UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

For the quarterly period ended April 4, 2015

Or

For the transition period from                      to                     

Commission file number: 0-27598

 

IRIDEX CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (650) 940-4700

 

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.    Yes  þ    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  þ    No  ¨

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.

 

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

The number of shares of common stock, $0.01 par value, issued and outstanding as of April 27, 2015 was 10,028,886.

 

 

 

 

 

---

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

2

---

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

IRIDEX Corporation

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited, in thousands except share and per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

3

---

IRIDEX Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited, in thousands except per share data)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

4

---

IRIDEX Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(Unaudited, in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

5

---

IRIDEX Corporation

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited, in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

6

---

IRIDEX Corporation

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

1. Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of IRIDEX Corporation (“IRIDEX”, the “Company”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. GAAP for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial statements have been included.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, together with management’s discussion and analysis of the Company’s financial condition and results of operations, contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2015, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on April 2, 2015. The results of operations for the three months ended April 4, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the year ending January 2, 2016 or any future interim period. The three month periods ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, each had 13 weeks. For purposes of reporting the financial results, the Company’s fiscal years end on the Saturday closest to the end of December. Periodically, the Company adds a 53rd week to a year in order to end that year on the Saturday closest to the end of December.

 

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The Company’s significant accounting policies are disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 2015, which was filed with the SEC on April 2, 2015.

Financial Statement Presentation.

The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates.

The preparation of unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates. In addition, any change in these estimates or their related assumptions could have an adverse effect on our operating results.

Revenue Recognition.

Our revenues arise from the sale of laser consoles, delivery devices, consumables and service and support activities. Revenue from product sales is recognized upon receipt of a purchase order and product shipment provided that no significant obligations remain collectibility is reasonably assured. Shipments are generally made with Free-On-Board (“FOB”) shipping point terms, whereby title passes upon shipment from our dock. Any shipments with FOB receiving point terms are recorded as revenue when the shipment arrives at the receiving point. Cost is recognized as product sales revenue is recognized. The Company’s sales may include post-sales obligations for training or other deliverables. For revenue arrangements such as these, we recognize revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 605, Revenue Recognition, Multiple-Element Arrangements. The Company allocates revenue among deliverables in multiple-element arrangements using the relative selling price method. Revenue allocated to each element is recognized when the basic revenue recognition criteria is met for each element. The Company is required to apply a hierarchy to determine the selling price to be used for allocating revenue to deliverables: (i) vendor-specific objective evidence of selling price (“VSOE”), (ii) third-party evidence of selling price (“TPE”) and (iii) best estimate of the selling price (“ESP”). In general, the Company is unable to establish VSOE or TPE for all of the elements in the arrangement; therefore, revenue is allocated to these elements based on the Company’s ESP, which the Company determines after considering multiple factors such as management approved pricing guidelines, geographic differences, market conditions, competitor pricing strategies, internal costs and gross margin objectives. These factors may vary over time depending upon the unique facts and circumstances related to each deliverable. As a result, the Company’s ESP for products and services could change. Revenues for post-sales obligations are recognized as the obligations are fulfilled.

7

---

In international regions, we utilize distributors to market and sell our products. We recognize revenue upon shipment for sales to these independent, third-party distributors as we have no continuing obligations subsequent to shipment. Generally our distributors are responsible for all marketing, sales, installation, training and warranty labor coverage for our products. Our standard terms and conditions do not provide price protection or stock retention rights to any of our distributors.

Royalty revenues are typically based on licensees’ net sales of products that utilize our technology and are recognized as earned in accordance with the contract terms when royalties from licensees can be reliably measured and collectibility is reasonably assured, such as upon the earlier of the receipt of a royalty statement from the licensee or upon payment by the licensee.

Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities.

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are recognized on a net basis in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.

Shipping and Handling Costs.

Our shipping and handling costs billed to customers are included in revenues and the associated expense is recorded in cost of revenues for all periods presented.

Deferred Revenue.

Revenue related to extended service contracts is deferred and recognized on a straight line basis over the period of the applicable service contract. Costs associated with these service arrangements are recognized as incurred.

A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s deferred revenue balance for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014 is as follows:

 

Warranty.

The Company generally provides a one to two year warranty on its products, which is accrued for upon shipment of products. Actual warranty costs incurred have not materially differed from those accrued. The Company’s warranty policy is applicable to products which are considered defective in their performance or fail to meet the product specifications. Warranty costs are reflected in the statement of operations as cost of revenues.

A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s warranty liability for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014 is as follows:

 

8

---

Recently Issued and Adopted Accounting Standards.

 

In May 2014, as part of its ongoing efforts to assist in the convergence of U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” The new guidance sets forth a new five-step revenue recognition model which replaces the prior revenue recognition guidance in its entirety and is intended to eliminate numerous industry-specific pieces of revenue recognition guidance that have historically existed in U.S. GAAP. The underlying principle of the new standard is that a business or other organization will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects what it expects in exchange for the goods or services. The standard also requires more detailed disclosures and provides additional guidance for transactions that were not addressed completely in the prior accounting guidance. The ASU provides alternative methods of initial adoption and is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. We are currently evaluating the impact that this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, “Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period (a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force)”. The ASU clarifies that entities should treat performance targets that can be met after the requisite service period of a share-based payment award as performance conditions that affect vesting. Therefore, an entity would not record compensation expense (measured as of the grant date without taking into account the effect of the performance target) related to an award for which transfer to the employee is contingent on the entity’s satisfaction of a performance target until it becomes probable that the performance target will be met. The ASU does not contain any new disclosure requirements. For all entities, the ASU is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. We expect to adopt this standard in fiscal 2016 and do not expect the adoption of this standard to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

 

3. Inventories

The components of the Company’s inventories as of April 4, 2015 and January 3, 2015 are as follows:

 

 

 

4. Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill.

The carrying value of goodwill was $0.5 million as of April 4, 2015 and January 3, 2015.

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired in a business combination. The Company reviews goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. The Company first assesses qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. If, after assessing the totality of circumstances, an entity determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then it is required to perform the two-step impairment test. An entity is not required to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit unless the entity determines that it is more likely than not that its fair value is less than its carrying value. However, an entity also has the option to bypass the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in any period and proceed directly to performing the first step of the two-step goodwill impairment test. The Company has determined that it has a single reporting unit for purposes of performing its goodwill impairment test. As the Company uses the market approach to assess impairment, its common stock price is an important component of the fair value calculation. If the Company’s stock price continues to experience significant price and volume fluctuations, this will impact the fair value of the reporting unit and can lead to potential impairment in future periods. The Company performed its annual impairment test during the second quarter of fiscal 2014 and determined that its goodwill was not impaired. As of April 4, 2015, the Company had not identified any factors that indicated there was an impairment of its goodwill and determined that no additional impairment analysis was then required.

9

---

Intangible Assets.

The following table summarizes the components of gross and net intangible asset balances:

 

 

Amortization expense totaled $4 thousand and $32 thousand for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, respectively.

The amortization of customer relations was charged to sales and marketing expense and the amortization of patents was charged to cost of revenues.

 

 

 

5. Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity’s own assumptions about market participant assumptions developed based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

In determining fair value, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the extent possible, as well as considers counterparty credit risk in its assessment of fair value.

The carrying amounts of the Company’s financial assets and liabilities, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued expenses as of April 4, 2015 and January 3, 2015, approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments.

10

---

As of April 4, 2015 and January 3, 2015, financial assets and liabilities measured and recognized at fair value on a recurring basis and classified under the appropriate level of the fair value hierarchy as described above were as follows:

 

The Company’s Level 1 financial assets are money market funds whose fair values are based on quoted market prices. The Company does not have any Level 2 financial assets or liabilities. The fair value of the earn-out liability arising from the acquisitions of RetinaLabs, Inc. and Ocunetics, Inc. is classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy since it is based on significant unobservable inputs. The significant unobservable inputs include projected royalties and discount rates to present value the payments. A significant increase (decrease) in the projected royalty payments in isolation could result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement and a significant increase (decrease) in the discount rate in isolation could result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. The fair value of the earn-out liability is calculated on a quarterly basis by the Company based on a collaborative effort of the Company’s operations, finance and accounting groups as additional information becomes available. Any change in the fair value adjustment is recorded in the statement of operations of that period.

The following table presents quantitative information about the inputs and valuation methodologies used for our fair value measurements classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy as of April 4, 2015.

 

A reconciliation of the changes in the Company’s earn-out liability (Level 3 liability) for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014 is as follows:

 

The earn-out liability is included in accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Any change in the fair value adjustment is recorded to other expense in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

6. Stock Based Compensation

The Company accounts for stock-based compensation granted to employees and directors, including employees stock option awards, restricted stock and restricted stock units in accordance with ASC 718, Compensation – Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”). Accordingly, stock-based compensation cost is measured at grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as expense over the employee’s service period. The Company recognizes compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award.

The Company values options using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Restricted stock and time-based restricted stock units are valued at the grant date fair value of the underlying common shares. Performance-based restricted stock units are valued using the Monte Carlo simulation model. The Black-Scholes option pricing model requires the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions which determine the fair value of share-based awards, including the option’s expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock. The Monte Carlo simulation model incorporates assumptions for the holding period, risk-free interest rate, stock price volatility and dividend yield.

11

---

2008 Equity Incentive Plan.

For the three months ended April 4, 2015, the only active share-based compensation plan was the 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Incentive Plan”). The terms of awards granted during the three months ended April 4, 2015 were consistent with those described in the consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 2015.

Summary of Stock Options

The following table summarizes information regarding activity in our stock option plan during the three months ended April 4, 2015:

 

The weighted average grant date fair value of the options granted under the Company’s stock plans as calculated using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model was $4.61 and $4.09 per share for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, respectively.  

The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate fair value of stock-based awards (options) with the following weighted average assumptions:

 

Option-pricing models require the input of various subjective assumptions, including the option’s expected life and the price volatility of the underlying stock. The expected stock price volatility is based on analysis of the Company’s stock price history over a period commensurate with the expected term of the options, trading volume of the Company’s stock, look-back volatilities and Company specific events that affected volatility in a prior period. The expected term of employee stock options represents the weighted average period the stock options are expected to remain outstanding and is based on the history of exercises and cancellations on all past option grants made by the Company, the contractual term, the vesting period and the expected remaining term of the outstanding options. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury interest rates whose term is consistent with the expected life of the stock options. No dividend yield is included as the Company has not issued any dividends and does not anticipate issuing any dividends in the future.

The following table shows stock-based compensation expense included in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014:

 

Approximately $56 thousand and $17 thousand of the stock-based compensation recognized was capitalized into inventory as a component of overhead for the quarters ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, respectively.

12

---

Occasionally, the Company will grant stock-based instruments to non-employees. During the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, the amount related to stock-based compensation was not material.  

Information regarding stock options outstanding, vested and expected to vest and exercisable as of April 4, 2015 is summarized below:

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the pre-tax intrinsic value, based on the Company’s closing price as of April 3, 2015, that would have been received by option holders had all option holders exercised their stock options as of that date. This amount changes based on the fair market value of the Company’s stock. The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014 was approximately $745 thousand and $462 thousand, respectively.

As of April 4, 2015, there was $2.5 million of total unrecognized compensation cost, net of expected forfeitures, related to non-vested share-based compensation arrangements under the Incentive Plan. The cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.54 years.

Summary of Restricted Stock Units and Awards

Information regarding the restricted stock units activity for the three months ended April 4, 2015 is summarized below:

 

  

On January 9, 2015, the Company granted restricted stock unit awards for 56,000 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Retention Award”) under the terms of the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, to six executives of the Company. The Retention Award will vest over 4 years, with 20% of the Retention Award vesting on grant date and the remaining 80% vesting annually. The fair value at grant date for the restricted stock units was $485 thousand.

 

On January 9, 2015, the Company also granted restricted stock unit awards for up to 110,000 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Performance Award”) under the terms of the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, to these same six executives of the Company. The number of shares issuable pursuant to the Market Performance Award will be based upon the Company’s stock average closing price during the 60 day period following the date the service condition is met. The Performance Award is expected to vest on January 9, 2019, given that no other vesting triggers occur prior to that date. To the extent that the market condition is not met, the Market Performance Award will not vest and will be cancelled. Utilizing the Monte Carlo simulation technique, which incorporated assumptions for the expected holding period, risk-free interest rate, stock price volatility and dividend yield, the fair value of these restricted stock units was $486 thousand. Compensation expense is recognized ratably until such time as the market condition is satisfied.

 

On January 9, 2015, the Company granted a restricted stock unit award for up to 50,000 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Market Performance Award”) under the terms of the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, to the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. The number of shares issuable pursuant to the Market Performance Award will be based upon the Company’s stock average closing price during the 60 day period following the date the service condition is met. The Market Performance Award is expected to vest on January 9, 2019, given that no other vesting triggers occur prior to that date. To the extent that the market condition is not met, the Market Performance Award will not vest and will be cancelled. Utilizing the Monte Carlo simulation technique, which incorporated assumptions for the expected holding period, risk-free interest rate, stock price volatility and dividend yield, the fair value of these restricted stock units was $234 thousand. Compensation expense is recognized ratably until such time as the market condition is satisfied.

 

13

---

 

The majority of the restricted stock units that were released in the three months ended April 4, 2015 were net-share settled such that the Company withheld shares with value equivalent to the employees’ minimum statutory obligation for the applicable income and other employment taxes, and remitted the cash to the appropriate taxing authorities. The total shares withheld were based on the value of the restricted stock units on their release date as determined by the Company’s closing stock price. These net-share settlements had the effect of share repurchases by the Company as they reduced and retired the number of shares that would have otherwise been issued as a result of the release and did not represent an expense to the Company. For the three months ended April 4, 2015, 201,200 shares of restricted stock units were released with an intrinsic value of approximately $1.8 million. The Company withheld 66,365 shares to satisfy approximately $600 thousand of employees’ minimum tax obligation on the released restricted stock units.

 

There were no restricted stock awards granted, vested or forfeited for the three months ended April 4, 2015. As of April 4, 2015, 2,445 shares of restricted stock awards were outstanding.

Stock Repurchase Program.

In February 2013, the Board of Directors approved a one year $3.0 million stock repurchase program that replaced the prior two year $4.0 million stock repurchase program. In February 2014, the Board of Directors approved the extension of the plan for an additional year. In July 2014, the Board of Directors approved a further extension of the plan for an additional year and authorized an additional $3.0 million of stock repurchases under this plan. For the three months ended April 4, 2015, the Company has purchased 21,539 shares at an average price of $8.89 per share. As of April 4, 2015, the Company has repurchased 659,004 shares for $5,282,728 under this current program and the Company still has the authorization to purchase up to $0.7 million in common shares under the stock repurchase program. See Item 2, Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds in Part II, Other Information, for additional information.

 

7. Income Taxes

Provision for Income Tax.

