t64670_10k.htm


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
 
(Mark One)
 
x
Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
o
Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
 
Commission File No. 1-16263
MARINE PRODUCTS CORPORATION
 
Delaware
 
58-2572419
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
     
2801 BUFORD HIGHWAY, SUITE 520
ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30329
(404) 321-7910
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
 
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
COMMON STOCK, $0.10 PAR VALUE
 
NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE
     
Securities registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the Act:
NONE
 
          Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. o Yes x No
 
          Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. o Yes x No
 
          Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. x Yes o No
 
          Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x
 
          Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
               
 
Large accelerated filer o
 
Accelerated filer x
 
Non-accelerated filer o
 
Smaller reporting company o
 
          Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No x
 
          The aggregate market value of Marine Products Corporation common stock held by non-affiliates on June 30, 2008, the last business day of the registrant’s most recent second fiscal quarter, was $59,049,694 based on the closing price on the New York Stock Exchange on June 30, 2008 of $6.60 per share.
 
          Marine Products Corporation had 36,902,490 shares of common stock outstanding as of February 13, 2009.
 
Documents Incorporated by Reference
 
          Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Marine Products Corporation are incorporated by reference into Part III, Items 10 through 14 of this report.
 
 
 


 
 
 
PART I
 
          References in this document to “we,” “our,” “us,” “Marine Products,” or “the Company” mean Marine Products Corporation (“MPC”) and its subsidiaries, Chaparral Boats, Inc. (“Chaparral”) and Robalo Acquisition Company LLC (“Robalo”), collectively or individually, except where the context indicates otherwise.
 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
          Certain statements made in this report that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements that relate to our business strategy, plans and objectives, and our beliefs and expectations regarding future demand for our products and services and other events and conditions that may influence our performance in the future.
 
          The words “may,” “should,” “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” “project,” “estimate,” and similar expressions used in this document that do not relate to historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by our management in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes to be appropriate. The forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding our belief that international sales could produce additional sales growth; our expectation to continue to offer sales incentives and promotion programs in the future; our belief that the Wide Tech TM bow design may be incorporated on other Chaparral boat models in subsequent model years; management’s belief that Marine Products is well positioned to take advantage of current market conditions which characterize the industry; our intention to continue seeking the most advantageous purchasing arrangements from our suppliers; our assumption that our suppliers will remain in operation during the extended business downturn in the recreational boating industry; our ability to execute our marketing strategy to increase market share by expanding our presence by building dedicated sales, marketing and distribution systems; our intention to continue to strengthen our dealer network and build brand loyalty with dealers and customers; our ability to locate and complete strategic acquisitions that will complement our existing product lines, expand our geographic presence and strengthen our capabilities; our belief that our corporate infrastructure and marketing and sales capabilities, in addition to our cost structure and nationwide presence, enable us to compete effectively; our belief that we do not currently anticipate that any material expenditures will be required to continue to comply with existing environmental or safety regulations; our belief that the fall in prices of certain commodities during the first part of 2009 may lead to lower material costs in 2009; our belief that our product liability insurance will be adequate; our intention to pursue acquisitions and form strategic alliances that will enable us to acquire complementary skills and capabilities, offer new products, expand our customer base and obtain other competitive advantages; our belief that the ultimate outcome of litigation arising in the ordinary course of business will not have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, financial condition or results of operations; our intention to continue to pay cash dividends; our ability to execute stated business and financial strategies in the future to better manage our Company; our belief that there are not any near-term catalysts that will improve the retail selling environment for our product; our belief that the weak selling environment and dealer inventory levels may require the Company to implement additional sales incentive programs designed to sell inventory; management’s belief that net sales and profits in 2009 will decline compared to 2008; management’s belief that advertising and consumer targeting efforts will benefit the boating industry and our Company and could result in increased advertising and other selling and general administrative expenses during 2009; our belief that the redesign of one of the Chaparral product lines for the 2009 model year will be very popular with dealers and consumers and that the success of this product should continue to enhance our sales and profits in future years; management’s belief that both the boating industry promotional advertising program and the Company’s new boat models will benefit Marine Products; management’s belief that the industry is projected to remain in a deep downturn throughout 2009; our belief that the Company will continue to experience the effect of reduced consumer demand for at least the remainder of 2009, which will adversely affect net sales, net income, operating margins, and cash flows; expectations about the amount of capital expenditures and contributions to our defined benefit plan during 2009 and the purpose of those capital expenditures; the adequacy of the Company’s capital resources; the amount and timing of future contractual obligations; judgments about the Company’s critical accounting policies; and the effect of various recent accounting pronouncements on the Company, its operating results and financial condition. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Marine Products Corporation to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. These risks involve the outcome of current and future litigation, the impact of interest rates, economic conditions, fuel costs and weather on our business, our dependence on a network of independent boat dealers, the possibility of defaults by our dealers in their obligations to third-party dealer floor plan lenders, and our reliance on third-party suppliers. We caution you that such statements are only predictions and not guarantees of future performance and that actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisioned by the forward-looking statements. See “Risk Factors” on page 12 for a discussion of factors that may cause actual results to differ from our projections.

 
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Item 1. Business
 
          Marine Products manufactures fiberglass motorized boats distributed and marketed through its independent dealer network. Marine Products’ product offerings include Chaparral sterndrive and inboard pleasure boats and Robalo outboard sport fishing boats.
 
Organization and Overview
 
          Marine Products is a Delaware corporation incorporated on August 31, 2000, in connection with a spin-off from RPC, Inc. (NYSE: RES) (“RPC”). Effective February 28, 2001, RPC accomplished the spin-off by contributing 100 percent of the issued and outstanding stock of Chaparral to Marine Products, a newly formed wholly owned subsidiary of RPC, and then distributing the common stock of Marine Products to RPC stockholders.
 
          Marine Products designs, manufactures and sells recreational fiberglass powerboats in the sportboat, deckboat, cruiser, sport yacht and sport fishing markets. The Company sells its products to a network of 147 domestic and 46 international independent authorized dealers. Marine Products’ mission is to enhance its customers’ boating experience by providing them with high quality, innovative powerboats. The Company intends to remain a leading manufacturer of recreational powerboats for sale to a broad range of consumers worldwide.
 
          The Company manufactures Chaparral sterndrive and inboard-powered pleasure boats including SSi Sportboats, SSX Sportdecks, Sunesta Wide Techand Xtreme boats, Signature Cruisers, Premiere Sport Yachts and Robalo outboard sport fishing boats. The most recent available industry statistics [source: Statistical Surveys, Inc. report dated September 30, 2008] indicate that Chaparral is the fourth largest manufacturer of 18 to 35 foot sterndrive boats in the United States.
 
          Chaparral was founded in 1965 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Chaparral’s first boat was a 15-foot tri-hull design with a retail price of less than $1,000. Over time Chaparral grew by offering exceptional quality and consumer value. In 1976, Chaparral moved to Nashville, Georgia, where a manufacturing facility of a former boat manufacturing company was available for purchase. This provided Chaparral an opportunity to obtain additional manufacturing space and access to a trained work force. With over 40 years of boatbuilding experience, Chaparral continues to improve the design and manufacturing of its product offerings to meet the growing needs of discriminating recreational boaters.
 
          Robalo was founded in 1969 and its first boat was a 19-foot center console salt-water fishing boat, among the first of this type of boat to have an “unsinkable” hull. The Company believes that Robalo’s share of the outboard sport fishing boat market is approximately two percent.

 
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Products
 
          Marine Products distinguishes itself by offering a wide range of products to the family recreational market and cruiser market through its Chaparral brand, and to the sport fishing market through its Robalo brand.
 
          The following table provides a brief description of our product lines and their particular market focus:
                 
Product Line
 
Number
of
Models
 
Overall
Length
 
Approximate
Retail
Price Range
 
Description
                 
Chaparral - SSi Sportboats
 
11
 
18′-28′
 
$22,000 - $148,000
 
Fiberglass bowriders and closed deck runabouts. Encompasses affordable, entry-level to mid-range and larger sportboats. Marketed as high value runabouts for family groups.
                 
Chaparral – SSX Sportdecks
 
3
 
24′-28′
 
$56,000 - $128,000
 
Fiberglass bowrider crossover sportboats that combine the ride of a sportboat and the usefulness of a deckboat. Marketed as high value runabouts for family groups.
                 
Chaparral - Sunesta Wide Techs™ / Xtremes
 
7
 
22′-28′
 
$47,000 - $128,000
 
Fiberglass pleasure boats with a high-performance hull design and updated styling. Wide Tech is marketed as an affordable, entry-level to mid-range pleasure boat with the handling of a runabout, the style of a sportboat and the roominess of a cruiser. Xtreme is marketed as a high-performance wakeboard/ski boat with technical features and styling that appeal to wakeboard and ski enthusiasts.
                 
Chaparral - Signature Cruisers
 
7
 
25′-35′
 
$74,000 - $371,000
 
Fiberglass, accommodation-focused cruisers. Marketed to experienced boat owners through trade magazines and boat show exhibitions.
                 
Chaparral – Premiere Sport Yacht
 
1
 
42′
 
$615,000 - $635,000
 
High value, fiberglass sport yacht with Wide Tech™ Bow marketed to experienced boat owners through trade magazines and boat show exhibitions.
                 
Robalo - Sport Fishing Boats
 
10
 
22′-31′
 
$52,000 - $274,000
 
Sport fishing boats for large freshwater lakes or saltwater use. Marketed to experienced fishermen.
 
Manufacturing
 
          Marine Products’ manufacturing facilities are located in Nashville, Georgia and Valdosta, Georgia. In 2008, the Company temporarily idled its plant located in Valdosta, Georgia in response to the decline in production during the current year in comparison to the prior year. Marine Products utilizes five different plants to, among other things, manufacture interiors, design new models, create fiberglass hulls and decks, and assemble various end products. Quality control is conducted throughout the manufacturing process. The Company’s manufacturing operations are ISO 9001: 2000 certified, which is an international designation of design, manufacturing, and customer service processes. ISO 9001: 2000 surpasses previous ISO designations. Management believes Chaparral is the third largest sterndrive boat manufacturing brand to hold the ISO 9001: 2000 certification. When fully assembled and inspected, the boats are loaded onto either company-owned trailers or third-party marine transport trailers for delivery to dealers. The manufacturing process begins with the design of a product to meet dealer and customer needs. Plugs are constructed in the research and development phase from designs. Plugs are used to create a mold from which prototype boats can be built. Adjustments are made to the plug design until acceptable parameters are met. The final plug is used to create the necessary number of production molds. Molds are used to produce the fiberglass hulls and decks. Fiberglass components are made by applying the outside finish or gel coat to the mold, then numerous layers of fiberglass and resin are applied during the lamination process over the gel coat. After curing, the hull and deck are removed from the molds and are trimmed and prepared for final assembly, which includes the installation of electrical and plumbing systems, engines, upholstery, accessories and graphics.

 
4

 
 
Product Warranty
 
          For our Chaparral products, Marine Products provides a lifetime limited structural hull warranty against defects in material and workmanship for the original purchaser, and a 10-year limited structural hull warranty for one subsequent owner. Warranties on additional items are provided for periods of one to five years. For our Robalo products, Marine Products provides a transferable 10-year limited structural hull warranty against defects in material and workmanship, and a transferable one-year limited warranty on other components. The engine manufacturers for our Robalo and Chaparral products warrant engines included in the boats as well.
 
Suppliers
 
          Marine Products’ two most significant components used in manufacturing its boats, based on cost, are engines and fiberglass. For each of these, there is currently an adequate supply available in the market. Marine Products has not experienced any material shortages in any of these products. Temporary shortages, when they do occur, usually involve manufacturers switching model mixes or introducing new product lines. Marine Products obtains most of its fiberglass from a leading domestic supplier. Marine Products believes that there are several alternative suppliers if this supplier fails to provide adequate quality or quantities at acceptable prices.
 
