,000 shares
issuable upon the exercise of options which are not exercisable
within 60 days. Does not include 1,310,070, shares owned by nineteen
separate irrevocable trusts for the benefit of Mr. Milton L. Cohen's
children, their spouses and his grandchildren. Mr. Milton L. Cohen,
who is not a trustee of the trusts, disclaims beneficial ownership of
the shares held by the trusts. Mr. Milton L. Cohen is the father of
Mr. Bruce Cohen, Mrs. Jodie Glickman and Mrs. Laura Miller and the
father-in-law of Evan Miller, who is married to Laura Miller.
(12) Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership and Percent of
Outstanding Shares Beneficially Owned is based on Schedule 13G dated
January 28, 2003 filed with the SEC reporting beneficial ownership of
securities of the Company held by Mrs. Jodie Glickman as of December
31, 2002 and subsequent information provided to the Company.
(13) Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership and Percent of
Outstanding Shares Beneficially Owned is based on Schedule 13G dated
January 28, 2003 filed with the SEC reporting beneficial ownership of
securities of the Company held by Mrs. Laura Miller as of December
31, 2002 and subsequent information provided to the Company.
(14) Amount and Nature of Beneficial Ownership and Percent of
Outstanding Shares Beneficially Owned is based on Schedule 13G dated
July 24, 2002 filed with the SEC reporting beneficial ownership of
securities of the Company held by Mrs. Tracy Wells as of December 31,
2002 and subsequent information provided to the Company.
(15) Includes 373,457 shares issuable upon the exercise of options
which are exercisable within 60 days. Does not include 200,000
shares issuable upon the exercise of options which are not
exercisable within 60 days.
(16) Calculated on the basis of 11,269,905 shares of Common Stock
outstanding, except that shares underlying options exercisable within
60 days are deemed to be outstanding for purposes of calculating the
beneficial ownership of securities owned by the holders of such
options.
To the knowledge of the Company, no arrangement exists, the operation
of which might result in a change of control of the Company.
PROPOSAL NO. 1
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
A board of nine directors is to be elected at the Meeting to hold
office until the next Annual Meeting of Stockholders, or until their
successors are duly elected and qualified. The following nominees
have been recommended by the Board of Directors. Each of the
nominees (other than Mr. Westerfield and Mr. Misher) are current
Directors of the Company. It is the intention of the persons named
in the enclosed proxy to vote the shares covered thereby for the
election of the nine persons named below, unless the proxy contains
contrary instructions:
Director of the Company
Name Age Position or its Predecessor Since
Jeffrey Siegel 61 Chairman of the Board of 1967
Directors, Chief Executive
Officer and President.
Mr. Siegel has held the position of
Chairman of the Board since June 14,
2001, the position of
Chief Executive Officer since
December 8, 2000 and
the position of President since 1999.
Prior to becoming President, since 1967,
Mr. Siegel was Executive Vice
President of the Company.
Bruce Cohen 46 Executive Vice President 1998
and a Director. Mr. Bruce
Cohen has held the position of
Executive Vice President since
1999. Prior to becoming
Executive Vice President,
since 1991, Mr. Bruce Cohen was
Vice President - National Sales Manager
of the Company.
Craig Phillips 54 Vice-President - Manufacturing, 1973
Secretary and a Director. Mr. Phillips
has held the positions of Vice-President -
Manufacturing and Secretary since 1973.
Ronald Shiftan 59 Director. Mr. Shiftan is a 1991
consultant to the Company since
October 2002. From 1998 to 2002,
Mr. Shiftan was Deputy Executive
Director of The Port Authority of
New York and New Jersey. From 1996
to 1998, he was Chairman of Patriot
Group, LLC, an investment banking
firm. Mr. Shiftan is a director of
the Rumson-Fair Haven Bank & Trust Co.
and a trustee of Meridian Health
System, Inc.
Howard Bernstein 83 Director. Mr. Bernstein has been 1992
a member of the firm of Cole,
Samsel & Bernstein LLC (and its
predecessors), certified public
accountants, for approximately
fifty-one years.
Leonard Florence 72 Director. Mr. Florence had been 2000
Chairman of the Board of Syratech,
Inc., a consumer products company,
since 1986 through 2003. From 1986
to 2001 Mr. Florence was Chief
Executive Officer and President of
Syratech,Inc.
Cherrie Nanninga 55 Director. Ms. Nanninga has been 2003
the Chief Operating Officer of the
New York Tri-State Region of CB Richard
Ellis, Inc., a commercial real estate
firm, since 2002. Prior thereto, Ms.
Nanninga served as Deputy Chief Financial
Officer and Director of Real Estate for
the Port Authority of New York and New
Jersey.
William Westerfield 72 Mr. Westerfield is retired from
Price Waterhouse LLP, where he was an
audit partner from 1965 through 1992. Mr.
Westerfield currently is a member of the
Board of Directors and Chairman of the Audit
Committees of Gymboree Corp., an international
children's apparel retailer, West Marine, Inc.,
a boating supply retailer. He is also
a director of TL Administration
(formerly Twinlab Corporation where he also
served as Chairman of the Audit Committee).
Sheldon Misher 63 Mr. Misher has since October 2001, been Counsel
in the New York office of McCarter & English, a
law firm headquartered in Newark, New Jersey.
