Edgar Filing: CENTRAL GARDEN & PET CO

Form 10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

x	QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2007

¨	TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT OF SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from to

Commission File Number: 001-33268

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY

Delaware

68-0275553

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

1340 Treat Blvd., Suite 600, Walnut Creek, California 94597

(Address of principle executive offices)

(925) 948-4000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

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 ¨ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer x Accelerated filer ¨ Non-accelerated filer ¨

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.


Common Stock Outstanding as of July 31, 2007		22,290,643
Class A Common Stock Outstanding as of July 31, 2007		47,811,406
Class B Stock Outstanding as of July 31, 2007		1,652,262


	PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.	Financial Statements	4

	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2006 and June 30, 2007	4

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Three and Nine Months Ended June 24, 2006 and June 30, 2007	5

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Nine Months Ended June 24, 2006 and June 30, 2007	6

	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	7

Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	16

Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	22

Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	22

	PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	23

Item 1A.	Risk Factors	23

Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	23

Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	23

Item 4.	Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders	23

Item 5.	Other Information	23

Item 6.	Exhibits	24

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

This Form 10-Q includes “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements include statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events, future revenues or performance, capital expenditures, financing needs, plans or intentions relating to acquisitions, our competitive strengths and weaknesses, our business strategy and the trends we anticipate in the industries and economies in which we operate and other information that is not historical information. When used in this Form 10-Q, the words “estimates,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes” and variations of such words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, our examination of historical operating trends, are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions. Our expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith, and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them, but we cannot assure you that our expectations, beliefs and projections will be realized.

There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in this Form 10-Q. Important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this Form 10-Q are set forth in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 and our Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended December 30, 2006 and March 31, 2007, including the factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors.” If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any of our underlying assumptions are incorrect, our actual results may differ significantly from the results that we express in or imply by any of our forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligation to revise these forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances. Presently known risk factors include, but are not limited to, the following factors:

•

consolidation trends in the retail industry;

•

dependence on a few customers for a significant portion of each of our businesses;

•

uncertainty of our product innovations and marketing programs;

•

fluctuations in market prices for seeds and grains;

•

competition in our industries;

•

risks associated with our acquisition strategy;

•

adverse weather during the peak gardening season;

•

supply shortages in pet birds and small animals;

•

declining sales and margins in garden distribution;

•

seasonality and fluctuations in our operating results and cash flows;

•

dependence upon our key executive officers;

•

rising energy prices, fuel and related petrochemical costs;

•

implementation of a new enterprise planning information system over the next several years;

•

potential environmental liabilities and product liability claims;

•

pending litigation and claims; and

•

the voting power associated with our Class B stock.

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

(unaudited)


	September 30, 2006		June 30, 2007
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	28,406	$	15,815
Accounts receivable (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $12,798 and $14,338)		239,172		276,858
Inventories		332,214		381,748
Prepaid expenses and other		34,910		42,196

Total current assets		634,702		716,617

Land, buildings, improvements and equipment—net		162,604		196,653
Goodwill		557,820		566,665
Other intangible assets, net		110,548		116,911
Deferred income taxes and other assets		68,149		63,605

Total	$	1,533,823	$	1,660,451

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	122,960	$	139,715
Accrued expenses		81,305		96,827
Current portion of long-term debt		3,039		3,347

Total current liabilities		207,304		239,889

Long-term debt		565,410		612,988
Other long-term obligations		29,583		28,853

Convertible redeemable preferred stock		3,000		750

Minority interest		1,167		1,749

Shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value: 22,008,431 and 22,290,643 shares outstanding at September 30, 2006 and June 30, 2007		218		220
Class A common stock, $.01 par value: 47,321,386 and 47,811,406 shares outstanding at September 30, 2006 and June 30, 2007		473		478
Class B stock, $.01 par value: 1,652,262 shares outstanding		16		16
Additional paid-in capital		540,131		552,287
Retained earnings		185,031		219,030
Accumulated other comprehensive income		1,490		4,191

Total shareholders’ equity		727,359		776,222

Total	$	1,533,823	$	1,660,451

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

(unaudited)


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	June 24, 2006			June 30, 2007			June 24, 2006			June 30, 2007
Net sales	$	506,694		$	466,778		$	1,200,757		$	1,269,836
Cost of goods sold and occupancy		334,983			315,638			800,296			852,980

Gross profit		171,711			151,140			400,461			416,856
Selling, general and administrative expenses		111,842			113,948			285,083			327,509

Income from operations		59,869			37,192			115,378			89,347
Interest expense		(12,213	)		(13,198	)		(28,784	)		(37,296	)
Interest income		1,582			292			2,869			1,257
Other income		1,371			1,194			3,223			2,879

Income before income taxes and minority interest		50,609			25,480			92,686			56,187
Income taxes		19,070			9,495			32,362			20,904
Minority interest		809			470			809			1,284

Net income	$	30,730		$	15,515		$	59,515		$	33,999

Net income per share (restated):
Basic	$	0.44		$	0.22		$	0.90		$	0.48

Diluted	$	0.43		$	0.22		$	0.87		$	0.47

Weighted average shares used in the computation of net income per share (restated):
Basic		70,131			70,910			66,180			70,730
Diluted		72,198			72,048			68,190			72,066

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

(unaudited)


	Nine Months Ended
	June 24, 2006			June 30, 2007
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	59,515		$	33,999
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		18,628			21,875
Stock-based compensation		3,928			3,723
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards		(3,003	)		(1,932	)
Minority interest		809			1,284
Deferred income taxes		(1,084	)		(1,423	)
Gain on disposal of property		—			(74	)
Change in assets and liabilities (excluding businesses acquired):
Receivables		(47,585	)		(37,232	)
Inventories		(21,978	)		(48,605	)
Prepaid expenses and other assets		(15,939	)		(6,514	)
Accounts payable		(15,328	)		16,943
Accrued expenses		22,168			15,787
Other long-term obligations		1,754			(730	)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		1,885			(2,899	)

Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property		(30,716	)		(47,462	)
Businesses acquired, net of cash acquired		(370,123	)		(19,612	)
Collection of notes		16,058			3,340
Restricted investments		—			292

Net cash used in investing activities		(384,781	)		(63,442	)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings on revolving line of credit		826,530			665,000
Repayments of revolving line of credit		(697,678	)		(615,000	)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt		600,000			—
Repayments of long-term debt		(472,642	)		(2,114	)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		109,529			4,258
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards		3,003			1,932
Payment of financing costs		(6,583	)		(416	)

Net cash provided by financing activities		362,159			53,660

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents		(34	)		90

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(20,771	)		(12,591	)
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period		28,792			28,406

Cash and equivalents at end of period	$	8,021		$	15,815

Supplemental information:
Cash paid for interest	$	20,739		$	34,566

Cash paid for income taxes—net of refunds	$	16,047		$	2,954

Liabilities assumed in connection with acquisitions	$	—		$	3

Conversion of preferred stock to common stock	$	—		$	2,250

See notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Three and Nine Months Ended June 30, 2007

(unaudited)

1. Basis of Presentation

The condensed consolidated balance sheet of Central Garden & Pet Company and subsidiaries (the “Company” or “Central”) as of June 30, 2007, the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months and nine months ended June 24, 2006 and June 30, 2007 and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 and June 30, 2007 have been prepared by the Company, without audit. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (which include only normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company for the periods mentioned above, have been made.