          Marine Products does not manufacture the engines installed in its boats. Engines are generally specified by the dealers at the time of ordering, usually on the basis of anticipated customer preferences or actual customer orders. Sterndrive engines are purchased through the American Boatbuilders Association (“ABA”), which has entered into engine supply arrangements with Mercury Marine and Volvo Penta, the two currently existing suppliers of sterndrive engines. These arrangements contain incentives and discount provisions, which may reduce the cost of the engines purchased, if specified purchase volumes are met during specified periods of time. Although no minimum purchases are required, Marine Products expects to continue purchasing sterndrive engines through the ABA on a voluntary basis in order to receive volume-based purchase discounts. Marine Products does not have a long-term supply contract with the ABA. Marine Products has an outboard engine supply contract with Yamaha. This engine supply arrangement was not negotiated through the ABA. In the event of a sudden interruption in the supply of engines from these suppliers, our sales and profitability could be negatively impacted. See “Business Strategies” below.
 
          Marine Products uses other raw materials in its manufacturing processes. Among these are stainless steel, copper and resins made from feedstocks. During the first six months of 2008, the price of these raw materials increased, adversely affecting our 2008 operating results. See “Inflation” below.
 
Sales and Distribution
 
          Sales are made through approximately 118 Chaparral dealers, 14 Robalo dealers, and 15 dealers that sell both brands located in markets throughout the United States. Dealers market directly to consumers at boat show exhibitions and in the dealers’ showrooms. Marine Products also has 46 international dealers. Most of our dealers inventory and sell boat brands manufactured by other companies, including some that compete directly with our brands. The territories served by any dealer are not exclusive to the dealer; however, Marine Products uses discretion in establishing relationships with new dealers in an effort to protect the mutual interests of the existing dealers and the Company. Marine Products’ nine independent field sales representatives call upon existing dealers and develop new dealer relationships. The field sales representatives are directed by a National Sales Coordinator, who is responsible for developing a full dealer distribution network for the Company’s products. The marketing of boats to retail customers is primarily the responsibility of the dealer. Marine Products supports dealer marketing efforts by supplementing local advertising, sales and marketing follow up in boating magazines, and participation in selected regional, national, and international boat show exhibitions. No single dealer accounts for more than 10 percent of sales.
 
          Marine Products continues to seek new dealers in many areas throughout the U.S., Europe, South America, Asia, Russia and the Middle East. In general, Marine Products requires payment in full before it will ship a boat overseas. Consequently, there is no credit risk associated with its international sales or risk related to foreign currency fluctuation. Marine Products believes international sales could produce additional sales growth, although the volume of sales to international dealers decreased in 2008 compared to 2007 due to global economic weakness. International sales are also affected by the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies. International sales were 33.4 percent of total sales in 2008, 23.3 percent of total sales in 2007 and 18.0 percent of total sales in 2006.
 
          Marine Products’ sales orders are indicators of strong interest from its dealers. Historically, dealers have in most cases taken delivery of all their orders, although in the third and fourth quarters of 2008, the frequency of order cancellations increased due to the increase in consumer uncertainty resulting from the deepening recession and the turmoil in the financial markets. The Company attempts to ensure that its dealers do not accept an excessive amount of inventory by monitoring their inventory levels, so these cancellations were a factor that influenced Marine Products’ decision to further reduce production during this time. Knowledge of inventory levels at the individual dealers facilitates production scheduling with very short lead times in order to maintain flexibility, in the event that adjustments need to be made to dealer shipments. In the past, Marine Products has been able to resell any boat for which the order has been cancelled, although the increase in order cancellations that occurred during the third and fourth quarters of 2008 caused Marine Products to decrease production to focus on reselling boats for which orders had been cancelled.

 
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          Although some dealers finance their boat inventory with smaller regional financial institutions in local markets, the majority of Marine Products’ domestic shipments are made pursuant to “floor plan financing” programs in which Marine Products’ subsidiaries participate on behalf of their dealers with major third-party financing institutions. Historically, and during most of 2008, there were at least two major floor plan financing institutions, although one of these institutions announced at the end of 2008 that it would cease floor plan lending to all unaffiliated dealers including those in the marine industry. Under these established arrangements with qualified lending institutions, a dealer establishes a line of credit with one or more of these lenders for the purchase of boat inventory for sales to retail customers in their show room or during boat show exhibitions. In general, when a dealer purchases and takes delivery of a boat pursuant to a floor plan financing arrangement, it draws against its line of credit and the lender pays the invoice cost of the boat directly to Marine Products within 10 business days. When the dealer in turn sells the boat to a retail customer, the dealer repays the lender, thereby restoring its available credit line. Each dealer’s floor plan credit facilities are secured by the dealer’s inventory, letters of credit, and perhaps other personal and real property. Until recently, most dealers maintained financing arrangements with more than one lender, although that is less common at the present time, given that there are fewer lenders. In connection with the dealer’s floor plan financing arrangements with these qualified lending institutions, Marine Products or its subsidiaries have agreed to repurchase inventory which the lender repossesses from a dealer and returns to Marine Products in a “like new” condition. The contractual agreements that Marine Products or its subsidiaries have with these qualified lenders contain specified limits for the amounts of these repurchases. In early 2009 one lender has approached Marine Products with a request to raise this contractual repurchase limit. During 2008 this lender imposed additional borrowing costs not covered in the current contractual arrangement and Marine Products is presently negotiating with this lender regarding these and other issues regarding contract provisions which as presently written expire at the end of the 2009 model year. In the event that a dealer defaults under a credit line, the qualified lender may then invoke the manufacturers’ repurchase agreement with respect to that dealer. In that event, all repurchase agreements of all manufacturers supplying a defaulting dealer are generally invoked regardless of the boat or boats with respect to which the dealer has defaulted. As of December 31, 2008, Marine Products’ aggregate remaining contractual obligation to repurchase boats under these floor plan financing programs described above was approximately $4.1 million. Unlike Marine Products’ obligation to repurchase boats repossessed by lenders, Marine Products is under no obligation to repurchase boats directly from dealers. Marine Products does not sponsor financing programs to the consumer; any consumer financing promotions for a prospective boat purchaser would be the responsibility of the dealer. See “Risk Factors” on page 11 for a discussion of the potential impact of the ongoing volatility and lack of liquidity in the financial markets which may impact Marine Products during 2009.
 
          Marine Products’ dealer sales incentive programs are variously designed to promote early replenishment of the stock in dealer inventories depleted throughout the prime spring and summer selling seasons, and to promote the sales of older models in dealer inventory and particular models during specified periods. These programs help to stabilize Marine Products’ manufacturing between the peak and off-peak periods, and promote sales of certain models. For the 2009 model year (which commenced July 1, 2008), Marine Products offered its dealers several sales incentive programs based on dollar volumes and timing of dealer purchases. Program incentives offered include sales discounts, inventory reduction rebates, and payment of floor plan financing interest charged by qualified floor plan providers to dealers generally through March 31, 2009. After the interest payment programs end, interest costs revert to the dealer at rates set by the lender. A dealer makes periodic curtailment payments (principal payments) on outstanding obligations against its dealer inventory as set forth in the floor plan financing agreements between the dealer and their particular lender.
 
          These various sales incentives and promotions have resulted in relatively level month-to-month production and sales. As a result of lower sales during 2008, we extended our 2008 winter promotions into the 2008 spring and summer selling seasons. Additionally we have significantly enhanced our incentives in 2009 and have extended the promotion to include prior year models. Similar sales incentive and promotion programs have been in effect during the past several years, and Marine Products expects to continue to offer these types of programs in the future.
 
          The sales order backlog was approximately 200 boats with estimated net sales of approximately $7.8 million as of December 31, 2008. This represents an approximate nine week backlog based on production levels at December 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2007, the sales order backlog was approximately 1,300 boats with estimated net sales of approximately $59 million. The decrease in the sales order backlog is the result of much lower dealer orders and much lower production levels compared to the prior year. Based on recent trends the Company continues to adjust its production levels downward to manage dealer inventory levels. The Company typically does not manufacture a significant number of boats for its own inventory. The Company occasionally manufactures boats for its own inventory because the number of boats required for immediate shipment is not always the most efficient number of boats to produce in a given production schedule.

 
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Research and Development
 
          Essentially the same technologies and processes are used to produce fiberglass boats by all boat manufacturers. The most common method is open-face molding. This is usually a labor-intensive, manual process whereby employees hand spray and apply fiberglass and resin in layers on open molds to create boat hulls, decks and other smaller fiberglass components. This process can result in inconsistencies in the size and weight of parts, which may lead to higher warranty costs. A single open-face mold is typically capable of producing approximately three hulls per week.
 
          Marine Products has been a leading innovator in the recreational boating industry. One of the Company’s most innovative designs is the full-length “Extended V-Plane” running surface on its Chaparral boat models. Typically, sterndrive boats have a several foot gap on the bottom rear of the hull where the engine enters the water. With the Extended V-Plane, the running surface extends the full length to the rear of the boat. The benefit of this innovation is more deck space, better planing performance and a more comfortable ride. Although the basic hull designs are similar, the Company introduces a variety of new models each year and periodically replaces, updates or discontinues existing models.
 
          Another hull design is the Hydro LiftTM used on the Robalo boat models. This variable dead rise hull design provides a smooth ride in rough conditions. It increases the maximum speed obtainable by a given engine horsepower and weight of the boat. Robalo’s current models utilize the Hydro LiftTM design and we plan to continue to provide this design on Robalo models.
 
          A bow design known as the Wide TechTM was first used on the Chaparral Sunesta Wide Tech™ and Xtreme models for the 2008 model year, and was also used on the 400 Premiere Sport Yacht and the SSI Wide TechTM for the 2009 model year. The Wide TechTM bow design allows the models to have the Extended V-Plane hull, with the features and benefits that this hull design offers. In addition, the Wide TechTM bow design provides a larger seating area, as well as additional storage space, in the front of the boat. Furthermore, this bow design allows the models to have a non-skid walkway on the bow, which makes entering and leaving the boat easier than in other boat models. The Wide TechTM bow design may be incorporated on other Chaparral boat models in subsequent model years.
 
          In support of its new product development efforts, Marine Products incurred research and development costs of $1.8 million in 2008, $1.7 million in 2007, and $1.4 million in 2006.
 
Industry Overview
 
          For 2008, the recreational boating industry accounted for less than one percent of the United States gross domestic product. The recreational marine market is a mature market, with 2007 (latest data available to us) retail expenditures of approximately $37.5 billion spent on new and used boats, motors and engines, trailers, accessories and other associated costs as estimated by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (“NMMA”). Pleasure boats compete for consumers’ free time with all other leisure activities, from computers and video games to other outdoor sports. One of the greatest obstacles to continued growth for the recreational boating industry is consumers’ diminishing leisure time.
 
          The NMMA conducts various surveys of pleasure boat industry trends, and the most recent surveys indicate that 59 million adults in the United States participated in recreational boating in 2007, an increase of 10.3 percent compared to the prior year. There are currently approximately 17 million boats owned in the United States, including outboard, inboard, sterndrive, sailboats, personal watercraft, and miscellaneous (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, etc.). Marine Products competes in the sterndrive and inboard boating category with its five lines of Chaparral boats, and in the outboard boating category with its Robalo sport fishing boats. More than 90 percent of the Company’s models are sterndrive boats.
 
          Industry sales of sterndrive boats in the United States during 2008 totaling 32,402 (source: Info-Link Technologies, Inc.) accounted for approximately 38 percent of the total new fiberglass powerboats sold that were between 18 and 35 feet in hull length. Sales of sterndrive boats had an estimated total retail value of $1.8 billion, or an average retail price per boat of approximately $55,000. Management believes that the five largest states for boat sales are Florida, Texas, California, New York and North Carolina. Marine Products has dealers in each of these states.

 
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          The U.S. domestic recreational boating industry includes sales in the segments of new and used boats, motors and engines, trailers, and other boat accessories. The new fiberglass boat market segment with hull lengths of 18 to 35 feet, the primary market segment in which Marine Products competes, represented $4.1 billion in retail sales during 2008. The table below reflects the estimated sales within this segment by category for 2008 and 2007, ranked by 2008 retail sales (source: Info-Link Technologies, Inc.):
 
                                 
   
2008
   
2007
 
   
Boats
   
Sales ($ B) 
   
Boats
   
Sales ($ B)
 
Sterndrive Boats
    32,402     $ 1.8       50,778     $ 2.8  
Outboard Boats
    39,148       1.5       56,967       2.2  
Inboard Boats
    9,653       0.7       13,434       1.0  
Jet Boats
    3,364       0.1       4,634       0.1  
TOTAL
    84,567     $ 4.1       125,813     $ 6.1  
 
          Chaparral’s products are categorized as sterndrive and inboard boats and Robalo’s products are categorized as outboard boats.
 