The Company calculates its interim tax provision in accordance with the provisions of ASC 740-270, “Income Taxes; Interim Reporting”. For interim periods, the Company estimates its annual effective income tax rate and applies the estimated rate to the year-to-date income or loss before income taxes. The Company also computes the tax provision or benefit related to items reported separately and recognizes the items net of their related tax effect in the interim periods in which they occur. The Company also recognizes the effect of changes in enacted tax laws or rates in the interim periods in which the changes occur. The Company recorded a provision for income taxes of $150 thousand for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and $13 thousand for the three months ended March 29, 2014.

Deferred Income Taxes.

The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740, “Income Taxes” (“ASC 740”), which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities. ASC 740 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company's management determined, based on the Company's recent history of earnings coupled with its forecasted profitability that it is more likely than not that all of its federal and the majority of its state deferred tax assets will be realized in the foreseeable future.  Accordingly, in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company released $9.2 million of valuation allowance against most of its deferred tax assets except for the California Research and Development Credits. The Company maintains the same positions as of April 4, 2015 and will reevaluate the position on a quarterly basis.

Uncertain Tax Positions.

The Company accounts for its uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740. As of April 4, 2015, the Company had $0.9 million of unrecognized tax benefits. Recognition of this amount as of April 4, 2015 would affect the Company’s tax rate.

The Company is not aware of any other uncertain tax positions that could result in significant additional payments, accruals or other material deviation in this estimate during the fiscal year.

The Company files U.S. federal and state returns, as well as foreign returns in France. The tax years 2008 to 2014 remain open in several jurisdictions, none of which have individual significance.

 

14

---

8. Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share

Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income for the period by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period.

Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing net income for the period by the weighted average number of shares, plus the weighted average common stock equivalents outstanding during the period. The Company excludes options from the computation of diluted weighted average shares outstanding if the exercise price of the options is greater than the average market price of the shares because the inclusion of these options would be anti-dilutive to earnings per share. Accordingly, for the three months ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, stock options to purchase 191,221 and 48,253 shares, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted weighted average shares outstanding.  

A reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of basic and diluted net income per common share is provided as follows:

 

 

 

9. Business Segments

The Company operates in one segment, ophthalmology. The Company develops, manufactures and markets medical devices. Our revenues arise from the sale of consoles, delivery devices, consumables, service and support activities.

Revenue information shown by geographic region, based on the location at which each sale originates, is as follows:

 

 

Revenues are attributed to countries based on location of end customers. No individual country accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s revenues, other than the United States, which accounted for 51.7% and 45.6% of revenues for the three month periods ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, respectively.

No one customer accounted for more than 10% of total revenues for the three month periods ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014, respectively.

No one customer accounted for more than 10% of accounts receivable balance as of April 4, 2015. One customer accounted for more than 10% of accounts receivable balance as of January 3, 2015.

 

15

---

10. Subsequent Events

The Company has evaluated subsequent events and has concluded that no subsequent events that require disclosure in the financial statements have occurred since the quarter ended April 4, 2015.

 

16

---

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

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains trend analysis and other forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, such as statements relating to our anticipated levels of future sales; our operating results and long term growth; market acceptance and adoption of our products and our outlook for system sales; our gross margin goals and performance; the success of our efforts to reduce costs and manage cash flows; general economic conditions, including changes in foreign currency rates, and levels of international sales; corporate strategy; effects of seasonality; inspections by and approvals required by the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”); our current and future liquidity and capital requirements; our stock repurchase program; levels of future investment in research and development and sales and marketing efforts; and our product distribution strategies with Alcon, Inc. and Peregrine Surgical Ltd.; and compliance of our devices and products with various environmental laws and regulations. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “intends,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including as a result of the factors set forth under “Factors That May Affect Future Operating Results” and other risks detailed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 2, 2015 and detailed from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s analysis only as of the date of this quarterly report on Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this report.

Overview

IRIDEX Corporation is a leading worldwide provider of therapeutic based laser systems, delivery devices and consumable instrumentation used to treat sight-threatening eye diseases in ophthalmology. Our ophthalmology products are sold in the United States through direct and independent sales forces and internationally through approximately 70 independent distributors into over 100 countries.

We manage and evaluate our business in one reporting segment – ophthalmology. We break down this segment by geography –  Domestic (U.S.) and International (the rest of the world). In addition, we review trends by laser system sales (consoles and durable delivery devices) and recurring sales (single use laser probes and other associated instrumentation (“consumables”) and service and support).

Our ophthalmology revenues arise primarily from the sale of our IQ and OcuLight laser systems, consumables and service and support activities. Our current family of IQ products includes IQ 532, IQ 577 and IQ 810 laser photocoagulation systems and our OcuLight products include OcuLight TX, OcuLight GL, OcuLight GLx , OcuLight SL, and OcuLight SLx laser photocoagulation systems. Certain of our laser systems are capable of performing our patented Fovea-Friendly MicroPulse laser photocoagulation in addition to conventional continuous wavelength photocoagulation offered by all of our laser systems. Towards the end of 2012, we introduced the TxCell Scanning Laser Delivery System, a durable delivery device which operates with our IQ 532 and IQ 577 laser consoles. The TxCell Scanning Laser Delivery System saves significant time in a variety of laser photocoagulation procedures by allowing physicians to deliver the laser in a multi-spot scanning mode, a more efficient method for these procedures than the traditional single spot mode, and facilitates the use of the laser console in MicroPulse mode. The majority of our recurring revenues come from the sale of laser probes and our current family of laser probes includes a wide variety of products in 20, 23 and 25 gauge for vitreoretinal surgery and glaucoma surgery.

In February 2015, we launched our Cyclo G6 Glaucoma laser platform for sale in the U.S. The platform consists of a family of single use probes that connect to an intuitive, user-friendly laser console. The platform is designed to treat patients with a range of glaucoma disease states and features the Company’s proprietary MicroPulse tissue-sparing technology. The Company believes this is a significant strategic step in advancing its business model as it allows IRIDEX to participate in both capital equipment sales and the faster growing single use procedural sales of the glaucoma market.

Sales to international distributors are made on open credit terms or letters of credit and are currently denominated in U.S. dollars and accordingly, are not subject to risks associated with currency fluctuations.

Cost of revenues consists primarily of the cost of purchasing components and sub-systems, assembling, packaging, shipping and testing components at our facility, direct labor and associated overhead; warranty, royalty and amortization of intangible assets; and depot service costs.

Research and development expenses consist primarily of personnel costs and materials to support new product development; and regulatory expenses. Research and development costs have been expensed as incurred.

17

---

Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of costs of personnel, sales commissions, travel expenses, advertising and promotional expenses.

General and administrative expenses consist primarily of costs of personnel, legal, accounting, the medical device tax and other public company costs, insurance and other expenses not allocated to other departments.

Results of Operations

The following table sets forth certain operating data as a percentage of revenues:

 

The following comparisons are between the three month periods ended April 4, 2015 and March 29, 2014:

Revenues.

 

Our total revenues increased $0.5 million, or 4.5%, from $10.3 million to $10.8 million. Domestic system sales and recurring revenues benefited from the launch of our Cyclo G6 laser platform which was introduced to the domestic market in a bundled offering consisting of a laser console that is recorded as a system sale and a starter kit of glaucoma probes that are recorded as recurring revenues. International system sales were negatively impacted by foreign currency fluctuation that occurred during the quarter.

Gross Profit and Gross Margin.

Gross profit was $5.4 million compared with $5.1 million, an increase of $0.4 million or 7.0%. Gross margin was 50.1% compared with 48.9%, an increase of 1.2 percentage points. The improvement in gross margin was primarily attributable to manufacturing variances, resulting in an increase of 2.3 percentage points. Additionally, direct margins improved 0.2 percentage points. These gains were offset by an increase in manufacturing overhead spending, partly due to a number of one-time expenses resulting in a decrease of 1.3 percentage points.

Gross margins as a percentage of revenues will continue to fluctuate due to changes in the relative proportions of domestic and international sales, the product mix of sales, manufacturing variances, total unit volume changes that lead to greater or lesser production efficiencies and a variety of other factors. See Item 1A. “Risk Factors - Factors That May Affect Future Results– ‘Our Operating Results May Fluctuate from Quarter to Quarter and Year to Year.’”

18

---

Research and Development.

Research and development (“R&D”) expenses increased $0.1 million, or 7.3%, from $1.2 million to $1.3 million. The increase in spending was attributable primarily to an increase in investments in headcount and associated costs, and ongoing investments in new product development activities.

Sales and Marketing.

Sales and marketing expenses increased $0.3 million, or 18.5%, from $1.7 million to $2.1 million. The increase in spending was attributable to an increase in commissions and other selling expenses as a result of increased sales and adding to our marketing headcount, and an increase in other marketing expenses.

General and Administrative.

General and administrative expenses increased $0.1 million, or 9.2%, from $1.5 million to $1.7 million. The increase in spending was primarily attributable to an increase in legal expenses.

Other Expense, Net.

Interest and other expense, net consisted primarily of expense recorded for the fair value re-measurement of the contingent earn-out liabilities incurred as a result for our acquisitions and amounted to $7 thousand in 2015 and $97 thousand in 2014.

Income Taxes.

The Company recorded an income tax provision of $150 thousand in 2015 and $13 thousand in 2014. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company had a deferred tax asset which was fully offset by a valuation allowance. Consequently, the effective tax rate used to calculate the income tax provision in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014 was significantly reduced due to the change in the valuation allowance in the quarter and was 2.6%. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company released $9.2 million of valuation allowance. Consequently, the effective tax rate used to calculate the income tax provision in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015 did not benefit from any change in the valuation allowance in the quarter and was 37.9%.

Liquidity and Capital Resources.

Liquidity is our ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operating activities to meet our obligations and commitments. In addition, liquidity includes the ability to obtain appropriate financing or to raise capital.

As of April 4, 2015, we had cash and cash equivalents of $13.1 million, working capital of $26.0 million compared to cash and cash equivalents of $13.3 million and working capital of $25.9 million as of January 3, 2015. For the three months ended April 4, 2015, net cash of $0.6 million was provided by operating activities, which was generated by income from operations of $0.2 million and the add back of non-cash items of $0.6 million, partially offset by changes in operating assets by $0.3 million, including an additional $0.7 million invested in inventory primarily in anticipation of the launch of our Cyclo G6 Glaucoma laser platform. We used $0.5 million net cash in investing activities; $0.4 million on capital expenditures and $0.1 million for payment of the contingent earn-out liability. We used $0.3 million net cash in financing activities; we spent $0.2 million to purchase stock under our stock repurchase program, $0.6 million to pay payroll withholding taxes related to net shares settlement of equity awards which was partially offset by $0.5 million generated from exercises of stock options. See Item 2, Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds in Part II, Other Information, for additional information.  

Management is of the opinion that the Company’s current cash and cash equivalents together with our ability to generate cash flows from operations provide sufficient liquidity to operate for the next 12 months.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments.

Our contractual obligations and commitments as of April 4, 2015 are as follows:

 

19

---

Our operating lease commitments consist primarily of our facility lease and various office and computer equipment leases.

Our purchase commitments consist primarily of non-cancellable purchase commitments with vendors to manufacture certain components and ophthalmic instrumentation.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.

We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a material current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources.

Other Information

IRIDEX Corporation was incorporated in California in February 1989 as IRIS Medical Instruments, Inc. In November 1995, we changed our name to IRIDEX Corporation and reincorporated in Delaware. Our executive offices are located at 1212 Terra Bella Avenue, Mountain View, California 94043-1824, and our telephone number is (650) 940-4700. We can also be reached at our website at www.IRIDEX.com. Investors and others should note that we announce material financial information to our investors using SEC filings, press releases, our investor relations website, public conference calls and webcasts. We use these channels as well as social media to communicate with investors, customers and the public about our company, our products and other issues. It is possible that the information we post on social media channels could be deemed to be material information. We encourage investors, our customers, and others interested in our company to review the information we post on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/IRIDEX) and Twitter feed (https://twitter.com/IRIDEX). Any information on, or that can be accessed through, our website and social media channels is not part of this report.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

Market risk represents the risk of loss that may impact the financial position, results of operations or cash flows due to adverse changes in financial and commodity market prices and rates. We transact the majority of our business in U.S. dollars and therefore changes in foreign currency rates are not expected to have a significant impact on our income statement or cash flows. However, increases in the value of the U.S. dollar against any local currencies could cause our products to become relatively more expensive to customers in a particular country or region, leading to reduced revenue or profitability in that country or region. As we continue to expand our international sales, our non-U.S. dollar denominated revenue and our exposure to gains and losses on international currency transactions may increase. We currently do not engage in transactions to hedge against the risk of the currency fluctuation, but we may do so in the future.

Interest Rate Risk.

Our exposure to interest rate risk as of April 4, 2015 is related to our cash equivalent holdings, which is nominal given the nature of our cash equivalent holdings. Since we have no fixed or variable interest rate debt outstanding, our interest expense is not affected by changes in interest rates. In the event we issue any new debt in the future, increases in interest rates will increase the interest expense associated with the debt.

 

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures.

We maintain “disclosure controls and procedures,” as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act, that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, 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. In designing and evaluating our disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the disclosure controls and procedures are met. Additionally, in designing disclosure controls and procedures, our management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible disclosure controls and procedures. The design of any disclosure controls and procedures also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions.

20

---

As required by SEC Rule 13a-15(b), we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of April 4, 2015. Based on the foregoing, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this Form 10-Q that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

 

21

---

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we may be involved in legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. Although the results of litigation and claims cannot be predicted with certainty, we currently believe that the final outcome of these ordinary course matters will not have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, financial condition or cash flows. Regardless of the outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on us because of defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources and other factors.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Factors That May Affect Future Results

In addition to the other information contained in this Quarterly Report Form 10-Q, we have identified the following risks and uncertainties that may have a material adverse effect on our business, common stock price, financial condition or results of operation. You should carefully consider the risks described below before making an investment decision.

We depend on international sales for a significant portion of our operating results.

We derive, and expect to continue to derive, a large portion of our revenues from international sales. For the first quarter of fiscal 2015, our international ophthalmology sales were $5.2 million or 48.3% of total revenues. We anticipate that international sales will continue to account for a significant portion of our revenues in the foreseeable future. For our continuing ophthalmology business, none of our international revenues and costs have been denominated in foreign currencies. As a result, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies makes our products more expensive and thus less competitive in foreign markets. Our international operations and sales are subject to a number of risks and potential costs, including:

Any one or more of these factors stated above could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

As we expand our existing international operations we may encounter new risks. For example, as we focus on building our international sales and distribution networks in new geographic regions, we must continue to develop relationships with qualified local distributors and trading companies. If we are not successful in developing these relationships, we may not be able to grow sales in these geographic regions. These or other similar risks could adversely affect our revenues and profitability.

We are exposed to risks associated with worldwide economic slowdowns and related uncertainties.

We are subject to macro-economic fluctuations in the U.S. and worldwide economy. Concerns about consumer and investor confidence, volatile corporate profits and reduced capital spending, international conflicts, terrorist and military activity, civil unrest

22

---

and pandemic illness could reduce customer orders or cause customer order cancellations. In addition, political and social turmoil related to international conflicts and terrorist acts may put further pressure on economic conditions in the United States and abroad.