From 1998 to 2001, Mr. Misher was affiliated with
Commonwealth Associates, LLP, with respect to its
private equity and merchant banking activities and
since 2001 has consulted with that entity. Between
1972 to 1998, Mr. Misher was a senior partner and
member of the executive committee of Bachner, Tally,
Polevoy, and Misher, a New York law firm.
Jeffrey Siegel and Craig Phillips are cousins.
The Company has no reason to believe that any of the nominees
will not be a candidate or will be unable to serve. However, should
any of the foregoing nominees become unavailable for any reason, the
persons named in the enclosed proxy intend to vote for such other
person or persons as the Board may nominate.
The Board recommends that stockholders vote FOR the election of
the nominated directors, and signed proxies which are returned will
be so voted unless otherwise instructed on the proxy card.
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF LIFETIME HOAN
The directors of the Company are elected annually by the
stockholders of the Company. They will serve until the next annual
meeting of the stockholders of the Company or until their successors
have been duly elected and qualified or until their earlier
resignation or removal.
Directors who are not employees of the Company receive an annual
fee of $10,000 plus $1,000 for each meeting of the Board attended.
Directors, who are employees of the Company, do not receive
compensation for such services. The officers and directors of the
Company have entered into indemnification agreements with the
Company. In August 2003, each non-employee director received options
to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of
$8.55 per share.
Effective July 1, 2004, Directors who are not employees of the
Company will receive an annual fee of $15,000 plus $1,000 for each
meeting of the Board attended. Committee chairpersons will receive an
additional $5,000 annual fee. Non-employee directors will also
receive an annual option to purchase 1,000 shares of common stock.
First time elected non-employee directors will receive an annual
option to purchase 5,000 shares of common stock.
Shareholders who wish to communicate with members of the Board
of Directors, including the independent directors individually or as
a group, may send correspondence to them in care of the Secretary at
the Company's principal office, One Merrick Avenue, Westbury, New
York 11590. Alternatively, the directors may be contacted via e-
mail at BoardofDirectors@lifetime.hoan.com.
The Company has adopted a code of conduct that applies to all of
its directors, officers (including its chief executive officer, chief
financial officer and controller) and employees. The Company's Code
of Conduct is attached as Appendix A.
Audit Committee The Audit Committee is presently comprised of
directors who are independent, as required by the Audit Committee
charter and the listing requirements for The Nasdaq Stock Market,
Inc. The current members are Howard Bernstein, Leonard Florence and
Cherrie Nanninga. In addition, the Company's Board of Directors has
determined that Howard Bernstein is an "audit committee financial
expert," as defined by SEC rules. The Audit Committee held four
meetings during 2003.
The Audit Committee, among other things, regularly:
* reviews the activities of the Company's independent accountants.
* evaluates the Company's organization and its internal controls,
policies, procedures and practices to determine whether they are
reasonably designed to:
- provide for the safekeeping of the Company's assets; and
- assure the accuracy and adequacy of the Company's records and
financial statements.
* reviews the Company's financial statements and reports.
* monitors compliance with the Company's internal controls,
policies, procedures and practices.
* undertakes such other activities as the Board from time to time
may delegate to it.
* considers the qualifications of and appoints the independent
accountants of the Company.
* reviews and approves audit fees and fees for non-audit services
rendered or to be rendered by the independent accountants, and
reviews the audit plan and the services rendered or to be rendered by
the independent accountants for each year and the results of their
audit for the previous year.
Compensation Committee The Compensation Committee is comprised
of four directors, three of whom are independent. The current members
are Ronald Shiftan (Chairman), Cherrie Nanninga, Howard Bernstein and
Leonard Florence. The Compensation Committee held one meeting during 2003.
The Compensation Committee, after consulting with the chief
executive officer, establishes, authorizes and administers the
Company's compensation policies, practices and plans for the
Company's directors, executive officers and other key personnel. The
Compensation Committee advises the Board of Directors regarding
directors' and officers' compensation and management development and
succession plans. The Compensation Committee is responsible for
administering the Company's 2000 Incentive Bonus Compensation. The
Compensation Committee also undertakes such other activities as may
be delegated to it from time to time by the Board of Directors.
Stock Option Committee The Stock Option Committee is comprised
of three directors. The current members are Jeffrey Siegel
(Chairman), Bruce Cohen and Ronald Shiftan. The Stock Option
Committee held four meetings during 2003.
The Stock Option Committee is responsible for administering the
Company's 2000 Long-Term Incentive Plan. The Company's 1991 Stock
Option Plan and 1996 Incentive Stock Option Plan are administered by
the Board of Directors.
The Company does not have a standing nominating committee or
committee performing similar functions. Instead, the Board of
Directors as a whole acts as a nominating committee. The Board of
Directors believes that it is appropriate for the Company not to have
such a committee in view of the fact that the Board has adopted a
policy that the Board will not nominate any nominee unless such
nominee is approved by a majority of the independent directors of the
Board.
The Board of Directors held five meetings during the fiscal year
ended December 31, 2003.
Each director attended every Board Meeting and every meeting of
the committee(s) on which he/she served with.
AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT
The Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company
reviewed and discussed the consolidated financial statements of the
Company and its subsidiaries that are set forth in the Company's 2003
Annual Report to Stockholders and at Item 8 of the Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, with
management of the Company and Ernst & Young LLP, independent
accountants for the Company.
The Audit Committee discussed with Ernst & Young LLP the matters
required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61,
"Communication with Audit Committees," as amended, which includes,
among other items, matters relating to the conduct of an audit of the
Company's financial statements.