          Although the recreational boat manufacturing market remains highly fragmented, Brunswick Corporation and Genmar Holdings, Inc. have acquired a number of recreational boat manufacturing operations. We estimate that the boat manufacturing industry includes over 130 sterndrive manufacturers and over 300 outboard boat manufacturers, largely small, privately held companies with varying degrees of professional management and manufacturing skill. According to estimates provided by Statistical Surveys, Inc., during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (latest information available), the top five sterndrive manufacturers, which includes Chaparral, have a market share of approximately 54 percent. Chaparral’s market share in units during the period was 7.5 percent, which represents an increase of 0.3 percentage points compared to the 12 months ended December 31, 2007. This increase is attributable to Chaparral’s increasing market share of boats that are 21 to 35 feet in length, a size range in which Chaparral is the second largest manufacturer. We attribute this increase in market share of this segment to Chaparral’s long-term strategy of designing, building, and selling larger boats which carry higher average selling prices. This increase was offset by Chaparral’s declining market share in the sale of boats that are 18 to 20 feet in length, which we attribute to the strategy of certain manufacturers to manufacture smaller boats in offshore manufacturing facilities to sell in the domestic market at a lower price. Also, certain manufacturers have recently gained market share in smaller boats by selling through non-traditional retailers such as sporting good stores not located near a recreational waterway.
 
          Several factors influence sales trends in the recreational boating industry, including general economic growth, consumer confidence, household incomes, the availability and cost of financing for our dealers and customers, weather, fuel prices, tax laws, demographics and consumers’ leisure time. Also, the value of residential and vacation real estate in strong boating states such as California and Florida influences recreational boat sales. In addition, inflation has had an impact on boat sales in recent years. As the cost of certain raw materials used in the manufacturing process has increased, the cost of boat ownership increases as well, which has prompted consumers either to buy a smaller boat or defer or forego their purchase. Competition from other leisure and recreational activities, such as vacation properties and travel, can also affect sales of recreational boats.
 
          Management believes Marine Products is well positioned to take advantage of the following conditions, which continue to characterize the industry:
     
 
labor-intensive manufacturing processes that remain largely unautomated;
     
 
increasingly strict environmental standards derived from governmental regulations and customer sensitivities;
     
 
a lack of focus on coordinated customer service and support by dealers and manufacturers;
     
 
a lack of financial strength among retail boat dealers, and at the present time, among third-party floor plan lenders; and
     
 
a high degree of fragmentation and competition among the more than 130 sterndrive and 300 outboard recreational boat manufacturers.
 
Business Strategies
 
          Recreational boating is a mature industry. According to Info-Link Technologies, Inc., sales of sterndrive boats experienced a compound annual decline rate of approximately 21 percent between 2006 and 2008. During this time, Marine Products has experienced a compound annual decline rate of approximately 24 percent in the number of boats sold. Marine Products has historically grown its boat sales and net sales primarily through increasing market share and by expanding the number of models and product lines. Unit sales declined in 2008 partly due to industry conditions, but also because of Marine Products’ strategy of building larger boats with higher average selling prices. Chaparral has grown its sterndrive market share in the 18 to 35 feet length category from 5.9 percent in fiscal 1996 to 7.5 percent during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (the most recent information provided to us by Statistical Surveys, Inc.). The Company continues to expand its product offerings in the outboard boat market, the largest boat market not previously served by the Company’s products, and by improvement of existing models and expansion into larger boats within its sterndrive and inboard offerings.

 
8

 
 
          During 2008 we reduced our production levels at various times in response to our concerns about dealer and consumer demand for products in our industry, which resulted from continued problems in the housing market, high fuel prices and concern regarding a general economic slowdown. At the end of 2008, our production levels were significantly lower than the levels during 2007.
 
          Marine Products’ operating strategy emphasizes innovative designs and manufacturing processes, by producing a high quality product while seeking to lower manufacturing costs through increased efficiencies in our facilities. In addition, we seek opportunities to leverage our buying power through economies of scale. Management believes its membership in the ABA positions Marine Products as a significant third-party customer of major suppliers of sterndrive engines. Marine Products’ Chaparral subsidiary is a founding member of the ABA, which collectively represents 13 independent boat manufacturers that have formed a buying group to pool their purchasing power in order to gain improved pricing on engines, fiberglass, resin and many other components. Marine Products intends to continue seeking the most advantageous purchasing arrangements from its suppliers.
 
          Our marketing strategy seeks to increase market share by enabling Marine Products to expand its presence by building dedicated sales, marketing and distribution systems. Marine Products has a distribution network of 193 dealers located throughout the United States and internationally. Our strategy is to increase selectively the quantity of our dealers, and work to improve the quality and effectiveness of our entire dealer network. Marine Products seeks to capitalize on its strong dealer network by educating its dealers on the sales and servicing of our products and helping them provide more comprehensive customer service, with the goal of increasing customer satisfaction, customer retention and future sales. Marine Products provides promotional and incentive programs to help its dealers increase product sales and customer satisfaction. Marine Products intends to continue to strengthen its dealer network and build brand loyalty with both dealers and customers, although the Company’s efforts to do so during 2008 were adversely impacted by economic conditions affecting both Marine Products and its dealer network.
 
          As part of Marine Products’ overall strategy, Marine Products will also consider making strategic acquisitions in order to complement existing product lines, expand its geographic presence in the marketplace and strengthen its capabilities depending upon availability, price and complementary product lines.
 
Competition
 
          The recreational boat industry is highly fragmented, resulting in intense competition for customers, dealers and boat show exhibition space. There is significant competition both within markets we currently serve and in new markets that we may enter. Marine Products’ brands compete with several large national or regional manufacturers that have substantial financial, marketing and other resources. However, we believe that our corporate infrastructure and marketing and sales capabilities, in addition to our cost structure and our nationwide presence, enable us to compete effectively against these companies. In each of our markets, Marine Products competes on the basis of responsiveness to customer needs, the quality and range of models offered, and the competitive pricing of those models. Additionally, Marine Products faces general competition from all other recreational businesses seeking to attract consumers’ leisure time and discretionary spending dollars.
 
          According to Statistical Surveys, Inc., the following is a list of the top ten (largest to smallest) sterndrive boat manufacturers in the United States based on unit sales between 2006 and 2008. Several of these manufacturers are part of larger integrated boat building companies and are marked with asterisks. According to Statistical Surveys, Inc., the companies set forth below represent approximately 76 percent of all United States retail sterndrive boat registrations for the nine months ended September 30, 2008.
       
 
1.
 
Sea Ray*
 
2.
 
Bayliner*
 
3.
 
Tahoe
 
4.
 
Chaparral
 
5.
 
Glastron **
 
6.
 
Four Winns **
 
7.
 
Crownline
 
8.
 
Cobalt
 
9.
 
Stingray
 
10.
 
Larson**
 
 
9

 

          The outboard engine powered market has a large breadth and depth, accounting for approximately 46 percent of all boats sold during 2008. Robalo’s share of the outboard sport fishing boat market during the nine months ended September 30, 2008 was approximately two percent. Primary competitors for Robalo during 2008 included Sea-Pro (discontinued production as of July 2008) *, Grady-White, Key West, Pro-Line, Trophy*, Boston Whaler* and Hydra Sports**.
   
*
a subsidiary of Brunswick Corporation
   
**
a subsidiary of Genmar Holdings, Inc.
 
Environmental and Regulatory Matters
 
          Certain materials used in boat manufacturing, including the resins used to make the decks and hulls, are toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive and are classified by the federal and state governments as “hazardous materials.” Control of these substances is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) and state pollution control agencies, which require reports and inspect facilities to monitor compliance with their regulations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) standards limit the amount of emissions to which an employee may be exposed without the need for respiratory protection or upgraded plant ventilation. Marine Products’ manufacturing facilities are regularly inspected by OSHA and by state and local inspection agencies and departments. Marine Products believes that its facilities comply in all material aspects with these regulations. Although capital expenditures related to compliance with environmental laws are expected to increase during the coming years, we do not currently anticipate that any material expenditure will be required to continue to comply with existing environmental or safety regulations in connection with our existing manufacturing facilities.
 
          Recreational powerboats sold in the United States must be manufactured to meet the standards of certification required by the United States Coast Guard. In addition, boats manufactured for sale in the European Community must be certified to meet the European Community’s imported manufactured products standards. These certifications specify standards for the design and construction of powerboats. All boats sold by Marine Products meet these standards. In addition, safety of recreational boats is subject to federal regulation under the Boat Safety Act of 1971. The Boat Safety Act requires boat manufacturers to recall products for replacement of parts or components that have demonstrated defects affecting safety. While Marine Products has instituted recalls for defective component parts produced by other manufacturers, there has never been a safety related recall resulting from Marine Products’ design or manufacturing process. None of the recalls has had a material adverse effect on Marine Products.
 
          The California Air Resources Board (ARB) in 2007 adopted regulations stipulating that many marine engines manufactured in 2008 or later meet an air emission standard that requires fitting a catalytic converter to the engine. The regulations apply to sterndrive and inboard gasoline engines of less than 500 horsepower, and in 2009 and later, to all sterndrive and inboard gasoline engines. In addition, the California ARB standard prohibits the purchase of a boat engine from outside the state of California for use within the state of California, if such purchase is made to avoid this emission standard, and requires certification by dealers that engines sold in California meet this emission standard as well as documentation affixed to the engines that they meet this standard. The majority of the engines used in Marine Products’ Chaparral product line sold in California are subject to this regulation. This regulation will increase the cost of boats subject to it. This cost increase may either reduce Marine Products’ profitability, because the Company may have to absorb the increased cost, or reduce Marine Products’ sales in the state of California, because the increased cost of owning a boat may force consumers to buy a smaller boat or forgo a boat purchase.
 
Employees
 
          As of December 31, 2008, Marine Products had approximately 400 employees (a reduction from 1,100 at December 31, 2007), of whom six were management and 39 administrative. In response to the significant decline in consumer demand for our products and lower production, the Company significantly reduced its work force during 2008 in an effort to align costs with lower sales.
 
          None of Marine Products’ employees are party to a collective bargaining agreement. Marine Products’ entire workforce is currently employed in the United States and Marine Products believes that its relations with its employees are good.
 
Proprietary Matters
 
          Marine Products owns a number of trademarks, trade names and patents that it believes are important to its business. Except for the Chaparral, Robalo and Wahoo! trademarks, however, Marine Products is not dependent upon any single trademark or trade name or group of trademarks or trade names. The Chaparral, Robalo and Wahoo! trademarks are currently registered in the United States. The current duration for such registration ranges from seven to 15 years but each registration may be renewed an unlimited number of times.
 
 
10

 
 
          Several of Chaparral’s and Robalo’s designs are protected under the U.S. Copyright Office’s Vessel Hull Design Protection Act. This law grants an owner of an original vessel hull design certain exclusive rights. Protection is offered for hull designs that are made available to the public for purchase provided that the application is made within two years of the hull design being made public. As of December 31, 2008, there were 22 Chaparral hull designs and four Robalo hull designs registered under the Vessel Hull Design Protection Act.
 
          During 2008 Chaparral was granted a design patent on its Wide Tech hull design by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The patent has a term of 14 years, and protects the Wide Tech hull currently used on the Sunesta Wide Tech and Xtreme, 400 Premiere, and SSi Wide Tech from being used by other pleasure boat manufacturers. Marine Products believes that this patent is important to its business.
 
Seasonality
 
          Marine Products’ quarterly operating results are affected by weather and general economic conditions. Quarterly operating results for the second quarter have historically recorded the highest sales volume for the year because this corresponds with the highest retail sales volume period. The results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected in any future period.
 