Weak economic conditions and declines in consumer spending and consumption may harm our operating results. Purchases of our products are often discretionary. During uncertain economic times, customers or potential customers may delay, reduce or forego their purchases of our products and services, which may impact our business in a number of ways, including lower prices for our products and services and reducing or delaying sales. There could be a number of follow-on effects from economic uncertainty on our business, including insolvency of key suppliers resulting in product delays, delays in customer payments of outstanding accounts receivable and/or customer insolvencies, counterparty failures negatively impacting our operations, and increasing expense or inability to obtain future financing.

If economic uncertainty persisted, or if the economy entered a prolonged period of decelerating growth, our results of operations may be harmed.

Our operating results may fluctuate from quarter to quarter and year to year.

Our sales and operating results may vary significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year in the future. Our operating results are affected by a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. Factors contributing to these fluctuations include the following:

In addition to these factors, our quarterly results have been, and are expected to continue to be, affected by seasonal factors. For example, our European sales during the third quarter are generally lower due to many businesses being closed for the summer vacation season.

Our expense levels are based, in part, on expected future sales. If sales levels in a particular quarter do not meet expectations, we may be unable to adjust operating expenses quickly enough to compensate for the shortfall of sales, and our results of operations may be adversely affected. In addition, we have historically made a significant portion of each quarter’s product shipments near the end of the quarter. If that pattern continues, any delays in shipment of products could have a material adverse effect on results of operations for such quarter. Due to these and other factors, we believe that quarter to quarter and year to year comparisons of our past operating results may not be meaningful. You should not rely on our results for any quarter or year as an indication of our future performance. Our operating results in future quarters and years may be below expectations, which would likely cause the price of our common stock to fall.

Our stock price has been and may continue to be volatile and an investment in our common stock could suffer a decline in value.

The trading price of our common stock has been subject to wide fluctuations in response to a variety of factors, some of which are beyond our control, including changes in foreign currency exchange rates, quarterly variations in our operating results, announcements by us or our competitors of new products or of significant clinical achievements, changes in market valuations of other similar companies in our industry and general market conditions. For the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the trading price of our common stock fluctuated from a low of $8.46 per share to a high of $11.28 per share. There can be no assurance that our common stock trading price will not suffer declines. Our common stock may experience an imbalance between supply and demand resulting from low

23

---

trading volumes and therefore broad market fluctuations could have a significant impact on the market price of our common stock regardless of our performance.

We rely on continued market acceptance of our existing products and any decline in sales of our existing products would adversely affect our business and results of operations.

We currently market visible and infrared medical laser systems and delivery devices to the ophthalmology market. We believe that continued and increased sales, if any, of these medical laser systems is dependent upon a number of factors including the following:

In addition, we derive a meaningful portion of our sales in the form of recurring revenues from selling consumable instrumentation including our EndoProbe devices and service. Our ability to increase recurring revenues from the sale of consumable products will depend primarily upon the features of our current products and product innovation, the quality of our products, ease of use and prices of our products, including the relationship to prices of competing products. The level of our service revenues will depend on the quality of service we provide and the responsiveness and the willingness of our customers to request our services rather than purchase competing products or services. Any significant decline in market acceptance of our products or our revenues derived from the sales of laser consoles, delivery devices, consumables or services may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We face strong competition in our markets and expect the level of competition to grow in the foreseeable future.

Competition in the market for devices used for ophthalmic treatment procedures is intense and is expected to increase. Our competitive position depends on a number of factors including product performance, characteristics and functionality, ease of use, scalability, durability and cost. Our principal competitors in ophthalmology are Alcon Inc., Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Nidek Co. Ltd., Synergetics, Topcon Corporation, Ellex Medical Lasers, Ltd., Quantel Medical SA, and Lumenis Ltd. Most of these companies currently offer a competitive, semiconductor-based laser system for ophthalmology. Also within ophthalmology, pharmaceutical alternative treatments for AMD and DME such as Lucentis/Avastin (Genentech), Eylea (Regeneron), Macugen (OSI Pharmaceuticals) and Ozurdex (Allergan), and to a lesser extent Visudyne (Novartis), compete rigorously with traditional laser procedures. A number of these competitors have substantially greater financial, engineering, product development, manufacturing, marketing and technical resources than we do, including greater name recognition, and benefit from long-standing customer relationships. Some medical companies, academic and research institutions, or others, may develop new technologies or therapies that are more effective in treating conditions targeted by us or are less expensive than our current or future products. Any such developments could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our operating results may be adversely affected by uncertainty regarding healthcare reform measures and changes in third- party coverage and reimbursement policies.

Changes in government legislation or regulation or in private third-party payers’ policies toward reimbursement for procedures employing our products may prohibit adequate reimbursement. There have been a number of legislative and regulatory proposals to change the healthcare system, reduce the costs of healthcare and change medical reimbursement policies. Doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users of our products may decline to purchase our products to the extent there is uncertainty regarding reimbursement of medical procedures using our products and any healthcare reform measures. Further proposed legislation, regulation and policy changes affecting third-party reimbursement are likely. We are unable to predict what legislation or regulation, if any, relating to the health care industry or third-party coverage and reimbursement may be enacted in the future, or what effect such legislation or regulation may have on us. Furthermore, existing legislation and regulation related to the health care industry and third-party coverage reimbursement has been subject to judicial challenge, and may be subject to similar challenges from time to time in the future.  Denial of coverage and reimbursement of our products, or the revocation or changes to coverage and reimbursement policies, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

24

---

Our ophthalmology products are typically purchased by doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users, which bill various third-party payers, such as governmental programs and private insurance plans, for the health care services provided to their patients. Third-party payers are increasingly scrutinizing and continue to challenge the coverage of new products and the level of reimbursement for covered products. Doctors, clinics, hospitals and other users of our products may not obtain adequate reimbursement for use of our products from third-party payers. While we believe that the laser procedures using our products have generally been reimbursed, payers may deny coverage and reimbursement for our products if they determine that the device was not reasonable and necessary for the purpose used, was investigational or was not cost-effective.  

Our future success depends on our ability to develop and successfully introduce new products and new applications.

Our future success is dependent upon, among other factors, our ability to develop, obtain regulatory approval or clearance of, manufacture and market new products. Successful commercialization of new products and new applications will require that we effectively transfer production processes from research and development to manufacturing and effectively coordinate with our suppliers. In addition, we must successfully sell and achieve market acceptance of new products and applications and enhanced versions of existing products. The extent of, and rate at which, market acceptance and penetration are achieved by future products is a function of many variables, which include, among other things, price, safety, efficacy, reliability, marketing and sales efforts, the development of new applications for these products, the availability of third-party reimbursement of procedures using our new products, the existence of competing products and general economic conditions affecting purchasing patterns. Our ability to market and sell new products may also be subject to government regulation, including approval or clearance by the FDA and foreign government agencies. Any failure in our ability to successfully develop and introduce new products or enhanced versions of existing products and achieve market acceptance of new products and new applications could have a material adverse effect on our operating results and would cause our net revenues to decline.

We depend on collaborative relationships to develop, introduce and market new products, product enhancements and new applications.

We depend on both clinical and commercial collaborative relationships. We have entered into collaborative relationships with academic medical centers and physicians in connection with the research and innovation and clinical testing of our products. Commercially, we currently have a distribution and licensing agreement with Alcon for our GreenTip SoftTip Cannula. Sales of and royalties from the GreenTip Soft Tip Cannula are dependent upon the sales performance of Alcon, which depends on their efforts and is beyond our control. The failure to obtain any additional future clinical or commercial collaborations and the resulting failure or success of such arrangements of any current or future clinical or commercial collaboration relationships could have a material adverse effect on our ability to introduce new products or applications and therefore could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

While we devote significant resources to research and development, our research and development may not lead to new products that achieve commercial success.

The Company’s ability to generate incremental revenue growth will depend, in part, on the successful outcome of research and development activities, including clinical trials that lead to the development of new products and new applications using our products. Our research and development process is expensive, prolonged, and entails considerable uncertainty. Due to the complexities and uncertainties associated with ophthalmic research and development, products we are currently developing may not complete the development process or obtain the regulatory approvals required to market such products successfully. The products currently in our development pipeline may not be approved by regulatory entities and may not be commercially successful, and our current and planned products could be surpassed by more effective or advanced products of current or future competitors. Therefore, even if we are able to successfully develop enhancements or new generations of our products, these enhancements or new generations of products may not produce revenue in excess of the costs of development and they may be quickly rendered obsolete by changing customer preferences or the introduction by our competitors of products embodying new technologies or features.

Efforts to acquire additional companies or product lines may divert our managerial resources away from our business operations, and if we complete additional acquisitions, we may incur or assume additional liabilities or experience integration problems.

Since 1989, we have completed six acquisitions. As part of our growth strategy we seek to acquire businesses or product lines for various reasons, including adding new products, adding new customers, increasing penetration with existing customers, adding new manufacturing capabilities or expanding into new geographic markets. Our ability to successfully grow through acquisitions depends upon our ability to identify, negotiate, complete and integrate suitable acquisitions and to obtain any necessary financings. These efforts could divert the attention of our management and key personnel from our business operations. If we complete future acquisitions, we may also experience:

25

---

Any one or more of these factors stated above could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. Furthermore, acquisitions could materially impair our operating results by causing us to amortize acquired assets, incur acquisition expenses and add debt.

We rely on our direct and independent sales forces and network of international distributors to sell our products and any failure to maintain our sales force and distributor relationships could harm our business.

Our ability to sell our products and generate revenues depends upon our direct and independent sales forces within the United States and relationships with independent distributors outside the United States. Currently our direct and independent sales forces within the United States consists of approximately 13 employees and 15 independent representatives, respectively. We maintain relationships with approximately 70 independent distributors internationally selling our products into over 100 countries, managed by a team of five people. We generally grant our distributors exclusive territories for the sale of our products in specified countries. The amount and timing of resources dedicated by our distributors to the sales of our products is not within our control. Our international sales are entirely dependent on the efforts of these third parties. If any distributor breaches the terms of its distribution agreement with us or fails to generate sales of our products, we may be forced to replace the distributor and our ability to sell our products into that exclusive sales territory would be adversely affected.

We do not have any long-term employment contracts with the members of our direct sales force. We may be unable to replace our direct sales force personnel with individuals of equivalent technical expertise and qualifications, which may harm our revenues and our ability to maintain market share. Similarly, our independent and distributor agreements are generally terminable at will by either party and independents and distributors may terminate their relationships with us, which would affect our sales and results of operations.

If we cannot increase our sales volumes, reduce our costs or introduce higher margin products to offset anticipated reductions in the average unit price of our products, our operating results may suffer.

The average unit price of our products may decrease in the future in response to changes in product mix, competitive pricing pressures, new product introductions by our competitors or other factors. If we are unable to offset the anticipated decrease in our average selling prices by increasing our sales volumes or through new product introductions, our net revenues will decline. In addition, to maintain our gross margins we must continue to reduce the manufacturing cost of our products. If we cannot maintain our gross margins our business could be seriously harmed, particularly if the average selling price of our products decreases significantly without a corresponding increase in sales.

If we fail to manage growth effectively, our business could be disrupted which could harm our operating results.

We have experienced and may in the future experience growth in our business, both organically and through the acquisition of businesses and products. We have made and expect to continue to make significant investments to enable our future growth through, among other things, new product innovation and clinical trials for new applications and products. We must also be prepared to expand our work force and to train, motivate and manage additional employees as the need for additional personnel arises. Our personnel, systems, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support our future operations. Any failure to effectively manage future growth could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We rely on patents and proprietary rights to protect our intellectual property and business.

Our success and ability to compete is dependent in part upon our proprietary information. We rely on a combination of patents, trade secrets, copyright and trademark laws, nondisclosure and other contractual agreements and technical measures to protect our intellectual property rights. We file patent applications to protect technology, inventions and improvements that are significant to the development of our business. We have been issued 25 United States patents and 17 foreign patents on the technologies related to our products and processes. We have 14 pending patent applications in the United States and 24 foreign pending patent applications that have been filed. Our patent applications may not be approved. Any patents granted now or in the future may offer only limited protection against potential infringement and development by our competitors of competing products. Moreover, our competitors, many of which have substantial resources and have made substantial investments in competing technologies, may seek to apply for and obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products either in the United States or in international markets. Patents have a limited lifetime and once a patent expires competition may increase.

In addition to patents, we rely on trade secrets and proprietary know-how which we seek to protect, in part, through proprietary information agreements with employees, consultants and other parties. Our proprietary information agreements with our employees and consultants contain industry standard provisions requiring such individuals to assign to us without additional consideration any

26

---

inventions conceived or reduced to practice by them while employed or retained by us, subject to customary exceptions. Proprietary information agreements with employees, consultants and others may be breached, and we may not have adequate remedies for any breach. Also, our trade secrets may become known to or independently developed by competitors.

The laser and medical device industry is characterized by frequent litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights. Companies in the medical device industry have employed intellectual property litigation to gain a competitive advantage. Numerous patents are held by others, including academic institutions and our competitors. Patent applications filed in the United States after November 2000 generally will be published eighteen months after the filing date. However, since patent applications continue to be maintained in secrecy for at least some period of time, both within the United States and with regards to international patent applications, we cannot assure you that our technology does not infringe any patents or patent applications held by third parties. We have, from time to time, been notified of, or have otherwise been made aware of, claims that we may be infringing upon patents or other proprietary intellectual property owned by others. If it appears necessary or desirable, we may seek licenses under such patents or proprietary intellectual property. Although patent holders commonly offer such licenses, licenses under such patents or intellectual property may not be offered or the terms of any offered licenses may not be reasonable.

Any claims, with or without merit, and regardless of whether we are successful on the merits, would be time-consuming, result in costly litigation and diversion of technical and management personnel, cause shipment delays or require us to develop non-infringing technology or to enter into royalty or licensing agreements. An adverse determination in a judicial or administrative proceeding and failure to obtain necessary licenses or develop alternate technologies could prevent us from manufacturing and selling our products, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

If we lose key personnel or fail to integrate replacement personnel successfully, our ability to manage our business could be impaired.

Our future success depends upon the continued service of our key management, technical, sales, and other critical personnel. Our officers and other key personnel are employees-at-will, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to retain them. Key personnel have left our Company in the past, and there likely will be additional departures of key personnel from time to time in the future. The loss of any key employee could result in significant disruptions to our operations, including adversely affecting the timeliness of product releases, the successful implementation and completion of Company initiatives, and the results of our operations. Competition for these individuals is intense, and we may not be able to attract, assimilate or retain highly qualified personnel. Competition for qualified personnel in our industry and the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as other geographic markets in which we recruit, is intense and characterized by increasing salaries, which may increase our operating expenses or hinder our ability to recruit qualified candidates. In addition, the integration of replacement personnel could be time consuming, may cause additional disruptions to our operations, and may be unsuccessful.

If we fail to accurately forecast demand for our product and component requirements for the manufacture of our product, we could incur additional costs or experience manufacturing delays and may experience lost sales or significant inventory carrying costs.