The Audit Committee received the written disclosures and the
letter from Ernst & Young LLP required by Independence Standards
Board Standard No. 1 and discussed with Ernst & Young LLP that firm's
independence from the Company. The Committee concluded that the
provision by Ernst & Young LLP of non-audit services, including tax
preparation services, to the Company is compatible with its
independence.
Based on the review and discussions with management of the
Company and Ernst & Young LLP referred to above, the Audit Committee
recommended to the Board of Directors that the Company publish the
consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries
for the year ended December 31, 2003 in the Company's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 and in the
Company's 2003 Annual Report to Stockholders.
April 5, 2004
The Audit Committee
Howard Bernstein Leonard Florence Cherrie Nanninga
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Policies and Practices
The Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") has
delegated to the Compensation Committee of the Board (the
"Committee") primary responsibility for establishing and
administering the compensation programs of the Company for its
executive officers and other key personnel.
The Committee annually reviews the Company's executive
compensation practices to determine whether the Company's executive
compensation practices (a) enable the Company to attract and retain
qualified and experienced executive officers and other key personnel,
(b) will motivate executive officers and other key personnel to
attain appropriate short-term and long-term performance goals and to
manage the Company for sustained long-term growth, and (c) align the
interests of executive officers and other key personnel with the
interests of the stockholders.
Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Code")
provides that compensation paid to a public company's chief executive
officer and its four other highest paid executive officers in tax
years 1994 and thereafter in excess of $1 million is not deductible
unless such compensation is paid only upon the achievement of
objective performance goals where certain procedural requirements
have been satisfied. Alternatively, such compensation may be deferred
until the executive officer is no longer a covered person under
Section 162(m) of the Code. Any compensation subject to the Section
162(m) limitations will be automatically deferred until the payment
of such compensation would be deductible by the Company except in
those cases where the Committee determines that nondeductible
payments would be consistent with the Company's compensation
philosophy and in the best interests of the Company and its
stockholders.
Executive Officers' Disclosure
Each of the executive officers of the Company receives a salary
at a level which is commensurate with the responsibility of such
individual, and his or her prior experience. In reviewing salaries,
the Committee takes into consideration the operating responsibility
of each individual, his or her experience in the housewares industry,
his or her expertise in overseas purchasing and the amount of time
spent abroad. The Committee also examines the impact each individual
has on the profitability and future growth of the Company. Such
salaries are intended to be comparable to the salaries of other
companies of comparable size and nature. Salary reviews are done
annually.
The Company adopted the Lifetime Hoan Corporation 2000 Incentive
Bonus Compensation Plan pursuant to which executive officers, and
other designated participants, are entitled to bonuses based on
performance criteria and targets that are established for an
applicable period. The Company also adopted the Lifetime Hoan
Corporation 2000 Long-Term Incentive Plan, which permits the granting
of options (and other stock based awards) to executive officers and
other key personnel of the Company and its subsidiaries.
Chief Executive Officer Disclosure
The compensation of Jeffrey Siegel, Chairman of the Board of
Directors, Chief Executive Officer and President, was governed by the
terms of an agreement dated April 6, 2001, which was approved by the
Committee and provides, among other things, for an annual base salary
of $700,000 in 2001 plus annual increments thereafter based on
changes in the Consumer Price Index and an annual bonus pursuant to
the Company's Incentive Bonus Compensation Plan. His bonus for 2003
was $576,320.
April 5, 2004
The Compensation Committee
Ronald Shiftan, Chairman
Howard Bernstein Cherrie Nanninga Leonard Florence
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Summary Compensation Table
The following table sets forth certain information concerning
the compensation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and
President, each of its other four most highly compensated executive
officers whose annual compensation for the fiscal year ended December
31, 2003 exceeded $100,000 and one additional individual for whom
disclosure would have been provided but for the fact that the
individual was not serving as an executive officer of the Company at
the end of the last completed fiscal year (the "Named Executive
Officers") for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and
2001:
Long-Term
Compensation
No. of
Shares of
Common Stock
Annual Compensation Underlying
Name and Stock All other
Principal Position Year Salary Bonus Options Compensation
Jeffrey Siegel 2003 $741,000 $576,320 (2) -- $6,338 (1)
Chief Executive 2002 $713,500 $323,000 -- $6,200 (1)
Officer and 2001 $700,000 $475,579 -- --
President
Bruce Cohen 2003 $313,424 -- 50,000 $536 (1)
Executive Vice 2002 $304,000 $25,000 (4) -- $500 (1)
President 2001 $221,000 $157,962 (5) -- $306 (1)
Evan Miller 2003 $313,424 $210,375 (3) 50,000 $400 (1)
Executive Vice 2002 $304,000 $200,000 (4) -- $379 (1)
President 2001 $275,000 $239,171 (5) -- $242 (1)
Robert Reichenbach 2003 $250,000 $84,304 (3) 75,000 --
Executive Vice 2002 $195,000 $75,000 (4) -- --
President 2001 $175,000 $10,000 (5) -- --
Robert McNally 2003 $240,000 $25,000 (3) -- $987 (1)
Vice President 2002 $227,000 $20,000 (4) 150,000 $939 (1)
Finance, Chief 2001 $222,000 $20,000 (5) -- $579 (1)
Financial Officer
and Treasurer
Larry Sklute 2003 $220,000 $67,224 (3) 100,000 --
President 2002 $195,018 $35,000 (4) -- --
Kitchenware Division 2001 $190,018 $20,000 (5) -- --
(1) Represents the current dollar value of premiums paid for split
dollar life insurance by the Company.