Inflation
 
          During 2007 and the first and second quarters of 2008 the Company experienced an increase in certain material and component costs. The Company responded to these cost increases in the beginning of this period by instituting price increases to its dealers for the 2008 model year which began on July 1, 2007. These price increases did not fully absorb the increased material costs during 2007 and therefore negatively impacted the Company’s gross margin. The Company did not attempt to institute a similar price increase for the 2009 model year which began on July 1, 2008, because of low dealer demand. During the third and fourth quarters of 2008, prices of many of these commodities fell dramatically. In the first part of 2009, the prices of some of these commodities have stabilized. This fall in prices may lead to lower materials costs in 2009. However, no assurance can be given that commodities prices will remain low, or at what prices they can be purchased in the future. Also, given low retail consumer demand for the Company’s products at the present time, no assurance can be given that the Company will be able to institute price increases to its dealers in the event that the prices of its raw materials and components increase in the future.
 
          New boat buyers typically finance their purchases. Higher inflation typically results in higher interest rates that could translate into an increased cost of boat ownership. Prospective buyers may choose to forego or delay their purchases or buy a less expensive boat in the event that interest rates rise.
 
Availability of Filings
 
          Marine Products makes available free of charge on its website, www.marineproductscorp.com, the annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments to those reports on the same day as they are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
Item 1A. Risk Factors
 
Economic Conditions, Unavailability of Credit and Consumer Confidence Levels Affect Marine Products’ Sales Because Marine Products’ Products are Purchased with Discretionary Income
 
          During an economic recession or when an economic recession is perceived as a threat, Marine Products will be adversely affected as consumers have less discretionary income or are more apt to save their discretionary income rather than spend it. During times of global political or economic uncertainty, Marine Products will be negatively affected to the extent consumers forego or delay large discretionary purchases pending the resolution of those uncertainties. The current financial crisis may have long-term effects on consumer behavior with regard to pleasure boating as well. Current and potential future lower returns on financial assets may force consumers to delay retirement, or to choose more modest lifestyles when they do retire. In such a case, consumers may not purchase boats, may purchase boats later in their lives, or may purchase smaller, less expensive boats. Tight lending and credit standards, such as those currently in use by lenders in the United States, can make loans for boats harder to secure, and such loans may carry unfavorable terms, which may force consumers to forgo boat purchases. These factors have also resulted in the past, and may continue to result in the future, in a reduction in the quality and number of dealers upon which Marine Products relies to sell its products.
 
 
11

 
 
Marine Products Indirectly Relies upon Third-Party Dealer Floor Plan Lenders Which Provide Financing to its Network of Independent Dealers
 
          Marine Products sells its products to a network of independent dealers, most of whom rely on one or more third-party dealer floor plan lenders to provide financing for their inventory prior to its sale to retail customers. In general, this source of financing is vital to Marine Products’ ability to sell products to its dealer network. During the credit crisis and financial market volatility in late 2008, one large dealer floor plan lender announced that it was ceasing its lending operations, and another large dealer floor plan lender became very concerned about dealer inventory levels and dealer defaults on floor plan loans. These factors may reduce the availability of floor plan loans to our dealers, increase the cost of financing, or change the limits under which Marine Products or its subsidiaries are required to repurchase inventory in the event of a dealer default. Any of these developments would negatively impact Marine Products sales and profitability.
 
Interest Rates and Fuel Prices Affect Marine Products’ Sales
 
          The Company’s products are often financed by our dealers and the retail boat consumers. Higher interest rates increase the borrowing costs and, accordingly, the cost of doing business for dealers and the cost of boat purchases for consumers. Fuel costs can represent a large portion of the costs to operate our products. Therefore, higher interest rates and fuel costs can adversely affect consumers’ decisions relating to recreational boating purchases.
 
Marine Products’ Dependence on its Network of Independent Boat Dealers may Affect its Operating Results and Sales
 
          Virtually all of Marine Products’ sales are derived from its network of independent boat dealers. Marine Products has no long-term agreements with these dealers. Competition for dealers among recreational powerboat manufacturers continues to increase based on the quality of available products, the price and value of the products, and attention to customer service. The Company faces intense competition from other recreational powerboat manufacturers in attracting and retaining independent boat dealers. The number of independent boat dealers supporting the Chaparral and Robalo trade names and the quality of their marketing and servicing efforts are essential to Marine Products’ ability to generate sales. A deterioration in the number or quality of Marine Products’ network of independent boat dealers which occurred during 2008, has had and could continue to have a material adverse effect on its boat sales. Marine Products’ inability to attract new dealers and retain those dealers, or its inability to increase sales with existing dealers, could substantially impair its ability to execute its business plans.
 
          Although Marine Products’ management believes that the quality of its products and services in the recreational boating market should permit it to maintain its relationship with its dealers and its market position, there can be no assurance that Marine Products will be able to sustain its current sales levels. In addition, independent dealers in the recreational boating industry have experienced significant consolidation in recent years, which could result in the loss of one or more of Marine Products’ dealers in the future if the surviving entity in any such consolidation purchases similar products from a Marine Products competitor. During 2008, some boat dealers included within the Marine Products’ dealer network ceased operations and this trend may continue given the current adverse business environment in which boat dealers operate. See “Business Strategies” above.
 
Marine Products’ Financial Condition and Operating Results may be Adversely Affected by Boat Dealer Defaults
 
          The Company’s products are sold through dealers and the financial health of these dealers is critical to the Company’s continued success. The Company’s results can be negatively affected if a dealer defaults because Marine Products or its subsidiaries are required to repurchase inventory up to certain limits in the event of a dealer default.
 
Marine Products’ Ability to Adjust its Business Operations to Compensate for Reduced Sales of Boats may be Restricted in the Future.
 
          During 2008 Marine Products idled certain production facilities and reduced its number of employees to offset the impact that reduced net sales has on the Company’s operating results and cash flows. As the Company reduces its production, the Company experiences lower rates of absorption of its fixed costs and thus experiences lower profit margins. In addition, the Company’s ability to reduce its fixed costs is limited. A prolonged downturn in the Company’s sale of boats may have a larger adverse effect on Marine Products in future periods than occurred in 2008.
 
Marine Products’ Sales are Affected by Weather Conditions
 
          Marine Products’ business is subject to weather patterns that may adversely affect its sales. For example, drought conditions, or merely reduced rainfall levels, or excessive rain, may close area boating locations or render boating dangerous or inconvenient, thereby curtailing customer demand for our products. In addition, unseasonably cool weather and prolonged winter conditions may lead to a shorter selling season in some locations. Hurricanes and other storms could cause disruptions of our operations or damage to our boat inventories and docking facilities.
 
 
12

 
 
Marine Products Encounters Intense Competition Which Affects our Sales and Profits
 
          The recreational boat industry is highly fragmented, resulting in intense competition for customers, dealers and boat show exhibition space. This competition affects both the markets which we currently serve and new markets that we may enter in the future. We compete with several large national or regional manufacturers that have substantial financial, marketing and other resources. Competitive manufacturers have executed a strategy of constructing entry-level smaller boats which are constructed in off-shore manufacturing plants with lower labor costs. These competitive conditions have contributed to our inability to pass along our increased manufacturing costs to customers, reduced our market share in various selling categories including particularly smaller boats, and negatively impacted our profit margins.
 
Marine Products has Potential Liability for Personal Injury and Property Damage Claims
 
          The products we sell or service may expose Marine Products to potential liabilities for personal injury or property damage claims relating to the use of those products. Historically, the resolution of product liability claims has not materially affected Marine Products’ business. Marine Products maintains product liability insurance that it believes to be adequate. However, there can be no assurance that Marine Products will not experience legal claims in excess of its insurance coverage or that claims will be covered by insurance. Furthermore, any significant claims against Marine Products could result in negative publicity, which could cause Marine Products’ sales to decline.
 
Because Marine Products Relies on Third-party Suppliers, Marine Products may be Unable to Obtain Adequate Raw Materials and Components
 
          Marine Products is dependent on third-party suppliers to provide raw materials and components essential to the construction of its various powerboats. Especially critical are the availability and cost of marine engines and commodity raw materials used in the manufacture of Marine Products’ boats. While Marine Products’ management believes that supplier relationships currently in place are sufficient to provide the materials necessary to meet present production demands, there can be no assurance that these relationships will continue, that these suppliers will remain in operation given the extended business downturn in the recreational boating industry or that the quantity or quality of materials available from these suppliers will be sufficient to meet Marine Products’ future needs. Disruptions in current supplier relationships or the inability of Marine Products to continue to purchase construction materials in sufficient quantities and of sufficient quality at acceptable prices to meet ongoing production schedules could cause a decrease in sales or a sharp increase in the cost of goods sold. Additionally, because of this dependence, the volatility in commodity raw materials or current or future price increases in construction materials or the inability of Marine Products’ management to purchase construction materials required to complete its growth and acquisition strategies could cause a reduction in Marine Products’ profit margins or reduce the number of powerboats Marine Products may be able to produce for sale.
 
Marine Products may be Unable to Identify, Complete or Successfully Integrate Acquisitions
 
          Marine Products intends to pursue acquisitions and form strategic alliances that will enable Marine Products to acquire complementary skills and capabilities, offer new products, expand its customer base, and obtain other competitive advantages. There can be no assurance, however, that Marine Products will be able to successfully identify suitable acquisition candidates or strategic partners, obtain financing on satisfactory terms, complete acquisitions or strategic alliances, integrate acquired operations into its existing operations, or expand into new markets. Once integrated, acquired operations may not achieve anticipated levels of sales or profitability, or otherwise perform as expected. Acquisitions also involve special risks, including risks associated with unanticipated problems, liabilities and contingencies, diversion of management resources, and possible adverse effects on earnings and earnings per share resulting from increased interest costs, the issuance of additional securities, and difficulties related to the integration of the acquired business. The failure to integrate acquisitions successfully may divert management’s attention from Marine Products’ existing operations and may damage Marine Products’ relationships with its key customers and suppliers.
 
Marine Products’ Success will Depend on its key Personnel, and the Loss of any key Personnel may Affect its Powerboat Sales
 
          Marine Products’ success will depend to a significant extent on the continued service of key management personnel. The loss or interruption of the services of any senior management personnel or the inability to attract and retain other qualified management, sales, marketing and technical employees could disrupt Marine Products’ operations and cause a decrease in its sales and profit margins.
 
13

 

 
Marine Products’ Ability to Attract and Retain Qualified Employees is Crucial to its Results of Operations and Future Growth
 
          Marine Products relies on the existence of an available hourly workforce to manufacture its products. As with many businesses, we are challenged at times to find qualified employees. There are no assurances that Marine Products will be able to attract and retain qualified employees to meet current and/or future growth needs.
 
If Marine Products is Unable to Comply with Environmental and Other Regulatory Requirements, its Business may be Exposed to Liability and Fines
 
          Marine Products’ operations are subject to extensive regulation, supervision, and licensing under various federal, state, and local statutes, ordinances, and regulations. While Marine Products believes that it maintains all requisite licenses and permits and is in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local regulations, there can be no assurance that Marine Products will be able to continue to maintain all requisite licenses and permits and comply with applicable laws and regulations. The failure to satisfy these and other regulatory requirements could cause Marine Products to incur fines or penalties or could increase the cost of operations. The adoption of additional laws, rules and regulations could also increase Marine Products’ costs.
 
          California recently adopted regulations setting emission standards affecting boat engines sold or, under certain circumstances, used in California. This regulation will increase the cost of boats subject to the regulation, which may either reduce the Company’s profitability or reduce sales. Emission standards of this type may be implemented nationwide by 2010.
 
          As with boat construction in general, our manufacturing processes involve the use, handling, storage and contracting for recycling or disposal of hazardous or toxic substances or wastes. Accordingly, we are subject to regulations regarding these substances, and the misuse or mishandling of such substances could expose Marine Products to liability or fines.
 
          Additionally, certain states have required or are considering requiring a license in order to operate a recreational boat. While such licensing requirements are not expected to be unduly restrictive, regulations may discourage potential first-time buyers, thereby reducing future sales.
 
Marine Products’ Stock Price has been Volatile
 
          Historically, the market price of common stock of companies engaged in the discretionary consumer products industry has been highly volatile. Likewise, the market price of our common stock has varied significantly in the past. In addition, the availability of Marine Products common stock to the investing public is limited to the extent that shares are not sold by the executive officers, directors and their affiliates, which could negatively impact the trading price of Marine Products’ common stock, increase volatility and affect the ability of minority stockholders to sell their shares. Future sales by executive officers, directors and their affiliates of all or a substantial portion of their shares could also negatively affect the trading price of Marine Products’ common stock.
 