For the Company’s foreign business in the UK, the local currency is the functional currency. Assets and liabilities are translated using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses are translated at the average exchange rate for the period. Comprehensive income was $36.7 million for the nine month period ended June 30, 2007 and includes net income of $34.0 million and foreign currency translation adjustments of $2.7 million that are excluded from net earnings but reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Comprehensive income was $59.8 million for the nine month period ended June 24, 2006 and included net earnings of $59.5 million and foreign currency translation adjustments of $0.3 million. Deferred taxes are not provided on translation gains and losses, because the Company expects earnings of its foreign subsidiary to be permanently reinvested. Transaction gains and losses are included in results of operations.

Due to the seasonal nature of the Company’s garden business, the results of operations for the three and nine month periods ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006 are not indicative of the operating results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year. These interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the annual audited financial statements, accounting policies and financial notes thereto, included in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which has previously been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

On January 3, 2007, the Company announced a stock dividend in the form of two shares of the Company’s Class A common stock for each outstanding share of the Company’s common stock and Class B common stock to stockholders of record as of January 14, 2007. On February 5, 2007, the Company distributed the related Class A shares to the stockholders. All share and per share amounts in this Form 10-Q have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the stock dividend for all periods presented.

Minority Interest

Minority interest in the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements represents the 20% interest not owned by Central in a consolidated subsidiary. Since the Company controls this subsidiary (effective as of March 2006), its financial statements are fully consolidated with those of the Company, and the minority owner’s 20% share of the subsidiary’s net assets and results of operations is deducted and reported as minority interest.

2. Stock-Based Compensation

The Company has various non-qualified stock-based compensation programs, which provide for stock option grants and restricted stock awards. The grant date fair value of restricted stock awards is amortized over the vesting period. Stock options may be granted to officers, key employees and directors. Stock options are generally granted with a 30 month cliff vesting and 42 month expiration, but are also granted with graded vesting increments of 20% or 25% per year and expiring seven or eight years from the date of grant. Beginning in fiscal 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment,” and elected to adopt the modified prospective transition method. Under this transition method, compensation cost associated with stock options recognized thereafter includes: (1) amortization related to the remaining unvested portion of all share-based payments granted prior to, but not vested as of September 24, 2005, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original pro forma footnote disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 123 and (2) amortization related to all share-based payments granted subsequent to September 24, 2005, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R). Accordingly, stock compensation expense is recognized over the requisite service period using the straight-line attribution method.

The Company recognized share-based compensation expense of $1.4 million for each of the three month periods ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006 and $3.7 million and $3.9 million for the nine month periods then ended, respectively, as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses.

The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. Expected stock price volatilities are estimated based on the Company’s implied historical volatility. The expected term of options granted is based on analyses of historical employee termination rates and option exercises. The risk-free rates are based on U.S. Treasury yields, for notes with comparable terms as the option grants, in effect at the time of the grant. For purposes of this valuation model, no dividends have been assumed. Assumptions for the nine month periods ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006 used in the Black-Scholes model are presented below:


	June 24, 2006	June 30, 2007
Stock plans:
Average expected life in years	3 to 6 years	3 to 6 years
Expected volatility	29%	28%
Risk-free interest rate	4.3%	4.6%

The following table summarizes option activity for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 (adjusted for the stock dividend):


	Number of Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price per Share		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
	(in thousands)				(in years)	(in thousands)
Outstanding at September 30, 2006	4,894		$	11.70	4 years	$	57,239
Granted	1,058			13.85
Exercised	(776	)		8.44
Cancelled or expired	(285	)		11.00

Outstanding at June 30, 2007	4,891			12.73	4 years	$	62,245

Exercisable at June 30, 2007	911			12.79		$	11,650

The weighted average per share fair value of options granted during the nine months ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006 was $4.12 and $4.51, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine months ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006 was $6.5 million and $7.8 million, respectively.

As of June 30, 2007, there was $8.0 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock options, which is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average vesting period of two years.

Restricted Stock Awards: As of June 30, 2007, there were 684,000 shares of restricted stock awards outstanding. The awards generally vest in 20% or 25% annual increments beginning three years from the date of grant.

Restricted stock award activity during the nine months ended June 30, 2007 is summarized in the following table.


	Number of Shares
	(in thousands)
Nonvested at September 30, 2006	731
Granted	43
Forfeited	(90	)

Nonvested at June 30, 2007	684

The weighted average per share grant-date fair value of restricted stock awards granted during the first nine months of fiscal 2007 and fiscal 2006 was $14.78 and $15.94, respectively.

As of June 30, 2007, there was $7.3 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested restricted stock awards, which is expected to be recognized over a remaining weighted-average period of three years.

3. Earnings per Share

The following is a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations for net income from continuing operations. The earnings per share computations have been restated to reflect the stock dividend of Class A common stock, which was distributed to stockholders on February 5, 2007 (see Note 1). The per share computations include all outstanding common stock, Class A common stock and Class B stock.


	Three Months Ended June 30, 2007					Nine Months Ended June 30, 2007
	Income		Shares	Per Share		Income		Shares	Per Share
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Basic EPS:
Net income available to common shareholders	$	15,515	70,910	$	0.22	$	33,999	70,730	$	0.48

Effect of dilutive securities:
Restricted shares			670					684		(0.01	)
Options to purchase common stock			403					587
Convertible preferred stock			65					65
Diluted EPS:

Net income available to common shareholders	$	15,515	72,048	$	0.22	$	33,999	72,066	$	0.47


	Three Months Ended June 24, 2006						Nine Months Ended June 24, 2006
	Income		Shares	Per Share			Income		Shares	Per Share
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Basic EPS:
Net income available to common shareholders	$	30,730	70,131	$	0.44		$	59,515	66,180	$	0.90

Effect of dilutive securities:
Options to purchase common stock			1,041		(0.01	)			1,104		(0.02	)
Restricted shares			768						648		(0.01	)
Convertible preferred stock			258						258
Diluted EPS:

Net income available to common shareholders	$	30,730	72,198	$	0.43		$	59,515	68,190	$	0.87

Options to purchase 4,891,000 shares of common stock (common and Class A common) at prices ranging from $4.26 to $17.99 per share were outstanding at June 30, 2007 and options to purchase 5,568,000 shares of common stock at prices ranging from $4.26 to $17.99 per share were outstanding at June 24, 2006. For the three month periods ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006, options to purchase 2,713,000 and 158,000 shares of common stock, respectively, were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the option exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the common shares and, therefore, the effect would be anti-dilutive. For the nine month periods ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006, options to purchase 1,308,000 and 158,000 shares of common stock, respectively, were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the option exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the common shares and, therefore, the effect would be anti-dilutive.