(2) Includes $532,691 earned and paid during 2003 and $43,629
accrued in 2003 and paid in 2004.
(3) Such amounts were accrued in 2003 and paid in 2004.
(4) Such amounts were accrued in 2002 and paid in 2003.
(5) Such amounts were accrued in 2001 and paid in 2002.
Option/SAR Grants in Last Fiscal Year
Individual Grants
No. of Shares
of Common % of Total
Stock Options
Underlying Granted to Grant Date
Options Employees in Exercise Expiration Present
Name Granted Fiscal Year Price Date Value
Bruce Cohen 50,000 13.51% $7.72 7/1/2013 $141,500 (a)
Evan Miller 50,000 13.51% $7.72 7/1/2013 $141,500 (a)
Robert Reichenbach 75,000 20.27% $7.72 7/1/2013 $212,250 (a)
Larry Sklute 100,000 27.03% $5.00 1/28/2013 $136,000 (a)
(a) Option values reflect Black-Scholes model output for options.
The assumptions used in the models for the grants to Messrs. Cohen,
Miller and Reichenbach were an expected volatility of .411, a risk-
free rate of return of 3.33%, a dividend yield of 1.87% and an
expected option life of 6 years. The assumption used in the model
for the grant to Mr. Skulte's was an expected volatility of .399, a
risk-free rate of return of 3.47%, a dividend yield of 4.33% and an
expected option life of 6 years.
Aggregated Option/SAR Exercises in the Last Fiscal Year and Fiscal
Year-End Option/SAR Values
The following table sets forth certain information with respect
to each exercise of stock options during the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2003 by each of the Named Executive Officers and the
number and value of unexercised options held by each of the Named
Executive Officers as of December 31, 2003:
Number of Shares
of Common Stock
Shares Underlying Unexercised Value of Unexercised
Acquired on Value Options/SARs at In-The-Money Options/SARS
Name Exercise Realized December 31, 2003 at December 31, 2003 (1)
Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
Jeffrey Siegel -- -- -- -- -- --
Robert McNally 23,477 $337,024 134,127 -- $1,421,746 --
Bruce Cohen -- -- -- 50,000 -- $459,000
Evan Miller -- -- 26,600 50,000 $265,358 $459,000
Robert Reichenbach -- -- -- 75,000 -- $688,500
Larry Sklute 112,222 $262,127 105,000 -- $1,247,000 --
(1) Calculated based on the difference between the closing sale
price of the Common Stock, as reported on the Nasdaq National Market
on December 31, 2003 ($16.90 per share), and the exercise price of
each option multiplied by the number of shares of Common Stock
underlying such option.
PERFORMANCE GRAPH
The following graph compares the cumulative total return on
the Company's Common Stock with the Nasdaq Market Value Index and
the Housewares Index - Media General Industry Group. The
comparisons in this table are required by the Securities and
Exchange Commission and are not intended to forecast or be
indicative of the possible future performance of the Company's
Common Stock.
LIFETIME HOAN CORPORATION
Cumulative Total Stockholder Return for the Period December 31,
1998 through December 31, 2003. 2
Nasdaq
Lifetime Market Housewares
Date Hoan Index Index
12/31/98 100.00 100.00 100.00
12/31/99 55.47 176.37 82.35
12/31/00 79.23 110.86 68.95
12/31/01 68.18 88.37 80.46
12/31/02 56.45 61.64 86.52
12/31/03 206.80 92.68 74.75
_______________________________
2 Assumes $100 invested on December 31, 1997 and assumes dividends
reinvested. Measurement points are at the last trading day of each
of the fiscal years ended December 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999 and 1998.
The material in this chart is not soliciting material, is not deemed
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is not
incorporated by reference in any filing of the Company under the
Securities Act of 1993, as amended, or the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended, whether or not made before or after the date of
this Proxy Statement and irrespective of any general incorporation
language in such filing. A list of the companies included in the
housewares index will be furnished by the Company to any stockholder
upon written request to the Vice President, Finance and Treasurer of
the Company.
Employment Contracts and Termination of Employment and Change-in-
Control Arrangements
Effective as of April 6, 2001, Mr. Jeffrey Siegel entered into
a new employment agreement with the Company that provides that the
Company will employ him as its President and Chief Executive
Officer for a term commencing on April 5, 2001, and as its Chairman
of the Board commencing immediately following the 2001 Annual
Meeting of stockholders, and continuing until April 6, 2006, and
thereafter for additional consecutive one year periods unless
terminated by either the Company or Mr. Siegel as provided in the
agreement. The agreement provides for an annual salary of $700,000
with annual increments based on changes in the Consumer Price Index
and for the payment to him of bonuses pursuant to the Company's
Incentive Bonus Compensation Plan. The agreement also provides for,
among other things, standard fringe benefits, such as disability
benefits and insurance, and an accountable expense allowance. The
agreement further provides that if the Company is merged or
otherwise consolidated with any other organization and as a result
control of the Company changes or substantially all of the assets
of the Company are sold or any person or persons acquire 50% or
more of the outstanding stock of the Company, which is followed by:
(i) the termination of Mr. Siegel's employment by the Corporation
other than in certain circumstances, (ii) the appointment of a
person other than him to serve as President or Chief Executive
Officer of the Corporation, or the diminution of his duties,
responsibilities or powers, (iii) a reduction in aggregate amount
of compensation and other benefits received by him (other than a
reduction of benefits made for employees generally), or (iv) the
transfer of his principal place of employment to a location other
than within a thirty mile radius of Westbury, New York, the Company
would be obligated to pay to him or his estate the base salary
required pursuant to the employment agreement for the balance of
the term. The employment agreement also contains restrictive
covenants preventing Mr. Siegel from competing with the Company
during the term of his employment and for a period of five years
thereafter. Effective as of January 1, 2001, the employment
agreement was amended to provide that the pre-tax income of the
Company upon which Mr. Siegel's bonuses would be based would be
determined by the committee responsible for administering and
interpreting the Company's Incentive Bonus Compensation Plan.