We use quarterly and annual forecasts based primarily on our anticipated product orders to plan our manufacturing efforts and determine our requirements for components and materials. It is very important that we accurately predict both the demand for our product and the lead times required to obtain the necessary components and materials. Lead times for components vary significantly and depend on numerous factors, including the specific supplier, the size of the order, contract terms and current market demand for such components. If we overestimate the demand for our product, we may have excess inventory, which would increase our costs. If we underestimate demand for our product and consequently, our component and materials requirements, we may have inadequate inventory, which could interrupt our manufacturing, delay delivery of our product to our customers and result in the loss of customer sales. Any of these occurrences would negatively impact our business and operating results.

We depend on sole source or limited source suppliers.

We rely on third parties to manufacture substantially all of the components used in our products, including optics, laser diodes and crystals. We have some long term or volume purchase agreements with our suppliers and currently purchase components on a purchase order basis. Some of our suppliers and manufacturers are sole or limited sources. In addition, some of these suppliers are relatively small private companies whose operations may be disrupted or discontinued at any time. There are risks associated with the use of independent manufacturers, including the following:

27

---

Our business and operating results may suffer from the lack of alternative sources of supply for critical sole and limited source components. The process of qualifying suppliers is complex, requires extensive testing with our products, and may be lengthy, particularly as new products are introduced. New suppliers would have to be educated in our production processes. In addition, the use of alternate components may require design alterations to our products and additional product testing under FDA and relevant foreign regulatory agency guidelines, which may delay sales and increase product costs. Any failures by our vendors to adequately supply limited and sole source components may impair our ability to offer our existing products, delay the submission of new products for regulatory approval and market introduction, materially harm our business and financial condition and cause our stock price to decline. Establishing our own capabilities to manufacture these components would be expensive and could significantly decrease our profit margins. Our business, results of operations and financial condition would be adversely affected if we are unable to continue to obtain components in the quantity and quality desired and at the prices we have budgeted.

If we fail to maintain our relationships with health care providers, customers may not buy our products and our revenue and profitability may decline.

We market our products to numerous health care providers, including physicians, hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, government affiliated groups and group purchasing organizations. We have developed and strive to maintain close relationships with members of each of these groups who assist in product research and development and advise us on how to satisfy the full range of surgeon and patient needs. We rely on these groups to recommend our products to their patients and to other members of their organizations. The failure of our existing products and any new products we may introduce to retain the support of these various groups could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We face manufacturing risks.

The manufacture of our infrared and visible laser consoles and the related delivery devices is a highly complex and precise process. We assemble critical subassemblies and substantially all of our final products at our facility in Mountain View, California. We may experience manufacturing difficulties, quality control issues or assembly constraints, particularly with regard to new products that we may introduce. If our sales increase substantially we may need to increase our production capacity and may not be able to do so in a timely, effective, or cost efficient manner. We may not be able to manufacture sufficient quantities of our products, which may require that we qualify other manufacturers for our products. Furthermore, we may experience delays, disruptions, capacity constraints or quality control problems in our manufacturing operations and as a result, product shipments to our customers could be delayed, which would negatively impact our net revenues.

If our facilities were to experience catastrophic loss, our operations would be seriously harmed.

Our facilities could be subject to catastrophic loss such as fire, flood or earthquake. All of our research and development activities, manufacturing, our corporate headquarters and other critical business operations are located near major earthquake faults in Mountain View, California. Any such loss at any of our facilities could disrupt our operations, delay production, shipments and revenue and result in large expense to repair and replace our facilities.

We are subject to government regulations which may cause us to delay or withdraw the introduction of new products or new applications for our products.

The medical devices that we market and manufacture are subject to extensive regulation by the FDA and by foreign and state governments. Under the FDA Act and the related regulations, the FDA regulates the design, development, clinical testing, manufacture, labeling, sale, distribution and promotion of medical devices. Before a new device can be introduced into the market, the product must undergo rigorous testing and an extensive regulatory review process implemented by the FDA under federal law. Unless otherwise exempt, a device manufacturer must obtain market clearance through either the 510(k) premarket notification process or the lengthier premarket approval application process. Depending upon the type, complexity and novelty of the device and the nature of the disease or disorder to be treated, the FDA process can take several years, require extensive clinical testing and result in significant expenditures. Even if regulatory approval is obtained, later discovery of previously unknown safety issues may result in restrictions on the product, including withdrawal of the product from the market. Other countries also have extensive regulations regarding clinical trials and testing prior to new product introductions. Our failure to obtain government approvals or any delays in receipt of such approvals would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The FDA imposes additional regulations on manufacturers of approved medical devices. We are required to comply with the applicable Quality System regulations and our manufacturing facilities are subject to ongoing periodic inspections by the FDA and corresponding state agencies, including unannounced inspections, and must be licensed as part of the product approval process before being utilized for commercial manufacturing. Noncompliance with the applicable requirements can result in, among other things, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, recall or seizure of products, total or partial suspension of production, withdrawal of marketing approvals, and criminal prosecution. The FDA also has the authority to request repair, replacement or refund of the cost of any device we manufacture or distribute. Any of these actions by the FDA would materially and adversely affect our ability to continue operating our business and the results of our operations.

28

---

In addition, we are also subject to varying product standards, packaging requirements, labeling requirements, tariff regulations, duties and tax requirements. As a result of our sales in Europe, we are required to have all products “CE” marked, an international symbol affixed to all products demonstrating compliance with the European Medical Device Directive and all applicable standards. While currently all of our released products are CE marked, continued certification is based on the successful review of our quality system by our European Registrar during their annual audit. Any loss of certification would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

The clinical trial process required to obtain regulatory approvals is costly and uncertain, and could result in delays in new product introductions or even an inability to release a product.

The clinical trials required to obtain regulatory approvals for our products are complex and expensive and their outcomes are uncertain. When we do embark upon clinical trials, we incur substantial expense for, and devote significant time to, these trials but cannot be certain that the trials will ever result in the commercial sale of a product. We may suffer significant setbacks in clinical trials, even after earlier clinical trials showed promising results. Any of our products may produce undesirable side effects that could cause us or regulatory authorities to interrupt, delay or halt clinical trials of a product candidate. We, the FDA, or another regulatory authority may suspend or terminate clinical trials at any time if they or we believe the trial participants face unacceptable health risks.

If we fail to comply with the FDA’s quality system regulation and laser performance standards, our manufacturing operations could be halted, and our business would suffer.

We are currently required to demonstrate and maintain compliance with the FDA’s Quality System Regulation (“QSR”). The QSR is a complex regulatory scheme that covers the methods and documentation of the design, testing, control, manufacturing, labeling, quality assurance, packaging, storage and shipping of our products. Because our products involve the use of lasers, our products also are covered by a performance standard for lasers set forth in FDA regulations. The laser performance standard imposes specific record-keeping, reporting, product testing and product labeling requirements. These requirements include affixing warning labels to laser products, as well as incorporating certain safety features in the design of laser products. The FDA enforces the QSR and laser performance standards through periodic unannounced inspections. We have been, and anticipate in the future being, subject to such inspections. Our failure to take satisfactory corrective action in response to an adverse QSR inspection or our failure to comply with applicable laser performance standards could result in enforcement actions, including a public warning letter, a shutdown of our manufacturing operations, a recall of our products, civil or criminal penalties, or other sanctions, such as those described in the risk factor above, which would cause our sales and business to suffer.

If we modify one of our FDA approved devices, we may need to seek reapproval, which, if not granted, would prevent us from selling our modified products or cause us to redesign our products.

Any modifications to an FDA-cleared device that would significantly affect its safety or effectiveness or that would constitute a major change in its intended use would require a new 510(k) clearance or possibly a premarket approval. We may not be able to obtain additional 510(k) clearances or premarket approvals for new products or for modifications to, or additional indications for, our existing products in a timely fashion, or at all. Delays in obtaining future clearances would adversely affect our ability to introduce new or enhanced products in a timely manner, which in turn would harm our revenues and future profitability. We have made modifications to our devices in the past and may make additional modifications in the future that we believe do not or will not require additional clearances or approvals. If the FDA disagrees, and requires new clearances or approvals for the modifications, we may be required to recall and to stop marketing the modified devices, which could harm our operating results and require us to redesign our products.

Our products may be misused, which could harm our reputation and our business.

We market and sell our products for use by highly skilled physicians with specialized training and experience in the treatment of eye-related disorders. We, and our distributors, generally offer but do not require purchasers or operators of our products to attend training sessions, nor do we supervise the procedures performed with our products. The physicians who operate our products are responsible for their use and the treatment regime for each individual patient. In addition, non-physicians, particularly in countries outside of the United States, or poorly trained or inexperienced physicians may make use of our products. Our efforts to market our MicroPulse systems as a Fovea-friendly alternative to traditional CW systems or alternative treatment methods may increase the risk that our products will be misused. The lack of training and the purchase and use of our products by non-physicians or poorly trained or inexperienced physicians may result in product misuse and adverse treatment outcomes, which could harm our reputation and expose us to costly product liability litigation, or otherwise cause our business to suffer.

Inability of customers to obtain credit or material increases in interest rates may harm our sales.

Some of our products are sold to health care providers in general practice. Many of these health care providers purchase our products with funds they secure through various financing arrangements with third-party financial institutions, including credit facilities and short-term loans. If availability of credit becomes more limited, or interest rates increase, these financing arrangements may be harder to obtain or more expensive to our customers, which may decrease demand for our products. Any reduction in the sales of our products would cause our business to suffer.

29

---

Some of our laser systems are complex in design and may contain defects that are not detected until deployed by our customers, which could increase our costs and reduce our revenues.

Laser systems are inherently complex in design and require ongoing regular maintenance. The manufacture of our lasers, laser products and systems involves a highly complex and precise process. As a result of the technical complexity of our products, changes in our or our suppliers’ manufacturing processes or the inadvertent use of defective materials by us or our suppliers could result in a material adverse effect on our ability to achieve acceptable manufacturing yields and product reliability. To the extent that we do not achieve such yields or product reliability, our business, operating results, financial condition and customer relationships would be adversely affected. We provide warranties on certain of our product sales, and allowances for estimated warranty costs are recorded during the period of sale. The determination of such allowances requires us to make estimates of failure rates and expected costs to repair or replace the products under warranty. We currently establish warranty reserves based on historical warranty costs. If actual return rates and/or repair and replacement costs differ significantly from our estimates, adjustments to recognize additional cost of revenues may be required in future periods.

Our customers may discover defects in our products after the products have been fully deployed and operated under peak stress conditions. In addition, some of our products are combined with products from other vendors, which may contain defects. As a result, should problems occur, it may be difficult to identify the source of the problem. If we are unable to identify and fix defects or other problems, we could experience, among other things:

The occurrence of any one or more of the foregoing factors could seriously harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our products could be subject to recalls even after receiving FDA approval or clearance. A recall would harm our reputation and adversely affect our operating results.

The FDA and similar governmental authorities in other countries in which we market and sell our products have the authority to require the recall of our products in the event of material deficiencies or defects in design or manufacture. A government mandated recall, or a voluntary recall by us, could occur as a result of component failures, manufacturing errors or design defects, including defects in labeling. A recall could divert management’s attention, cause us to incur significant expenses, harm our reputation with customers and negatively affect our future sales.

If product liability claims are successfully asserted against us, we may incur substantial liabilities that may adversely affect our business or results of operations.

We may be subject to product liability claims from time to time. Our products are highly complex and some are used to treat extremely delicate eye tissue. We believe we maintain adequate levels of product liability insurance. However, product liability insurance is expensive and we might not be able to obtain product liability insurance in the future on acceptable terms or in sufficient amounts to protect us, if at all. A successful claim brought against us in excess of our insurance coverage could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

30

---

We are subject to federal, state and foreign laws governing our business practices which, if violated, could result in substantial penalties. Additionally, challenges to or investigation into our practices could cause adverse publicity and be costly to respond to and thus could harm our business.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act requires us to track and disclose the source of certain metals used in manufacturing which may stem from minerals (so called “conflict minerals”) which originate in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or adjoining regions. These metals include tantalum, tin, gold and tungsten. These metals are central to the technology industry and are present in some of our products as component parts. In most cases no acceptable alternative material exists which has the necessary properties. It is not possible to determine the source of the metals by analysis but instead a good faith description of the source of the intermediate components and raw materials must be obtained. The components which incorporate those metals may originate from many sources and we purchase fabricated products from manufacturers who may have a long and difficult-to-trace supply chain. As the spot price of these materials varies, producers of the metal intermediates can be expected to change the mix of sources used, and components and assemblies which we buy may have a mix of sources as their origin. We are required to carry out a diligent effort to determine and disclose the source of these materials. There can be no assurance we can obtain this information from intermediate producers who are unwilling or unable to provide this information or further identify their sources of supply or to notify us if these sources change. These metals are subject to price fluctuations and shortages which can affect our ability to obtain the manufactured materials we rely on at favorable terms or from consistent sources. These changes could have an adverse impact on our ability to manufacture and market our devices and products.

If we fail to comply with environmental requirements, our business, financial condition, operating results and reputation could be adversely affected.

We are subject to various environmental laws and regulations including laws governing the hazardous material content of our devices and products and laws relating to the collection of and recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. Examples of these laws and regulations include the EU Restrictions of Hazardous Substances Directive (the “RoHS Directive”), as well as the implementing legislation of the EU member states. Under EU Directive 2011/65/EU (“RoHS II Directive”) the substance restrictions of the RoHS Directive became applicable to the Company’s devices and products beginning on July 22, 2014. Similar laws and regulations have been passed or are pending in several other jurisdictions and may be enacted in other regions, including in the United States, and we are, or may in the future be, subject to these laws and regulations.

The RoHS Directive bans the use of certain hazardous materials such as lead, mercury and cadmium in the manufacture of electrical equipment, including our devices and products. We expect that our devices and products will be compliant with the RoHS II Directive requirements. However, if there are changes to this or other laws (or their interpretation) or if new similar laws are passed in other jurisdictions, we may be required to modify our devices and products to use components compatible with these regulations. This modification and component substitution could result in additional costs to us or disrupt our operations or logistics.

Our failure to comply with past, present and future similar laws could result in reduced sales of our devices and products, inventory write-offs, reputational damage, penalties and other sanctions, any of which could harm our business and financial condition. We also expect that our devices and products will be affected by new environmental laws and regulations on an ongoing basis. To date, our expenditures for environmental compliance have not had a material impact on our results of operations or cash flows, and although we cannot predict the future impact of such laws or regulations, they will likely result in additional costs and may increase penalties associated with violations or require us to change the content of our devices and products or how they are manufactured, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

31

---

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

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

The following table provides information with respect to acquisitions by the Company of shares of its common stock during the quarter ended April 4, 2015.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

 

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

None.