Shares of common stock from the assumed conversion of the Company’s convertible preferred stock, issued in February 2004, were also included in the computation of diluted EPS for the three and nine month periods ended June 30, 2007 and June 24, 2006.

4. Shareholders’ Equity

On January 3, 2007, the Company declared a stock dividend on the Company’s common stock and Class B stock to stockholders of record as of January 14, 2007. The stock dividend was in the form of two shares of the Company’s Class A common stock for each outstanding share of the Company’s common stock and Class B common stock. Class A common stock certificates were distributed to stockholders on February 5, 2007.

In November 2006, holders of 75 shares of the Company’s Series B convertible preferred stock converted their shares to 64,803 shares of the Company’s common stock. As of June 30, 2007, 25 shares of the Company’s Series B convertible preferred stock remain outstanding.

5. Acquisitions

In March 2006, the Company acquired an additional 60% interest in Tech Pac, L.L.C. for approximately $21 million in cash, increasing its ownership interest to 80%. The Company has not yet finalized its allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of intangible assets acquired. The value of intangible assets acquired pending final purchase accounting allocation is approximately $28 million, including Gulfstream Home & Garden Inc.’s interest in Tech Pac. As of June 30, 2007, purchase accounting adjustments have been recognized based on preliminary valuation amounts. When the purchase accounting is finalized, adjustments to intangible assets and the related amortization expense will be made based on the final valuation.

In February 2006, the Company acquired Farnam Companies, Inc. (“Farnam”) for an initial payment of approximately $287 million in cash, plus $4 million in cash for the purchase of related real property. The Company made additional payments to the former owners of Farnam in fiscal 2007 totaling approximately $15 million, upon final determination of Farnam’s net assets. The purchase price exceeded the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired by approximately $171 million, which has been recorded as goodwill.

In February 2006, the Company acquired the assets of Breeder’s Choice Pet Foods Inc. (“Breeder’s’) for approximately $27 million in cash. The purchase price exceeded the fair value of net assets acquired by approximately $9 million, which has been recorded as goodwill.

6. Segment Information

Management has determined that the Company has two operating segments which are also reportable segments based on the level at which the Chief Executive Officer reviews the results of operations to make decisions regarding performance assessment and resource allocation. These operating segments are the Garden Products Group and Pet Products Group.


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
	June 24, 2006			June 30, 2007			June 24, 2006			June 30, 2007
Net sales:
Garden Products	$	278,897		$	227,063		$	618,593		$	598,032
Pet Products		227,797			239,715			582,164			671,804

Total net sales	$	506,694		$	466,778		$	1,200,757		$	1,269,836

Income from operations:
Garden Products	$	27,409		$	16,119		$	53,252		$	42,828
Pet Products		29,636			29,949			73,256			77,041
Corporate		2,824			(8,876	)		(11,130	)		(30,522	)

Total income from operations		59,869			37,192			115,378			89,347

Interest expense – net		(10,631	)		(12,906	)		(25,915	)		(36,039	)
Other income		1,371			1,194			3,223			2,879
Income taxes		(19,070	)		(9,495	)		(32,362	)		(20,904	)
Minority interest		(809	)		(470	)		(809	)		(1,284	)

Net income	$	30,730		$	15,515		$	59,515		$	33,999

Depreciation and amortization:
Garden Products	$	1,461		$	1,856		$	4,529		$	5,756
Pet Products		5,598			4,670			13,062			13,387
Corporate		392			1,067			1,037			2,732

Total depreciation and amortization	$	7,451		$	7,593		$	18,628		$	21,875

Income from operations for Corporate for the three and nine months ended June 24, 2006 includes a gain of $9.9 million as a result of a legal settlement.

Minority interest is associated with the Garden Products segment.


	September 30, 2006		June 30, 2007
Assets:
Garden Products	$	424,639	$	495,070
Pet Products		470,194		509,292
Corporate		638,990		656,089

Total assets	$	1,533,823	$	1,660,451

Goodwill (included in corporate assets above):
Garden Products	$	172,826	$	173,381
Pet Products		384,994		393,284

Total goodwill	$	557,820	$	566,665

7. Consolidating Condensed Financial Information of Guarantor Subsidiaries

Certain 100% owned subsidiaries of the Company (as listed below, collectively the “Guarantor Subsidiaries”) have guaranteed fully and unconditionally, on a joint and several basis, the obligation to pay principal and interest on the Company’s $150,000,000 9-1/8% Senior Subordinated Notes (the “Notes”) issued on January 30, 2003. Certain subsidiaries and operating divisions are not guarantors of the Notes and have been included in the financial results of the Parent in the information below. These Non-Guarantor entities are not material to the parent. Those subsidiaries that are guarantors of the Notes are as follows:

Farnam Companies, Inc. (including Thompson’s Veterinary Supplies, Inc.)

Four Paws Products Ltd.

Grant Laboratories, Inc.

Gulfstream Home & Garden, Inc.

Interpet USA, LLC

Kaytee Products, Incorporated

Matthews Redwood & Nursery Supply, Inc.

New England Pottery, LLC

Norcal Pottery Products, Inc.

Pennington Seed, Inc. (including Phaeton Corporation (dba Unicorn Labs), Pennington Seed, Inc. of Nebraska, Gro Tec, Inc., Seeds West, Inc., All-Glass Aquarium Co., Inc. (including Oceanic Systems, Inc.) and Cedar Works, LLC.

Pets International, Ltd.

T.F.H. Publications, Inc.

Wellmark International

In lieu of providing separate audited financial statements for the Guarantor Subsidiaries, the Company has included the accompanying consolidating condensed financial statements based on the Company’s understanding of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s interpretation and application of Rule 3-10 of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Regulation S-X.