Effective as of July 1, 2003, Mr. Evan Miller entered into a
new employment agreement with the Company that provides that the
Company will employ him as an Executive Vice President and
President of Sales for a term commencing on July 1, 2003 and
continuing until July 31, 2006, and thereafter for additional
consecutive one year periods unless terminated by either the
Company or Mr. Miller as provided in the agreement. The agreement
provides for an initial annual salary of $313,424 along with
payment of bonuses pursuant to the employment agreement. The
agreement also provides for, among other things, standard fringe
benefits, such as disability benefits and insurance, and an
accountable expense allowance.
Effective as of July 1, 2003, Mr. Bruce Cohen entered into a
new employment agreement with the Company that provides that the
Company will employ him as an Executive Vice President and
President of Outlet Retail Stores, Inc. for a term commencing on
July 1, 2003 and continuing until June 30, 2006, and thereafter for
additional consecutive one year periods unless terminated by either
the Company or Mr. Cohen as provided in the agreement. The
agreement provides for an initial annual salary of $313,424 along
with payment of bonuses pursuant to the employment agreement. The
agreement also provides for, among other things, standard fringe
benefits, such as disability benefits and insurance, and an
accountable expense allowance.
Effective as of July 1, 2003, Mr. Robert McNally entered into
a new employment agreement with the Company that provides that the
Company will employ him as Vice President - Finance, Treasurer and
Chief Financial Officer for a term commencing on July 1, 2003 and
continuing until July 31, 2006, and thereafter for additional
consecutive one year periods unless terminated by either the
Company or Mr. McNally as provided in the agreement. The agreement
provides for an initial annual salary of $240,000 along with
payment of bonuses pursuant to the employment agreement. The
agreement also provides for, among other things, standard fringe
benefits, such as disability benefits and insurance, and an
accountable expense allowance.
Effective as of July 1, 2003, Mr. Robert Reichenbach entered
into a new employment agreement with the Company that provides that
the Company will employ him as an Executive Vice President and
President of the Cutlery, Bakeware and Home Entertaining divisions
for a term commencing on July 1, 2003 and continuing until June 30,
2006, and thereafter for additional consecutive one year periods
unless terminated by either the Company or Mr. Reichenbach as
provided in the agreement. The agreement provides for an annual
salary of $250,000 in 2003, $300,000 in 2004 and $350,000 in 2005
provided that the Company's Diluted Earnings Per Share in 2004 is
greater than 2003. His 2006 base salary shall increase in
proportion to the increase, if any, in the Company's Diluted
Earnings Per Share for 2005 compared to 2004 with a limit on the
potential salary increase at $50,000. Mr. Reichenbach is also
eligible for payment of bonuses pursuant to the employment
agreement. The agreement also provides for, among other things,
standard fringe benefits, such as disability benefits and
insurance, and an accountable expense allowance.
Effective as of July 1, 2003, Mr. Larry Sklute entered into a
new employment agreement with the Company that provides that the
Company will employ him as President of the Kitchenware Division
for a term commencing on July 1, 2003 and continuing until July 31,
2006, and thereafter for additional consecutive one year periods
unless terminated by either the Company or Mr. Sklute as provided
in the agreement. The agreement provides for an initial annual
salary of $220,000 along with payment of bonuses pursuant to the
employment agreement. The agreement also provides for, among other
things, standard fringe benefits, such as disability benefits and
insurance, and an accountable expense allowance.
Limitation on Directors' Liability
The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation contains a
provision which eliminates the personal liability of a director for
monetary damages other than for breaches of the director's duty of
loyalty to the Company or its stockholders, acts or omissions not
in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing
violation of law or, violations under Section 174 of the Delaware
General Corporation Law or for any transaction from which the
director derived an improper personal benefit.
The Company has entered into indemnification agreements with
each of its officers and directors which provide that the Company
will indemnify the indemnitee against expenses, including
reasonable attorney's fees, judgments, penalties, fines and amounts
paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him or her
in connection with any civil or criminal action or administrative
proceeding arising out of the performance of his or her duties as
an officer, director, employee or agent of the Company. Such
indemnification is available if the acts of the indemnitee were in
good faith, if the indemnitee acted in a manner he or she
reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests
of the Company and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, the
indemnitee had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct
was unlawful.
CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
On April 6, 1984, the Company, pursuant to its 1984 Stock Option
Plan, which has since been terminated, issued options to Messrs.
Milton L. Cohen, Jeffrey Siegel and Craig Phillips, officers and
directors of the Company. On December 17, 1985, these individuals
exercised their options and the following table reflects the
respective numbers of shares issued (the "Option Shares"), the
aggregate purchase price, average price per share and method of
payment.