Marine Products’ Reduction of its Dividends Payable on Common Shares may Reduce the Return on Investment in Marine Products’ Stock
 
          In January 2009, the Company reduced its cash dividend per common share from an annual rate of $0.26 per share to $0.04 per share, and the Company may in the future further reduce its dividend. The reduced dividend rate may adversely affect the stockholders’ return on investment in the Company’s shares.
 
Marine Products’ Management has a Substantial Ownership Interest; Public Stockholders may have no Effective Voice in Marine Products’ Management
 
          The Company has elected the “Controlled Corporation” exemption under Rule 303A of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) Company Guide. The Company is a “Controlled Corporation” because a group that includes the Company’s Chairman of the Board, R. Randall Rollins and his brother, Gary W. Rollins, who is also a director of the Company, and certain companies under their control, controls in excess of fifty percent of the Company’s voting power. As a “Controlled Corporation,” the Company need not comply with certain NYSE rules including those requiring a majority of independent directors.
 
          Marine Products’ executive officers, directors and their affiliates hold directly or through indirect beneficial ownership, in the aggregate, approximately 73 percent of Marine Products’ outstanding shares of common stock. As a result, these stockholders effectively control the operations of Marine Products, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions such as acquisitions. This concentration of ownership could also have the effect of delaying or preventing a third-party from acquiring control of Marine Products at a premium.
 
 
14

 
 
Provisions in Marine Products’ Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws may Inhibit a Takeover of Marine Products
 
          Marine Products’ certificate of incorporation, bylaws and other documents contain provisions including advance notice requirements for shareholder proposals and staggered terms of office for the Board of Directors. These provisions may make a tender offer, change in control or takeover attempt that is opposed by Marine Products’ Board of Directors more difficult or expensive.
 
The Insurance Companies that Insure a Number of Marine Products’ Marketable Securities have been Downgraded, Which may Cause Volatility in the Market Prices of our Marketable Securities
 
          Marine Products maintains a diversified portfolio of investment-grade municipal debt securities managed by a large, well-capitalized financial institution. A number of these securities are insured by large insurance companies. The credit ratings of these insurance companies have been downgraded over the past several years, which prompted rating agencies to downgrade the ratings of many of these securities, although all of these securities still have credit ratings that are within our investment policy guidelines. However, this uncertainty and these credit rating downgrades increase the volatility of the market prices of these marketable securities. The market prices of these securities may continue to be volatile during periods of uncertainty in the bond insurance industry.
 
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
 
          None.
 
Item 2. Properties
 
          Marine Products’ corporate offices are located in Atlanta, Georgia. These offices are currently shared with RPC and are leased. The monthly rent paid is allocated between Marine Products and RPC. Under this arrangement, Marine Products pays approximately $2,060 per month in rent. Marine Products may cancel this arrangement at any time after giving a 30 day notice.
 
          Chaparral owns and maintains approximately 1,011,000 square feet of space utilized for manufacturing, research and development, warehouse, and sales office and operations in Nashville, Georgia. In addition, the Company leases 83,000 square feet of manufacturing space at the Robalo facility in Valdosta, Georgia, under a long-term arrangement expiring in 2014. During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Robalo facility was temporarily idled and production of these boats were moved to the Nashville facility. There are no plans or current intentions to dispose of the facilities in Valdosta, Georgia. The Company also leases 111,000 square feet of warehouse space in Nashville, Georgia under a long-term arrangement expiring in 2018. Marine Products’ total square footage under roof is allocated as follows: manufacturing — 712,000, research and development — 67,200, warehousing — 294,500, office and other — 131,400.
 
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
 
          Marine Products is involved in litigation from time to time in the ordinary course of its business. Marine Products does not believe that the ultimate outcome of such litigation will have a material adverse effect on its liquidity, financial condition or results of operations.
 
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
 
          There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of 2008.
 
 
15

 
 
Item 4A. Executive Officers of the Registrant
 
          Each of the executive officers of Marine Products was elected by the Board of Directors to serve until the Board of Directors’ meeting immediately following the next annual meeting of stockholders or until his or her earlier removal by the Board of Directors or his or her resignation. The following table lists the executive officers of Marine Products and their ages, offices, and date first elected to office.
               
Name and Office with Registrant
 
   Age
 
Date First Elected
to Present Office
 
R. Randall Rollins (1)
   
77
   
2/28/01
 
Chairman of the Board
             
               
Richard A. Hubbell (2)
   
64
   
2/28/01
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
             
               
James A. Lane, Jr. (3)
   
66
   
2/28/01
 
Executive Vice President and President of Chaparral Boats, Inc.
             
               
Linda H. Graham (4)
   
72
   
2/28/01
 
Vice President and Secretary
             
               
Ben M. Palmer (5)
   
48
   
2/28/01
 
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
             
 
(1)
R. Randall Rollins began working for Rollins, Inc. (consumer services) in 1949. At the time of the spin-off of RPC from Rollins, in 1984, Mr. Rollins was elected Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of RPC. He remains Chairman of RPC and stepped down from the position of Chief Executive Officer effective April 22, 2003. He has served as Chairman of the Board of Marine Products since February 2001 and Chairman of the Board of Rollins, Inc. since October 1991. He is also a director of Dover Downs Gaming and Entertainment, Inc. and Dover Motorsports, Inc.
   
(2)
Richard A. Hubbell has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of Marine Products since it was spun off in February 2001. He has also been the President of RPC since 1987 and its Chief Executive Officer since April 22, 2003. Mr. Hubbell serves on the Board of Directors for both of these companies.
   
(3)
James A. Lane, Jr., has held the position of President of Chaparral Boats (formerly a subsidiary of RPC) since 1976. Mr. Lane has been Executive Vice President and Director of Marine Products since it was spun off in 2001. He is also a director of RPC and has served in that capacity since 1987.
   
(4)
Linda H. Graham has been Vice President and Secretary of Marine Products since it was spun off in 2001, and Vice President and Secretary of RPC since 1987. Ms. Graham serves on the Board of Directors for both of these companies.
   
(5)
Ben M. Palmer has been Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Marine Products since it was spun off in 2001 and has served the same roles at RPC since 1996.

 
16

 

PART II
 
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
          Marine Products’ common stock is listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “MPX.” At February 13, 2009, there were 36,902,490 shares of common stock outstanding.
 
          At the close of business on February 13, 2009, there were approximately 2,600 holders of record of the Company’s common stock. The high and low prices of Marine Products’ common stock and dividends paid for each quarter in the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007 were as follows:
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
Quarter
 
High
   
Low
   
Dividends
   
High
   
Low
   
Dividends
 
First
  $ 9.23     $ 6.49     $ 0.065     $ 11.89     $ 9.10     $ 0.06  
Second
    8.53       6.56       0.065       9.79       7.68       0.06  
Third
    9.75       6.05       0.065       9.62       7.96       0.06  
Fourth
    8.65       3.58       0.065       9.13       6.45       0.06  
 
          At the January 27, 2009 Board of Directors’ Meeting, the Board approved a decrease in the quarterly cash dividend per common share from $0.065 to $0.01. The Company expects to continue to pay cash dividends to common stockholders, subject to the earnings and financial condition of the Company and other relevant factors.
 
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
 
          In accordance with actions by the Company’s Board of Directors, an aggregate of 8,850,000 shares have been authorized for repurchase in connection with a stock buy back program announced in 2001, and subsequent increases to this program announced in 2005 and January 2008. These programs do not have predetermined expiration dates. A total of 4,925,157 shares have been repurchased in the open market under these programs as of December 31, 2008, including 76,500 shares during 2008. There were no shares repurchased during the fourth quarter of 2008. As of December 31, 2008, a total of 3,324,843 shares remain available for repurchase under these programs.
 
Performance Graph
 
          The following graph shows a five-year comparison of the cumulative total stockholder return based on the performance of the stock of the Company, assuming dividend reinvestment, as compared with both a broad equity market index and an industry or peer group index. The indices included in the following graph are the Russell 2000 Index (“Russell 2000”) and a peer group which includes companies that are considered peers of the Company (“Peer Group”). The companies included in the peer group have been weighted according to each respective issuer’s stock market capitalization at the beginning of each year. The companies are Brunswick Corporation and MarineMax, Inc.
 
          The Russell 2000 is used because the Company became a component of the Russell 2000 in 2004, and because the Russell 2000 is a stock index representing small capitalization U.S. stocks. During 2008 the components of the Russell 2000 had an average market capitalization of $887 million.
 
 
17

 
 
          The graph below assumes the value of $100.00 invested on December 31, 2003.
 
GRAPHIC

 
18

 
 
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
 
          The following table summarizes certain selected financial data of Marine Products. The historical information may not be indicative of Marine Products’ future results of operations. The information set forth below should be read in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the Consolidated Financial Statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this document.
                               
   
Years Ended December 31,
 
   
(In thousands, except share, per share and employee data)
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2006
   
2005
   
2004
 
Statement of Income Data:
                             
Net sales
  $ 175,622     $ 244,273     $ 261,378     $ 272,057     $ 252,418  
Cost of goods sold
    143,677       191,810       201,971       202,936       186,832  
Gross profit
    31,945       52,463       59,407       69,121       65,586  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    23,146       30,228       32,474       33,557       29,810  
Operating income
    8,799       22,235       26,933       35,564       35,776  
Interest income
    2,420       2,590       2,502       1,330       590  
Income before income taxes
    11,219       24,825       29,435       36,894       36,366  
Income tax provision
    3,633       8,402       9,121       10,671       12,623  
Net income
  $ 7,586     $ 16,423     $ 20,314     $ 26,223     $ 23,743  
Earnings per share:
                                       
Basic
  $ 0.21     $ 0.44     $ 0.54     $ 0.69     $ 0.62  
Diluted
  $ 0.21     $ 0.43     $ 0.52     $ 0.65     $ 0.58  
Dividends paid per share
  $ 0.26     $ 0.24     $ 0.20     $ 0.16     $ 0.11  
Other Financial and Operating Data:
                                       
Gross profit margin percent
    18.2 %     21.5 %     22.7 %     25.4 %     26.0 %
Operating margin percent
    5.0 %     9.1 %     10.3 %     13.1 %     14.2 %
Net cash provided by operating activities
  $ 14,045     $ 16,431     $ 23,997     $ 19,366     $ 29,405  
Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities
    (2,255 )     (41,391 )     1,351       (2,023 )     (1,924 )
Net cash used for financing activities
    (10,401 )     (26,263 )     (8,494 )     (26,356 )     (7,110 )
Capital expenditures
  $ 329     $ 1,263     $ 1,667     $ 1,118     $ 2,838  
Employees at end of year
    441       1,073       1,089       1,065       1,187  
Factory and administrative space at end of year (square ft.)
    1,205       1,205       1,149       1,149       1,146  
Balance Sheet Data at end of year:
                                       
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 4,622     $ 3,233     $ 54,456     $ 37,602     $ 46,615  
Marketable securities — current
    8,799       8,870       652       1,323       132  
Marketable securities — non-current
    37,953       36,087       3,715       5,893       6,202  
Inventories
    22,453       33,159       29,556       26,856       25,869  
Working capital
    32,992       36,113       76,506       61,341       61,989  
Property, plant and equipment, net
    14,579       15,944       16,641       17,252       18,362  
Total assets
    110,293       118,726       124,179       108,805       109,734  
Total stockholders’ equity
  $ 90,789     $ 93,757     $ 101,401     $ 87,688     $ 87,372  

 
19

 
 
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
          The following discussion is based upon and should be read in conjunction with “Selected Financial Data” and “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.” See also “Forward-Looking Statements” on page 2.
 
Overview
 
          Marine Products, through our wholly-owned subsidiaries Chaparral and Robalo, is a leading manufacturer of recreational fiberglass powerboats. Our sales and profits are generated by selling the products that we manufacture to a network of independent dealers who in turn sell the products to retail customers. These dealers are located throughout the continental United States and in several international markets. Most of these dealers finance their inventory through third-party floor plan lenders, who pay Marine Products upon delivery of the products to the dealers.
 