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Three Months Ended June 30, 2007 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent			Guarantor Subsidiaries		Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	142,646		$	348,038	$	(23,906	)	$	466,778
Cost of products sold and occupancy		100,234			239,310		(23,906	)		315,638

Gross profit		42,412			108,728		—			151,140
Selling, general and administrative expenses		38,027			75,921		—			113,948

Income from operations		4,385			32,807		—			37,192
Interest – net		(13,044	)		138		—			(12,906	)
Other income (loss)		(871	)		2,065		—			1,194

Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest		(9,530	)		35,010		—			25,480
Income taxes (benefit)		(3,811	)		13,306		—			9,495
Minority interest		470			—		—			470

Net income (loss) before equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		(6,189	)		21,704		—			15,515
Equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		21,704			—		(21,704	)		—

Net income (loss)	$	15,515		$	21,704	$	(21,704	)	$	15,515


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Three Months Ended June 24, 2006 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent			Guarantor Subsidiaries		Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	155,954		$	379,171	$	(28,431	)	$	506,694
Cost of products sold and occupancy		106,478			256,936		(28,431	)		334,983

Gross profit		49,476			122,235		—			171,711
Selling, general and administrative expenses		37,268			74,574		—			111,842

Income from operations		12,208			47,661		—			59,869
Interest – net		(10,680	)		49		—			(10,631	)
Other income (loss)		(1,539	)		2,910		—			1,371

Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest		(11	)		50,620		—			50,609
Income taxes (benefit)		(4	)		19,638		(564	)		19,070
Minority interest		809			—		—			809

Net income (loss) before equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		(816	)		30,982		564			30,730
Equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		31,546			—		(31,546	)		—

Net income (loss)	$	30,730		$	30,982	$	(30,982	)	$	30,730


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Nine Months Ended June 30, 2007 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent			Guarantor Subsidiaries		Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	387,822		$	969,411	$	(87,397	)	$	1,269,836
Cost of products sold and occupancy		269,385			670,992		(87,397	)		852,980

Gross profit		118,437			298,419		—			416,856
Selling, general and administrative expenses		101,875			225,634		—			327,509

Income from operations		16,562			72,785		—			89,347
Interest – net		(36,412	)		373		—			(36,039	)
Other income (loss)		(3,323	)		6,202		—			2,879

Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest Interest taxes (benefit)		(23,173 (9,324	) )		79,360 30,228		— —			56,187 20,904
Minority interest		1,284			—		—			1,284

Net income (loss) before equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		(15,133	)		49,132		—			33,999
Equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		49,132			—		(49,132	)		—

Net income (loss)	$	33,999		$	49,132	$	(49,132	)	$	33,999


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS Nine Months Ended June 24, 2006 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent			Guarantor Subsidiaries		Eliminations			Consolidated
Net sales	$	376,151		$	906,425	$	(81,819	)	$	1,200,757
Cost of products sold and occupancy		261,941			620,174		(81,819	)		800,296

Gross profit		114,210			286,251		—			400,461
Selling, general and administrative expenses		96,231			188,852		—			285,083

Income from operations		17,979			97,399		—			115,378
Interest – net		(26,081	)		166		—			(25,915	)
Other income (loss)		(805	)		4,028		—			3,223

Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest		(8,907	)		101,593		—			92,686
Interest taxes (benefit)		(3,286	)		36,221		(573	)		32,362
Minority interest		809			—		—			809

Net income (loss) before equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		(6,430	)		65,372		573			59,515
Equity in undistributed income of guarantor subsidiaries		65,945			—		(65,945	)		—

Net income (loss)	$	59,515		$	65,372	$	(65,372	)	$	59,515


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET June 30, 2007 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent		Guarantor Subsidiaries		Eliminations			Consolidated
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	7,487	$	8,328	$	—		$	15,815
Accounts receivable, net		81,132		215,343		(19,617	)		276,858
Inventories		121,490		260,258		—			381,748
Prepaid expenses and other assets		17,381		24,815		—			42,196

Total current assets		227,490		508,744		(19,617	)		716,617
Land, buildings, improvements and equipment, net		48,178		148,475		—			196,653
Goodwill		566,665		—		—			566,665
Investment in guarantors		613,494		—		(613,494	)		—
Deferred income taxes and other assets		60,417		122,762		(2,663	)		180,516

Total	$	1,516,244	$	779,981	$	(635,774	)	$	1,660,451

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Accounts payable	$	66,997	$	92,335	$	(19,617	)	$	139,715
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		55,779		44,395		—			100,174

Total current liabilities		122,776		136,730		(19,617	)		239,889
Long-term debt		612,503		485		—			612,988
Other long-term obligations		2,244		29,272		(2,663	)		28,853
Convertible redeemable preferred stock		750		—		—			750
Minority interest		1,749		—		—			1,749
Shareholders’ equity		776,222		613,494		(613,494	)		776,222

Total	$	1,516,244	$	779,981	$	(635,774	)	$	1,660,451


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET September 30, 2006 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent		Guarantor Subsidiaries		Eliminations			Consolidated
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	9,087	$	19,319	$	—		$	28,406
Accounts receivable, net		58,239		201,771		(20,838	)		239,172
Inventories		94,155		238,059		—			332,214
Prepaid expenses and other assets		18,084		16,826		—			34,910

Total current assets		179,565		475,975		(20,838	)		634,702
Land, buildings, improvements and equipment, net		32,366		130,238		—			162,604
Goodwill		557,820		—		—			557,820
Investment in guarantors		542,121		—		(542,121	)		—
Deferred income taxes and other assets		74,820		106,540		(2,663	)		178,697

Total	$	1,386,692	$	712,753	$	(565,622	)	$	1,533,823

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Accounts payable	$	56,925	$	86,873	$	(20,838	)	$	122,960
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities		30,219		54,125		—			84,344

Total current liabilities		87,144		140,998		(20,838	)		207,304
Long-term debt		565,250		160		—			565,410
Other long-term obligations		2,772		29,474		(2,663	)		29,583
Convertible redeemable preferred stock		3,000		—		—			3,000
Minority interest		1,167		—		—			1,167
Shareholders’ equity		727,359		542,121		(542,121	)		727,359

Total	$	1,386,692	$	712,753	$	(565,622	)	$	1,533,823


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Nine Months Ended June 30, 2007 ( in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent			Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities	$	28,630		$	17,603		$	(49,132	)	$	(2,899	)

Additions to property		(17,132	)		(30,330	)		—			(47,462	)
Businesses acquired, net of cash		(1,218	)		(18,394	)		—			(19,612	)
Collection of note		3,340			—			—			3,340
Restricted investments		292			—			—			292
Investment in guarantor subsidiaries		(68,672	)		19,540			49,132			—

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities		(83,390	)		(29,184	)		49,132			(63,442	)

Repayments on revolving line of credit		(615,000	)		—			—			(615,000	)
Borrowings on revolving line of credit		665,000			—			—			665,000
Repayments of long-term debt		(2,614	)		500			—			(2,114	)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		4,258			—			—			4,258
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards		1,932			—			—			1,932
Payment of financing costs		(416	)		—			—			(416	)

Net cash provided by financing activities		53,160			500			—			53,660

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash		—			90			—			90

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents		(1,600	)		(10,991	)		—			(12,591	)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		9,087			19,319			—			28,406