Number of
Shares of Aggregate Average Method of Payment
Common Stock Purchase Price per
Name Issued Price Share Cash Notes
Milton L. Cohen 1,713,204 $469,120 $0.27 $46,912 $422,208
Jeffrey Siegel 1,390,860 382,720 0.27 38,272 344,448
Craig Phillips 519,334 149,120 0.27 14,912 134,208
Total 3,623,398 $1,000,960 $100,096 $900,864
The promissory notes issued by Messrs. Milton L. Cohen, Jeffrey
Siegel and Craig Phillips all bear interest at the rate of 9% per
annum, are secured by the individuals' respective Option Shares and
were originally due and payable on December 17, 1995. From time to
time the due dates of the notes have been extended and, in December
2000, the Company extended the due dates of each of the notes to
December 31, 2005. The interest has been paid each year when due.
As of April 6, 2001, the promissory note issued by Mr. Milton L.
Cohen was canceled and replaced by a new promissory note in the
principal amount of $855,777 (representing the principal amount of
$422,208 of the promissory note referred to above and $433,569 of
other outstanding loans owing by Mr. Milton L. Cohen to the Company)
bearing interest at the rate of 4.85% per annum, payable in twenty
equal quarterly installments (principal and interest combined) of
$48,404 on the last day of June, September, December and March of
each year commencing June 30, 2001. As of December 31, 2003, Mr.
Milton L. Cohen owed $453,270 on the promissory note.
Mr. Cohen and the Company entered into a consulting agreement
dated as of April 6, 2001 pursuant to which the Company retained Mr.
Cohen as a consultant to the Company for a period of 5 years.
Pursuant to this consulting agreement, the Company pays to Mr. Cohen
a fee of $440,800 per year, payable in equal monthly installments of
$36,733.33. Pursuant to the terms of this consulting agreement,
effective April 6, 2001, the Company granted to Mr. Cohen an option
to purchase 40,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company.
Mr. Jeffrey Siegel, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief
Executive Officer and President of the Company, had an outstanding
loan, due to overadvances of bonuses in years 1999 and 2000. The
outstanding loan balance of $94,054 at December 31, 2002 was fully
repaid by Mr. Siegel during 2003.
On October 1, 2002 the Company entered into a consulting
agreement with Ronald Shiftan, a director of the Company. The term
of this consulting agreement is a one year period, which
automatically renews for additional one year periods unless either
party terminates this consulting agreement by providing written
notice of such termination to the other party thereto at least thirty
days prior to the expiration of the initial or additional term then
in effect. Compensation is paid to Mr. Shiftan under this consulting
agreement at a rate of $30,000 per month.
PROPOSAL NO. 2
APPROVAL AND RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS
Subject to stockholder approval and ratification, the Audit
Committee reappointed the firm of Ernst & Young LLP as the
independent accountants to audit the Company's financial statements
for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2004. Ernst & Young LLP has
audited the Company's financial statements since 1984.
The Audit Committee has adopted a policy that requires advance
approval of all audit, audit-related, tax services, and other
services performed by the independent auditor. The policy provides
for pre-approval by the Audit Committee of specifically defined
audit and non-audit services. Unless the specific service has been
previously pre-approved with respect to that year, the Audit
Committee must approve the permitted service before the independent
auditor is engaged to perform it. The Audit Committee has delegated
to the Chair of the Audit Committee authority to approve permitted
service provided that the Chair reports any decisions to the
Committee at its next scheduled meeting.
In addition to rendering audit services during 2003, Ernst &
Young LLP performed other non-audit services for the Company and its
subsidiaries. Audit fees for 2003 were $253,000 and tax fees, which
included tax preparation and consulting services for 2003, were
$84,940. There were no services rendered or fees incurred during
2003 for financial information systems design and implementation.
In making its appointment, the Audit Committee reviewed past
audit results and other non-audit services performed during 2003.
In selecting Ernst & Young LLP, the Audit Committee carefully
considered their independence. The Audit Committee has determined
that the performance of such non-audit services did not impair the
independence of Ernst & Young LLP.
Ernst & Young LLP has confirmed to the Audit Committee that they
are in compliance with all rules, standards and policies of the
Independence Standards Board and the Securities and Exchange
Commission governing auditor independence.
If the stockholders do not approve and ratify this appointment,
other independent auditors will be considered by the Audit
Committee.
Representatives of Ernst & Young LLP are expected to be present
at the Meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement if
they desire and to respond to appropriate questions of stockholders.
The Audit Committee recommends that stockholders vote FOR the
approval and ratification of the appointment of Ernst & Young, LLP.
Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires
the Company's directors, executive officers, and persons who own more
than ten percent of a registered class of the Company's equity
securities to file with the Company, the Securities and Exchange
Commission, and the National Association of Securities Dealers
initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership of
any equity securities of the Company. During Fiscal 2003, to the
best of the Company's knowledge, all required reports were filed on a
timely basis. In making this statement, the Company has relied on
the written representations of its directors and executive officers
and copies of Forms 3, 4 and 5 provided to the Company.
STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
A stockholder proposal intended to be presented at the Company's
2005 Annual Meeting of Stockholders must be received by the Company
at its principal executive offices on or before January 7, 2005, to
be included in the Company's proxy statement and proxy relating to
that meeting.