 

 

32

---

Item 6. Exhibits

 

 

 

Trademark Acknowledgments

IRIDEX, the IRIDEX logo, IRIS Medical, MicroPulse, OcuLight, SmartKey, and EndoProbe, are our registered trademarks. G-Probe, DioPexy, DioVet, TruFocus, TrueCW, IQ 810, IQ 577, IQ 532, Cyclo G6, TxCell, OtoProbe, Symphony, EasyFit, Endoview, MoistAir and GreenTip product names are our trademarks. All other trademarks or trade names appearing in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are the property of their respective owners.

 

 

 

 

33

---

SIGNATURE

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

 

 

 

 

 

34

---

Exhibit Index

 

 

 

35

Exhibit 10.1

IRIDEX CORPORATION

CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

This Change in Control Severance Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into by and between William M. Moore (“Executive”) and IRIDEX Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), effective as of March 30, 2015 (the “Effective Date”).

RECITALS

Whereas, it is expected that the Company from time to time will consider the possibility of a merger with another company, an acquisition by another company or other Change in Control (as defined herein).  The Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) recognizes that such consideration can be a distraction to Executive and can cause Executive to consider alternative employment opportunities.  The Board has determined that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to assure that the Company will have the continued dedication and objectivity of Executive, notwithstanding the possibility, threat or occurrence of a merger, acquisition or Change in Control of the Company.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with an incentive to continue Executive’s employment and to motivate Executive to maximize the value of the Company upon a Change in Control for the benefit of its stockholders.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with certain severance benefits upon Executive’s termination of employment other than for Cause (as defined herein), death or Disability (as defined herein), or upon a resignation for Good Reason, in each case, in connection with a Change in Control of the Company, in order to provide Executive with enhanced financial security and incentive to remain with the Company.

Whereas, certain capitalized terms used in the Agreement are defined in Section 6 below.

AGREEMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Term of Agreement.  This Agreement will terminate upon the date that all of the obligations of the parties hereto with respect to this Agreement have been satisfied.

2. At-Will Employment.  The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and will continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law.  If Executive’s employment terminates for any reason, including (without limitation) any termination not set forth in Section 3, Executive will not be entitled to any payments, benefits, damages, awards or compensation other than as specifically provided by this Agreement.

 

 

 

---

3. Severance Benefits.

(a) Termination in Connection With a Change in Control.  If, in the event that (a) within twelve (12) months following a Change in Control, or (b) at any time prior to a Change in Control if such termination is effected at the written request of any successor to the Company, (x) Executive resigns Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) for Good Reason, or (y) the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) terminates Executive’s employment for a reason other than Cause, death or Disability, and, in each case, Executive signs and does not revoke a release of claims agreement and complies with certain non-solicitation restrictions as set forth in Section 4 hereof,  then Executive will receive, in addition to Executive’s salary payable through the date of termination of employment and any other employee benefits earned and expense reimbursements owed through the date of termination, the following severance pay and benefits from the Company (subject to Section 4(c) hereof):

(i) Severance Payment.  A lump sum severance payment equal to (A) Executive’s annual base salary, as then in effect on the date of such termination, or, if greater, at the level in effect immediately prior to the Change in Control, multiplied by (B) a factor of 1.5, which will be paid in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll procedures.

(ii) Accelerated Vesting of Equity Awards.  Accelerated vesting as to one-hundred percent (100%) of the then unvested portion of all of Executive’s outstanding Company equity awards.  If, however, an outstanding Company equity award is to vest and/or the amount of the award to vest is to be determined based on the achievement of performance criteria, then the Company equity award will vest as to one-hundred percent (100%) of the amount of the Company equity award assuming the performance criteria had been achieved at target levels for the relevant performance period(s).

(iii) Continued Employee Benefits.  If Executive elects continuation coverage pursuant to COBRA within the time period prescribed pursuant to COBRA for Executive and Executive’s eligible dependents, the Company will reimburse Executive for the premiums necessary to continue  group health insurance benefits for Executive and Executive’s eligible dependents until the earlier of (A) a period of twelve (12) months from the date of Executive’s termination of employment, (B) the date upon which Executive and/or Executive’s eligible dependents becomes covered under similar plans or (C) the date upon which Executive ceases to be eligible for coverage under COBRA (such reimbursements, the “COBRA Premiums”).  However, if the Company determines in its sole discretion that it cannot pay the COBRA Premiums without potentially violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), the Company will in lieu thereof provide to Executive a taxable monthly payment payable on the last day of a given month (except as provided by the following sentence), in an amount equal to the monthly COBRA premium that Executive would be required to pay to continue Executive’s group health coverage in effect on the date of Executive’s termination of employment (which amount will be based on the premium for the first month of COBRA coverage), which payments will be made regardless of whether Executive elects COBRA continuation coverage and will commence on the month following Executive’s termination of employment and will end on the earlier of (x) the date upon which Executive obtains other employment or (y) the date the Company has paid an amount equal to twelve (12) payments.  For the avoidance of doubt, the taxable payments in lieu of COBRA Premiums may be used for any purpose, including, but not limited to continuation coverage under COBRA, and will be subject to all applicable tax withholdings.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary under this Agreement, if at any time the Company determines in its sole discretion that it cannot provide the payments contemplated by the preceding sentence without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), Executive will not receive such payment or any further reimbursements for COBRA premiums.

(b) Other Termination Events.  If Executive’s employment with the Company terminates with the Company (and any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) (i) voluntarily by Executive (except as provided in Section 3(a)), (ii) for Cause, (iii) for death or Disability, or (iv) other than for Cause (except as provided in Section 3(a)) by the Company, then Executive will not be entitled to receive any severance payment or benefits and the sole obligation of the Company shall be to pay to Executive (or Executive’s estate), an amount equal to Executive’s base salary payable through the date of termination of employment and any other employee benefits earned and owed through the date of termination.

(c) Exclusive Remedy.  In the event of a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company), the provisions of this Section 3 are intended to be and are exclusive and in lieu of any other rights or remedies to which Executive or the Company may otherwise be entitled, whether at law, tort or contract, in equity, or under this Agreement.  Executive will be entitled to no benefits, compensation or other payments or rights upon termination of employment other than those benefits expressly set forth in this Section 3.

4. Conditions to Receipt of Severance.

(a) Separation Agreement and Release of Claims.  The receipt of any severance pursuant to Sections 3 will be subject to Executive signing and not revoking a separation agreement and release of claims in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Company (the “Release”) and provided that such Release becomes effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the

 

-2-

---

termination date (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”).  If the Release does not become effective and irrevocable by the Release Deadline, Executive will forfeit any rights to severance or benefits under this Agreement.  In no event will severance payments or benefits be paid or provided until the Release becomes effective and irrevocable.  Except as required by Section 4(c), any installment payments that would have been made to Executive prior to the Release becoming effective and irrevocable but for the preceding sentence will be paid to Executive on the first regularly scheduled Company payroll date following the date the Release becomes effective and irrevocable, and the remaining payments will be made as provided in the Agreement.

(b) Non-Solicitation.  Until the date one (1) year after the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive agrees not, either directly or indirectly, to solicit any employee of the Company (or any parent or subsidiary of the Company) to leave his or her employment either for Executive or for any other entity or person.  By entering in to this Agreement, Executive represents that Executive (i) is familiar with the foregoing covenant not to solicit, and (ii) is fully aware of his obligations hereunder, including, without limitation, the reasonableness of the length of time, scope and geographic coverage of these covenants.

(c) Section 409A.

(i) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, no Deferred Payments will be paid or otherwise provided until Executive has a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.  Similarly, no severance payable to Executive, if any, pursuant to this Agreement that otherwise would be exempt from Section 409A pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9) will be payable until Executive has a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.

(ii) Any severance payments or benefits under this Agreement that would be considered Deferred Payments will be paid on, or, in the case of installments, will not commence until, the sixtieth (60th) day following Executive’s separation from service, or, if later, such time as required by Section 4(c)(iii).  Except as required by Section 4(c)(iii), any installment payments that would have been made to Executive during the sixty (60) day period immediately following Executive’s separation from service but for the preceding sentence will be paid to Executive on the sixtieth (60th) day following Executive’s separation from service and the remaining payments shall be made as provided in this Agreement.  In no event will Executive have discretion to determine the taxable year of payment for any Deferred Payments.

(iii) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if Executive is a “specified employee” within the meaning of Section 409A at the time of Executive’s separation from service (other than due to death), then the Deferred Payments that are payable within the first six (6) months following Executive’s separation from service, will, to the extent required to be delayed pursuant to Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code, become payable on the date six (6) months and one (1) day following the date of Executive’s separation from service.  All subsequent Deferred Payments, if any, will be payable in accordance with the payment schedule applicable to each payment or benefit.  Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Executive dies following Executive’s separation from service, but prior to the six (6) month anniversary of the separation from service, then any payments delayed in accordance with this paragraph will be payable in a lump sum as soon as administratively practicable after the date of Executive’s death and all other Deferred Payments will be payable in accordance with the payment schedule applicable to each payment or benefit.  Each payment and benefit payable under this Agreement is intended to constitute a separate payment for purposes of Section 1.409A-2(b)(2) of the Treasury Regulations.

(iv) Any amount paid under this Agreement that satisfies the requirements of the “short-term deferral” rule set forth in Section 1.409A-1(b)(4) of the Treasury Regulations will not constitute Deferred Payments.

(v) Any amount paid under this Agreement that qualifies as a payment made as a result of an involuntary separation from service pursuant to Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii) of the Treasury Regulations that does not exceed the Section 409A Limit will not constitute Deferred Payments.

(vi) The foregoing provisions and all compensation and benefits provided for under this Agreement are intended to comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A so that none of the severance payments and benefits to be provided hereunder will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Section 409A, and any ambiguities or ambiguous terms herein will be interpreted to be exempt or so comply.  The Company and Executive agree to work together in good faith to consider amendments to this Agreement and to take such reasonable actions which are necessary, appropriate or desirable to avoid imposition of any additional tax or income recognition prior to actual payment to Executive under Section 409A.  In no event will the Company reimburse Executive for any taxes that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A.

 

-3-

---

5. Limitation on Payments.  In the event that the severance and other benefits provided for in this Agreement or otherwise payable to Executive (i) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this Section 5, would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code, then Executive’s severance benefits under Section 3 will be either:

(a) delivered in full, or

(b) delivered as to such lesser extent which would result in no portion of such severance benefits being subject to excise tax under Section 4999 of the Code,

whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state and local income taxes and the excise tax imposed by Section 4999, results in the receipt by Executive on an after-tax basis, of the greatest amount of severance benefits, notwithstanding that all or some portion of such severance benefits may be taxable under Section 4999 of the Code.  If a reduction in severance and other benefits constituting “parachute payments” is necessary so that benefits are delivered to a lesser extent, reduction will occur in the following order: (i) reduction of cash payments; (ii) cancellation of awards granted “contingent on a change in ownership or control” (within the meaning of Code Section 280G); (iii) cancellation of accelerated vesting of equity awards; or (iv) reduction of employee benefits. In the event that acceleration of vesting of equity award compensation is to be reduced, such acceleration of vesting will be cancelled in the reverse order of the date of grant of Executive’s equity awards.  If two or more equity awards are granted on the same date, each award will be reduced on a pro-rata basis.  In all events, the Executive shall have no right, power or discretion to determine the reduction of payments and/or benefits.

Unless the Company and Executive otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 5 will be made in writing by a nationally recognized certified professional services firm selected by the Company, the Company’s legal counsel or such other person or entity to which the parties mutually agree (the “Firm”) immediately prior to the Change in Control, whose determination will be conclusive and binding upon Executive and the Company for all purposes.  For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 5, the Firm may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code.  The Company and Executive will furnish to the Firm such information and documents as the Accountants may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 5.  The Company will bear all costs the Firm may reasonably incur in connection with any calculations contemplated by this Section 5.

6. Definition of Terms.  The following terms referred to in this Agreement will have the following meanings:

(a) Cause.  “Cause” means: (i) an act of dishonesty made by Executive in connection with Executive’s responsibilities as an employee; (ii) Executive’s conviction of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or any crime involving fraud, embezzlement or any other act of moral turpitude, or a material violation of federal or state law by Executive that the Board reasonably believes has had or will have a detrimental effect on the Company’s reputation or business; (iii) Executive’s gross misconduct; (iv) Executive’s unauthorized use or disclosure of any proprietary information or trade secrets of the Company or any other party to whom Executive owes an obligation of nondisclosure as a result of Executive’s relationship with the Company; (v) Executive’s willful breach of any obligations under any written agreement or covenant with the Company; or (vi) Executive’s continued failure to perform his employment duties after Executive has received a written demand of performance from the Company that specifically sets forth the factual basis for the Company’s belief that Executive has not substantially performed his duties and has failed to cure such non-performance to the Company’s satisfaction within ten (10) business days after receiving such notice.

(b) Change in Control.  “Change in Control” means a “Change in Control” under the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.

(c) COBRA.  “COBRA” means the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended, or any comparable state law.

(d) Code.  “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

(e) Deferred Payment.  “Deferred Payment” means any severance pay or benefits to be paid or provided to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries) pursuant to this Agreement and any other severance payments or separation benefits, that in each case, when considered together, are considered deferred compensation under Section 409A.

(f) Disability.  “Disability” means that Executive has been unable to perform his Company duties as the result of his incapacity due to physical or mental illness, and such inability, at least twenty-six (26) weeks after its commencement, is determined to be total and permanent by a physician selected by the Company or its insurers and acceptable to Executive or Executive’s legal representative (such Agreement as to acceptability not to be unreasonably withheld).  Termination resulting from Disability may only

 

-4-

---

be effected after at least thirty (30) days’ written notice by the Company of its intention to terminate Executive’s employment.  In the event that Executive resumes the performance of substantially all of his duties hereunder before the termination of his employment becomes effective, the notice of intent to terminate will automatically be deemed to have been revoked.

(g) Good Reason.  “Good Reason” means the occurrence of one or more of the following events effected without Executive’s prior consent, provided that Executive terminates employment with the Company within ninety (90) days following the expiration of the Company’s Cure Period: (i) the assignment to Executive of any duties or the reduction of Executive’s duties, either of which results in a material diminution in Executive’s position or responsibilities with the Company; provided that, it being understood that the continuance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities at the subsidiary or divisional level following a Change in Control, rather than at the parent, combined or surviving company level following such Change in Control shall not be deemed Good Reason within the meaning of this clause (i); (ii) a reduction by the Company in the base salary of Executive by fifteen percent (15%) or more, unless similar such reductions occur concurrently with and apply to the Company’s senior management; (iii) a material change in the geographic location at which Executive must perform services (for purposes of this Agreement, the relocation of Executive to a facility or a location less than twenty-five (25) miles from Executive’s then-present location shall not be considered a material change in geographic location); (iv) a material reduction of facilities, perquisites or in the kind or level of employee benefits to which the Executive is entitled, unless similar such reductions occur concurrently and apply to the Company’s senior management; or (v) any material breach by the Company of any material provision of this Agreement.  Executive will not resign for Good Reason without first providing the Company with written notice of the acts or omissions constituting the grounds for “Good Reason” within ninety (90) days of the initial existence of the grounds for “Good Reason” and a reasonable cure period of thirty (30) days (“Cure Period”) following the date of such notice.