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	7,487		$	8,328		$	—		$	15,815


	CONSOLIDATING CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS Nine Months Ended June 24, 2006 (in thousands) (unaudited)
	Parent			Guarantor Subsidiaries			Eliminations			Consolidated
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities	$	11,660		$	59,214		$	(68,989	)	$	1,885

Additions to property		(15,353	)		(15,363	)		—			(30,716	)
Businesses acquired, net of cash		(60,281	)		(309,842	)		—			(370,123	)
Collection of note related to litigation settlement		16,058			—			—			16,058
Investment in guarantor subsidiaries		(346,855	)		277,866			68,989			—

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities		(406,431	)		(47,339	)		68,989			(384,781	)

Repayments on revolving line of credit		(697,678	)		—			—			(697,678	)
Borrowings on revolving line of credit		826,530			—			—			826,530
Proceeds from issuance of long term debt		600,000			—			—			600,000
Repayments of long-term debt		(472,642	)		—			—			(472,642	)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		109,529			—			—			109,529
Excess tax benefits from stock-based awards		3,003			—			—			3,003
Payment of financing costs		(6,583	)		—			—			(6,583	)

Net cash provided by financing activities		362,159			—			—			362,159

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash		—			(34	)		—			(34	)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents		(32,612	)		11,841			—			(20,771	)
Cash and equivalents at beginning of period		22,732			6,060			—			28,792

Cash and equivalents at end of period	$	(9,880	)	$	17,901		$	—		$	8,021

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

Central Garden & Pet is a leading innovator, marketer and producer of quality branded products. We are one of the largest suppliers in the lawn and garden and pet supplies industries. The total lawn and garden industry is estimated to be approximately $95 billion in retail sales. We estimate the retail sales of the lawn and garden supplies industry in the categories in which we participate to be approximately $27 billion. The total pet industry is estimated to be approximately $36 billion in retail sales. We estimate the retail sales of the pet supplies and ultra-premium dog and cat food market in the categories in which we participate to be approximately $13 billion.

Our lawn and garden supplies products include: proprietary and non-proprietary grass seed; wild bird feed, bird feeders, bird houses and other birding accessories; weed, grass, ant and other herbicide, insecticide and pesticide products; and decorative outdoor lifestyle and lighting products including pottery, trellises and other wood products and holiday lighting. These products are sold under a number of brand names including Pennington, The Rebels, AMDRO, Grant’s, Lilly Miller, Ironite, Sevin, Over’n Out, Norcal Pottery, New England Pottery, GKI/Bethlehem Lighting and Matthews Four Seasons.

Our pet supplies products include: products for dogs and cats, including edible bones, premium healthy edible and non-edible chews, ultra-premium dog and cat food, leashes, collars, toys, pet carriers, grooming supplies and other accessories; products for birds, small animals and specialty pets, including food, cages and habitats, toys, chews and related accessories; animal and household health and insect control products; products for fish, reptiles and other aquarium-based pets, including aquariums, furniture and lighting fixtures, pumps, filters, water conditioners and supplements, and information and knowledge resources; and products for horses and livestock. These products are sold under a number of brand names including All-Glass Aquarium, Aqueon, RZilla, Oceanic, Coral Life, Kent Marine, Interpet, TFH, Nylabone, Four Paws, Pet Select, Kaytee, Super Pet, Zodiac, Pre Strike, Altosid, Breeder’s Choice, Farnam, Adams and BioSpot.

In fiscal 2006, our consolidated net sales were $1.6 billion, of which our lawn and garden segment, or Garden Products, accounted for $802 million and our pet segment, or Pet Products, accounted for $819 million. In fiscal 2006, our income from operations was $136.8 million of which Garden Products accounted for $57.5 million and Pet Products accounted for $104.5 million, before corporate expenses and eliminations of $25.2 million. Our Garden Products business is highly seasonal.

The Company reported operating results that are lower than the year ago period. Unfavorable weather conditions in many parts of the United States and continued adverse grain cost pressures in our wild bird feed operations resulted in a decline in sales and an adverse impact to our operating results. Based on our grain costs for the year-to-date and our forecast for the balance of the fiscal year, we believe that our cost of goods for grain will increase in excess of $25 to $30 million in fiscal 2007 over fiscal 2006.

Central was incorporated in Delaware in June 1992 and is the successor to a California corporation which was incorporated in 1955. References to “we,” “us,” “our,” or “Central” mean Central Garden & Pet Company and its subsidiaries and divisions, and their predecessor companies and subsidiaries.

Background

We have transitioned our company to a leading marketer and producer of branded products from a traditional pet and lawn and garden supplies distributor. We made this transition because we recognized the opportunity to build a portfolio of leading brands and improve profitability by capitalizing on our knowledge of the pet and lawn and garden supplies sectors, strong relationships with retailers and nationwide sales and logistics network. Our goal was to diversify our business and improve operating margins by establishing a portfolio of leading brands. Since 1997, we have acquired numerous branded product companies and product lines, including Wellmark and Four Paws in fiscal 1997; Kaytee Products, TFH and Pennington Seed in fiscal 1998; Norcal Pottery in fiscal 1999; AMDRO and All-Glass Aquarium in fiscal 2000; Lilly Miller in fiscal 2001; Alaska Fish Fertilizer in fiscal 2002; Kent Marine, New England Pottery, Interpet, KRB Seed Company, (dba Budd’s Seed), and Energy Savers Unlimited in fiscal 2004; Pets International and Gulfstream Home & Garden in fiscal 2005; and Farnam, Breeder’s Choice, Tech Pac, L.L.C., Ironite and Shirlo in fiscal 2006.

While expanding our branded products business, we experienced adverse events in our distribution business. From 1995 to 1999, we were the master distributor of Round Up and Ortho. In January 1999, The Scotts Company, one of our largest distribution suppliers at the time, acquired Ortho and became the marketing agent for Round Up. In July 2000, Scotts terminated its relationship with us. Subsequently, we downsized our distribution operations and integrated these sales and logistics networks into our pet and lawn and garden products businesses to allow us to focus resources and provide strategic sales support for our brands.

Virtually all of our sales before fiscal 1997 were derived from distributing other manufacturers’ products. Since then, our branded product sales have grown to approximately $1.3 billion, or approximately 82% of total sales, in fiscal 2006. During this same period, our sales of other manufacturers’ products have declined to approximately 18% of total sales, and our gross profit margins have improved from 13.6% in fiscal 1996 to 33.0% in fiscal 2006.