          We manage our Company by focusing on the execution of the following business and financial strategies:
     
 
Manufacturing high-quality, stylish, and innovative powerboats for our dealers and retail customers,
     
 
Providing our independent dealer network appropriate incentives, training, and other support to enhance their success and their customers’ satisfaction, thereby facilitating their continued relationship with us,
     
 
Managing our production and dealer order backlog to optimize operating results and reduce risk in the event of a further downturn in sales of our products,
     
 
Maintaining a flexible, variable cost structure which can be reduced quickly when deemed appropriate,
     
 
Focusing on the competitive nature of the boating business and designing our products and strategies in order to grow and maintain profitable market share,
     
 
Monitoring the activities and financial condition of the third-party floor plan lenders who finance our dealers’ inventories and of our dealers,
     
 
Maximizing shareholder return by optimizing the balance of cash invested in the Company’s productive assets, the payment of dividends to shareholders, and the repurchase of the Company’s common stock on the open market, and
     
 
Aligning the interests of our management and shareholders.
 
          In implementing these strategies and attempting to optimize our financial returns, management closely monitors dealer orders and inventories, the production mix of various models, and indications of near term demand such as consumer confidence, interest rates, dealer orders placed at our annual dealer conferences, and retail attendance and orders at annual winter boat show exhibitions. We also consider trends related to certain key financial and other data, including our market share, unit sales of our products, average selling price per boat, and gross profit margins, among others, as indicators of the success of our strategies. Marine Products’ financial results are affected by consumer confidence — because pleasure boating is a discretionary expenditure, interest rates — because many retail customers finance the purchase of their boats, and other socioeconomic and environmental factors such as availability of leisure time, consumer preferences, demographics and the weather.
 
          During 2008, the industry continued the trend of lower wholesale and retail sales that began in the fourth quarter of 2005. High fuel prices and the problems in the residential mortgage market which came to light in 2007 continue to impact both consumer confidence as a whole, as well as consumer spending decisions in popular boating areas such as Florida and Southern California. In addition, the financial crisis which intensified in late 2008 reduced the availability of floor plan credit for our dealers, which in turn reduced their capacity to accept deliveries of new products from us. The Company does not believe that there are any near-term catalysts which will improve the retail selling environment for our products, and as a result, we have continued to reduce production in order to manage dealer inventory levels. These factors, along with order cancellations resulting from a continued weak retail selling environment and the repurchase obligations resulting from dealer defaults during the fourth quarter, have required us to consolidate several plants in the fourth quarter, reduce production further from third quarter 2008 levels, and undertake additional workforce reductions. In addition, the weak selling environment and dealer inventory levels may require us to implement additional sales incentive programs designed to sell inventory and to further reduce production levels. Management will continue to monitor the risk of additional dealer defaults and resulting repurchase obligations.
 
          We monitor our market share in the 18 to 35 foot sterndrive category as one indicator of the success of our strategies and the market’s acceptance of our products. For the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (latest data available to us), Chaparral’s market share in the 18 to 35 foot sterndrive category was 7.5 percent, an increase from our market share in the same category for the twelve months ended December 31, 2007 of 7.2 percent. This increase was concentrated in the larger 21 to 35 foot size boats in our market. We believe this was the result of two factors: the execution of our stated strategy of selling larger, more profitable boats, and the strategy of certain of our competitors, who have built and sold a large number of entry-level smaller boats which are constructed in offshore manufacturing plants with lower cost labor. Although we will continue to monitor our market share and believe it to be important, we also believe that maximizing profitability takes precedence over growing our market share.

 
20

 
 
Outlook
 
          Management believes that net sales and profits in 2009 will decline compared to 2008. This belief is based on lower attendance levels and sales during the first part of the 2009 winter boat show season compared to the same period in 2008, as well as the status of dealer inventories and backlog as of the end of 2008. In addition, management believes that consumers continue to be concerned with the weak global economy. The financial crisis, which intensified in the second half of 2008, has also reduced the availability of credit from third-party floor plan lenders who provide inventory financing to the vast majority of our dealers. Also, the prolonged drought in several of Marine Products’ major Southeastern markets has reduced or eliminated recreational boaters’ access to docks and boat ramps, and has made certain waterways unusable. Boat show attendance has historically been positively correlated with retail boat sales later in the selling season because consumers attend shows due to their interest in recreational boating and make initial purchasing decisions at a boat show exhibition. However, there can be no assurance that this relationship will continue in 2009 or subsequent years. Pleasure boating is a discretionary consumer activity, and can be negatively impacted by many factors; therefore, an increase in interest rates, a decline in the availability of consumer credit, high fuel costs, and further declines in consumer confidence could have an additional negative impact on net sales and profits. The current financial crisis may have long-term effects on consumer behavior with regard to pleasure boating as well. Current and potential future lower returns on financial assets may force consumers to delay retirement, or to choose more modest lifestyles when they do retire. In such a case, consumers may not purchase boats, may purchase boats later in their lives, or may purchase smaller, less expensive boats. Over the past several years, Marine Products as well as other manufacturers have been improving their customer service capabilities, marketing strategies and sales promotions in order to attract more consumers to recreational boating as well as improve consumers’ boating experiences. In addition, the recreational boating industry began a promotional program several years ago which involves advertising and consumer targeting efforts, as well as other activities designed to increase the potential consumer market for pleasure boats. Many manufacturers, including Marine Products, are participating in this program. Management believes that these efforts will benefit the industry and Marine Products. As in past years, Marine Products enhanced the design of a number of its product lines for the 2009 model year which began on July 1, 2008. Also for this model year, Chaparral introduced a 42-foot sport yacht. This model, as well as one of the redesigned product lines from the 2008 model year, received important industry recognitions during 2008. The success of these products should enhance Marine Products sales and operating results in future years. Management believes that both the boating industry promotional advertising program and the Company’s new boat models will benefit Marine Products, although the industry is projected to remain in a deep downturn throughout 2009.
 
          Our financial results in 2009 will depend on a number of factors, including interest rates, consumer confidence, the availability of credit to our dealers and consumers, fuel costs, the continued acceptance of our new products in the recreational boating market, our ability to compete in the competitive pleasure boating industry, and the costs of certain of our raw materials. We anticipate that the Company will continue to experience the effect of reduced consumer demand for at least the remainder of 2009, which will adversely affect net sales, net income, operating margins and cash flows.

 
21

 
 
Results of Operations
                   
   
Years ended December 31,
 
($’s in thousands)
 
2008
   
2007
   
2006
 
Total number of boats sold
    3,590       5,444       6,245  
Average gross selling price per boat
  $ 46.6     $ 43.4     $ 41.1  
Net sales
  $ 175,622     $ 244,273     $ 261,378  
Percentage of gross profit to net sales
    18.2 %     21.5 %     22.7 %
Percentage of selling, general and administrative expense to net sales
    13.2 %     12.4 %     12.4 %
Operating income
  $ 8,799     $ 22,235     $ 26,933  
Warranty expense
  $ 3,191     $ 4,958     $ 6,714  
 
Year Ended December 31, 2008 Compared To Year Ended December 31, 2007
 
          Net Sales. Marine Products’ net sales decreased by $68.7 million or 28.1 percent in 2008 compared to 2007. The decrease was primarily due to a 34.1 percent decrease in the number of boats sold, partially offset by a 7.4 percent increase in the average gross selling price per boat. The increase in average gross selling price per boat was due primarily to relatively higher sales of the redesigned Sunesta product line, which also carried higher average selling prices. Also contributing to the increase were sales of Chaparral’s new Premiere 400 Sport Yacht during the fourth quarter of 2008.
 
          Cost of Goods Sold. Cost of goods sold decreased 25.1 percent in 2008 compared to 2007, less than the decrease in net sales. As a percentage of net sales, cost of goods sold increased in 2008 compared to 2007, primarily due to cost inefficiencies resulting from lower production volumes and to a lesser extent higher dealer discounts and retail incentives.
 
          Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 23.4 percent in 2008 compared to 2007 as a result of costs, including incentive compensation and warranty expense, that vary with the level of Company sales and profitability. Warranty expense decreased in 2008 due to lower sales. Warranty expense was 1.8 percent of net sales in 2008 and 2.0 percent of net sales in 2007. These decreases were offset by costs totaling $0.5 million associated with the repurchase of dealer inventory in accordance with agreements with third-party floor plan lenders.
 
          Interest Income. Interest income was $2.4 million in 2008 compared to $2.6 million in 2007. Marine Products generates interest income primarily from investments in tax-exempt municipal obligations.
 
          Income Tax Provision. The effective tax rate in 2008 was 32.4 percent compared to 33.8 percent in 2007
 
Year Ended December 31, 2007 Compared To Year Ended December 31, 2006
 
          Net Sales. Marine Products’ net sales decreased by $17.1 million or 6.5 percent in 2007 compared to 2006. The decrease was primarily due to a 12.8 percent decrease in the number of boats sold, partially offset by a 5.6 percent increase in the average gross selling price per boat. The increase in average gross selling price per boat was due to higher sales of larger boats, in addition to overall price increases that were implemented for the 2008 model year, which began in the third quarter of 2007.
 
          Cost of Goods Sold. Cost of goods sold decreased 5.0 percent in 2007 compared to 2006, less than the decrease in net sales. As a percentage of net sales, cost of goods sold increased in 2007 compared to 2006, primarily due to higher costs of certain raw materials and accessories.
 
          Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 6.9 percent in 2007 compared to 2006 as a result of costs that vary with the level of Company sales and profitability. Warranty expense decreased in 2007 due to lower sales and adjustments made in 2006 that did not reoccur in 2007. Warranty expense was 2.0 percent of net sales in 2007 and 2.6 percent of net sales in 2006.
 
          Interest Income. Interest income was $2.6 million in 2007 compared to $2.5 million in 2006. Marine Products generates interest income primarily from investments in tax-exempt municipal obligations.
 
          Income Tax Provision. The higher effective tax rate in 2007 of 33.8 percent compared to 30.9 percent in 2006 resulted from the one time effect of 2005 amended return refunds and tax contingency releases in 2006, as compared to statutorily eliminated foreign trade benefits and reduced research and developments benefits in 2007.

 
22

 
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Cash and Cash Flows
 
          The Company’s cash and cash equivalents were $4.6 million at December 31, 2008, $3.2 million at December 31, 2007, and $54.5 million at December 31, 2006. In addition, the aggregate of short-term and long-term marketable securities were $46.8 million at December 31, 2008, $45.0 million at December 31, 2007 and $4.4 million at December 31, 2006. During 2007 the Company changed its investment strategy towards investments with original maturities greater than three months.
 
          The following table sets forth the historical cash flows for the twelve months ended December 31:
                   
(in thousands)
 
2008
   
2007
   
2006
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
  $ 14,045     $ 16,431     $ 23,997  
Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities
    (2,255 )     (41,391 )     1,351  
Net cash used for financing activities
  $ (10,401 )   $ (26,263 )   $ (8,494 )
 
     2008
 
          Cash provided by operating activities decreased by $2.4 million in 2008 compared to 2007 as a result of lower net income and a decrease in working capital requirements for inventory consistent with lower sales in 2008 compared to 2007 partially offset by the timing of receipts and payments.
 
          Cash used for investing activities decreased $39.1 million in 2008 compared to 2007, resulting primarily from lower purchases of marketable securities in 2008 compared to 2007. Cash used for investing activities in 2007 was comprised of $40.1 million in net purchases of marketable securities as a result of a new investment strategy and $1.3 million in capital expenditures.
 
          Cash used for financing activities decreased $15.9 million in 2008 compared to 2007 due primarily to a decrease of $16.6 million in cash used to purchase the Company’s common stock in the open market.
 
     2007
 
          Cash provided by operating activities decreased by $7.6 million in 2007 compared to 2006 as a result of lower net income and an increase in working capital requirements. Inventories increased as prices for raw materials increased and components were added for new models and also due to timing of boat shipments.
 
          Cash used for investing activities increased $42.7 million in 2007 compared to 2006 due to $40.1 million in net purchases of marketable securities, as we implemented our new investment strategy, offset primarily by $1.3 million in capital expenditures. Cash used for investing activities in 2006 was comprised of $2.9 million in net sales of marketable securities offset primarily by $1.7 million in capital expenditures.
 
          Cash used for financing activities increased $17.8 million in 2007 compared to 2006 due primarily to an increase of $16.5 million in cash used to purchase the Company’s common stock in the open market coupled with an increase in the cash dividends paid per common share.
 