(h) Section 409A.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code and any final regulations and guidance thereunder and any applicable state law equivalent, as each may be amended or promulgated from time to time.

(i) Section 409A Limit.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Section 409A Limit” will mean two (2) times the lesser of: (i) Executive’s annualized compensation based upon the annual rate of pay paid to Executive during the Executive’s taxable year preceding the Executive’s taxable year of Executive’s separation from service as determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii)(A)(1) and any Internal Revenue Service guidance issued with respect thereto; or (ii) the maximum amount that may be taken into account under a qualified plan pursuant to Section 401(a)(17) of the Code for the year in which Executive’s separation from service occurred.

7. Successors.

(a) The Company’s Successors.  Any successor to the Company (whether direct or indirect and whether by purchase, merger, consolidation, liquidation or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the Company’s business and/or assets will assume the obligations under this Agreement and agree expressly to perform the obligations under this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent as the Company would be required to perform such obligations in the absence of a succession.  For all purposes under this Agreement, the term “Company” will include any successor to the Company’s business and/or assets which executes and delivers the assumption agreement described in this Section 7(a) or which becomes bound by the terms of this Agreement by operation of law.

(b) Executive’s Successors.  The terms of this Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder will inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees, devisees and legatees.

(c) Assumption.  It shall be considered a material breach of the Agreement if the Company fails to obtain the assumption of this Agreement by any successor to the Company.

8. Notice.

(a) General.  Notices and all other communications contemplated by this Agreement will be in writing and will be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or when mailed by U.S. registered or certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid.  In the case of Executive, mailed notices will be addressed to Executive at the home address which he or she most recently communicated to the Company in writing.  In the case of the Company, mailed notices will be addressed to its corporate headquarters, and all notices will be directed to the attention of its President.

(b) Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive for Good Reason or as a result of a voluntary resignation will be communicated by a notice of termination to the other party hereto given in accordance with Section 8(a) of this Agreement.  Such notice will indicate the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, will set forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination under the provision so indicated, and

 

-5-

---

will specify the termination date (which will be not more than thirty (30) days after the giving of such notice).  The failure by Executive to include in the notice any fact or circumstance which contributes to a showing of Good Reason will not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

9. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) No Duty to Mitigate.  Executive will not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment contemplated by this Agreement, nor will any such payment be reduced by any earnings that Executive may receive from any other source.

(b) Waiver.  No provision of this Agreement will be modified, waived or discharged unless the modification, waiver or discharge is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and by an authorized officer of the Company (other than Executive).  No waiver by either party of any breach of, or of compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement by the other party will be considered a waiver of any other condition or provision or of the same condition or provision at another time.

(c) Headings.  All captions and section headings used in this Agreement are for convenient reference only and do not form a part of this Agreement.

(d) Entire Agreement.  This Agreement, together with any equity or equity award agreement, constitutes the entire agreement of the parties hereto and supersedes in their entirety all prior representations, understandings, undertakings or agreements (whether oral or written and whether expressed or implied) of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. No waiver, alteration, or modification of any of the provisions of this Agreement will be binding unless in writing and signed by duly authorized representatives of the parties hereto and which specifically mention this Agreement.

(e) Choice of Law.  The validity, interpretation, construction and performance of this Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State of California (with the exception of its conflict of laws provisions). Any claims or legal actions by one party against the other arising out of the relationship between the parties contemplated herein (whether or not arising under this Agreement) will be commenced or maintained in any state or federal court located in the jurisdiction where Executive resides, and Executive and the Company hereby submit to the jurisdiction and venue of any such court.

(f) Severability.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision hereof, which will remain in full force and effect.

(g) Withholding.  All payments made pursuant to this Agreement will be subject to withholding of applicable income and employment taxes.

(h) Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.

 

 

 

 

-6-

---

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has executed this Agreement, in the case of the Company by its duly authorized officer, as of the day and year set forth below.

 

 

 

-7-

Exhibit 10.2

IRIDEX CORPORATION

AMENDED AND RESTATED CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Change in Control Severance Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into by and between James H. Mackaness (“Executive”) and IRIDEX Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), effective as of March 30, 2015 (the “Effective Date”).

RECITALS

Whereas, it is expected that the Company from time to time will consider the possibility of a merger with another company, an acquisition by another company or other Change in Control (as defined herein).  The Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) recognizes that such consideration can be a distraction to Executive and can cause Executive to consider alternative employment opportunities.  The Board has determined that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to assure that the Company will have the continued dedication and objectivity of Executive, notwithstanding the possibility, threat or occurrence of a termination of employment or a merger, acquisition or Change in Control of the Company.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with an incentive to continue Executive’s employment and to motivate Executive to maximize the value of the Company upon a Change in Control for the benefit of its stockholders.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with certain severance benefits upon Executive’s termination of employment other than for Cause (as defined herein), death or Disability (as defined herein), or upon a resignation for Good Reason, in order to provide Executive with enhanced financial security to remain with the Company.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with certain severance benefits upon Executive’s termination of employment other than for Cause (as defined herein), death or Disability (as defined herein), or upon a resignation for Good Reason, with such severance benefits changing based on whether the Executive’s qualifying termination is in connection with a Change in Control of the Company, in order to provide Executive with enhanced financial security and incentive to remain with the Company.

Whereas, certain capitalized terms used in the Agreement are defined in Section 6 below.

Whereas, the Company and Executive entered into that certain Amended and Restated Change of Control Severance Agreement dated as of July 12, 2012 (the “Second Agreement”), which amended and restated that certain Change of Control Severance Agreement by and between the Company and Executive dated as of January 22, 2008 (the “First Agreement,” and as amended and restated by the Second Agreement, the “Prior Agreement”), and now wish to make certain revisions to the Prior Agreement by amending and restating the Prior Agreement in its entirety as set forth herein.  Section 8(b) of the Prior Agreement provides that the Prior Agreement may not be modified, waived or discharged unless the modification, waiver or discharge is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and by an authorized officer of the Company other than Executive.

AGREEMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Term of Agreement.  This Agreement will terminate upon the date that all of the obligations of the parties hereto with respect to this Agreement have been satisfied.

2. At-Will Employment.  The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and will continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law.  If Executive’s employment terminates for any reason, including (without limitation) any termination not set forth in Section 3, Executive will not be entitled to any payments, benefits, damages, awards or compensation other than as specifically provided by this Agreement.

 

 

 

---

 

3. Severance Benefits.

(a) Termination Payments and Benefits.  In the event that (x) Executive resigns Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) for Good Reason, or (y) the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) terminates Executive’s employment for a reason other than Cause, death or Disability, and, in each case, Executive signs and does not revoke a release of claims agreement and complies with certain non-solicitation restrictions as set forth in Section 4 hereof, then Executive will receive, in addition to Executive’s salary payable through the date of termination of employment and any other employee benefits earned and expense reimbursements owed through the date of termination, the following severance pay and benefits from the Company (subject to Section 4(c) hereof):

(i) Severance Payments.  Continuing payments of severance pay at a rate equal to (A) Executive’s annual base salary rate, as then in effect on the date of such termination, for multiplied by (B) a factor of 1.0, which will be paid in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll procedures.

(ii) Continued Employee Benefits.  If Executive elects continuation coverage pursuant to COBRA within the time period prescribed pursuant to COBRA for Executive and Executive’s eligible dependents, the Company will reimburse Executive for the premiums necessary to continue  group health insurance benefits for Executive and Executive’s eligible dependents until the earlier of (A) a period of twelve (12) months from the date of Executive’s termination of employment, (B) the date upon which Executive and/or Executive’s eligible dependents becomes covered under similar plans or (C) the date upon which Executive ceases to be eligible for coverage under COBRA (such reimbursements, the “COBRA Premiums”).  However, if the Company determines in its sole discretion that it cannot pay the COBRA Premiums without potentially violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), the Company will in lieu thereof provide to Executive a taxable monthly payment payable on the last day of a given month (except as provided by the following sentence), in an amount equal to the monthly COBRA premium that Executive would be required to pay to continue Executive’s group health coverage in effect on the date of Executive’s termination of employment (which amount will be based on the premium for the first month of COBRA coverage), which payments will be made regardless of whether Executive elects COBRA continuation coverage and will commence on the month following Executive’s termination of employment and will end on the earlier of (x) the date upon which Executive obtains other employment or (y) the date the Company has paid an amount equal to twelve (12) payments.  For the avoidance of doubt, the taxable payments in lieu of COBRA Premiums may be used for any purpose, including, but not limited to continuation coverage under COBRA, and will be subject to all applicable tax withholdings.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary under this Agreement, if at any time the Company determines in its sole discretion that it cannot provide the payments contemplated by the preceding sentence without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), Executive will not receive such payment or any further reimbursements for COBRA premiums.

(b) Termination in Connection With a Change in Control.  If, in the event that (a) within twelve (12) months following a Change in Control, or (b) at any time prior to a Change in Control if such termination is effected at the written request of any successor to the Company, (x) Executive resigns Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) for Good Reason, or (y) the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) terminates Executive’s employment for a reason other than Cause, death or Disability, and, in each case, Executive signs and does not revoke a release of claims agreement and complies with certain non-solicitation restrictions as set forth in Section 4 hereof, then Executive will receive, in addition to Executive’s salary payable through the date of termination of employment, any other employee benefits earned and expense reimbursements owed through the date of termination and the severance payments and benefits set forth in Section 3(a) (provided that any severance payments will be based on the Executive’s annual base salary rate as then in effect on the date of such termination or, if greater, at the level in effect immediately prior to the Change in Control), subject to Section 4(c) hereof, accelerated vesting as to one-hundred percent (100%) of the then unvested portion of all of Executive’s outstanding Company equity awards.  If, however, an outstanding Company equity award is to vest and/or the amount of the award to vest is to be determined based on the achievement of performance criteria, then the Company equity award will vest as to one-hundred percent (100%) of the amount of the Company equity award assuming the performance criteria had been achieved at target levels for the relevant performance period(s).

(c) Other Termination Events.  If Executive’s employment with the Company terminates with the Company (and any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) (i) voluntarily by Executive (except as provided in Sections 3(a) and 3(b)), (ii) for Cause, or (iii) for death or Disability, then Executive will not be entitled to receive any severance payment or benefits and the sole obligation of the Company shall be to pay to Executive (or Executive’s estate), an amount equal to Executive’s base salary payable through the date of termination of employment and any other employee benefits earned and owed through the date of termination.

(d) Exclusive Remedy.  In the event of a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company), the provisions of this Section 3 are intended to be and are exclusive and in lieu of any other rights or remedies to which Executive or the Company may otherwise be entitled, whether at law, tort or contract, in equity, or under

 

-2-

---

 

this Agreement.  Executive will be entitled to no benefits, compensation or other payments or rights upon termination of employment other than those benefits expressly set forth in this Section 3.

4. Conditions to Receipt of Severance.

(a) Separation Agreement and Release of Claims.  The receipt of any severance pursuant to Sections 3 will be subject to Executive signing and not revoking a separation agreement and release of claims in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Company (the “Release”) and provided that such Release becomes effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the termination date (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”).  If the Release does not become effective and irrevocable by the Release Deadline, Executive will forfeit any rights to severance or benefits under this Agreement.  In no event will severance payments or benefits be paid or provided until the Release becomes effective and irrevocable.  Except as required by Section 4(c), any installment payments that would have been made to Executive prior to the Release becoming effective and irrevocable but for the preceding sentence will be paid to Executive on the first regularly scheduled Company payroll date following the date the Release becomes effective and irrevocable, and the remaining payments will be made as provided in the Agreement.

(b) Non-Solicitation.  Until the date one (1) year after the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive agrees not, either directly or indirectly, to solicit any employee of the Company (or any parent or subsidiary of the Company) to leave his or her employment either for Executive or for any other entity or person.  By entering in to this Agreement, Executive represents that Executive (i) is familiar with the foregoing covenant not to solicit, and (ii) is fully aware of his obligations hereunder, including, without limitation, the reasonableness of the length of time, scope and geographic coverage of these covenants.

(c) Section 409A.

(i) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, no Deferred Payments will be paid or otherwise provided until Executive has a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.  Similarly, no severance payable to Executive, if any, pursuant to this Agreement that otherwise would be exempt from Section 409A pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9) will be payable until Executive has a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.

(ii) Any severance payments or benefits under this Agreement that would be considered Deferred Payments will be paid on, or, in the case of installments, will not commence until, the sixtieth (60th) day following Executive’s separation from service, or, if later, such time as required by Section 4(c)(iii).  Except as required by Section 4(c)(iii), any installment payments that would have been made to Executive during the sixty (60) day period immediately following Executive’s separation from service but for the preceding sentence will be paid to Executive on the sixtieth (60th) day following Executive’s separation from service and the remaining payments shall be made as provided in this Agreement.  In no event will Executive have discretion to determine the taxable year of payment for any Deferred Payments.

(iii) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if Executive is a “specified employee” within the meaning of Section 409A at the time of Executive’s separation from service (other than due to death), then the Deferred Payments that are payable within the first six (6) months following Executive’s separation from service, will, to the extent required to be delayed pursuant to Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code, become payable on the date six (6) months and one (1) day following the date of Executive’s separation from service.  All subsequent Deferred Payments, if any, will be payable in accordance with the payment schedule applicable to each payment or benefit.  Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Executive dies following Executive’s separation from service, but prior to the six (6) month anniversary of the separation from service, then any payments delayed in accordance with this paragraph will be payable in a lump sum as soon as administratively practicable after the date of Executive’s death and all other Deferred Payments will be payable in accordance with the payment schedule applicable to each payment or benefit.  Each payment and benefit payable under this Agreement is intended to constitute a separate payment for purposes of Section 1.409A-2(b)(2) of the Treasury Regulations.

(iv) Any amount paid under this Agreement that satisfies the requirements of the “short-term deferral” rule set forth in Section 1.409A-1(b)(4) of the Treasury Regulations will not constitute Deferred Payments.

(v) Any amount paid under this Agreement that qualifies as a payment made as a result of an involuntary separation from service pursuant to Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii) of the Treasury Regulations that does not exceed the Section 409A Limit will not constitute Deferred Payments.

(vi) The foregoing provisions and all compensation and benefits provided for under this Agreement are intended to comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A so that none of the severance payments and benefits to be provided hereunder will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Section 409A, and any ambiguities or ambiguous terms herein will be interpreted to be exempt or so comply.  The Company and Executive agree to work together in good faith to consider amendments to

 

-3-

---

 

this Agreement and to take such reasonable actions which are necessary, appropriate or desirable to avoid imposition of any additional tax or income recognition prior to actual payment to Executive under Section 409A.  In no event will the Company reimburse Executive for any taxes that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A.