Recent Developments

Class A Stock Dividend. On January 3, 2007, we declared a stock dividend on our common stock and Class B common stock to stockholders of record as of January 14, 2007. The stock dividend was in the form of two shares of our Class A common stock for each outstanding share of our common stock and Class B common stock. Our Class A common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “CENT.A.” We distributed the Class A common stock to create an active trading market in the stock. We plan to use our Class A common stock to strategically raise additional equity capital to pursue acquisitions and to contribute to employee benefit plans. Class A stock certificates were distributed to shareholders on February 5, 2007. All share and per share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the stock dividend for all periods presented in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations and in the computation of earnings per share (see Note 3 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements).

New Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities,” which provides companies an option to report selected financial assets and liabilities at fair value. SFAS No. 159 requires companies to provide information to assist financial statement users to understand the effect of a company’s choice to use fair value on its earnings, as well as to display on the face of the balance sheet the fair value of assets and liabilities chosen by the company for fair value accounting. Additionally, SFAS No. 159 establishes presentation and disclosure requirements designed to simplify comparisons between companies that choose different measurement attributes for similar types of assets and liabilities. SFAS No. 159 is effective for us in our fiscal year beginning September 28, 2008. We are currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 159 on our financial statements.

In June 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation (“FIN”) 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes — an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 is effective for us in our fiscal year beginning September 30, 2007. We are currently evaluating the impact of FIN 48 on our financial statements.

Critical Accounting Policies, Estimates and Judgments

There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies, estimates and assumptions or the judgments affecting the application of those accounting policies since our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006.

Stock-based compensation: In fiscal 2006, we adopted SFAS No. 123(R) using the modified prospective transition method and began accounting for our stock-based compensation using a fair-valued based recognition method. Under the provisions of SFAS No. 123(R), stock-based compensation cost is estimated at the grant date based on the fair-value of the award and is expensed ratably over the requisite service period of the award. Determining the appropriate fair-value model and calculating the fair value of stock-based awards at the grant date requires considerable judgment, including estimating stock price volatility, expected option life and forfeiture rates. We develop our estimates based on historical data and market information which can change significantly over time.

We use the Black-Scholes option valuation model to value employee stock awards. We estimate stock price volatility based on an average historical volatility of our stock. Estimated option life and forfeiture rate assumptions are also derived from historical data. We recognize compensation expense using the straight-line amortization method for stock-based compensation awards with graded vesting. Had we used alternative valuation methodologies, the amount we expense for stock-based payments could be significantly different.

Results of Operations

Three Months Ended June 30, 2007

Compared with Three Months Ended June 24, 2006

Net Sales

Net sales for the three months ended June 30, 2007 decreased $39.9 million, or 7.9%, to $466.8 million from $506.7 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006. Pet Products’ net sales increased $11.9 million, or 5.2%, to $239.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 from $227.8 million in the comparable fiscal 2006 period. Garden Products’ net sales decreased $51.8 million, or 18.6%, to $227.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 from $278.9 million in the comparable fiscal 2006 period. Our branded product sales decreased $28.4 million and sales of other manufacturers’ products decreased $11.5 million. Our branded Pet Products’ sales increased $14.6 million due primarily to an increase of approximately $8 million in the bird & small animal category and approximately $4 million in the dog & cat category. Branded Garden Products’ sales decreased $43.0 million due primarily to unfavorable weather conditions in many parts of the United States, particularly impacting grass seed and control product sales.

Gross Profit

Gross profit for the three months ended June 30, 2007 decreased $20.6 million, or 12.0%, to $151.1 million from $171.7 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006. Pet Products’ gross profit decreased $3.0 million and Garden Products’ decreased $17.6 million. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales decreased from 33.9% for the three months ended June 24, 2006 to 32.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2007 due primarily to lower sales and higher grain costs. Price increases taken to date have not fully offset continued cost pressures in the grain markets, impacting pet and wild bird feed margins.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $2.1 million, or 1.9%, to $113.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 from $111.8 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006. Included in selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended June 24, 2006 was a gain of $9.9 million from the settlement of litigation. Absent this benefit in the prior year quarter, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $7.8 million, or 6.4%, from $121.7 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006 to $113.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The decrease was due primarily to decreased delivery and warehouse expenses. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 24.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2007, compared to 24.0%, absent the benefit of the $9.9 million gain, in the comparable prior year period.

Selling and delivery expense decreased $4.4 million, or 6.3%, from $70.2 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006 to $65.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. As a percentage of net sales, selling and delivery expense remained unchanged at approximately 14% of net sales. The decrease in dollar terms was due primarily to the 7.9% decrease in net sales.

Facilities expense increased $0.3 million to $3.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007 from $2.9 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006. The increase was due primarily to costs incurred transitioning to a new facility and increased rent.

Warehouse and administrative expense increased $6.2 million. Absent the $9.9 million gain from the litigation settlement in the prior year quarter, warehouse and administrative expense decreased $3.7 million, or 7.6%, from $48.6 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006 to $44.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The decrease was due primarily to reduced payroll related costs and continued business unit consolidation.

Net Interest Expense

Net interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2007 increased $2.3 million, or 21.4%, to $12.9 million from $10.6 million for the three months ended June 24, 2006. The increase was due primarily to a higher average debt balance for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and reduced interest income in the current quarter due primarily to $1.0 million recognized as a result of the litigation settlement in the prior year quarter.

Other Income

Other income decreased $0.2 million to $1.2 million, or 12.9%, for the quarter ended June 30, 2007 from $1.4 million for the quarter ended June 24, 2006 due primarily to reduced earnings from investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting in the garden segment.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate was 38.0% for the quarter ended June 30, 2007 compared with 38.3% for the quarter ended June 24, 2006.

Nine months Ended June 30, 2007

Compared with Nine months Ended June 24, 2006

Net Sales

Net sales for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 increased $69.0 million, or 5.7%, to $1,269.8 million from $1,200.8 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006. Pet Products’ net sales increased $89.6 million, or 15.4%, to $671.8 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 from $582.2 million in the comparable fiscal 2006 period. Garden Products’ net sales decreased $20.6 million, or 3.3%, to $598.0 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 from $618.6 million in the comparable fiscal 2006 period due primarily to a decrease in sales of other manufacturer’s products of $15.4 million. Our branded product sales increased $85.3 million, while sales of other manufacturers’ products decreased $16.3 million. Our branded Pet Products’ sales increased $90.5 million due primarily to recent acquisitions which contributed approximately $60.5 million and increased wild bird feed sales, partially offset by softer demand in the aquatics market. Branded Garden Products’ sales decreased $5.2 million due primarily to weaker grass seed sales partially offset by the contribution from recent acquisitions of approximately $12.2 million.