Cash Requirements
 
          Management expects that capital expenditures during 2009 will be approximately $0.4 million for enhancements to certain manufacturing plants.
 
          We currently expect that no additional contributions to the defined benefit pension plan will be required in 2009 to achieve the Company’s funding objective.
 
          Based on the shares outstanding on December 31, 2008, the aggregate annual dividends to be paid at the current annual dividend rate of $0.04 per common share would be approximately $1.5 million. The Company expects to continue to pay cash dividends to common stockholders, subject to the earnings and financial condition of the Company and other relevant factors.
 
          The Company has an agreement with two employees, which provides for a monthly payment to each of the employees equal to 10 percent of profits (defined as pretax income before goodwill amortization and certain allocated corporate expenses).

 
23

 
 
          On January 22, 2008 the Board of Directors authorized an additional 3,000,000 shares that the Company can repurchase, increasing the number of shares available for repurchase. The Company has purchased a total of 4,925,157 shares in the open market as of December 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2008, there are 3,324,843 shares that remain available for repurchase.
 
          The Company has entered into agreements with third-party floor plan lenders where it has agreed, in the event of default by the dealer, to repurchase MPC boats repossessed from the dealer. These arrangements are subject to maximum repurchase amounts and the associated risk is mitigated by the value of the boats repurchased. During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company became obligated to repurchase inventory of $2.6 million as a result of dealer defaults. At December 31, 2008, there is $2.4 million that remains payable to floor plan lenders. As a result of a deepened recession and continued turmoil in the financial markets, additional dealers could experience financial difficulty. In the event that a dealer is unable to meet their obligations to third-party floor plan lenders, MPC may become contractually obligated to repurchase boats for up to the remaining aggregate obligation of $4.1 million as of December 31, 2008. See further information regarding repurchase obligations in “NOTE 9: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES” of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
          The Company believes that the liquidity provided by its existing cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and cash generated from operations will provide sufficient capital to meet its requirements for at least the next twelve months.
 
Contractual Obligations
 
          The following table summarizes the Company’s contractual obligations as of December 31, 2008:
                               
   
Payments due by period
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Total
   
Less
than 1
year
   
1-3
years
   
3-5
years
   
More
than 5 years
 
Long-term debt
  $     $     $     $     $  
Capital lease obligation
    275,455                         275,455  
Operating leases (1)
    1,480,825       150,282       311,736       304,435       714,372  
Purchase obligations (2)
                             
Due to floor plan lenders (3)
    2,378,000       2,378,000                    
Other long-term liabilities
                             
Total
  $ 4,134,280     $ 2,528,282     $ 311,736     $ 304,435     $ 989,827  
 
(1)
Operating leases represent agreements for warehouse space and various office equipment.
   
(2)
As part of the normal course of business the Company enters into purchase commitments to manage its various operating needs. However, the Company does not have any obligations that are non-cancelable or subject to a penalty if canceled.
   
(3)
The Company has agreements with various third-party lenders where it guarantees varying amounts of debt for qualifying dealers on boats in inventory. During the fourth quarter of 2008, MPC became obligated to repurchase inventory of approximately $2.6 million as a result of dealer defaults. As of December 31, 2008, the balance outstanding for these repurchases is approximately $2.4 million which is expected to be paid within one year.
 
          Additionally, the Company had approximately $0.2 million of recorded FIN 48 liabilities and related interest and penalties as of December 31, 2008. Management is unable to make a reasonable estimate as to when cash settlement with the tax authorities might occur due to the uncertainties related to these tax matters.
 
Off Balance Sheet Arrangements
 
          To assist dealers in obtaining financing for the purchase of its boats for inventory, the Company has entered into agreements with various third-party floor plan lenders whereby the Company guarantees varying amounts of debt for qualifying dealers on boats in inventory. The Company’s obligation under these guarantees becomes effective in the case of a default under the financing arrangement between the dealer and the third-party lender. The agreements provide for the return of all repossessed boats in “like new” condition to the Company, in exchange for the Company’s assumption of specified percentages of the debt obligation on those boats, up to certain contractually determined dollar limits which vary by lender. During the fourth quarter of 2008, MPC became contractually obligated to repurchase inventory of approximately $2.6 million as a result of dealer defaults of which $2.4 million is payable as of December 31, 2008. As of December 31, 2008, the Company has an aggregate remaining repurchase obligation to lenders of $4.1 million. The Company’s remaining obligation relating to a maximum of $1.4 million of this total expire one year after the July 1, 2008 effective date of these agreements and may reset to a maximum of $4.0 million for one additional year thereafter. Our remaining obligation related to the remaining $2.7 million of this total as of December 31, 2008 varies based on dealer floor plan debt outstanding, declines over time based on the age of the inventory, and remains in force for periods ranging up to 24 months from the end of the fourth quarter of 2008. The Company records an estimate of the fair value of the remaining guarantee liability at the end of each reporting period.

 
24

 
 
          As mentioned earlier, the Company recorded the repurchase of inventory totaling approximately $2.6 million resulting from defaults by two dealers. At December 31, 2008, there is $2.4 million that remains payable to floor plan lenders and is recorded in accrued expenses. During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company redistributed $0.6 million of these boats among existing and replacement dealers. The remaining repurchased boats are included in inventory as of December 31, 2008 and are recorded at a net realizable value of $1.9 million. The Company recorded approximately $0.3 million for costs associated with these repurchases including a reserve for estimated transportation costs and the write down of repurchased inventory to net realizable value. There are additional dealers experiencing financial difficulty as a result of the current market conditions and the Company may under current contractual terms repurchase additional dealer inventory totaling up to $4.1 million. The Company re-evaluated the fair value of the remaining guarantee liability under the foregoing circumstances and recorded a liability of approximately $0.2 million as of December 31, 2008. Management continues to monitor the risk of additional defaults and resulting repurchase obligation based primarily upon information provided by the third-party floor plan lenders and will adjust the guarantee liability accordingly. See further information regarding repurchase obligations in “NOTE 9: COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES” of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
          Historically, and during most of 2008, there were at least two major marine dealer floor-plan financing institutions. At the end of 2008, one of these institutions announced that it would cease floor plan lending to all unaffiliated dealers including those in the marine industry. In early 2009 one lender has approached Marine Products with a request to raise the contractual repurchase limit. During 2008 this lender imposed additional borrowing costs not covered in the current contractual arrangement and Marine Products is presently negotiating with this lender regarding these and other issues regarding contract provisions which expire at the end of the 2009 model year.
 
Related Party Transactions
 
          In conjunction with its spin-off from RPC in 2001, the Company and RPC entered into various agreements that define the companies’ relationship after the spin-off.
 
          The Transition Support Services Agreement provides for RPC to provide certain services, including financial reporting and income tax administration, acquisition assistance, etc., to Marine Products until the agreement is terminated by either party. Marine Products reimbursed RPC for its estimated allocable share of administrative costs incurred for services rendered on behalf of Marine Products totaling $842,000 in 2008, $957,000 in 2007, and $739,000 in 2006. The Company’s liability to RPC for these services as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 was approximately $70,000 and $223,000. The Company’s directors are also directors of RPC and all of the Company’s executive officers with the exception of one are employees of both the Company and RPC.
 
          The Employee Benefits Agreement provides for, among other things, the Company’s employees to continue participating subsequent to the spin-off in two RPC sponsored benefit plans, specifically, the defined contribution 401(k) plan and the defined benefit retirement income plan.
 
          A group that includes the Company’s Chairman of the Board, R. Randall Rollins and his brother Gary W. Rollins, who is also a director of the Company, and certain companies under their control, controls in excess of fifty percent of the Company’s voting power.
 
Critical Accounting Policies
 
          The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, which require significant judgment by management in selecting the appropriate assumptions for calculating accounting estimates. These judgments are based on our historical experience, terms of existing contracts, trends in the industry, and information available from other outside sources, as appropriate. Senior management has discussed the development, selection and disclosure of its critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors. The Company believes that, of its significant accounting policies, the following may involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity.

 
25

 
 
          Sales recognition - The Company sells its boats through its network of independent dealers. Sales orders used to plan production are firm indications of interest from dealers and are cancelable at any time, although historically very few orders are cancelled after they have been placed. The Company recognizes sales when all the following conditions are met: (1) a fully executed sales agreement exists, (2) the price of the boat is established, (3) the dealer takes delivery of the boat, and (4) collectibility of the sales price is reasonably assured.
 
          Sales incentives and discounts - The Company records incentives as a reduction of sales. Using historical trends, adjusted for current changes, the Company estimates the amount of incentives that will be paid in the future on boats sold and accrues an estimated liability. The Company offers various incentives that promote sales to dealers, and to a lesser extent, retail customers. These incentives are designed to encourage timely replenishment of dealer inventories after peak selling seasons, stabilize manufacturing volumes throughout the year, and improve production model mix. The dealer incentive programs are a combination of annual volume commitment discounts, and additional discounts at time of invoice for those dealers who do not finance their inventory through specified floor plan financing agreements. The annual dealer volume discounts are primarily based on July 1 through June 30 model year purchases. In addition, the Company offers at various times other time-specific or model-specific incentives. The retail incentive programs have historically been used during off-peak selling seasons in addition to the winter boat exhibition shows.
 
          The factors that complicate the calculation of the cost of these incentives are the ability to forecast sales of the Company and individual dealers, the volume and timing of inventory financed by specific dealers, identification of which boats have been sold subject to an incentive, and the estimated lag time between sales and payment of incentives. Settlement of the incentives generally occurs from three to twelve months after the sale. The Company regularly analyzes the historical incentive trends and makes adjustments to recorded liabilities for changes in trends and terms of incentive programs. Total incentives as a percentage of gross sales were 13.3 percent in 2008, 13.1 percent in 2007, and 13.3 percent in 2006. A 0.25 percentage point change in incentives as a percentage of gross sales during 2008 would have increased or decreased net sales, gross margin and operating income by approximately $0.4 million.
 
          Warranty costs -The Company records as part of selling, general and administrative expense an experience based estimate of the future warranty costs to be incurred when sales are recognized. The Company evaluates its warranty obligation on a model year basis. The Company provides warranties against manufacturing defects for various components of the boats, primarily the fiberglass deck and hull, with warranty periods extending up to 10 years. Warranty costs, if any, on other components of the boats are generally absorbed by the original component manufacturer. Warranty costs can vary depending upon the size and number of components in the boats sold, the pre-sale warranty claims, and the desired level of customer service. While we focus on high quality manufacturing programs and processes, including actively monitoring the quality of our component suppliers and managing the dealer and customer service warranty experience and reimbursements, our estimated warranty obligation is based upon the warranty terms and the Company’s enforcement of those terms over time, defects, repair costs, and the volume and mix of boat sales. The estimate of warranty costs is regularly analyzed and is adjusted based on several factors including the actual claims that occur. Warranty expense as a percentage of net sales was 1.8 percent in 2008, 2.0 percent in 2007, and 2.6 percent in 2006. Warranty expense as a percentage of net sales decreased in 2008 compared to 2007 because of favorable trends in claims during 2008. A 0.10 percentage point increase in the estimated warranty expense as a percentage of net sales during 2008 would have increased selling, general and administrative expenses and reduced operating income by approximately $0.2 million.
 
          Income taxes - The effective income tax rates were 32.4 percent in 2008, 33.8 percent in 2007, and 30.9 percent in 2006. The effective tax rates vary due to changes in estimates of future taxable income, fluctuations in the tax jurisdictions in which the earnings and deductions are realized, variations in the relationship of tax-exempt income or losses to income before taxes and favorable or unfavorable adjustments to estimated tax liabilities related to proposed or probable assessments. As a result, the effective tax rate may fluctuate significantly on a quarterly or annual basis.
 
          The Company establishes a valuation allowance against the carrying value of deferred tax assets when it is determined that it is more likely than not that the asset will not be realized through future taxable income. Such amounts are charged to earnings in the period the determination is made. Likewise, if it is later determined that it is more likely than not that the net deferred tax assets would be realized, the applicable portion of the previously provided valuation allowance is reversed. The Company considers future market growth, forecasted earnings, future taxable income, the mix of earnings in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates, and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in determining the need for a valuation allowance.
 