5. Limitation on Payments.  In the event that the severance and other benefits provided for in this Agreement or otherwise payable to Executive (i) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this Section 5, would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code, then Executive’s severance benefits under Section 3 will be either:

(a) delivered in full, or

(b) delivered as to such lesser extent which would result in no portion of such severance benefits being subject to excise tax under Section 4999 of the Code,

whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state and local income taxes and the excise tax imposed by Section 4999, results in the receipt by Executive on an after-tax basis, of the greatest amount of severance benefits, notwithstanding that all or some portion of such severance benefits may be taxable under Section 4999 of the Code.  If a reduction in severance and other benefits constituting “parachute payments” is necessary so that benefits are delivered to a lesser extent, reduction will occur in the following order: (i) reduction of cash payments; (ii) cancellation of awards granted “contingent on a change in ownership or control” (within the meaning of Code Section 280G); (iii) cancellation of accelerated vesting of equity awards; or (iv) reduction of employee benefits. In the event that acceleration of vesting of equity award compensation is to be reduced, such acceleration of vesting will be cancelled in the reverse order of the date of grant of Executive’s equity awards.  If two or more equity awards are granted on the same date, each award will be reduced on a pro-rata basis.  In all events, the Executive shall have no right, power or discretion to determine the reduction of payments and/or benefits.

Unless the Company and Executive otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 5 will be made in writing by a nationally recognized certified professional services firm selected by the Company, the Company’s legal counsel or such other person or entity to which the parties mutually agree (the “Firm”) immediately prior to the Change in Control, whose determination will be conclusive and binding upon Executive and the Company for all purposes.  For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 5, the Firm may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code.  The Company and Executive will furnish to the Firm such information and documents as the Accountants may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 5.  The Company will bear all costs the Firm may reasonably incur in connection with any calculations contemplated by this Section 5.

6. Definition of Terms.  The following terms referred to in this Agreement will have the following meanings:

(a) Cause.  “Cause” means: (i) an act of dishonesty made by Executive in connection with Executive’s responsibilities as an employee; (ii) Executive’s conviction of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or any crime involving fraud, embezzlement or any other act of moral turpitude, or a material violation of federal or state law by Executive that the Board reasonably believes has had or will have a detrimental effect on the Company’s reputation or business; (iii) Executive’s gross misconduct; (iv) Executive’s unauthorized use or disclosure of any proprietary information or trade secrets of the Company or any other party to whom Executive owes an obligation of nondisclosure as a result of Executive’s relationship with the Company; (v) Executive’s willful breach of any obligations under any written agreement or covenant with the Company; or (vi) Executive’s continued failure to perform his employment duties after Executive has received a written demand of performance from the Company that specifically sets forth the factual basis for the Company’s belief that Executive has not substantially performed his duties and has failed to cure such non-performance to the Company’s satisfaction within ten (10) business days after receiving such notice.

(b) Change in Control.  “Change in Control” means a “Change in Control” under the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.

(c) COBRA.  “COBRA” means the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended, or any comparable state law.

(d) Code.  “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

(e) Deferred Payment.  “Deferred Payment” means any severance pay or benefits to be paid or provided to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries) pursuant to this Agreement and any other severance payments or separation benefits, that in each case, when considered together, are considered deferred compensation under Section 409A.

 

-4-

---

 

(f) Disability.  “Disability” means that Executive has been unable to perform his Company duties as the result of his incapacity due to physical or mental illness, and such inability, at least twenty-six (26) weeks after its commencement, is determined to be total and permanent by a physician selected by the Company or its insurers and acceptable to Executive or Executive’s legal representative (such Agreement as to acceptability not to be unreasonably withheld).  Termination resulting from Disability may only be effected after at least thirty (30) days’ written notice by the Company of its intention to terminate Executive’s employment.  In the event that Executive resumes the performance of substantially all of his duties hereunder before the termination of his employment becomes effective, the notice of intent to terminate will automatically be deemed to have been revoked.

(g) Good Reason.  “Good Reason” means the occurrence of one or more of the following events effected without Executive’s prior consent, provided that Executive terminates employment with the Company within ninety (90) days following the expiration of the Company’s Cure Period: (i) the assignment to Executive of any duties or the reduction of Executive’s duties, either of which results in a material diminution in Executive’s position or responsibilities with the Company; provided that, it being understood that the continuance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities at the subsidiary or divisional level following a Change in Control, rather than at the parent, combined or surviving company level following such Change in Control shall not be deemed Good Reason within the meaning of this clause (i); (ii) a reduction by the Company in the base salary of Executive by fifteen percent (15%) or more, unless similar such reductions occur concurrently with and apply to the Company’s senior management; (iii) a material change in the geographic location at which Executive must perform services (for purposes of this Agreement, the relocation of Executive to a facility or a location less than twenty-five (25) miles from Executive’s then-present location shall not be considered a material change in geographic location); (iv) a material reduction of facilities, perquisites or in the kind or level of employee benefits to which the Executive is entitled, unless similar such reductions occur concurrently and apply to the Company’s senior management; or (v) any material breach by the Company of any material provision of this Agreement.  Executive will not resign for Good Reason without first providing the Company with written notice of the acts or omissions constituting the grounds for “Good Reason” within ninety (90) days of the initial existence of the grounds for “Good Reason” and a reasonable cure period of thirty (30) days (“Cure Period”) following the date of such notice.

(h) Section 409A.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code and any final regulations and guidance thereunder and any applicable state law equivalent, as each may be amended or promulgated from time to time.

(i) Section 409A Limit.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Section 409A Limit” will mean two (2) times the lesser of: (i) Executive’s annualized compensation based upon the annual rate of pay paid to Executive during the Executive’s taxable year preceding the Executive’s taxable year of Executive’s separation from service as determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii)(A)(1) and any Internal Revenue Service guidance issued with respect thereto; or (ii) the maximum amount that may be taken into account under a qualified plan pursuant to Section 401(a)(17) of the Code for the year in which Executive’s separation from service occurred.

7. Successors.

(a) The Company’s Successors.  Any successor to the Company (whether direct or indirect and whether by purchase, merger, consolidation, liquidation or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the Company’s business and/or assets will assume the obligations under this Agreement and agree expressly to perform the obligations under this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent as the Company would be required to perform such obligations in the absence of a succession.  For all purposes under this Agreement, the term “Company” will include any successor to the Company’s business and/or assets which executes and delivers the assumption agreement described in this Section 7(a) or which becomes bound by the terms of this Agreement by operation of law.

(b) Executive’s Successors.  The terms of this Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder will inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees, devisees and legatees.

(c) Assumption.  It shall be considered a material breach of the Agreement if the Company fails to obtain the assumption of this Agreement by any successor to the Company.

8. Notice.

(a) General.  Notices and all other communications contemplated by this Agreement will be in writing and will be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or when mailed by U.S. registered or certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid.  In the case of Executive, mailed notices will be addressed to Executive at the home address which he or she most recently communicated to the Company in writing.  In the case of the Company, mailed notices will be addressed to its corporate headquarters, and all notices will be directed to the attention of its President.

 

-5-

---

 

(b) Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive for Good Reason or as a result of a voluntary resignation will be communicated by a notice of termination to the other party hereto given in accordance with Section 8(a) of this Agreement.  Such notice will indicate the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, will set forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination under the provision so indicated, and will specify the termination date (which will be not more than thirty (30) days after the giving of such notice).  The failure by Executive to include in the notice any fact or circumstance which contributes to a showing of Good Reason will not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

9. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) No Duty to Mitigate.  Executive will not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment contemplated by this Agreement, nor will any such payment be reduced by any earnings that Executive may receive from any other source.

(b) Waiver.  No provision of this Agreement will be modified, waived or discharged unless the modification, waiver or discharge is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and by an authorized officer of the Company (other than Executive).  No waiver by either party of any breach of, or of compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement by the other party will be considered a waiver of any other condition or provision or of the same condition or provision at another time.

(c) Headings.  All captions and section headings used in this Agreement are for convenient reference only and do not form a part of this Agreement.

(d) Entire Agreement.  This Agreement, together with the Amended and Restated Change of Control Severance Agreement, and any equity or equity award agreement, constitutes the entire agreement of the parties hereto and supersedes in their entirety all prior representations, understandings, undertakings or agreements (whether oral or written and whether expressed or implied) of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, including, but not limited to, the Prior Agreement. No waiver, alteration, or modification of any of the provisions of this Agreement will be binding unless in writing and signed by duly authorized representatives of the parties hereto and which specifically mention this Agreement.

(e) Choice of Law.  The validity, interpretation, construction and performance of this Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State of California (with the exception of its conflict of laws provisions). Any claims or legal actions by one party against the other arising out of the relationship between the parties contemplated herein (whether or not arising under this Agreement) will be commenced or maintained in any state or federal court located in the jurisdiction where Executive resides, and Executive and the Company hereby submit to the jurisdiction and venue of any such court.

(f) Severability.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision hereof, which will remain in full force and effect.

(g) Withholding.  All payments made pursuant to this Agreement will be subject to withholding of applicable income and employment taxes.

(h) Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.

 

 

 

 

-6-

---

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has executed this Agreement, in the case of the Company by its duly authorized officer, as of the day and year set forth below.

 

 

 

-7-

Exhibit 10.3

IRIDEX CORPORATION

AMENDED AND RESTATED CHANGE IN CONTROL SEVERANCE AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Change in Control Severance Agreement (the “Agreement”) is made and entered into by and between Ronald T. Steckel (“Executive”) and IRIDEX Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), effective as of March 30, 2015 (the “Effective Date”).

RECITALS

Whereas, it is expected that the Company from time to time will consider the possibility of a merger with another company, an acquisition by another company or other Change in Control (as defined herein).  The Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) recognizes that such consideration can be a distraction to Executive and can cause Executive to consider alternative employment opportunities.  The Board has determined that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to assure that the Company will have the continued dedication and objectivity of Executive, notwithstanding the possibility, threat or occurrence of a termination of employment or a merger, acquisition or Change in Control of the Company.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with an incentive to continue Executive’s employment and to motivate Executive to maximize the value of the Company upon a Change in Control for the benefit of its stockholders.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with certain severance benefits upon Executive’s termination of employment other than for Cause (as defined herein), death or Disability (as defined herein), or upon a resignation for Good Reason, in order to provide Executive with enhanced financial security to remain with the Company.

Whereas, the Board believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders to provide Executive with certain severance benefits upon Executive’s termination of employment other than for Cause (as defined herein), death or Disability (as defined herein), or upon a resignation for Good Reason, with such severance benefits changing based on whether the Executive’s qualifying termination is in connection with a Change in Control of the Company, in order to provide Executive with enhanced financial security and incentive to remain with the Company.

Whereas, certain capitalized terms used in the Agreement are defined in Section 6 below.

Whereas, the Company and Executive entered into that certain Executive Severance Agreement dated as of April 16, 2012 (the “Prior Agreement”), and now wish to make certain revisions to the Prior Agreement by amending and restating the Prior Agreement in its entirety as set forth herein.  Section 8(b) of the Prior Agreement provides that the Prior Agreement may not be modified, waived or discharged unless the modification, waiver or discharge is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and by an authorized officer of the Company other than Executive.

AGREEMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Term of Agreement.  This Agreement will terminate upon the date that all of the obligations of the parties hereto with respect to this Agreement have been satisfied.

2. At-Will Employment.  The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and will continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law.  If Executive’s employment terminates for any reason, including (without limitation) any termination not set forth in Section 3, Executive will not be entitled to any payments, benefits, damages, awards or compensation other than as specifically provided by this Agreement.

 

 

 

---

3. Severance Benefits.

(a) Termination Payments and Benefits.  In the event that (x) Executive resigns Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) for Good Reason, or (y) the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) terminates Executive’s employment for a reason other than Cause, death or Disability, and, in each case, Executive signs and does not revoke a release of claims agreement and complies with certain non-solicitation restrictions as set forth in Section 4 hereof, then Executive will receive, in addition to Executive’s salary payable through the date of termination of employment and any other employee benefits earned and expense reimbursements owed through the date of termination, the following severance pay and benefits from the Company (subject to Section 4(c) hereof):

(i) Severance Payments.  A lump sum severance payment equal to (A) Executive’s annual base salary, as then in effect on the date of such termination, multiplied by (B) a factor of 0.5, which will be paid in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll procedures.

(ii) Continued Employee Benefits.  If Executive elects continuation coverage pursuant to COBRA within the time period prescribed pursuant to COBRA for Executive and Executive’s eligible dependents, the Company will reimburse Executive for the premiums necessary to continue  group health insurance benefits for Executive and Executive’s eligible dependents until the earlier of (A) a period of twelve (12) months from the date of Executive’s termination of employment, (B) the date upon which Executive and/or Executive’s eligible dependents becomes covered under similar plans or (C) the date upon which Executive ceases to be eligible for coverage under COBRA (such reimbursements, the “COBRA Premiums”).  However, if the Company determines in its sole discretion that it cannot pay the COBRA Premiums without potentially violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), the Company will in lieu thereof provide to Executive a taxable monthly payment payable on the last day of a given month (except as provided by the following sentence), in an amount equal to the monthly COBRA premium that Executive would be required to pay to continue Executive’s group health coverage in effect on the date of Executive’s termination of employment (which amount will be based on the premium for the first month of COBRA coverage), which payments will be made regardless of whether Executive elects COBRA continuation coverage and will commence on the month following Executive’s termination of employment and will end on the earlier of (x) the date upon which Executive obtains other employment or (y) the date the Company has paid an amount equal to twelve (12) payments.  For the avoidance of doubt, the taxable payments in lieu of COBRA Premiums may be used for any purpose, including, but not limited to continuation coverage under COBRA, and will be subject to all applicable tax withholdings.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary under this Agreement, if at any time the Company determines in its sole discretion that it cannot provide the payments contemplated by the preceding sentence without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), Executive will not receive such payment or any further reimbursements for COBRA premiums.

(b) Termination in Connection With a Change in Control.  If, in the event that (a) within twelve (12) months following a Change in Control, or (b) at any time prior to a Change in Control if such termination is effected at the written request of any successor to the Company, (x) Executive resigns Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) for Good Reason, or (y) the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) terminates Executive’s employment for a reason other than Cause, death or Disability, and, in each case, Executive signs and does not revoke a release of claims agreement and complies with certain non-solicitation restrictions as set forth in Section 4 hereof, then Executive will receive, in addition to Executive’s salary payable through the date of termination of employment, any other employee benefits earned and expense reimbursements owed through the date of termination and the severance payments and benefits set forth in Section 3(a) (provided that any severance payments will be based on the Executive’s annual base salary rate as then in effect on the date of such termination or, if greater, at the level in effect immediately prior to the Change in Control), subject to Section 4(c) hereof, accelerated vesting as to one-hundred percent (100%) of the then unvested portion of all of Executive’s outstanding Company equity awards.  If, however, an outstanding Company equity award is to vest and/or the amount of the award to vest is to be determined based on the achievement of performance criteria, then the Company equity award will vest as to one-hundred percent (100%) of the amount of the Company equity award assuming the performance criteria had been achieved at target levels for the relevant performance period(s).