Gross Profit

Gross profit for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 increased $16.4 million, or 4.1%, to $416.9 million from $400.5 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006. Pet Products’ gross profit increased $27.2 million and Garden Products’ declined $10.8 million. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales declined from 33.4% for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 to 32.8% for the nine months ended June 30, 2007. Contribution from acquisitions and higher margin branded product sales were partially offset by higher grain costs, particularly in the first six months of fiscal 2007, and lower grass seed sales due to unfavorable weather conditions. The significant grain cost pressures we have been facing, primarily in our wild bird feed operations, due to extraordinarily high prices in the first three quarters of fiscal 2007 have only been partially offset by the price increases obtained to-date.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $42.4 million, or 14.9%, to $327.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 from $285.1 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006. Included in selling, general and administrative expenses for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 was a gain of $9.9 million from the settlement of litigation. Absent this benefit in the prior year, selling, general and administrative expenses increased $32.5 million, or 11.0%, from $295.0 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 to $327.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007. The increase was due primarily to increased selling expenses and administrative expenses related to acquisitions of branded product companies completed in fiscal 2006, which have higher operating expenses. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 25.8% for the nine months ended June 30, 2007, compared to 24.6% in the comparable prior year period.

Selling and delivery expense increased $14.4 million, or 9.0%, from $159.9 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 to $174.3 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007. As a percentage of net sales, selling and delivery expense increased to 13.7% for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 from 13.3% for the comparable prior year period. The increase in dollar terms was due primarily to the quarter’s increased sales from recent acquisitions that generally have higher gross margins and higher selling costs.

Facilities expense decreased $0.1 million, or 1.0%, to $9.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 from $9.6 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006.

Warehouse and administrative expense increased $28.1 million. Absent the $9.9 million gain from the litigation settlement in the prior year, warehouse and administrative expense increased $18.2 million, or 14.5%, from $125.5 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 to $143.7 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2007. The increase was due primarily to fiscal 2006 acquisitions and increased third party service provider costs related primarily to professional and legal services and IT services related to our SAP implementation.

Net Interest Expense

Net interest expense for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 increased $10.1 million, or 39.0%, to $36.0 million from $25.9 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006. The increase was due primarily to the higher average debt balance resulting from acquisitions financed through our $650 million in senior secured credit facilities in the second quarter of fiscal 2006, slightly higher interest rates on our floating rate debt and reduced interest income in the current fiscal year due primarily to $1.0 million recognized as a result of the litigation settlement in the prior year.

Other Income

Other income decreased $0.3 million to $2.9 million, or 10.7%, for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 from $3.2 million for the nine months ended June 24, 2006 due primarily to reduced earnings from investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting in the garden segment in the 2007 fiscal third quarter.

Income Taxes

Our effective income tax rate was 38.1% for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 compared with 35.2% for the nine months ended June 24, 2006. The prior year effective tax rate was lower than that in the current fiscal year due principally to the reversal of tax contingency reserves of approximately $2.6 million in fiscal 2006. The reserves related to certain income tax credits taken in prior tax returns.

Inflation

The results of operations and financial condition are presented based upon historical cost. While it is difficult to accurately measure the impact of inflation, we believe that the effects of inflation on our operations have not been material.

Weather and Seasonality

Historically, our sales of lawn and garden products have been influenced by weather and climate conditions in the different markets we serve. Additionally, Garden Products’ business has historically been highly seasonal. In fiscal 2006, approximately 61% of Garden Products’ net sales and 56% of our total net sales occurred in the second and third fiscal quarters. Substantially all of Garden Products’ operating income is typically generated in these quarters, which have historically offset the operating loss incurred during the first fiscal quarter of the year.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We have financed our growth through a combination of bank borrowings, supplier credit, internally generated funds and sales of equity and debt securities to the public.

Historically, our business has been seasonal and our working capital requirements and capital resources tracked closely to this seasonal pattern. During the first fiscal quarter, accounts receivable reach their lowest level while inventory, accounts payable and short-term borrowings begin to increase. During the second fiscal quarter, receivables, accounts payable and short-term borrowings increase,

reflecting the build-up of inventory and related payables in anticipation of the peak lawn and garden selling season. During the third fiscal quarter, inventory levels remain relatively constant while accounts receivable peak and short-term borrowings start to decline as cash collections are received during the peak selling season. During the fourth fiscal quarter, inventory levels are at their lowest, and accounts receivable and payables are substantially reduced through conversion of receivables to cash.

We service two broad markets: pet supplies and lawn and garden supplies. Our pet supplies businesses involve products that have a year round selling cycle with a slight degree of seasonality. As a result, it is not necessary to maintain large quantities of inventory to meet peak demands. Additionally, this level sales cycle eliminates the need for manufacturers to give extended credit terms to either distributors or retailers. On the other hand, our lawn and garden businesses are highly seasonal with approximately 61% of Garden Products’ net sales occurring during the second and third fiscal quarters. For many manufacturers of garden products, this seasonality requires them to ship large quantities of their product well ahead of the peak consumer buying periods. To encourage distributors to stock large quantities of inventory, industry practice has been for manufacturers to give extended credit terms and/or promotional discounts.

The primary cash flows for the nine months ended June 30, 2007 were $2.9 million of cash used in operating activities and $63.4 million of cash used in investing activities, partially offset by $53.7 million of cash provided by financing activities. Net cash used in operating activities increased by $4.8 million due primarily to decreased earnings and increased inventory levels due to the decline in Garden segment sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2007, partially offset by an increase in accounts payable. Net cash used in investing activities decreased by $321.3 million from the prior year primarily due to fewer acquisitions made in fiscal 2007, partially offset by higher capital expenditures in the current year and the collection of a note in connection with a litigation settlement in the prior year. Net cash provided by financing activities decreased by $308.5 million from the prior year due primarily to lower amounts borrowed to fund acquisitions in the prior year.

At June 30, 2007, our total debt outstanding was $616.3 million compared to $594.1 million at June 24, 2006, due to recent acquisitions and increased seasonal working capital requirements.

Concurrent with the acquisition of Farnam, we arranged $650 million in senior secured credit facilities to finance the acquisition and to replace our then existing $125 million revolving credit facility maturing in May 2008 and our existing $175 million term loan maturing in May 2009. The new credit facilities consist of a $350 million revolving credit facility maturing in February 2011 and a $300 million term loan maturing in September 2012. Interest on the revolving credit facility is based at our option on a rate equal to prime plus a margin, which fluctuates from 0% to 0.25% or LIBOR plus a margin which fluctuates from 0.75% to 1.375%, determined quarterly based on consolidated total debt to consolidated EBITDA for the most recent trailing 12-month period. Interest on the term loan is based on a rate equal to LIBOR + 1.50% or the prime rate plus 0.50%, at our option. The term loan is payable in quarterly installments of $750,000 with the balance payable in September 2012. These facilities are secured by substantially all of our assets, contain certain financial covenants which require us to maintain minimum levels of interest coverage and maximum levels of total debt to EBITDA, and which restrict our ability to repurchase our stock, make investments in or acquisitions of other businesses and pay dividends above certain levels over the life of these facilities. In March 2007, we amended the maximum leverage and minimum interest coverage ratios in our credit agreement. We were in compliance with all financial covenants as of June 30, 2007. The balance outstanding at June 30, 2007 under the revolving credit facility was $169.0 million, and the remaining available borrowing capacity was $164.4 million, with $16.6 million outstanding under certain letters of credit.