OTHER MATTERS
The Management of the Company does not know of any matters other
than those stated in this Proxy Statement which are to be presented
for action at the Meeting. If any other matters should properly come
before the Meeting, it is intended that proxies in the accompanying
form will be voted on any such other matters in accordance with the
judgement of the persons voting such proxies. Discretionary
authority to vote on such matters is conferred by such proxies upon
the persons voting them.
Financial statements for the Company are included in the Annual
Report of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003
which accompanies this Proxy Statement.
Upon the written request of any person who on the record date
was a record owner of Common Stock of the Company, or who represents
in good faith that he or she was on such date a beneficial owner of
Common Stock of the Company, the Company will send to such person,
without charge, a copy of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, including financial statements
and schedules, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Requests for this report should be directed to Robert McNally, Vice
President Finance, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Lifetime
Hoan Corporation, One Merrick Avenue, Westbury, New York 11590.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Craig Phillips, Secretary
Dated: April 26, 2004
APPENDIX A
LIFETIME HOAN CORPORATION
CODE OF CONDUCT
The reputation and integrity of Lifetime Hoan, its subsidiaries and
its affiliates (the "Company") are valuable assets that are vital to the
Company's success. Each employee of the Company, including each of the
Company's officers, is responsible for conducting the Company's
business in a way that demonstrates a commitment to the highest
standards of integrity. No Code of Conduct can replace the
thoughtful behavior of an ethical employee. The purpose of this Code
is to focus employees on areas of ethical risk, provide guidance to
help employees recognize and deal with ethical issues, provide
mechanisms for employees to report unethical conduct, and foster
among employees a culture of honesty and accountability. Dishonest or
unethical conduct or conduct that is illegal, will constitute a
violation of this Code, regardless of whether such conduct is
specifically referenced herein.
The Company's Board of Directors is ultimately responsible for
the implementation of the Code of Conduct. The Board has designated
Jeffrey Siegel, the Company's Chief Executive Officer, and Robert McNally,
the Company's Chief Financial Officer, or their respective successors in
these capacities, to be the compliance officers (the "Compliance Officers")
for the implementation and administration of the Code.
Questions regarding the application or interpretation of the
Code of Conduct are inevitable. Employees should feel free to direct
questions to either Compliance Officer. In addition, employees who
observe, learn of, or, in good faith, suspect a violation of the
Code, must immediately report the violation to one of the Compliance
Officers, or to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
Employees who report violations or suspected violations in good faith
will not be subject to retaliation of any kind. Reported violations
will be investigated and addressed promptly and will be treated
confidentially to the extent possible. A violation of the Code of
Conduct may result in disciplinary action, up to and including,
termination of employment.
Requests for a waiver of a provision of the Code of Conduct must
be submitted in writing to a Compliance Officer for appropriate
review, and a Compliance Officer, director or appropriate Board
committee wi11 decide the outcome. For conduct involving an officer
or Board member, only the Board of Directors or the Audit Committee
of the Board, have the authority to waive a provision of the Code.
The Audit Committee must review and approve any "related party"
transaction as defined in Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K before it is
consummated. In the event of an approved waiver involving the conduct
of an officer or Board member, appropriate disclosure must be made to
the Company's stockholders as and to the extent required by listing
standards or any other regulation. Statements in the Code of Conduct
to the effect that certain actions may be taken only with "Company
approval" will be interpreted to mean that appropriate officers or
Board directors must give prior written approval before the proposed
action may be undertaken.
This Code of Conduct should be read in conjunction with the
Company's other policy statements.
Employees will receive periodic training on the contents and
importance of the Code of Conduct and related policies and the manner
in which violations must be reported and waivers must be requested.
Each employee of the Company will be asked to certify on an annual
basis that he/she is in full compliance with the Code of Conduct and
related policy statements. See Appendix A.
1~NV/9542.1
I. Violations of Law
A variety of laws apply to the Company and its operations, and
some carry criminal penalties These laws include banking regulations,
securities laws, and state laws relating to duties owed by corporate
directors and officers. Examples of criminal violations of the law
include: stealing, embezzling, misapplying corporate or bank funds,
using threats, physical force or other unauthorized means to collect
money; making a payment for an expressed purpose on the Company's
behalf to an individual who intends to use it for a different
purpose; or making payments, whether corporate or personal, of cash
or other items of value that are intended to influence the judgment
or actions of political candidates, government officials or
businesses in connection with any of the Company's activities. The
Company must and will report all suspected criminal violations to the
appropriate authorities for possible prosecution, and will
investigate, address and report, as appropriate, non-criminal
violations.
II. Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest can occur or appear to occur in a wide
variety of situations. Generally speaking a conflict of interest
occurs when an employee's or an employee's immediate family's
personal interest interferes with, has the potential to interfere
with. or appears with the interests or business of the Company. For
example, a conflict of interest could arise that makes it difficult
for an employee to perform corporate duties objectively and
effectively where he/she is involved in a competing interest. Another
such conflict may occur where an employee or a family member receives
a gift,(1) a unique advantage or an improper personal benefit as a
result of the employee's position at the Company. Because a conflict
of interest can occur in a variety of situations, you must keep the
foregoing general principle in mind in evaluating both your conduct
and that of others.
__________
1 Acceptance of gifts in the nature of a memento, e.g. a conference
gift or other inconsequential gift, valued at less than one hundred
dollars ($100), is permitted.
1-NV/9542.1
Employees are prohibited from trading in securities while in
possession of material inside information. Among other things,
trading while in possession of material inside information can
subject the employee to criminal or civil penalties. The Company's
policy on insider trading is incorporated by reference into this
Code.