(c) Other Termination Events.  If Executive’s employment with the Company terminates with the Company (and any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company) (i) voluntarily by Executive (except as provided in Sections 3(a) and 3(b)), (ii) for Cause, or (iii) for death or Disability, then Executive will not be entitled to receive any severance payment or benefits and the sole obligation of the Company shall be to pay to Executive (or Executive’s estate), an amount equal to Executive’s base salary payable through the date of termination of employment and any other employee benefits earned and owed through the date of termination.

(d) Exclusive Remedy.  In the event of a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (or any parent or subsidiary or successor of the Company), the provisions of this Section 3 are intended to be and are exclusive and in lieu of any other rights or remedies to which Executive or the Company may otherwise be entitled, whether at law, tort or contract, in equity, or under this Agreement.  Executive will be entitled to no benefits, compensation or other payments or rights upon termination of employment other than those benefits expressly set forth in this Section 3.

 

-2-

---

4. Conditions to Receipt of Severance.

(a) Separation Agreement and Release of Claims.  The receipt of any severance pursuant to Sections 3 will be subject to Executive signing and not revoking a separation agreement and release of claims in a form reasonably satisfactory to the Company (the “Release”) and provided that such Release becomes effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the termination date (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”).  If the Release does not become effective and irrevocable by the Release Deadline, Executive will forfeit any rights to severance or benefits under this Agreement.  In no event will severance payments or benefits be paid or provided until the Release becomes effective and irrevocable.  Except as required by Section 4(c), any installment payments that would have been made to Executive prior to the Release becoming effective and irrevocable but for the preceding sentence will be paid to Executive on the first regularly scheduled Company payroll date following the date the Release becomes effective and irrevocable, and the remaining payments will be made as provided in the Agreement.

(b) Non-Solicitation.  Until the date one (1) year after the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive agrees not, either directly or indirectly, to solicit any employee of the Company (or any parent or subsidiary of the Company) to leave his or her employment either for Executive or for any other entity or person.  By entering in to this Agreement, Executive represents that Executive (i) is familiar with the foregoing covenant not to solicit, and (ii) is fully aware of his obligations hereunder, including, without limitation, the reasonableness of the length of time, scope and geographic coverage of these covenants.

(c) Section 409A.

(i) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, no Deferred Payments will be paid or otherwise provided until Executive has a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.  Similarly, no severance payable to Executive, if any, pursuant to this Agreement that otherwise would be exempt from Section 409A pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9) will be payable until Executive has a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A.

(ii) Any severance payments or benefits under this Agreement that would be considered Deferred Payments will be paid on, or, in the case of installments, will not commence until, the sixtieth (60th) day following Executive’s separation from service, or, if later, such time as required by Section 4(c)(iii).  Except as required by Section 4(c)(iii), any installment payments that would have been made to Executive during the sixty (60) day period immediately following Executive’s separation from service but for the preceding sentence will be paid to Executive on the sixtieth (60th) day following Executive’s separation from service and the remaining payments shall be made as provided in this Agreement.  In no event will Executive have discretion to determine the taxable year of payment for any Deferred Payments.

(iii) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if Executive is a “specified employee” within the meaning of Section 409A at the time of Executive’s separation from service (other than due to death), then the Deferred Payments that are payable within the first six (6) months following Executive’s separation from service, will, to the extent required to be delayed pursuant to Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code, become payable on the date six (6) months and one (1) day following the date of Executive’s separation from service.  All subsequent Deferred Payments, if any, will be payable in accordance with the payment schedule applicable to each payment or benefit.  Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if Executive dies following Executive’s separation from service, but prior to the six (6) month anniversary of the separation from service, then any payments delayed in accordance with this paragraph will be payable in a lump sum as soon as administratively practicable after the date of Executive’s death and all other Deferred Payments will be payable in accordance with the payment schedule applicable to each payment or benefit.  Each payment and benefit payable under this Agreement is intended to constitute a separate payment for purposes of Section 1.409A-2(b)(2) of the Treasury Regulations.

(iv) Any amount paid under this Agreement that satisfies the requirements of the “short-term deferral” rule set forth in Section 1.409A-1(b)(4) of the Treasury Regulations will not constitute Deferred Payments.

(v) Any amount paid under this Agreement that qualifies as a payment made as a result of an involuntary separation from service pursuant to Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii) of the Treasury Regulations that does not exceed the Section 409A Limit will not constitute Deferred Payments.

(vi) The foregoing provisions and all compensation and benefits provided for under this Agreement are intended to comply with or be exempt from the requirements of Section 409A so that none of the severance payments and benefits to be provided hereunder will be subject to the additional tax imposed under Section 409A, and any ambiguities or ambiguous terms herein will be interpreted to be exempt or so comply.  The Company and Executive agree to work together in good faith to consider amendments to this Agreement and to take such reasonable actions which are necessary, appropriate or desirable to avoid imposition of any additional tax or income recognition prior to actual payment to Executive under Section 409A.  In no event will the Company reimburse Executive for any taxes that may be imposed on Executive as a result of Section 409A.

 

-3-

---

5. Limitation on Payments.  In the event that the severance and other benefits provided for in this Agreement or otherwise payable to Executive (i) constitute “parachute payments” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this Section 5, would be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code, then Executive’s severance benefits under Section 3 will be either:

(a) delivered in full, or

(b) delivered as to such lesser extent which would result in no portion of such severance benefits being subject to excise tax under Section 4999 of the Code,

whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state and local income taxes and the excise tax imposed by Section 4999, results in the receipt by Executive on an after-tax basis, of the greatest amount of severance benefits, notwithstanding that all or some portion of such severance benefits may be taxable under Section 4999 of the Code.  If a reduction in severance and other benefits constituting “parachute payments” is necessary so that benefits are delivered to a lesser extent, reduction will occur in the following order: (i) reduction of cash payments; (ii) cancellation of awards granted “contingent on a change in ownership or control” (within the meaning of Code Section 280G); (iii) cancellation of accelerated vesting of equity awards; or (iv) reduction of employee benefits. In the event that acceleration of vesting of equity award compensation is to be reduced, such acceleration of vesting will be cancelled in the reverse order of the date of grant of Executive’s equity awards.  If two or more equity awards are granted on the same date, each award will be reduced on a pro-rata basis.  In all events, the Executive shall have no right, power or discretion to determine the reduction of payments and/or benefits.

Unless the Company and Executive otherwise agree in writing, any determination required under this Section 5 will be made in writing by a nationally recognized certified professional services firm selected by the Company, the Company’s legal counsel or such other person or entity to which the parties mutually agree (the “Firm”) immediately prior to the Change in Control, whose determination will be conclusive and binding upon Executive and the Company for all purposes.  For purposes of making the calculations required by this Section 5, the Firm may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code.  The Company and Executive will furnish to the Firm such information and documents as the Accountants may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this Section 5.  The Company will bear all costs the Firm may reasonably incur in connection with any calculations contemplated by this Section 5.

6. Definition of Terms.  The following terms referred to in this Agreement will have the following meanings:

(a) Cause.  “Cause” means: (i) an act of dishonesty made by Executive in connection with Executive’s responsibilities as an employee; (ii) Executive’s conviction of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or any crime involving fraud, embezzlement or any other act of moral turpitude, or a material violation of federal or state law by Executive that the Board reasonably believes has had or will have a detrimental effect on the Company’s reputation or business; (iii) Executive’s gross misconduct; (iv) Executive’s unauthorized use or disclosure of any proprietary information or trade secrets of the Company or any other party to whom Executive owes an obligation of nondisclosure as a result of Executive’s relationship with the Company; (v) Executive’s willful breach of any obligations under any written agreement or covenant with the Company; or (vi) Executive’s continued failure to perform his employment duties after Executive has received a written demand of performance from the Company that specifically sets forth the factual basis for the Company’s belief that Executive has not substantially performed his duties and has failed to cure such non-performance to the Company’s satisfaction within ten (10) business days after receiving such notice.

(b) Change in Control.  “Change in Control” means a “Change in Control” under the Company’s 2008 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.

(c) COBRA.  “COBRA” means the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended, or any comparable state law.

(d) Code.  “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

(e) Deferred Payment.  “Deferred Payment” means any severance pay or benefits to be paid or provided to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries) pursuant to this Agreement and any other severance payments or separation benefits, that in each case, when considered together, are considered deferred compensation under Section 409A.

(f) Disability.  “Disability” means that Executive has been unable to perform his Company duties as the result of his incapacity due to physical or mental illness, and such inability, at least twenty-six (26) weeks after its commencement, is determined to be total and permanent by a physician selected by the Company or its insurers and acceptable to Executive or Executive’s legal representative (such Agreement as to acceptability not to be unreasonably withheld).  Termination resulting from Disability may only

 

-4-

---

be effected after at least thirty (30) days’ written notice by the Company of its intention to terminate Executive’s employment.  In the event that Executive resumes the performance of substantially all of his duties hereunder before the termination of his employment becomes effective, the notice of intent to terminate will automatically be deemed to have been revoked.

(g) Good Reason.  “Good Reason” means the occurrence of one or more of the following events effected without Executive’s prior consent, provided that Executive terminates employment with the Company within ninety (90)  days following the expiration of the Company’s Cure Period: (i) the assignment to Executive of any duties or the reduction of Executive’s duties, either of which results in a material diminution in Executive’s position or responsibilities with the Company; provided that, it being understood that the continuance of Executive’s duties and responsibilities at the subsidiary or divisional level following a Change in Control, rather than at the parent, combined or surviving company level following such Change in Control shall not be deemed Good Reason within the meaning of this clause (i); (ii) a reduction by the Company in the base salary of Executive by fifteen percent (15%) or more, unless similar such reductions occur concurrently with and apply to the Company’s senior management; (iii) a material change in the geographic location at which Executive must perform services (for purposes of this Agreement, the relocation of Executive to a facility or a location less than twenty-five (25) miles from Executive’s then-present location shall not be considered a material change in geographic location); (iv) a material reduction of facilities, perquisites or in the kind or level of employee benefits to which the Executive is entitled, unless similar such reductions occur concurrently and apply to the Company’s senior management; or (v) any material breach by the Company of any material provision of this Agreement.  Executive will not resign for Good Reason without first providing the Company with written notice of the acts or omissions constituting the grounds for “Good Reason” within ninety (90) days of the initial existence of the grounds for “Good Reason” and a reasonable cure period of thirty (30) days (“Cure Period”) following the date of such notice.

(h) Section 409A.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code and any final regulations and guidance thereunder and any applicable state law equivalent, as each may be amended or promulgated from time to time.

(i) Section 409A Limit.  For purposes of this Agreement, “Section 409A Limit” will mean two (2) times the lesser of: (i) Executive’s annualized compensation based upon the annual rate of pay paid to Executive during the Executive’s taxable year preceding the Executive’s taxable year of Executive’s separation from service as determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii)(A)(1) and any Internal Revenue Service guidance issued with respect thereto; or (ii) the maximum amount that may be taken into account under a qualified plan pursuant to Section 401(a)(17) of the Code for the year in which Executive’s separation from service occurred.

7. Successors.

(a) The Company’s Successors.  Any successor to the Company (whether direct or indirect and whether by purchase, merger, consolidation, liquidation or otherwise) to all or substantially all of the Company’s business and/or assets will assume the obligations under this Agreement and agree expressly to perform the obligations under this Agreement in the same manner and to the same extent as the Company would be required to perform such obligations in the absence of a succession.  For all purposes under this Agreement, the term “Company” will include any successor to the Company’s business and/or assets which executes and delivers the assumption agreement described in this Section 7(a) or which becomes bound by the terms of this Agreement by operation of law.

(b) Executive’s Successors.  The terms of this Agreement and all rights of Executive hereunder will inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, Executive’s personal or legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors, heirs, distributees, devisees and legatees.

(c) Assumption.  It shall be considered a material breach of the Agreement if the Company fails to obtain the assumption of this Agreement by any successor to the Company.

8. Notice.

(a) General.  Notices and all other communications contemplated by this Agreement will be in writing and will be deemed to have been duly given when personally delivered or when mailed by U.S. registered or certified mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid.  In the case of Executive, mailed notices will be addressed to Executive at the home address which he or she most recently communicated to the Company in writing.  In the case of the Company, mailed notices will be addressed to its corporate headquarters, and all notices will be directed to the attention of its President.

(b) Notice of Termination.  Any termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive for Good Reason or as a result of a voluntary resignation will be communicated by a notice of termination to the other party hereto given in accordance with Section 8(a) of this Agreement.  Such notice will indicate the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, will set forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination under the provision so indicated, and

 

-5-

---

will specify the termination date (which will be not more than thirty (30) days after the giving of such notice).  The failure by Executive to include in the notice any fact or circumstance which contributes to a showing of Good Reason will not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

9. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) No Duty to Mitigate.  Executive will not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment contemplated by this Agreement, nor will any such payment be reduced by any earnings that Executive may receive from any other source.

(b) Waiver.  No provision of this Agreement will be modified, waived or discharged unless the modification, waiver or discharge is agreed to in writing and signed by Executive and by an authorized officer of the Company (other than Executive).  No waiver by either party of any breach of, or of compliance with, any condition or provision of this Agreement by the other party will be considered a waiver of any other condition or provision or of the same condition or provision at another time.

(c) Headings.  All captions and section headings used in this Agreement are for convenient reference only and do not form a part of this Agreement.

(d) Entire Agreement.  This Agreement, together with the Executive Severance Agreement, and any equity or equity award agreement, constitutes the entire agreement of the parties hereto and supersedes in their entirety all prior representations, understandings, undertakings or agreements (whether oral or written and whether expressed or implied) of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, including, but not limited to, the Prior Agreement. No waiver, alteration, or modification of any of the provisions of this Agreement will be binding unless in writing and signed by duly authorized representatives of the parties hereto and which specifically mention this Agreement.

(e) Choice of Law.  The validity, interpretation, construction and performance of this Agreement will be governed by the laws of the State of California (with the exception of its conflict of laws provisions). Any claims or legal actions by one party against the other arising out of the relationship between the parties contemplated herein (whether or not arising under this Agreement) will be commenced or maintained in any state or federal court located in the jurisdiction where Executive resides, and Executive and the Company hereby submit to the jurisdiction and venue of any such court.

(f) Severability.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision hereof, which will remain in full force and effect.

(g) Withholding.  All payments made pursuant to this Agreement will be subject to withholding of applicable income and employment taxes.

(h) Counterparts.  This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.

 

 

 

 

-6-

---

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has executed this Agreement, in the case of the Company by its duly authorized officer, as of the day and year set forth below.

 

 

 

-7-

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13(a) or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, William M. Moore, certify that:

 

Date: May 12, 2015

 

 

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13(a) or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, James H. Mackaness, certify that:

 

 

Date: May 12, 2015

 

 

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, William M. Moore, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, certify that the Quarterly Report of IRIDEX Corporation on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended April 4, 2015 (i) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and (ii) that information contained in such Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of IRIDEX Corporation.

Date: May 12, 2015

 

 

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,

AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, James H. Mackaness, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, certify that the Quarterly Report of IRIDEX Corporation on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended April 4, 2015 (i) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and (ii) that information contained in such Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of IRIDEX Corporation.

Date: May 12, 2015