          The Company calculates the current and deferred tax provision based on estimates and assumptions that could differ from the actual results reflected in income tax returns filed during the subsequent year. Adjustments based on filed returns are recorded when identified, which is generally in the third quarter of the subsequent year for U.S. federal and state provisions. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the differences between the financial and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect in the year the differences are expected to reverse.

 
26

 
 
          The amount of income taxes the Company pays is subject to ongoing audits by federal and state tax authorities, which often result in proposed assessments. Our estimate for the potential outcome for any uncertain tax issue is highly judgmental. The Company believes it has adequately provided for any reasonably foreseeable outcome related to these matters. However, future results may include favorable or unfavorable adjustments to estimated tax liabilities in the period the assessments are made or resolved or when statutes of limitation on potential assessments expire. Additionally, the jurisdictions in which earnings or deductions are realized may differ from current estimates.
 
Impact of Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
          In December 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) FAS 132R-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets.” The FASB issued the FSP, which amends FASB Statement 132R, Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits, in order to provide adequate transparency about the types of assets and associated risks in employers’ postretirement plans. Disclosures are designed to provide an understanding of how investment decisions are made: the major categories of plan assets; the inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of plan assets; the effect of fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements in FASB Statement 157, Fair Value Measurements) on changes in plan assets for the period; and significant concentrations of risk within plan assets The disclosures about plan assets required by this FSP are required to be provided for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009, with the provisions of this FSP not required for earlier periods that are presented for comparative purposes, upon initial application. Earlier application of the provisions of this FSP is permitted. The Company is currently in the process of determining the additional disclosures required upon the adoption of this FSP.
 
          In October 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) No. FAS 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active.” FSP 157-3 clarifies the application of SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” in a market that is not active and provides an example to illustrate key considerations in determining the fair value of a financial asset when the market for that financial asset is not active. The FSP stipulates that determining fair value in a dislocated market depends on the facts and circumstances and may require the use of significant judgment when evaluating individual transactions or broker quotes which are some of the sources of the fair value measurement. In addition, FSP FAS 157-3 states that if an entity uses its own assumptions to determine fair value, it must include appropriate risk adjustments that market participants would make for nonperformance and liquidity risks. FSP FAS 157-3 is effective upon issuance, including prior periods for which financial statements have not been issued. The Company adopted FSP FAS 157-3 in the third quarter of 2008 and has concluded that it does not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
 
          In September 2008, the FASB issued FSP No. FAS 133-1 and FIN 45-4, “Disclosures about Credit Derivatives and Certain Guarantees – An Amendment of FASB Statement No. 133 and FASB Interpretation No. 45; and Clarification of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 161.” This FSP amends FASB Statement No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” to require disclosures by sellers of credit derivatives, including credit derivatives embedded in a hybrid instrument. This FSP also amends FASB Interpretation No.(FIN) 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others,” to require an additional disclosure about the current status of the payment/performance risk of a guarantee. Further this FSP clarifies the FASB’s intent about the effective date of FASB Statement No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” The Company has adopted the provisions of this FSP for the year ended December 31, 2008. Refer to “Off Balance Sheet Arrangements” on page 24 for information regarding the status of the payment/performance risk of the guarantees.
 
          In June 2008, the FASB issued FSP EITF 03-6-1, “Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities,” to clarify that all outstanding unvested share-based payment awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents, whether paid or unpaid, are participating securities. An entity must include participating securities in its calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) pursuant to the two-class method, as described in FASB Statement 128, Earnings per Share. FSP EITF 03-6-1 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008 and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company intends to adopt FSP EITF 03-6-1 effective January 1, 2009 and apply its provisions retrospectively to all prior-period EPS data presented in its financial statements. The Company has periodically issued share-based payment awards that contain non-forfeitable rights to dividends and does not expect the adoption of this accounting guidance to have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements or EPS.
 
          In April 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS No. 142-3, which amends the factors that must be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life over which to amortize the cost of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” The FSP requires an entity that is estimating the useful life of a recognized intangible asset to consider its historical experience in renewing or extending similar arrangements or, in the absence of historical experience, must consider assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension that are both consistent with the asset’s highest and best use and adjusted for entity-specific factors under SFAS No. 142. The FSP is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and the guidance for determining the useful life of a recognized intangible asset must be applied prospectively to intangible assets acquired after the effective date. The Company does not expect the adoption of FSP FAS No. 142-3 to have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.

 
27

 
 
          In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS 162 is intended to improve financial reporting by identifying a consistent framework, or hierarchy, for selecting accounting principles to be used in financial statements that are presented in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles for nongovernmental entities. This Statement became effective on November 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of this statement to have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
 
          In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - an Amendment of FASB Statement 133.” SFAS161 requires enhanced disclosures regarding how: (a) an entity uses derivative instruments; (b) derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for under FASB Statement No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities; and (c) derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. Statement 161 is effective for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008 with early application being encouraged. The Company does not have any derivative instruments nor is it currently involved in hedging activities and therefore adoption of SFAS 161 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
 
          In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP FAS 157-1, “Application of FASB Statement No. 157 to FASB Statement No. 13 and Other Accounting Pronouncements that Address Fair Value Measurements for Purposes of Lease Classification or Measurement under Statement 13,” and FSP FAS 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157.” These FSPs:
     
 
Exclude certain leasing transactions accounted for under FASB Statement No. 13, Accounting for Leases, from the scope of Statement 157. The exclusion does not apply to fair value measurements of assets and liabilities recorded as a result of a lease transaction but measured pursuant to other pronouncements within the scope of Statement 157.
     
 
Defer the effective date in FASB Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, for one year for certain nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually).
 
FSP FAS 157-1 is effective upon the initial adoption of Statement 157. FSP FAS 157-2 is effective February 12, 2008. The Company has adopted the provisions of FSP 157-1 and 157-2 in the first quarter of 2008.
 
          Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
          Marine Products holds no derivative financial instruments which could expose Marine Products to significant market risk. Marine Products maintains an investment portfolio, comprised primarily of municipal debt securities, which are subject to interest rate risk exposure. This risk is managed through conservative policies to invest in high-quality obligations. Marine Products has performed an interest rate sensitivity analysis using a duration model over the near term with a 10 percent change in interest rates. Marine Products’ portfolio is not subject to material interest rate risk exposure based on this analysis. Marine Products does not expect any material changes in market risk exposures or how those risks are managed.

 
28

 
 
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
 
To the Stockholders of Marine Products Corporation:
 
          The management of Marine Products Corporation is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. Marine Products Corporation maintains a system of internal accounting controls designed to provide reasonable assurance, at a reasonable cost, that assets are safeguarded against loss or unauthorized use and that the financial records are adequate and can be relied upon to produce financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The internal control system is augmented by written policies and procedures, an internal audit program and the selection and training of qualified personnel. This system includes policies that require adherence to ethical business standards and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
 
          There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any controls system. A controls system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the controls system are met. Also, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and any instances of fraud, if any, within the Company will be detected. Further, the design of a controls system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. The Company intends to continually improve and refine its internal controls.
 
          Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operations of our internal control over financial reporting, as of December 31, 2008 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, management’s assessment is that Marine Products Corporation maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008.
 
          The independent registered public accounting firm, Grant Thornton LLP, has audited the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2008, and has also issued their report on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, included in this report on page 30.
 
/s/ Richard A. Hubbell   /s/ Ben M. Palmer
Richard A. Hubbell
 
Ben M. Palmer
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

Atlanta, Georgia
March 3, 2009

 
29

 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Marine Products Corporation
 
We have audited Marine Products Corporation’s (a Delaware Corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008 based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
 
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
 
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
 
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008 and our report dated March 3, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
 
/s/ Grant Thornton LLP
 
Atlanta, Georgia
March 3, 2009

 
30

 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Consolidated Financial Statements
 
Board of Directors and Stockholders
Marine Products Corporation
 
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Marine Products Corporation (a Delaware corporation) and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008. Our audits of the basic consolidated financial statements included the financial statement schedule listed in the index appearing under Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2008 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.
 
As described in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted the provisions of Financial Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an interpretation of FASB Statement 109” during 2007. As described in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” during 2006.
 
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) and our report dated March 3, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
 
/s/ Grant Thornton LLP
 
Atlanta, Georgia
March 3, 2009

 
31

 
 
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
MARINE PRODUCTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(in thousands except share information)
             
December 31,
 
2008
   
2007
 
ASSETS
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 4,622     $ 3,233  
Marketable securities
    8,799       8,870  
Accounts receivable, net
    5,575       3,540  
Inventories
    22,453       33,159  
Income taxes receivable
    2,464       1,321  
Deferred income taxes
    1,116       2,746  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    1,681       2,159  
Current assets
    46,710       55,028  
Property, plant and equipment, net
    14,579       15,944  
Goodwill
    3,308       3,308  
Other intangibles, net
    465       465  
Marketable securities
    37,953       36,087  
Deferred income taxes
    2,934       1,098  
Other assets
    4,344       6,796  
Total assets
    110,293     $ 118,726  
                 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Liabilities
               
Accounts payable
  $ 1,437     $ 4,621  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    12,281       14,294  
Current liabilities
    13,718       18,915  
Pension liabilities
    5,285       5,572  
Other long-term liabilities
    501       482  
Total liabilities
    19,504       24,969  
Commitments and contingencies
               
Stockholders’ Equity
               
Preferred stock, $0.10 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, none issued
           
Common stock, $0.10 par value, 74,000,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding – 36,425,449 shares in 2008, 36,017,736 shares in 2007
    3,643       3,602  
Capital in excess of par value
           
Retained earnings
    88,535       90,105  
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
    (1,389 )     50  
Total stockholders’ equity
    90,789       93,757  
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
  $ 110,293     $ 118,726  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 
32

 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
MARINE PRODUCTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(in thousands except per share data)
                   
Years ended December 31,
 
2008
   
2007
   
2006
 
Net sales
  $ 175,622     $ 244,273     $ 261,378  
Cost of goods sold
    143,677       191,810       201,971  
Gross profit
    31,945       52,463       59,407  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    23,146       30,228       32,474  
Operating income
    8,799       22,235       26,933  
Interest income
    2,420       2,590       2,502  
Income before income taxes
    11,219       24,825       29,435  
Income tax provision
    3,633       8,402       9,121  
Net income
  $ 7,586     $ 16,423     $ 20,314  
EARNINGS PER SHARE
                       
Basic
  $ 0.21     $ 0.44     $ 0.54  
Diluted
    0.21     $ 0.43     $ 0.52  
Dividends paid per share
  $ 0.26     $ 0.24     $ 0.20  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.

 
33

 
 
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
MARINE PRODUCTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(in thousands)
 
         
 
                               
Three Years Ended
December 31, 2008
   Comprehensive
Income
   
     Common Stock
             Shares                Amount 
   
  Capital in Excess of Par Value 
   
Retained Earnings 
   
  Deferred Compensation 
     Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
     
Total
 
Balance, December 31, 2005
          37,698     $ 3,770     $ 16,364     $ 72,192     $ (3,540 )   $ (1,098 )   $ 87,688  
Stock issued for stock incentive plans, net
          381       38       434                         472  
Stock purchased and retired
          (171 )     (17 )     (1,615 )                       (1,632 )
Net income
  $ 20,314                         20,314                   20,314  
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of taxes
    344                                     344       344  
Unrealized gain on securities, net of taxes and reclassification adjustments
    36                                     36       36  
Comprehensive income
  $ 20,694                                                          
Dividends declared
                              (7,631 )                 (7,631 )
Stock-based compensation
                        1,514                         1,514  
Excess tax benefits for share-based payments
                        296                         296  
Adoption of SFAS 123(R)
                        (3,540 )           3,540              
Balance, December 31, 2006
            37,908       3,791       13,453       84,875             (718 )     101,401  
Stock issued for stock incentive plans, net
            407       41       286                         327  
Stock purchased and retired
            (2,297 )     (230 )     (15,694 )     (2,182 )                 (18,106 )
Net income
  $ 16,423                         16,423                   16,423  
Pension adjustment, net of taxes
    476                                     476       476  
Unrealized gain on securities, net of taxes and reclassification adjustments
    292                                     292       292  
Comprehensive income
  $ 17,191                                                          
Dividends declared
                              (9,011 )                 (9,011 )
Stock-based compensation
                        1,524                         1,524  
Excess tax benefits for share-based payments
                        431