Our customer base includes key (generally large) customers that are crucial
to our success. If key customers experience financial pressure, they could attempt
to demand more favorable contractual terms, which would place additional pressure
on our margins and cash flows. In addition, our success depends on our ability
to respond timely to changes in customer product needs and market acceptance
of our products. We must produce products that meet the quality, performance,
and price expectations of our customers. Changes in customers’ preferences
for our products can also affect the demand for our products. Lower demand for
our products could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results
of operations.
While the Company’s sales are made through a variety of distribution
methods, more than 90 percent of sales are made by the Company’s direct
sales force. Sales offices and plants are located throughout North America,
Latin America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific to provide prompt and economical service
to more than 30,000 customers. The Company’s technically trained sales
force is supported by product development engineers, design technicians, and
a customer service organization.
No single customer accounts for ten percent or more of the Company’s total
sales. Nevertheless, business arrangements with large customers require a large
portion of the manufacturing capacity at a few individual manufacturing sites.
Any change in the business arrangement would typically occur over a period of
time, which would allow for an orderly transition for both the Company’s
manufacturing site and the customer.