Outside Activities/Employment
Any outside activity, including employment, should not
significantly encroach on the time and attention employees devote to
their corporate duties, should not adversely affect the quality or
quantity of their work, and should not make use of corporate
equipment, facilities, or supplies, or imply (without the Company's
approval), the Company's sponsorship or support. In addition, under
no circumstances are employees permitted to compete with the Company,
or take for themselves or their family members business opportunities
that belong to the Company that are discovered or made available by
virtue of their positions at the Company. Employees are prohibited
from taking part in any outside employment without the Company's
prior approval.
Civic/Political Activities
Employees are encouraged to participate in civic, charitable or
political activities so long as such participation does not encroach
on the time and attention they are expected to devote to their
company-related duties. Such activities are to be conducted in a
manner that does not involve the Company or its assets or facilities,
and does not create an appearance of Company involvement or
endorsement.
Loans to Employees
The Company will not make loans or extend credit guarantees to
or for the personal benefit of officers, except as permitted by law.
Loans or guarantees may be extended to other employees only with
Company approval.
III. Fair Dealing
Each employee should deal fairly and in good faith with the
Company's customers, suppliers, regulators, business partners, and
others. No employee may take unfair advantage of anyone through
manipulation, misrepresentation, inappropriate threats, fraud, abuse
of confidential information, or other related conduct.
IV. Proper Use of Company Assets
Company assets, such as information, materials, supplies, time,
intellectual property, facilities, software, and other assets owned
or leased by the Company, or that are otherwise in the Company's
possession, may be used only for legitimate business purposes. The
personal use of Company assets, without Company approval, is
prohibited.
V. Delegation of Authority
Each employee, and particularly each of the Company's officers,
must exercise due careto ensure that any delegation of authority is
reasonable and appropriate in scope, and includes appropriate and
continuous monitoring. No authority may be delegated to employees
whom the Company has reason to believe, through the exercise of
reasonable due diligence, may have a propensity to engage in illegal
activities.
VI. Handling Confidential Information
Employees should observe the confidentiality of information that
they acquire by virtue of their positions at the Company, including
information concerning customers, suppliers, competitors, and other
employees, except where disclosure is approved by the Company or
otherwise legally mandated. Of special sensitivity is financial
information, which should under all circumstances be considered
confidential except where its disclosure is approved by the Company,
or when it has been publicly available in a periodic or special
report for at least two business days.
VII. Handling of Financial Information
Federal law requires the Company to set forth guidelines pursuant
to which senior financial employees perform their duties. Employees
subject to this requirement include the principal financial officer,
controller or principal accounting officer, and any person who performs a
similar function. However, the Company expects that all employees who
participate in the preparation of any part of the Company's financial
statements follow these guidelines.
* Act with honesty and integrity, avoiding actual or
apparent conflicts of interest with the Company in personal
and professional relationships.
* Provide the Company's other employees, consultants, and
advisors with information that is accurate, complete,
objective, relevant, timely and understandable.
* Endeavor to ensure full, fair, timely, and understandable
disclosure in the Company's periodic reports.
* Comply with rules and regulations of federal, state,
provincial and local governments, and other appropriate
private and public regulatory agencies.
* Act in good faith, responsibly, and with due care,
competence and diligence, without misrepresenting material
facts or allowing your independent judgment to be subordinated.
* Respect the confidentiality of information acquired in
the course of your work except where you have Company
approval or where disclosure is otherwise legally mandated.
Confidential information acquired in the course of your
work will not be used for personal advantage.
* Share and maintain skills important and relevant to the
Company's needs.
* Proactively promote ethical behavior among peers in your
work environment.
* Achieve responsible use of and control over all assets
and resources employed or entrusted to you.
* Record or participate in the recording of entries in
the Company's books and records that are accurate to the
best of your knowledge.
The forgoing are set as guidelines for financial employees, but are,
in fact statements of mandatory conduct.
VIII. Implementation and General Issues
A. It is the responsibility of each Company manager to
ensure compliance with the Code.
B. The Company's outside independent auditors shall call
to the attention of the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief
Financial Officer and the Audit Committee of the Company,
any information disclosed as a result of any of their audits
that indicates a violation of the Code.
C. A copy of the Code will be circulated to all employees,
and each employee shall annually and, in the case of newly
hired employees, upon their hiring or, in the case of employees
employed by a company acquired by the Company, upon the
acquisition of such company, file a report of compliance with
the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of
the Company. Each of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief
Financial Officer of the Company shall file a report of compliance
with the Board of Directors of the Company. See Appendix A. The
failure to timely complete and file a report of compliance, as
well as a falsely completed report of compliance, will be grounds for
termination of employment.
Dated: March 25, 2004
APPENDIX A
REPORT OF COMPLIANCE
April 26,2004
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
Lifetime Hoan Corporation
One Merrick Avenue
Westbury, NY 11590
Dear Sirs:
I have read the Company's Code of Conduct dated March 25, 2004,
have retained a copy for my guidance, and agree to be bound thereby.
I hereby declare that during the past twelve months and at
present:
(1) I have been and am in full compliance with the Company's
Code of Conduct dated March 25, 2004 (indicate below any exceptions),
and
(2) To the best of my knowledge, all members of my family and
all employees reporting to me are in full compliance with the same
(indicate below any exceptions).
_____________________
Signature
_____________________
Printed Name
_____________________
Position