We believe that cash flows from operating activities, funds available under our revolving credit facility, and arrangements with suppliers will be adequate to fund our presently anticipated working capital requirements for the foreseeable future. We anticipate that our capital expenditures will be approximately $60 million for fiscal 2007. The increase in expected capital expenditures, compared to our historical rate, is due to increased investment in plant and equipment and our implementation of a scalable enterprise-wide information technology platform to improve existing operations, to support future growth and to enable us to take advantage of new applications and technologies. We have invested approximately $27 million to-date in this initiative and anticipate investing an additional $18 million to implement our new information technology strategy over the next three years. This initiative, when complete, will combine our numerous information systems into one enterprise-wide system and create a common business model and common data, which should enable us to be more effective and efficient. Our capital expenditures in the first nine months of fiscal 2007 were approximately $47 million.

As part of our growth strategy, we have acquired a number of companies in the past, and we anticipate that we will continue to evaluate potential acquisition candidates and make strategic acquisitions in the future. If one or more potential acquisition opportunities, including those that would be material, become available in the near future, we may require additional external capital. In addition, such acquisitions would subject us to the general risks associated with acquiring companies, particularly if the acquisitions are relatively large.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

There have been no material changes to the information provided in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 regarding off-balance sheet arrangements.

Contractual Obligations

There have been no material changes outside the ordinary course of business in our contractual obligations set forth in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We believe there has been no material change in our exposure to market risk from that discussed in our fiscal 2006 Annual Report filed on Form 10-K, except as follows:

Commodity Prices. We are exposed to fluctuations in market prices for grains, grass seed and pet food ingredients. To mitigate risk associated with increases in market prices and commodity availability, we enter into contracts for purchases, primarily to ensure commodity availability to us in the future. As of September 30, 2006, we had entered into fixed purchase commitments for fiscal 2007 totaling approximately $113 million. A 10% change in the market price for these commodities would have resulted in an additional pretax gain or loss of $11.3 million related to the contracts outstanding as of September 30, 2006. As of September 24, 2005, we had entered into fixed purchase commitments for fiscal 2006 totaling approximately $95 million. A 10% change in the market price for these commodities would have resulted in an additional pretax gain or loss of $9.5 million related to the contracts outstanding as of September 24, 2005. In 2006, crop yields for grass seed and for the primary components of wild bird feed were adversely impacted by drought conditions in key growing regions of the United States and by farmers shifting to corn-based crops for the production of ethanol to meet increased demand. During fiscal 2007, prices for some of our key crops continued to increase substantially.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

(a) Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have reviewed, as of the end of the period covered by this report, the “disclosure controls and procedures” (as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) that ensure that information relating to the Company required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely and proper manner and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based upon this review, we believe that the controls and procedures in place are effective to ensure that information relating to the Company that is required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is properly disclosed as required by the Exchange Act and related regulations.

(b) Changes in internal controls. There were no changes in our internal controls during our last fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting. On February 28, 2006, we purchased Farnam Companies, Inc. for approximately $291 million. We continue to integrate Farnam’s business and system of internal controls into the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting. This integration may lead to our making changes in our or Farnam’s historical internal controls over financial reporting in future periods.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

We are not currently a party to any material legal proceedings.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Except as set forth below, there have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our Form 10-K in response to Item 1A. to Part I of Form 10-K.

Seeds and grains we use to produce bird feed and grass seed are commodity products subject to price volatility that has had, and could have, a negative impact on us.

Our financial results depend to some extent on the cost of raw materials and our ability to pass along increases in these costs to our customers. In particular, our Pennington and Kaytee subsidiaries are exposed to fluctuations in market prices for commodity seeds and grains used to produce bird feed. Historically, market prices for commodity seeds and grains have fluctuated in response to a number of factors, including changes in United States government farm support programs, changes in international agricultural and trading policies and weather conditions during the growing and harvesting seasons. In the event of any increases in raw materials costs, we are required to increase sales prices to avoid margin deterioration.

To mitigate our exposure to changes in market prices, we enter into purchase contracts for grains, bird feed and grass seed to cover up to approximately one-third of the purchase requirements for a selling season. Since these contracts cover only a portion of our purchase requirements, as market prices for grains increase, our cost of production increases as well. In contrast, if market prices for grains decrease because of a lack of demand, we may end up purchasing grains and seeds pursuant to the purchase contracts at prices above market. In 2006, crop yields for grass seed and for the primary components of wild bird feed, notably sunflower, milo and millet, were adversely impacted by drought conditions in key growing regions of the United States. Supply has been further limited as more and more farmers shift to corn-based crops for the production of ethanol to meet increased demand. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 and the first three quarters of fiscal 2007, prices for some of our key crops increased substantially. Although we have been able to negotiate price increases with some of our retailers, these price increases have not fully offset the rising costs. We cannot assure you as to the timing or extent of our ability to implement price adjustments in the current context of rising costs or in the event of increased costs in the future. Based on our grain costs for the year-to-date and our forecast for the balance of the fiscal year, we believe that our cost of goods for grain will increase in excess of $25 to 30 million in fiscal 2007 over fiscal 2006. The impact of these grain cost increases will be partially offset by any price increases that we are able to obtain from our retailers. We also cannot predict to what extent price increases may negatively affect our sales volume. Moreover, as retailers pass along price increases, consumers may shift to our lower margin pet bird feed, switch to competing products or reduce purchases of wild bird feed products.

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

We did not repurchase any of our equity securities during the quarter ended June 30, 2007. We still have authorization to purchase approximately $90 million in shares under our previously announced share repurchase program.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not applicable

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Not applicable

Item 5. Other Information

Not applicable

Item 6. Exhibits


4.1		Specimen Certificate for Registrant’s Class A Common Stock (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registrant’s Form 8-A/12B filed January 24, 2007.

10.1		Amendment No. 4 dated March 15, 2007 to the Credit Agreement, dated February 28, 2006, among Central Garden & Pet Company, the Subsidiary Guarantors and lenders thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 20, 2007).

10.2		Employment Agreement between Central Garden & Pet Company and James V. Heim, dated May 31, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed June 6, 2007).

31.1		Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2		Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1		Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

32.2		Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

SIGNATURES

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

CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANY

Registrant

Dated: August 8, 2007

/s/ GLENN W. NOVOTNY

Glenn W. Novotny

President and Chief Executive Officer

/s/ STUART W. BOOTH

Stuart W. Booth

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer