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                                 UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

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                                   FORM 10-K

        
   /X/     ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
           SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000. / / TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM ______________ TO ______________ COMMISSION FILE NO. 001-13615 ------------------------ RAYOVAC CORPORATION (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) WISCONSIN 22-2423556 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification Number) 601 RAYOVAC DRIVE 53711-2497 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (608) 275-3340 SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(B) OF THE ACT:
NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE ON TITLE OF EACH CLASS WHICH REGISTERED ------------------- ----------------------------- Common Stock, Par Value $.01 New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(G) OF THE ACT: None 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 /X/ No / / Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. / / On December 18, 2000, the aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $217,465,808. As of December 18, 2000, there were outstanding 27,576,785 shares of the registrant's Common Stock, $0.01 par value. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE -------- PART I ITEM 1. BUSINESS.................................................... 2 ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.................................................. 14 ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS........................................... 15 ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS......... 17 PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS......................................... 18 ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA..................................... 18 ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS................................... 21 ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK........................................................ 29 ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA................. 30 ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENT WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.................................... 30 PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT.......... 31 ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION...................................... 34 ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT.................................................. 37 ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS.............. 39 PART IV ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K......................................................... 40 INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE.......................................... F-1 SIGNATURES.................................................. II-3
1 PART 1 ITEM 1. BUSINESS GENERAL Rayovac is the leading value brand and the third largest domestic manufacturer of general batteries. We are also the leading worldwide manufacturer of hearing aid batteries and the leading U.S. manufacturer of rechargeable household batteries and certain other specialty batteries, including lantern batteries. In addition, we are a leading marketer of heavy duty batteries and battery-powered lighting products. Rayovac is a well-recognized brand name in the battery industry that was first used as a trademark for batteries in 1921. We attribute the longevity and strength of the Rayovac brand name to our high-quality products and to the success of our marketing and merchandising initiatives. We established our position as the leading value brand in the U.S. general alkaline battery market by offering powerful solutions for our consumers, customers and shareholders. Our solutions include: - delivering the best value to consumers with competitive quality and performance at a lower price - partnering with our customers and providing category management with innovative in-store merchandising, promotions and packaging that drive profits - providing long-term shareholder value by consistent performance demonstrated by four years of record setting sales, income and earnings per share growth, and we are positioned for continued growth We have established our position as the leader in various specialty battery niche markets through continuous technological advances, creative marketing, and strong relationships with industry professionals and manufacturers. Over the last several years we have broadened our distribution channels to include mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs; food, drug, and convenience stores; electronics specialty stores and department stores; hardware and automotive centers; specialty retailers; hearing aid professionals; industrial distributors; government agencies; e-tailers and original equipment manufacturers. We market all of our branded products under the Rayovac-Registered Trademark- name and selected products under sub-brand names including MAXIMUM-Registered Trademark-, RENEWAL-Registered Trademark-, Loud 'n Clear-Registered Trademark-, ProLine-Registered Trademark-, Rayovac Ultra-Registered Trademark-, Workhorse-Registered Trademark-, Roughneck-Registered Trademark-, Sportsman-Registered Trademark-, Air 4000-Registered Trademark-, XCell-Registered Trademark-, Extra-Registered Trademark- and AIRPOWER-Registered Trademark-. OPERATING SEGMENTS Our business is organized according to three geographic regions: (1) North America, (2) Latin America and (3) Europe and rest of world ("Europe/ROW"). Global and geographic strategic initiatives and financial objectives are determined at the corporate level. Each operating segment is responsible for implementing the defined strategic initiatives and achieving the financial objectives. Each geographic region has a general manager responsible for all the sales and marketing initiatives for all product lines within that region. OUR BUSINESS STRATEGY Our business strategy is centered around four key elements: - continue to increase the consumer awareness of the Rayovac brand name by focused marketing and advertising - grow our market share by expanding distribution into new channels, increasing sales to under-penetrated channels and customers, launching new products, and selectively pursuing acquisitions and alliances 2 - reduce costs by rationalizing manufacturing and distribution, better utilizing existing plant capacity, outsourcing products where appropriate, reducing working capital and corporate overhead as a percent of sales - improve employee productivity by increasing training and education, improving business processes and supporting a pay-for-performance culture. To support our business strategy we have developed or implemented many changes in the last several years. ALIGNMENT OF SALES, MARKETING AND ADMINISTRATION WITH CUSTOMERS. In North America, our marketing department, sales organization, supply chain and support functions are aligned to better serve our diverse customer needs. We are organized in customer-focused teams to serve the following distribution channels: mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs, regional mass merchandiser, home center, hardware, consumer retail, food and drug, consumer electronics, hearing aid professionals, industrial, government and original equipment manufacturers. Our sales growth is in part due to our dedicated teams focusing on implementing channel-specific marketing strategies, sales promotions and customer service initiatives. SALES AND MARKETING PROGRAMS. We continue to implement broad new marketing initiatives. In the last year we have (1) continued to use Michael Jordan in our alkaline advertising and Arnold Palmer in our hearing aid advertising, (2) continued to expand new packaging designs that enhance consumer convenience via reclosable features, (3) continued to upgrade our alkaline, rechargeable and hearing aid product performance, (4) continued to develop new innovative lighting products to expand distribution. RESTRUCTURING OF OUR OPERATIONS. Over the last several years we have restructured our operations to maximize our production and capacity efficiencies, reduce fixed costs, upgrade existing technology and equipment, and improve customer service. Major elements of these initiatives include: (1) consolidating our packaging operations at our Madison, Wisconsin plant, (2) consolidating the worldwide manufacturing of certain heavy duty batteries in Mexico, (3) closing certain of our existing manufacturing, packaging and distribution facilities, and (4) discontinuing the manufacture of watch batteries. We recorded a charge of $9.5 million in fiscal 1998 for the first three initiatives listed. We recorded a charge of $3.4 million in fiscal 1999 for the watch battery discontinuation and the remaining costs associated with the other plant closings. WORLD CLASS INFORMATION SYSTEMS. Rayovac continues to build on its successful implementation of SAP, our core business information software, with the addition of a financial analysis data warehouse and significant improvements to our warehouse automation. SAP and the additional integrated software packages provide us with a single source of information, standardization of processes and more readily available, timely information. The information services group is aligned with the business teams, who provide the appropriate levels of focus and collaborative efforts to deliver powerful solutions for the business. OUR GROWTH STRATEGY We believe that we have significant growth opportunities in our business. We have developed strategies to increase our sales, profits and market share. Key elements of our growth strategy are: CONTINUE TO STRENGTHEN THE RAYOVAC BRAND NAME. We are committed to continuing to strengthen the Rayovac brand name. The Rayovac brand name is widely recognized in all markets where we compete. Over the last three years we have seen our brand awareness improve and gain on the more highly advertised Duracell and Energizer brands. To increase our brand awareness and perception of quality, we continued an integrated advertising campaign using higher levels of television and print media in North America to support our significant product performance claims highlighting performance competitive with or superior to competitive products. These performance claims are supported by new graphics, new packaging, a new advertising campaign and retail promotions. These marketing and advertising initiatives 3 are designed to increase consumer awareness of the Rayovac brand and to increase our retail sales by heightening customers' perceptions of the quality, performance and value of our products. These initiatives have increased domestic awareness of the Rayovac brand to over 85%, with strong quality and performance perceptions. EMPHASIZE OUR TOTAL SOLUTION. The general battery market is becoming segmented with high performance batteries for high drain devices, standard alkaline batteries for consumers everyday needs, and lower performing alkaline products aimed at dollar stores and deep discounters. We believe that Rayovac is uniquely positioned to provide the best solutions in this segmented market. We offer Rayovac Rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMh), which generally outperforms alkaline competition in high drain devices such as digital cameras and provides a great value for the consumer. Our Rayovac MAXIMUM battery, our standard alkaline, offers competitive quality and performance at a lower price. While the competition has focused on developing and promoting their batteries for high drain devices, a relatively small share of the total battery demand, we focus and position our products to appeal to the large segment of the population that desires value brand products, which are similar in quality and performance to the products of our major competitors. Rayovac has continued to focus on providing consumers with improved performance in Rayovac MAXIMUM, retailers' profits, value pricing for the consumer and innovative packaging designs that benefit both the consumer and the retailer. The reclosable packages introduced by Rayovac over the last two years provide the consumer with an efficient storage unit and provide the retailer with a package that generates more profit. EXPAND RETAIL DISTRIBUTION. We believe that our value brand positioning and innovative merchandising programs make us an attractive supplier to all channels of trade. We expanded our traditional focus on mass merchandisers to include other retail channels. We reorganized our marketing, sales, and sales support organizations by retail channel in order to increase our market share by (1) gaining new customers, (2) selling existing customers a larger assortment of products, (3) offering a selection of products with high sell-through and (4) utilizing more aggressive and channel specific promotional programs. In the last four years we have increased the number of stores in the United States selling our products by over 60,000 stores. As of September 2000, Rayovac products can be found in over 100,000 stores in the United States. FURTHER CAPITALIZE ON WORLDWIDE LEADERSHIP IN HEARING AID BATTERIES. We seek to increase our worldwide share in the hearing aid battery category by capitalizing on our leading technology and dedicated sales and marketing organization and through the completion of strategic acquisitions. We continue to use Arnold Palmer as our spokesperson in our print media campaign for hearing aid battery products. This past year we launched the new Rayovac Ultra Zinc Air hearing aid battery which will last up to 30 percent longer than other zinc air hearing aid batteries. This new hearing aid battery features patented zinc air technology that maximizes performance of the battery cell as a result of unique components and construction. This new product continues the Rayovac history of innovation in the hearing aid industry. We also market hearing aid batteries in multi-packaging designs in order to find better solutions to service the consumer. DEVELOP NEW MARKETS. We plan to continue to expand our business into new markets for batteries and related products both domestically and internationally by developing new products internally or potentially through selective acquisitions. Our acquisitions may focus on expansion into new technologies, product lines or geographic markets and may be of significant size. We may also pursue joint ventures or other strategic marketing opportunities, where appropriate to expand our markets or product offerings. INCREASE PRESENCE IN LATIN AMERICAN & EUROPE. In Latin America, we established a strong presence with the important acquisition of ROV Limited's battery business in August 1999. The Latin American operations have an extensive network of distribution and production facilities in Central America, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, and Chile. Rayovac has made sizable distribution gains over the last year, adding over 500 major retail accounts that represent more than 5,000 stores. We have also focused on broadening distribution by appointing quality distributors throughout Latin 4 America's secondary and rural markets, which house a significant number of the region's retail outlets. We have added over 500 distributors who service over 50,000 small retail locations during the first year of owning this business. In addition, we have expanded geographically in South America with our heavy duty and alkaline products. We will continue to grow in Latin America through continued geographic expansion and by increasing alkaline penetration, introducing lighting and specialty products while continuing to offer a full range of battery solutions that include heavy duty, alkaline and rechargeables. The ROV Limited acquisition also allowed us to control the Rayovac brand name for use worldwide except in Brazil. This will allow us additional marketing opportunities in the Middle East, Africa, and selected Asian countries. In Europe, we successfully increased our presence by implementing customer and consumer solutions similar to North America. In the United Kingdom, Rayovac now holds more than a 50 percent market share in the Do-It-Yourself distribution channel and has gained chain-wide distribution in one of the United Kingdom's largest grocery supermarket chains. Our plans to increase the scale of our battery operations in Europe will be realized by leveraging our strong relationships with global retailers and supporting our customers with innovative packaging and merchandising programs. PRODUCTS We develop, manufacture and/or market a wide variety of batteries and battery-powered lighting devices. Our broad line of products includes: - general batteries, including alkaline, heavy duty, rechargeable alkaline and nickel metal hydride batteries - specialty batteries, including hearing aid, watch, photo, keyless entry, and personal computer clock, memory back-up batteries, rechargeable batteries for cordless telephones and chargers for rechargeable batteries - lighting products and lantern batteries Our general batteries (D, C, AA, AAA and 9-volt sizes) are used in devices such as radios, remote controls, cassette players, pagers, portable compact disc players, electronic and video games and battery-powered toys, as well as a variety of battery-powered industrial applications. Our button cell specialty batteries are used in smaller devices, such as hearing aids and watches. Our lithium coin cells are used in cameras, calculators, communication equipment, medical instrumentation and personal computer clocks and memory back-up systems. Our lantern batteries are used almost exclusively in battery-powered lanterns. Our lighting products include flashlights, lanterns and similar portable products. 5 Net sales data for our products as a percentage of net sales for fiscal 1998, fiscal 1999 and fiscal 2000 are set forth below.
PERCENTAGE OF COMPANY NET SALES ------------------------------ FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------------------ PRODUCT TYPE 1998 1999 2000 - ------------ -------- -------- -------- Battery Products: Alkaline.................................................... 49.1% 50.1% 47.7% Heavy Duty.................................................. 7.8 9.9 20.5 Rechargeables............................................... 5.4 4.5 4.6 Hearing Aid................................................. 14.8 13.3 9.6 Specialty and Other Batteries............................... 9.1 8.6 6.2 ----- ----- ----- Total..................................................... 86.2 86.4 88.6 Lighting Products and Lantern Batteries..................... 13.8 13.6 11.4 ----- ----- ----- Total..................................................... 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% ===== ===== =====
A description of our major battery products including their typical uses is set forth below. GENERAL BATTERIES HEARING AID OTHER SPECIALTY BATTERIES BATTERIES Technology: Alkaline Zinc Nickel Metal Zinc Air Lithium Silver Nickel Hydride Metal Hydride Types/ Common -Disposable Heavy Duty Rechargeable -- -- -- Recharge- Name: -Rechargeable (Zinc Chloride able and Zinc Carbon) Brand; Rayovac; Rayovac Rayovac, Rayovac Rayovac; Loud 'n Rayovac Rayovac Rayovac Sub-brand MAXIMUM, Ultra Clear, ProLine, Ultra Names(1): RENEWAL Rechargeable Extra, Rayovac Recharge- Ultra, Air 4000, able XCell and AIRPOWER Sizes: D, C, AA, AAA, 9-volt(2) for both Alkaline and 5 sizes 5 primary 10 primary Packs Zinc sizes sizes AA, AAA, 9-volt for Nickel Metal Hydride Typical Uses: All standard household applications including Hearing aids Personal Watches Cordless electronic toys, pagers, CD and cassette computer phones players, remote controls, digital cameras and a clocks and wide variety of industrial applications memory back-up LANTERN BATTERIES Technology: Zinc Types/ Common Lantern Name: (Alkaline, Zinc Chloride and Zinc Carbon) Brand; Rayovac Sub-brand Names(1): Sizes: Standard lantern Typical Uses: Beam lanterns, Camping lanterns
(1) Rayovac also produces and supplies private label brands in selected categories. (2) Rayovac does not produce 9-volt rechargeable alkaline batteries. 6 ALKALINE BATTERIES. We produce a full line of alkaline batteries, including D, C, AA, AAA and 9-volt size batteries for both consumer and industrial customers. Our alkaline batteries are marketed and sold primarily under the Rayovac MAXIMUM brand, although we also engage in limited private label manufacture of alkaline batteries. AA and AAA size batteries are often used with smaller electronic devices such as remote controls, photography equipment, cassette players, pagers, portable compact disc players and electronic and video games. C and D size batteries are generally used in devices such as flashlights, lanterns, radios, cassette players and battery-powered toys. 9-volt size batteries are generally used in fire alarms, smoke detectors and communication devices. HEAVY DUTY BATTERIES. Heavy duty batteries include zinc chloride and zinc carbon batteries designed for low and medium-drain battery-powered devices such as lanterns, flashlights, radios and remote controls. We currently source our heavy duty batteries from our Mexico manufacturing facilities and outside suppliers. RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES. Our Renewal rechargeable battery is the only rechargeable alkaline battery in the U.S. market. Renewal batteries offer a value proposition to consumers because they can be recharged over 25 times, providing many times the life of disposable alkaline batteries at a somewhat higher retail price. The marketing message for rechargeable alkaline batteries is focused primarily on their money-saving benefits as well as their environmental benefits. Our battery charger is the only charger in the market capable of charging rechargeable alkaline and nickel metal hydride batteries. The addition of this feature, and our launch of NiMh batteries has fueled significant growth in rechargeable batteries, as our NiMh batteries currently provide double the performance of any alkaline battery in high drain devices such as digital cameras. The rapid growth of digital cameras should drive continued growth in this category in the future. HEARING AID BATTERIES. We are currently the largest worldwide seller of hearing aid batteries. Our strong market position is the result of (1) our hearing aid battery products having advanced technological capabilities and consistent product performance and (2) our strong distribution system and extensive marketing program for these products. Hearing aid batteries are produced in several sizes and are designed for use with various types and sizes of hearing aids. We produce five sizes and two types of zinc air button cells for use in hearing aids. We sell these batteries under the Rayovac Ultra, Loud 'n Clear, ProLine, Extra, XCell, Air 4000 and AIRPOWER brand names and under several private labels, including Beltone, Miracle Ear, Siemens and Starkey. We were the pioneer and currently are the leading manufacturer of the smallest (5A and 10A size) hearing aid batteries. Zinc air is a highly reliable, high energy density, lightweight battery system. SPECIALTY AND OTHER BATTERIES. Our other specialty battery products include non-hearing aid button cells, lithium coin cells, photo batteries, keyless entry batteries, as well as rechargeable nickel metal hydride. We market button and coin cells for watches, cameras, calculators, communications equipment and medical instrumentation. Our lithium coin cells are high-quality lithium batteries with certain performance advantages over other lithium battery systems. These products are used in calculators and personal computer clocks and memory back-up systems. Our lithium coin cells have outstanding shelf life and excellent performance. Our nickel metal hydride batteries are sourced for use in cordless telephones. LIGHTING PRODUCTS AND LANTERN BATTERIES. We are a leading marketer of battery-powered lighting devices, including flashlights, lanterns and similar portable products for the retail and industrial markets. MERCHANDISING AND ADVERTISING Over the last four years, we have continued to develop our merchandising and advertising strategies. Key elements of our strategies include: - building the awareness and image of the Rayovac brand name 7 - focusing on the reformulated MAXIMUM alkaline product line - improving consumer perceptions of the quality and performance of our products - upgrading and unifying product packaging and launching innovative new reclosable packaging - expanding on our position as the value brand - regularly introducing new products, especially lighting products We position our products to appeal to the large segment of the population that desires value brand products which are of quality and performance similar to the products of our major competitors in the general battery market, but which are offered at a lower price. One pricing strategy we use to demonstrate our value positioning is offering more batteries than our brand name competitors for the same price. We also work with individual retail channel participants to develop unique merchandising programs and promotions and to provide retailers with attractive profit margins to encourage retailer brand support. NORTH AMERICA. For the last four years we have focused our advertising efforts on the MAXIMUM alkaline products. We promote our alkaline products with a major national advertising campaign utilizing Michael Jordan as the spokesperson. This campaign is designed to increase awareness of the Rayovac brand and to heighten consumers' perceptions of the quality, performance and value of our products. We conduct annual ad-tracking studies which have demonstrated that we are significantly improving consumer perceptions on each of these measures, as well as, overall awareness of the Rayovac brand. To market our hearing aid battery products, we continue to use a campaign featuring Arnold Palmer, a binaural wearer and user of Rayovac hearing aid batteries. Mr. Palmer has been extremely effective in promoting the use of hearing aids, expanding the market and communicating the specific product benefits of our hearing aid batteries. To reach the largest potential market for hearing aid batteries, we have also developed a corporate print advertising campaign to be used in selected publications. We pioneered the use of multi-packs and intend to further expand multi-pack distribution in additional professional and retail channels. We believe that we have developed strong relationships with hearing aid manufacturers and audiologists, the primary sellers of hearing aids, and will continue to seek opportunities to further penetrate the professional market for hearing aid products. We have redesigned our product graphics and packaging of other specialty battery products to achieve a uniform brand appearance with our other products and to generate greater brand awareness and loyalty. In addition, we plan to continue to develop relationships with manufacturers of communications equipment and other products in an effort to expand our share of the non-hearing aid button cell market. For example, we are actively engaged in discussions with several OEM companies to supply batteries for tire-pressure monitors. This could be a fast growing market given current concerns with tire safety. We also believe there is significant opportunity for growth in the photo and keyless entry battery markets and we seek to further penetrate the replacement market for these products. We have established our position in the lighting products market based on innovative product features, consistent product quality and creative product packaging. In addition, we endeavor to regularly introduce new products to stimulate consumer demand and promote impulse purchases. This year we launched our line of Harley Davidson flashlights, as well as a line of Ducks Unlimited flashlights featuring a compass that is built into the light. We continue to focus significant energy on new product development for lighting products. LATIN AMERICA. We have accomplished a successful integration of the Latin America business in the first year of ownership. Latin America has followed the North America strategy of product positioning, pricing, and 8 advertising and promotion programs. Significant new distribution was added in the first year, over 500 major retail accounts have been added that represent more than 5,000 stores. We have also added over 500 distributors who service 50,000 small retail locations. We believe there are significant growth opportunities in Latin America through the sale of our alkaline and heavy duty batteries, offering additional Rayovac products through existing distribution channels and geographic expansion. In addition, we have a manufacturing base in Latin America which allows us to produce batteries and service retailers in this fast growing region. Currently less than 10 percent of our Latin America sales are from alkaline products. We believe approximately 30 percent of all batteries sold in Latin America are alkaline products, providing us with an opportunity to expand alkaline sales. We also believe there are growth opportunities within current distribution channels to sell additional Rayovac products. This year we expanded geographically into the Southern region of South America with our alkaline and heavy duty batteries. We will continue to build on our strong market position for heavy duty batteries in Central America, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Venezuela. EUROPE/ROW. Our marketing strategy in Europe is to capitalize on our strength in hearing aid products, maintain our momentum in the Northern European market and partner with our large global customers and expand distribution as they expand. We continue to evaluate initiatives that would allow us to expand our current distribution in the ROW market via strategic alliances. We continue to support our leading hearing aid battery position in Europe using our corporate advertising campaign featuring Arnold Palmer and our strong relationship with manufacturers of hearing aids. Our momentum in parts of Europe has been achieved through innovative packaging and merchandising solutions, which we will use to expand distribution. We have successfully expanded distribution in the past year with our unique reclosable packaging design. SALES AND DISTRIBUTION NORTH AMERICA. We currently align our sales force by distribution channel. We maintain separate sales forces primarily to service (1) our retail sales and distribution channels and (2) our hearing aid professionals, industrial distributor and original equipment manufacturer sales and distribution. In addition, we use a network of independent brokers to service participants in selected distribution channels. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., our largest mass merchandiser customer, represented 19%, 20% and 21% of our consolidated net sales in fiscal 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. Our sales to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. primarily occur in North America. LATIN AMERICA. We align our sales force by distribution channel. As a result, we maintain two separate sales groups: one group that directly services large retailers and food and drug chains located mainly in urban areas and a second group that services through distributors and wholesalers, secondary channels like photo, grocery, hardware, stationary, industrial and other retailers located in both urban and rural areas. This sales structure enables us to focus on the rapid expansion of the alkaline category, while consolidating our leadership position in the heavy duty category. 9 EUROPE/ROW. We maintain a separate sales force in Europe to promote the sale of all of our products. Our European operations also adopt the successful strategies, programs, unique products and category management expertise utilized in our North American business. MANUFACTURING AND RAW MATERIALS We manufacture batteries in the United States, Latin America and the United Kingdom. Our Latin American operations were part of the Latin America acquisition in August 1999. In September 1999, we announced manufacturing changes which included the discontinuation of silver cell manufacturing at our Portage, Wisconsin, facility. In November 1999, we discontinued the manufacturing operations at our Valencia, Venezuela, facility and transferred this production to our Mexico City, Mexico, facility. In September 2000, we shifted the majority of our heavy duty manufacturing to our Mexico City, Mexico facility. Over the last four years, we have closed our Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom; Kinston, North Carolina; Appleton, Wisconsin; and Valencia, Venezuela, facilities and shifted their manufacturing operations to our other facilities. We have also outsourced the manufacture of certain battery and lighting products. These efforts have increased our plant capacity utilization and eliminated some of our underused manufacturing capacity. During the past five years, we have expended significant resources on capital improvements, including the modernization of many of our manufacturing lines and manufacturing processes. These manufacturing improvements have enabled us to increase the quality and service life of our alkaline and zinc air batteries and to increase our manufacturing capacity. In 1999, we installed a new high-speed alkaline battery production line at our Fennimore, Wisconsin, plant. This line increased our production capacity for AA size batteries by 50%. Since fiscal 1996, our investment in new manufacturing technology, modernization and production capacity at our Fennimore plant has exceeded $20 million. Zinc powder, electrolytic manganese dioxide powder and steel are the most significant raw materials we use to manufacture batteries. There are a number of worldwide sources for all necessary raw materials that we use to manufacture batteries. We believe that we will continue to have access to adequate quantities of these materials at competitive prices. Based on our anticipated production requirements of zinc powder, we regularly engage in forward purchases and hedging transactions to effectively manage raw material costs and inventory relative to anticipated production requirements. See "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk." RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Research and development effort has continued to focus on alkaline and zinc air but with some important contributions in other areas also. For alkaline, Rayovac has continued to benefit from technology provided under our alkaline battery technology agreement with Matsushita. For zinc air, a dedicated team of scientists and engineers develop technology independently with the objective of maintaining our leadership position in this area. In March 2000 we upgraded our alkaline AAA product with the latest technology from Matsushita. This upgrade resulted in significant performance improvements. Additional improvements and cost reductions were achieved across the product line through the efforts of Rayovac engineers and scientists. In May 2000 we introduced upgraded zinc air products in four battery sizes. These upgraded products deliver improved service life and were achieved in addition to similar upgrades introduced last year. Our research and development group continues to maintain close alliances with the developers of hearing aid devices and worked in conjunction with these developers during 2000 on further product enhancements that will be seen in the marketplace towards the end of fiscal 2001. 10 In addition to alkaline and zinc air, research and development efforts have been applied to zinc chloride, lithium carbon fluoride and nickel metal hydride battery chemistries. The presence of mercury and cadmium has been eliminated from the zinc chloride C and D batteries manufactured by the Rayovac Latin American operations. New products have been developed for lithium carbon fluoride which have better temperature and rate performance. These batteries are expected to find application in tire pressure sensors and other devices where shelf life and stability are essential. In fiscal 2000, Rayovac began to commit resources to nickel metal hydride research and development. These efforts are expected to produce benefits during fiscal 2001 in the areas of batteries and chargers. Our research and development efforts in the lighting products and lantern batteries category are focused on the development of new products. New product introductions in fiscal 2000 included a range of Harley Davidson lights, a new industrial light, and a compass light. Our research and development group includes approximately 100 employees. The expense for some of our research and development employees is funded by U.S government contracts. Our expenditures for research and development were approximately $10.8 million for fiscal 2000, $9.8 million for fiscal 1999 and $9.4 million for fiscal 1998. INFORMATION SYSTEMS Our information technology strategy commits our Information Services (IS) group to being an internal business partner providing value-added services through cost effective application of technology to support our corporate initiatives. We align the IS activities with business teams and the strategic business plan to leverage the cost of information technology ownership and focus the resources where we can achieve the highest benefit. Process Facilitators work directly with the business groups to identify process improvement opportunities, promote teamwork, and assist the businesses in achieving their objectives. SAP is our core business information system for North America. We use the Microsoft Office suite of office automation products on all desktop computers. Our North America year 2000 compliance initiatives were extremely successful and we experienced no system availability disruptions. Year 2000 remediation on Latin American and European systems was also very successful and no disruptions were experienced in either environment. Our information systems are in position to provide for a highly reliable, highly available computing environment. This infrastructure has been engineered with the capability to grow as the business grows, and to do so in a cost effective way. A financial analysis data warehouse has been implemented. This environment will incorporate all global financial reporting, be tightly integrated with SAP and will support the corporate financial consolidations system. PATENTS, TRADEMARKS AND LICENSES Our success and ability to compete depends in part upon our technology. We rely upon a combination of patent, trademark and trade secret laws, together with licenses, confidentiality agreements and other contractual covenants, to establish and protect our technology and other intellectual property rights. We own or license from third parties a considerable number of patents and patent applications throughout the world, primarily for battery product improvements, additional features and manufacturing equipment. In March 1998, we announced the extension of our existing alkaline battery technology agreement with Matsushita. Under this agreement, we license Matsushita's highly advanced designs, technology and manufacturing equipment, including all developments and innovations to them, through March 2002. After that time, we are entitled to license the technology as it exists at that date through March 2022. 11 We also use a number of trademarks in our business, including Rayovac-Registered Trademark-, MAXIMUM-Registered Trademark-, Renewal-Registered Trademark-, Loud 'n Clear-Registered Trademark-, ProLine-Registered Trademark-, Rayovac Ultra-Registered Trademark-, Air 4000-Registered Trademark-, Sportsman-Registered Trademark-, XCell-Registered Trademark-, Extra-Registered Trademark-, AIRPOWER-Registered Trademark-, Workhorse-Registered Trademark- and Roughneck-Registered Trademark-. We rely on both registered and common law trademarks in the United States to protect our trademark rights. The Rayovac-Registered Trademark- mark also is registered in countries outside the United States, including in Europe and the Far East. We do not have any right to the trademark "Rayovac" in Brazil, where the mark is owned by an independent third-party battery manufacturer. In addition, through our recent acquisition in Latin America, we have re-acquired exclusive rights in many countries outside the United States, including Latin America, other than Brazil, for the use of the "Rayovac" trademark, in connection with zinc carbon and alkaline batteries and certain lighting devices. We also have obtained a non-exclusive license to use certain technology underlying our rechargeable alkaline battery line to manufacture rechargeable alkaline batteries in the United States, Puerto Rico and Mexico and to sell and distribute batteries worldwide based on this licensed technology. This license terminates with the expiration of the last-expiring patent covering the licensed technology in 2015. COMPETITION We believe that the markets for our products are highly competitive. Duracell and Energizer are our primary battery industry competitors in the U.S. Both Duracell and Energizer have substantially greater financial and other resources. They also have greater overall market share than we do. Because of their greater market size, they have advantages in distribution and in negotiating leverage with retailers. Private label offerings by major retailers, by which the retailers purchase batteries from existing manufacturers and sell under their own brands at non-premium prices, may also be a source of competition. As currently reported by A.C. Nielsen, less than 2% of general batteries sold in mass merchants and approximately 9% of general batteries sold in all channels of trade in the U.S. are private label batteries. In May 1998, Duracell introduced a new line of alkaline batteries under the name Duracell Ultra in the AA and AAA size categories. This line was expanded in 1999 to include D, C, and 9-volt sizes. Duracell markets this line as providing increased performance in certain high-drain battery-powered devices, including cellular phones, digital cameras and palm-sized computers. With this product Duracell has attempted to segment the alkaline battery market by positioning this brand as a premium product priced at a significant premium to their competitors as well as the Duracell regular battery brand. To date, this initiative does not appear to have increased the total Duracell brand market share as Duracell Ultra gains appear to have been offset by declines in the regular Duracell "Coppertop" line. In 2000, Energizer followed this strategy by launching Energizer E2. This line also is premium priced to the regular Energizer product, and is positioned as superior in performance to regular Energizer. It is premature to determine if this will provide incremental volume to the total Energizer franchise. Energizer has also increased efforts to obtain distribution behind a price brand--Eveready Alkaline. The product has minimal advertising support, and competes primarily on price. This initiative has been in place in Canada for a number of years with limited success, and the current effort to expand in the U.S. has gained only limited distribution. Internationally, the general battery market has more competitors and is as highly competitive as the U.S. market. Competition is centered around pricing, product performance, promotion and distribution strategies. Despite this competitive market, our unit and dollar general battery market share in the U.S. has increased over last year both in the mass merchant and total market as reported by A.C. Nielsen. We also continue to upgrade and invest in our alkaline technology to remain competitive. We expect to continue to invest in new upgrades for our alkaline product line over the next several years to improve product performance and expand manufacturing capacity. 12 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE Due to the nature of the operations we conduct, our facilities are subject to a broad range of federal, state, local and foreign legal and regulatory provisions relating to the environment, including those regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous substances and wastes and the remediation of contamination associated with releases of hazardous substances at our facilities and off-site disposal locations. Except as set forth herein under Item 3, "Legal Proceedings," we believe that compliance with the federal, state, local and foreign regulations to which we are subject will not have a material effect upon our capital expenditures, earnings and competitive position. See Item 3 hereof for certain additional information regarding environmental matters involving us included in the description of legal proceedings. EMPLOYEES As of September 30, 2000, we had approximately 3,380 full-time employees. A significant number of our factory employees are represented by eight labor unions. We believe our relationship with our employees is good. There has not been a work stoppage at a domestic facility since 1981 and since 1991 in the United Kingdom. See Note 2(e) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements filed herewith and incorporated by reference into Item 8 hereof. SEASONALITY Sales of our products are seasonal, with the highest sales occurring in the fiscal quarter ending on or about December 31, during the holiday season. During the past three completed fiscal years, our sales for the quarter ending on or about December 31 have represented an average of 30% of our annual net sales. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Seasonality." FINANCIAL INFORMATION ABOUT BUSINESS SEGMENTS Financial information pertaining to our business segments is set forth in Note 12 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements filed herewith and incorporated by reference into Item 8 hereof. FINANCIAL INFORMATION ABOUT FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC OPERATIONS Financial information pertaining to our foreign and domestic operations is set forth in Note 12 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements filed herewith and incorporated by reference into Item 8 hereof. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain of the information contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K or otherwise made from time to time by Rayovac, including without limitation those statements made under this Part I, Item 1, "Business" and Part II, Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and Item 7A, "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk" which are not historical facts, may include "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by such forward-looking language as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "believes," "will," "estimate," "should," "may," or other similar terms. In reviewing such information, you should note that our actual results may differ materially from those set forth in such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements made herein include, without limitation, (1) significant changes in consumer 13 demand and buying practices for household batteries, hearing aid batteries or other products we manufacture or sell in North America, Latin America or Europe/ROW; (2) the loss of, or a significant reduction in, sales through a significant retail customer; (3) the successful introduction or expansion of competitive brands into the marketplace, including private label offerings; (4) the introduction of new product features or new battery technologies by a competitor; (5) promotional campaigns and spending by a competitor; (6) difficulties or delays in the integration of operations of acquired companies; (7) our ability to successfully implement manufacturing and distribution cost efficiencies and improvements; (8) delays in manufacturing or distribution due to work stoppages, problems with suppliers, natural causes or other factors; (9) the enactment or imposition of unexpected environmental regulations negatively impacting consumer demand for certain of our battery products or increasing our cost of manufacture or distribution; (10) the costs and effects of unanticipated legal, tax or regulatory proceedings; (11) the effects of competitors' patents or other intellectual property rights; (12) interest rate, exchange rate and raw material price fluctuations; (13) impact of unusual items resulting from evaluation of business strategies, acquisitions and divestitures and organizational structure; (14) changes in accounting standards applicable to our business; and (15) the effects of changes in trade, monetary or fiscal policies and regulations by governments in countries where we do business. Additional factors and assumptions that could generally cause our actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements made herein include, without limitation, (1) our ability to develop and introduce new products; (2) the effects of general economic conditions in North America, Europe, Latin America or other countries where we do business, including inflation, labor costs and stock market volatility; (3) the effects of political or economic conditions, unrest or volatility in Latin America and other international markets; (4) the sufficiency of our production and distribution capacity to meet future demand for our products; (5) our ability to keep pace with the product and manufacturing technological standards in our industry; and (6) our ability to continue to penetrate and develop new distribution channels for our products. Other factors and assumptions not identified above were also involved in the derivation of the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the failure of such other assumptions to be realized, as well as other factors, may also cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. We assume no obligations to update these forward-looking statements to reflect actual results or changes in factors or assumptions affecting such forward-looking statements. ITEM 2. PROPERTIES The following table sets forth information regarding our manufacturing sites:
LOCATION PRODUCT MANUFACTURED OWNED/LEASED SQUARE FEET - -------- ------------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- NORTH AMERICA: Fennimore, WI............ Alkaline batteries and Renewal rechargeable batteries Owned 176,000 Portage, WI.............. Zinc air button cells; lithium coin cells and alkaline computer batteries Owned 101,000 Wonewoc, WI.............. Battery-powered lighting products and lantern batteries Leased 90,000 LATIN AMERICA: Mexico City, Mexico...... Zinc carbon batteries Owned 103,000 Tegucigalpa, Honduras.... Zinc carbon batteries Owned 35,000 Guatemala City, Guatemala.............. Zinc carbon batteries Owned 105,000 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic..... Zinc carbon batteries Owned 57,000 EUROPE/ROW: Washington, UK........... Zinc air button cells Leased 63,000
We also lease approximately 250,000 square feet of space in Madison, Wisconsin for our corporate headquarters and technology center. 14 From fiscal 1996 through fiscal 2000 we have invested in improvements to our major battery facilities. During this period, we invested over $20 million for new technology, modernization and capacity expansion at our Fennimore, Wisconsin, plant. In addition, in late 1999 we installed a new AA high speed manufacturing line in our Fennimore, Wisconsin, manufacturing plant. This line increased our production capacity for AA batteries by 50%. Additional investments in zinc air battery production have helped us to increase output and precision of assembly as well as to increase the capacity of critical component manufacturing. Our investments in lithium battery production have been used to build capacity for certain lithium coin cells. As part of our 1998 restructuring plans, our Madison, Wisconsin, plant has phased out the manufacture of heavy duty batteries, which are now sourced instead from Rayovac Latin American manufacturing facilities and outside suppliers. During fiscal 1999, we closed our Appleton, Wisconsin, plant and moved the operations to Portage, Wisconsin. One of the two Appleton, Wisconsin, plant facility buildings is currently held for sale; the other was sold during fiscal 2000. In November 1999 we discontinued the manufacturing operations at our Valencia, Venezuela, facility and transferred the production to our Mexico facility. The Valencia, Venezuela, plant facility is currently held for sale. The following table sets forth information regarding Rayovac's packaging and distribution sites by segment:
LOCATION OWNED/LEASED SQUARE FEET - -------- ------------ ----------- NORTH AMERICA: Madison, WI................................................. Owned 158,000 Middleton, WI............................................... Leased 220,000 Lavergne, TN................................................ Leased 65,000 Hayward, CA................................................. Leased 38,000 Mississauga, Ontario, Canada................................ Leased 32,000 LATIN AMERICA: Chiquimula, Guatemala....................................... Leased 6,000 Guatemala City, Guatemala................................... Leased 30,000 Quetzaltenango, Guatemala................................... Leased 5,000 San Jose, Costa Rica........................................ Leased 11,000 San Miguel, El Salvador..................................... Leased 10,000 San Pedro Sula, Honduras.................................... Leased 13,000 Santa Tecia, El Salvador.................................... Leased 15,000 Tegucigalpa, Honduras....................................... Leased 14,000 EUROPE/ROW: Billinghausen, Germany...................................... Owned 5,000
We believe that our facilities, in general, are adequate for our present and currently foreseeable needs. ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS Our facilities are subject to a broad range of federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relating to the environment, including those governing discharges to the air and water and land, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous substances and wastes, and the remediation of contamination associated with releases of hazardous substances at our facilities and at off-site disposal locations. Rayovac has a proactive environmental management program that includes the use of periodic comprehensive environmental audits to detect and correct practices that may violate environmental laws or are inconsistent with best management practices. Based on information currently available to Rayovac's management, we believe that we are substantially in compliance with applicable environmental regulations at our facilities. There are no pending proceedings against Rayovac alleging that we are or have been in violation of environmental laws, and we are not aware of any such proceedings contemplated by governmental 15 authorities. We are, however, subject to certain proceedings under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") or analogous state laws, as described below. Rayovac has from time to time been required to address the effect of historic activities on the environmental condition of its properties, including without limitation, the effect of releases from underground storage tanks. Several of our facilities have been in operation for decades and are constructed on fill that includes, among other materials, used batteries containing various heavy metals. We have accepted a deed restriction on one such property in lieu of conducting remedial activities, and may consider similar actions at other properties if appropriate. Although we are currently engaged in investigative or remedial projects at a few of our facilities, we do not expect that such projects will cause us to incur material expenditures. Our former manganese processing facility in Covington, Tennessee was accepted by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation ("TDEC") into TDEC's Voluntary Cleanup, Oversight and Assistance Program in February 1999. Groundwater monitoring conducted pursuant to the post-closure maintenance of solid waste at the facility, and recent groundwater testing beneath former process areas of the facility, indicated elevated levels of certain inorganic contaminants, particularly (but not exclusively) manganese, in the groundwater underneath the facility. We have completed closure of lagoons on the property and have completed the remediation of a stream that borders the facility. Under Tennessee's voluntary cleanup program, we negotiated a Consent Order and Agreement with the TDEC, dated February 12, 1999, covering investigation, and if necessary, remediation of the facility. Upon successful completion of the requirements of the Consent Order and Agreement, we expect that no further action will be required at the facility. While remediation costs are uncertain at this time, we do not expect the matter to have a material adverse financial impact on us. Regarding off-site liabilities, Rayovac is also subject to several proceedings related to our disposal of industrial and hazardous waste at off-site disposal locations, under CERCLA or analogous state laws that hold persons who "arranged for" the disposal or treatment of such substances strictly liable for the costs incurred in responding to the release or threatened release of hazardous substances from such sites. Current and former owners and operators of such sites, and transporters of waste who participated in the selection of such sites, are also strictly liable for such costs. Liability under CERCLA is "joint and several," so that a responsible party under CERCLA theoretically may be held liable for all of the costs incurred at a particular site. However, as a practical matter, liability at such sites generally is allocated among all of the viable responsible parties. Some of the most significant factors for allocating liabilities to persons that disposed of wastes at Superfund sites are the relative volume of waste such persons sent to the site and the toxicity of such waste. We do not believe that any of our pending proceedings under CERCLA or analogous state laws will have a material impact on our operations, financial condition or liquidity, and we are not aware of any such matters contemplated by governmental agencies that will have such an impact. As of September 30, 2000, we have reserved $2.2 million for known on-site and off-site environmental liabilities. We believe these reserves are adequate, although there can be no assurance that this amount will ultimately be adequate to cover such environmental liabilities. We may also be named as a potentially responsible party ("PRP") at additional sites in the future, and the costs associated with such additional or existing sites may be material. In addition, certain of our facilities have been in operation for decades and, over such time, we and other prior operators of such facilities have generated and disposed of wastes which are or may be considered hazardous such as cadmium and mercury utilized in the battery manufacturing process. In August of 2000, we resolved and settled on mutually agreeable terms our three hearing aid battery patent infringement lawsuits with The Gillette Company and Duracell, Inc. Rayovac Corporation v. Duracell Incorporated and The Gillette Company (Case No. 99-C-0272C 0 United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin); The Gillette Company v. Rayovac Corporation, (Case No. 99-CV-11555-PBS--United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts); and The Gillette 16 Company v. Rayovac Corporation, et. al. (Docket No. 40148, District Court of Dusseldorf, Germany). These three lawsuits involved allegations by both Rayovac and Gillette/Duracell of patent infringement by the other party relating to various hearing aid battery patents. The settlement included dismissals of all three lawsuits with prejudice and did not require material expenditures by either party. In addition, we filed suit in October 2000 against one of our insurance carriers seeking insurance coverage for environmental claims asserted against us at a CERCLA site in Bergen County, New Jersey and the City Disposal Site in Stoughton, Wisconsin. We settled both of these cases prior to fiscal 2000 and are seeking recovery of amounts paid. The insurance recovery case, Rayovac Corporation v. Employers Insurance of Wausau, (Case No. 99-CV-2339) is pending in Dane County Circuit Court in Madison, Wisconsin and is in its early stages. While we believe that we have meritorious claims for coverage of certain of the environmental claims against us, there can be no assurance that our claim will be successful. Finally, we were one of the 109 named defendants in a patent infringement lawsuit brought by the Lemelson Foundation Lemelson Medical, Educational & Research Foundation, Limited Partnership v. Butler Manufacturing, et. al. (Case No. IV00-0662-PHXSMM, District Court, Arizona). We were served with the complaint in October 2000 and we settled this matter in November 2000. The settlement included a dismissal of the lawsuit with prejudice, and did not include a material expenditure by us. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of the Company was held on July 20, 2000. The directors standing for election were elected in an uncontested election. The directors elected were Kent J. Hussey and Warren C. Smith Jr. Joseph W. Deering also stood for re-election at the time of the proxy mailing, but he resigned prior to the Annual Meeting due to health reasons and votes relating to his re-election were of no effect. Mr. Hussey received 25,627,373 votes in favor of his election and 78,313 votes were withheld. Mr. Smith received 25,626,473 votes in favor of his election and 79,213 votes were withheld. In addition to the election of directors, the Company submitted the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent auditors to a vote of the shareholders. The vote in favor of ratification was: For: 25,416,528; Against: 416,528; Abstained; 1,302. 17 PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS Our common stock, $0.01 par value per share (the "Common Stock"), is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") under the symbol "ROV". The Common Stock commenced public trading on November 21, 1997. As of November 30, 2000, there were approximately 264 holders of record of Common Stock based upon data provided by the transfer agent for the Common Stock. The following table sets forth the reported high and low prices per share of the Common Stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Transaction Tape for the fiscal periods indicated:
HIGH LOW -------- -------- FISCAL 2000 Quarter ended January 2, 2000............................... $26.75 $16.88 Quarter ended April 2, 2000................................. $26.00 $17.25 Quarter ended July 2, 2000.................................. $24.50 $16.88 Quarter ended September 30, 2000............................ $29.13 $16.88 FISCAL 1999 Quarter ended January 3, 1999............................... $28.00 $15.50 Quarter ended April 4, 1999................................. $28.63 $22.13 Quarter ended July 4, 1999.................................. $31.31 $20.31 Quarter ended September 30, 1999............................ $24.13 $18.81
We have not declared or paid and do not anticipate paying cash dividends in the foreseeable future, but intend to retain any future earnings for reinvestment in our business. In addition, the Amended Credit Agreement and the Notes (each as defined herein) restrict our ability to pay dividends to our shareholders. Any future determination to pay cash dividends will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will be dependent upon our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, contractual restrictions and such other factors as the Board of Directors deems relevant. ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA The following selected historical financial data as of and for the three fiscal years ended September 30, 1998, 1999 and 2000 is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The selected historical financial data as of and for the twelve months ended September 30, 1996, not included herein, is derived from the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company and, in the opinion of management, includes all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of financial position and results of operations as of the date and for the period indicated. The selected historical financial data as of and for the Transition Period and the fiscal years ended June 30, 1996 and September 30, 1997 is derived from our audited consolidated financial statements which are not included herein. The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the 18 information contained in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" included elsewhere herein.
FISCAL TRANSITION TWELVE YEAR PERIOD MONTHS FISCAL YEAR ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30, ----------------------------------------- 1996 1996 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 -------- ------------- ------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- (IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA: Net sales.................................. $423.4 $101.9 $417.9 $432.6 $495.7 $ 564.3 $703.9 Cost of goods sold......................... 239.9 59.4 238.4 235.0 258.3 295.2 358.2 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------- ------ Gross profit............................... 183.5 42.5 179.5 197.6 237.4 269.1 345.7 Selling expense............................ 116.5 27.8 114.4 122.1 148.9 160.2 195.1 General and administrative expense......... 28.1 7.7 29.3 28.6 32.4 37.4 50.5 Research and development expense........... 8.6 2.3 8.8 9.4 9.4 9.8 10.8 Recapitalization and other special charges(1)(2)(3)(4)...................... -- 28.4 28.4 3.0 6.2 8.1 -- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------- ------ Income (loss) from operations(5)........... 30.3 (23.7) (1.4) 34.5 40.5 53.6 89.3 Interest expense........................... 8.4 4.4 10.5 24.5 15.7 16.3 30.6 Other expense (income), net................ 0.6 0.1 0.5 0.4 (0.2) (0.3) 0.7 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------- ------ Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary item....................... 21.3 (28.2) (12.4) 9.6 25.0 37.6 58.0 Income tax expense (benefit)............... 7.0 (8.9) (3.8) 3.4 8.6 13.5 19.6 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------- ------ Income (loss) before extraordinary item.... 14.3 (19.3) (8.6) 6.2 16.4 24.1 38.4 Extraordinary item(6)...................... -- (1.6) (1.6) -- (2.0) -- -- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------- ------ Net income (loss).......................... $ 14.3 $(20.9) $(10.2) $ 6.2 $ 14.4 $ 24.1 $ 38.4 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======= ====== Basic net income (loss) per common share before extraordinary item................ $ 0.29 $(0.44) $(0.18) $ 0.30 $ 0.62 $ 0.88 $ 1.39 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======= ====== Diluted net income (loss) per common share before extraordinary item................ $ 0.29 $(0.44) $(0.18) $ 0.30 $ 0.58 $ 0.83 $ 1.32 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======= ====== Basic net income (loss) per common share... $ 0.29 $(0.48) $(0.21) $ 0.30 $ 0.54 $ 0.88 $ 1.39 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======= ====== Diluted net income (loss) per common share.................................... $ 0.29 $(0.48) $(0.21) $ 0.30 $ 0.51 $ 0.83 $ 1.32 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ======= ====== Weighted average common shares............. 49.6 43.8 48.1 20.5 26.5 27.5 27.5 Weighted average common and common equivalent shares........................ 49.6 43.8 48.1 20.6 28.1 29.2 29.1 OTHER FINANCIAL DATA: Depreciation............................... $ 11.9 $ 3.3 $ 12.1 $ 11.3 $ 10.9 $ 11.9 $ 16.0 Capital expenditures....................... 6.6 1.2 8.4 10.9 15.9 24.1 19.0 Cash flows from operating activities....... 17.8 (1.1) 26.0 35.7 (1.5) 10.5 37.8 Cash flows from investing activities....... (6.3) 0.0 (7.3) (10.8) (23.4) (169.2) (17.9) Cash flows from financing activities....... (12.0) 3.2 (16.8) (28.0) 25.4 168.0 (21.0) EBITDA(7).................................. 41.7 (20.5) 10.2 45.5 53.0 67.4 108.6
FISCAL TRANSITION TWELVE YEAR PERIOD MONTHS FISCAL YEAR ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30, ----------------------------------------- 1996 1996 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 --------- ------------- ------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- (IN MILLIONS) BALANCE SHEET DATA: Working capital........................... $ 63.2 $ 64.6 $ 64.6 $ 33.8 $ 81.6 $104.4 $104.7 Total assets.............................. 221.1 243.7 243.7 236.3 283.9 532.9 569.0 Total debt................................ 81.3 233.7 233.7 207.3 152.3 330.3 317.6 Shareholders' equity (deficit)............ 61.6 (85.7) (85.7) (80.6) 21.9 46.5 80.7
- ------------------------------ (1) During the Transition Period, the Company recorded charges of $12.3 million directly related to the 1996 recapitalization and other special charges of $16.1 million. The $12.3 million included $5.0 million of fees and $7.3 million of stock option compensation, severance payments and employment contract settlements. Special charges of $16.1 million included (i) $2.7 million related exiting certain manufacturing operations, (ii) $1.7 million of charges to increase net deferred compensation plan obligations to reflect curtailment of such plans, (iii) $1.5 million of charges reflecting the present value of lease payments for land which had no future productive purpose, (iv) $6.9 million in costs and assets write-downs primarily related to changes in product pricing strategies and (v) $3.3 million of employee termination benefits and other charges. 19 (2) In the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, the Company recorded other special charges of $5.9 million offset by a special credit of $2.9 million which was related to the curtailment of the Company's defined benefit pension plan covering all domestic non-union employees. The special charges related to organizational restructuring in the United States, the discontinuation of certain manufacturing operations at the Company's Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom facility and the discontinuation of operations at the Company's facility in Kinston, North Carolina. (3) In the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, the Company recorded net special charges of $6.2 million including (i) $2.0 million associated with consolidating domestic battery packaging operations and outsourcing the manufacture of heavy duty batteries, (ii) $2.2 million associated with closing the Company's Appleton, Wisconsin manufacturing plant and consolidating it into its Portage, Wisconsin manufacturing plant, (iii) $5.3 million associated with closing the Company's Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom facility, phasing out direct distribution in the United Kingdom and closing one of the Company's German sales offices, (iv) a $2.4 million gain on the sale of the Company's previously closed Kinston, North Carolina facility, (v) income of $1.2 million in connection with the settlement of deferred compensation agreements with certain former employees, (vi) $0.8 million associated with the secondary offering of Common Stock (the "Secondary Offering") which was completed in June 1998, and (vii) miscellaneous credits of $0.4 million. (4) In the fiscal year ended September 30, 1999, the Company recorded special charges of $8.1 million including (i) $2.5 million of employee termination benefits related to organizational restructuring, (ii) $2.1 million of charges associated with the termination of non-performing foreign distributors and exiting the respective territory, (iii) $1.9 million of costs related to the previously announced closing of the Appleton, Wisconsin facility, (iv) $0.8 million related to the closing of the Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom facility, and (v) $0.8 million of one-time expenses associated with the Latin American acquisition. (5) Income (loss) from operations includes expenses related to the 1996 recapitalization and other special charges in the Transition Period ended September 30, 1996 and the fiscal years ended September 30, 1997, 1998 and 1999. The special charge portion of cost of goods sold in fiscal 1999 relates to the discontinuation of silver cell manufacturing at the Company's Portage, Wisconsin facility. Income from operations before these non-recurring charges was as follows:
FISCAL TRANSITION TWELVE YEAR PERIOD MONTHS FISCAL YEAR ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30, ----------------------------------------- 1996 1996 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 --------- ------------- ------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- (IN MILLIONS) Income (loss) from operations............. $ 30.3 $(23.7) $(1.4) $34.5 $40.5 $53.6 $89.3 Other special charge portion of cost of goods sold.............................. -- -- -- -- -- 1.3 -- Recapitalization and other special charges................................. -- 28.4 28.4 3.0 6.2 8.1 -- ------ ------ ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- Income from operations before non-recurring charges................... $ 30.3 $ 4.7 $27.0 $37.5 $46.7 $63.0 $89.3 ====== ====== ===== ===== ===== ===== =====
(6) The 1996 recapitalization of the Company included repayment of certain outstanding indebtedness, including prepayment fees and penalties. Such prepayment fees and penalties of $2.4 million, net of income tax benefit of $0.8 million, have been recorded as an extraordinary item in the Consolidated Statement of Operations for the Transition Period ended September 30, 1996. In the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, the Company recorded extraordinary expense of $2.0 million net of income taxes for the premium on the repurchase or redemption of the senior term notes in connection with the Company's initial public offering ("IPO") completed in November 1997. (7) EBITDA represents income from operations plus other (income) expense, net plus depreciation and amortization (excluding amortization of debt issuance costs). The Company believes that EBITDA and related measures are commonly used by certain investors and analysts to analyze and compare, and provide useful information regarding, the Company's ability to service its indebtedness. However, the following factors should be considered in evaluating such measures: EBITDA and related measures (i) should not be considered in isolation, (ii) are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), (iii) should not be construed as alternatives or substitutes for income from operations, net income or cash flows from operating activities in analyzing the Company's operating performance, financial position or cash flows (in each case, as determined in accordance with GAAP) and (iv) should not be used as indicators of the Company's operating performance or measures of its liquidity. Additionally, because all companies do not calculate EBITDA and related measures in a uniform fashion, the calculations presented herein may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. EBITDA includes expenses related to the 1996 recapitalization and other special charges in the Transition Period ended September 30, 1996 and the fiscal years ended September 30, 1997, 1998 and 1999. EBITDA before these non-recurring charges was as follows:
FISCAL TRANSITION TWELVE YEAR PERIOD MONTHS FISCAL YEAR ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, JUNE 30, SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30, ----------------------------------------- 1996 1996 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 -------- ------------- ------------- -------- -------- -------- -------- (IN MILLIONS) EBITDA..................................... $41.7 $(20.5) $10.2 $45.5 $53.0 $67.4 $108.6 Other special charges portion of cost of goods sold............................... -- -- -- -- -- 1.3 -- Recapitalization and other special charges.................................. -- 28.4 28.4 3.0 6.2 8.1 -- ----- ------ ----- ----- ----- ----- ------ EBITDA before non-recurring charges........ $41.7 $ 7.9 $38.6 $48.5 $59.2 $76.8 $108.6 ===== ====== ===== ===== ===== ===== ======
20 ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS You should read the following discussion in conjunction with the "Selected Financial Data" and our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto in the "Financial Statements" section of this report. INTRODUCTION Our operating performance depends upon a number of factors. The most important of these factors are: - general retailing trends, especially in the mass merchandiser segment of the retail market - our overall product mix among various specialty and general household batteries and battery-powered lighting devices, which sell at different price points and profit margins - our overall competitive position, which is affected by both our and our competitors' introduction of new products and promotions and our relative pricing and battery performance - changes in operating expenses We manage our business according to the following geographic areas: (1) North America, which includes the United States and Canada (2) Latin America, which includes Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean and (3) Europe/Rest of World ("Europe/ROW"), which includes the United Kingdom, Europe, and all other countries in which we do business. Set forth below are specific developments that have affected and may continue to affect our performance. INVESTMENT IN FUTURE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES. Since our 1996 recapitalization, we have undertaken significant measures to pursue growth opportunities and increase market share for our products worldwide. These measures include (1) acquiring the consumer battery operations of ROV Limited in Latin America and the Rayovac brand rights for battery products worldwide, with the exception of Brazil, (2) developing new markets for our hearing aid battery products through the acquisitions of Brisco and the battery distribution business of Best Labs in 1998, (3) expanding distribution by gaining new customers and increasing products sold to existing customers. RESTRUCTURING OPERATIONS AND OTHER COST RATIONALIZATION INITIATIVES. In September 1999, we announced a series of operational initiatives to take advantage of global marketing opportunities afforded by our Latin America acquisition. These initiatives included (1) the restructuring of the organization to streamline and better serve global markets and improve our overall operating efficiencies, (2) the restructuring of manufacturing operations to position us for future growth and (3) the termination of certain non-performing foreign distributors. EXPANSION OF PRODUCTION CAPACITY. In fiscal 1999 we installed a new high speed manufacturing line to increase our capacity for alkaline AA size batteries by up to 50% at a cost of approximately $11.0 million. We also completed a 39,000 square foot expansion of our Portage, Wisconsin facility and consolidated our Appleton, Wisconsin manufacturing operations into it. We continue to compare our global production requirements against our global manufacturing capacity to improve the efficiency of our operations. COMPETITIVE POSITION. In June 1999, Ralston Purina Company announced that it was spinning off its battery company segment. According to the Form 10-12B/A filed in April 2000, the new company (Energizer Holdings, Inc.) started trading on the New York Stock Exchange in April 2000. We do not believe this spin-off a) will create any more favorable market conditions for Energizer than before the spin-off or b) will have a significant adverse impact on our financial performance. 21 In 1998, Duracell introduced Duracell Ultra in the AA and AAA size categories and this line was expanded in 1999 to include D, C, and 9-volt sizes. Duracell has attempted to segment the alkaline battery market by positioning this brand as a premium product priced at a significant premium to their competitors as well as the Duracell regular battery brand. In 2000, Energizer followed this strategy by launching Energizer E2. It is premature to determine if this will provide incremental volume to the total Energizer franchise. Energizer also increased efforts to obtain distribution behind a price brand--Eveready Alkaline. The product has minimal advertising support and competes primarily on price. This initiative has been in place in Canada for a number of years with limited success and the current effort to expand in the U.S. has gained only limited distribution. SEASONAL PRODUCT SALES Our sales are seasonal. Our highest sales occur in the fiscal quarter ending on or about December 31 during the holiday season. In the quarter ending September 30, 1999, our sales included approximately $15.8 million of sales from the consumer battery business we acquired from ROV Limited. Our lowest sales occur in the fiscal quarter ending on or about March 31. During the past three completed fiscal years, our sales in the quarter ended on or about December 31 have represented an average of 30% of annual net sales. As a result of this seasonality, our working capital requirements and revolving credit borrowings are typically higher in the third and fourth calendar quarters of each year. The following table sets forth our net sales for each of the periods presented.
FISCAL YEAR (IN MILLIONS) ------------------------------ FISCAL QUARTER ENDED 1998 1999 2000 - -------------------- -------- -------- -------- December............................................ $150.0 $160.5 $214.8 March............................................... 96.1 111.0 142.6 June................................................ 111.1 120.4 152.0 September........................................... 138.6 172.4 194.5
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following table sets forth the percentage relationship of certain items in our statement of operations to net sales for the periods presented:
FISCAL YEAR ENDED --------------------------------------------- SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30, SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 1999 2000 ------------- ------------- ------------- Net Sales.............................. 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% Cost of goods sold..................... 52.1 52.3 50.9 Gross profit........................... 47.9 47.7 49.1 Selling expenses....................... 30.0 28.4 27.7 General and administrative expense..... 6.6 6.6 7.2 Research and development expenses...... 1.9 1.7 1.5 Other special charges.................. 1.3 1.5 -- Income from operations................. 8.2% 9.5% 12.7%
FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 HIGHLIGHTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS NET SALES. Our net sales increased $139.6 million, or 24.7%, to $703.9 million in fiscal 2000 from $564.3 million in the prior year. Significant sales gains reflected the full year impact of the ROV Limited 22 acquisition and strong sales increases in alkaline and rechargeable batteries in North America partially offset by decreased sales of hearing aid batteries. NET INCOME. Our net income for fiscal 2000 increased $14.3 million, or 59.3%, to $38.4 million from $24.1 million the previous year. This increase is due primarily to the impact of increased sales, primarily reflecting the full year impact of the ROV Limited acquisition, improved gross profit margins, lower operating expenses as a percentage of net sales partially offset by higher interest expense and unfavorable foreign exchange. The improvement in gross profit margins is primarily attributed to previously announced cost rationalization initiatives, a favorable shift in product mix, and absence of special charges in fiscal 2000. SEGMENT RESULTS. We evaluate segment profitability based on income from operations before corporate expense which includes corporate purchasing expense, general and administrative expense and research and development expense. All depreciation and amortization included in income from operations is related to a segment. Total segment assets are set forth in Note 12 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements filed herewith. NORTH AMERICA
1999 2000 -------- -------- Revenue from external customers............................. $478.3 $535.8 Profitability............................................... 77.8 95.6 Profitability as a % of net sales........................... 16.3% 17.8%
Our revenue from external customers increased $57.5 million, or 12.0%, to $535.8 million in fiscal 2000 from $478.3 million the previous year due primarily to increased sales of alkaline, rechargeable, and heavy duty batteries partially offset by softness in hearing aid battery sales. Alkaline sales increases of $51.2 million, or 19.8%, were driven by strong promotional programs, new customers, expanded distribution with existing customers, and the favorable impact of price increases. Rechargeable sales increases of $6.9 million, or 29.7%, were primarily driven by the introduction of nickel metal hydride (NiMh) rechargeable batteries at a major mass merchandiser. Heavy duty sales increases of $3.1 million, or 8.6%, reflect the full year impact of gaining exclusivity at a major mass merchandiser. Sales of hearing aid batteries decreased $3.1 million, or 6.9%, primarily as the result of planned inventory reduction at several professional and retail distribution accounts, a reduction in promotional programs, and softness in the hearing aid device market. Our profitability increased $17.8 million, or 22.9%, to $95.6 million in fiscal 2000 from $77.8 million in fiscal 1999. This increase was primarily attributed to sales volume increases, improved gross profit margins and operating expenses that decreased as a percentage of sales. The improvement in gross profit margins was primarily the result of previously announced cost rationalization initiatives and a shift in product mix. Operating expenses decreased as a percentage of sales primarily reflecting a gain recognized on the sale of certain camcorder battery assets and corresponding license to utilize the "Rayovac" trade name offset by higher promotional and distribution expenses. LATIN AMERICA
1999 2000 -------- -------- Revenue from external customers............................. $19.3 $112.2 Profitability............................................... 3.5 20.1 Profitability as a % of net sales........................... 18.1% 17.9%
In August 1999, we acquired the consumer battery business of ROV Limited in Latin America. ROV Limited was our customer before the acquisition. Total revenue for the region for fiscal 1999 includes two 23 months of sales for the Latin American business and ten months of sales to ROV Limited as an external customer. The fiscal 1999 and fiscal 2000 sales in the region are predominantly heavy duty batteries. The sales growth in Latin America primarily reflects the full year impact of the Latin America business, new distribution in Mexico, Central America, and the southern region of South America, price increases in certain countries implemented in the second quarter, and distribution of alkaline batteries and lighting products in mass merchandiser chains. Our profitability was $20.1 million, which was 17.9% of net sales for fiscal 2000. Our operating expense in Latin America was lower, as a percent of sales, than in North America. This difference is attributed primarily to spending less in marketing and advertising as a result of selling less alkaline and more heavy duty batteries. EUROPE/ROW
1999 2000 -------- -------- Revenue from external customers............................. $66.7 $55.9 Profitability............................................... 9.9 6.1 Profitability as a % of net sales........................... 14.8% 10.9%
Our revenue from external customers decreased $10.8 million, or 16.2%, to $55.9 million in fiscal 2000 from $66.7 million the previous year due primarily to the impacts of currency devaluation, the exit of certain private label alkaline battery business in Europe, the termination of certain non-performing foreign distributors, and sales volume softness in Europe negatively impacting our hearing aid and watch battery business. Our profitability decreased $3.8 million, or 38.4%, to $6.1 million reflecting the impact of currency devaluation and higher operating expenses as a percentage of sales partially offset by a favorable shift in product mix away from our lower margin private label alkaline battery business. CORPORATE EXPENSE. Our corporate expense increased $4.2 million, or 14.9%, to $32.4 million in fiscal 2000 from $28.2 million the prior year. These increases were primarily due to increased travel expense, higher legal fees primarily attributable to our patent infringement lawsuit, higher professional expenses, and increased research and development expenses. As a percentage of total sales, our corporate expense was 4.6% compared to 5.0% in the previous year. SPECIAL CHARGES. In Fiscal 2000 we recorded no special charges. In fiscal 1999, we recorded special charges of $8.1 million in addition to the $1.3 million recorded in cost of sales. The $8.1 million includes (1) $2.5 million associated with restructuring the organization to streamline and better serve global markets and operating efficiencies, (2) $2.1 million associated with the termination of non-performing foreign distributors and exiting the respective territory, (3) $1.9 million of cost associated with the previously announced closing of our Appleton, Wisconsin plant and its consolidation into our Portage, Wisconsin facility, (4) $0.8 million of cost associated with the closing of our Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom, facility, and (5) $0.8 million of one-time expenses associated with the Latin American acquisition. INCOME FROM OPERATIONS. Our income from operations increased $35.7 million, or 66.6%, to $89.3 million in fiscal 2000 from $53.6 million the previous year. This increase was primarily due to increased sales primarily reflecting the Latin America acquisition and a strong North America business, increased gross profit, and lower special charges partially offset by increased operating expenses. INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense increased $14.2 million, or 86.6%, to $30.6 million in fiscal 2000 from $16.4 million in the prior year primarily due to financing costs associated with the Latin America acquisition and higher general market interest rates. 24 INCOME TAX EXPENSE. Our effective tax rate for fiscal 2000 was 33.8% compared to 35.8% for fiscal 1999. The rate in the current year was impacted by a lower foreign tax rate primarily reflecting the impact of the Latin America business. FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 COMPARED TO FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 HIGHLIGHTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS NET SALES. Our net sales increased $68.6 million, or 13.8%, to $564.3 million in fiscal 1999 from $495.7 million in the prior year. Significant sales gains were recorded in alkaline, heavy duty and specialty batteries and lighting products, while sales of hearing aid batteries reflected a more modest increase year over year. NET INCOME. Our net income for fiscal 1999 increased $9.7 million, or 67.7%, to $24.1 million from $14.4 million the previous year. This increase is due primarily to the impact of increased sales and reduced operating expenses as a percentage of net sales. NORTH AMERICA
1998 1999 -------- -------- Revenue from external customers............................. $422.4 $478.3 Profitability............................................... 61.4 77.8 Profitability as a % of net sales........................... 14.5% 16.3%
Our revenue from external customers increased $55.9 million, or 13.2%, to $478.3 million in fiscal 1999 from $422.4 million the previous year due primarily to increased sales of alkaline batteries, specialty batteries, and lighting products. Alkaline sales increases were driven by strong promotional programs, new customers, and expanded distribution with existing customers. A full years' impact of our Direct Power Plus acquisition contributed to the increase in sales of specialty batteries. Our sales of lighting products increased due primarily to a strong hurricane season and continued growth in our economy flashlight products. Our profitability increased $16.4 million, or 26.7%, to $77.8 million in fiscal 1999 from $61.4 million in fiscal 1998. This increase was primarily attributed to the sales increase and net sales growing faster than expenses. LATIN AMERICA
1998 1999 -------- -------- Revenue from external customers............................. -- $19.3 Profitability............................................... -- 3.5 Profitability as a % of net sales........................... -- 18.1%
In August 1999, we acquired the consumer battery business of ROV Limited in Latin America. ROV Limited was our customer before the acquisition. Total revenue for the region for fiscal 1999 includes two months of sales of the Latin American business and ten months of sales to ROV Limited as an external customer. Prior year sales in the region are included in North America. The amount was not material. Our profitability was $3.5 million, which was 18.1% of net sales for fiscal 1999. Our operating expense in Latin America was lower, as a percent of sales, than in North America. This difference is attributed primarily to spending less in marketing and advertising as a result of selling less alkaline and more zinc carbon batteries. 25 EUROPE/ROW
1998 1999 -------- -------- Revenue from external customers............................. $73.4 $66.7 Profitability............................................... 9.1 9.9 Profitability as a % of net sales........................... 12.4% 14.8%
Our revenue from external customers decreased $6.7 million, or 9.1%, to $66.7 million in fiscal 1999 from $73.4 million the previous year, due primarily to decreased sales of alkaline and heavy duty batteries. We have experienced some lost distribution and discontinued some unprofitable private label business. Our profitability increased $0.8 million, or 8.8%, due primarily to improved product mix and reduced operating expenses. Our restructuring program announced in fiscal 1998 contributed to the reduced operating expenses in fiscal 1999. CORPORATE EXPENSE. Our corporate expense increased $4.4 million, or 18.5%, to $28.2 million in fiscal 1999 from $23.8 million the prior year. As a percentage of total sales, our corporate expense was 5.0% compared to 4.8% in the previous year. These increases were primarily due to increased travel expense, professional fees related to the implementation of our new computer systems, and increased research and development expense. SPECIAL CHARGES. We recorded special charges of $8.1 million in fiscal 1999 in addition to the $1.3 million recorded in cost of sales. The $8.1 million includes (1) $2.5 million associated with restructuring the organization to streamline and better serve global markets and operating efficiencies, (2) $2.1 million associated with the termination of non-performing foreign distributors and exiting the respective territory, (3) $1.9 million of cost associated with the previously announced closing of our Appleton, Wisconsin plant and its consolidation into our Portage, Wisconsin facility, (4) $0.8 million of cost associated with the closing of our Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom, facility, and (5) $0.8 million of one-time expenses associated with the Latin American acquisition. In fiscal 1998, we recorded net special charges of $6.2 million which included $10.3 million related to (1) closing our Newton Aycliffe and Appleton facilities, (2) phasing out direct distribution in the United Kingdom, (3) consolidating domestic battery packaging and outsourcing the manufacture of heavy duty batteries and (4) secondary offering expenses. These charges were partially offset by a gain on the sale of our Kinston, North Carolina facility and a credit related to the settlement of deferred compensation agreements with certain former employees. INCOME FROM OPERATIONS. Our income from operations increased $13.1 million, or 32.3%, to $53.6 million in fiscal 1999 from $40.5 million the previous year. This increase was primarily due to increased sales and gross profit partially offset by increased expenses and special charges. INTEREST EXPENSE. Interest expense increased $0.7 million, or 4.5%, to $16.4 million in fiscal 1999 from $15.7 million in the prior year primarily due to financing costs associated with the Latin American acquisition. INCOME TAX EXPENSE. Our effective tax rate for fiscal 1999 was 35.8% compared to 33.9% for fiscal 1998. The lower rate for fiscal 1998 was impacted by a lower state tax rate and a lower foreign tax rate as compared to our U.S. Federal statutory rate. EXTRAORDINARY ITEM. We recorded extraordinary expense of $2.0 million, net of tax, in fiscal 1998 for the premium payment on the redemption of a portion of our Series B Senior Subordinated Notes. 26 LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES For fiscal 2000, our operating activities generated $37.8 million of cash, compared to $10.5 million in fiscal 1999, an increase of $27.3 million. Operating cash flow before working capital requirements increased $22.0 million, or 54.6%, to $62.3 million from $40.3 million in the prior year reflecting improvement in income from operations and higher non-cash expenses. Non-cash expenses increased $7.7 million to $23.9 million from $16.2 million. This increase is primarily the result of amortization of intangible assets that were recognized as part of the Latin America acquisition and depreciation of the SAP business enterprise system, which was installed in 1999. Working capital increases in fiscal 2000 were $5.3 million less than in the previous year primarily reflecting improvements in receivables partially offset by increased investment in inventory reflecting the expanded distribution in Latin America. Cash costs associated with our previously announced restructuring activities have been, and are expected to be, funded with cash provided from operating activities. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2000 were $19.0 million, a decrease of $5.1 million from fiscal 1999. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2000 included spending for the down payment on a new alkaline line currently expected in fiscal 2001 and zinc air technology improvements. Capital expenditures for fiscal 2001 are expected to be approximately $27.0 million which will include (1) one new alkaline production line at our Fennimore, Wisconsin, facility, and (2) continued investments in computer systems to improve the productivity and efficiency of our operations. Late in fiscal 1999 we completed the acquisition of the consumer battery operations in Latin America of ROV Limited for a purchase price of $145.1 million, net of cash acquired. We financed the entire purchase price of the acquisition with additional borrowings under amended senior credit facilities. The amended facilities we obtained in August 1999 replaced our existing credit facilities with a $250.0 million five-year revolving credit facility and a $75.0 million five-year amortizing term loan. The term facility provides for quarterly amortization totaling $10.0 million in 2000, $15.0 million in 2001, 2002, and 2003, and $20.0 million in 2004. The fees associated with these amended facilities have been capitalized along with the fees for the existing facility and are being amortized over the term of the amended facilities. Indebtedness under these amended facilities is secured and is guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries. In addition, to facilitate our future growth, including the financing of our acquisition in Latin America, we obtained the consent of the holders of our 10.25% Series B Senior Subordinated Notes due 2006 to certain amendments to the indenture governing these notes. The amendments to the indenture provide, among other things, that we may (1) make senior secured borrowings under our credit facilities in an increased set amount without meeting certain financial tests, (2) incur additional senior secured debt under our credit facilities above that set amount, provided that we meet certain financial tests, (3) make investments in foreign subsidiaries that are not guarantors of the Notes and (4) incur additional indebtedness, on a secured basis, through our foreign subsidiaries. The amendments are set forth in the Second Supplemental Indenture, dated August 6, 1999 and made effective as of August 9, 1999, included as an exhibit to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 9, 1999. The fees associated with the consent solicitation are being amortized over the remaining life of the notes. During fiscal 2000, our board of directors granted 729,500 options to purchase shares of our common stock to various members of management under the 1996 Stock Option Plan and the 1997 Incentive Plan. All grants were at an exercise price equal to the market price of our common stock on the date of grant with prices ranging from $18.00 to $26.81 per share. We believe our cash flow from operating activities and periodic borrowings under our amended credit facilities will be adequate to meet our short-term and long-term liquidity requirements of our existing business prior to the expiration of those credit facilities, although no assurance can be given in this regard. 27 Our current facilities include a revolving credit facility of $250.0 million and a $75.0 million term loan. As of September 30, 2000, $62.8 of the term loan was outstanding and $175.7 million was outstanding under the revolving facility, with approximately $16.0 million of the remaining availability utilized for outstanding letters of credit. We are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate, including laws and regulations relating to discharges to air, water and land, the handling and disposal of solid and hazardous waste and the cleanup of properties affected by hazardous substances. We do not currently anticipate any material adverse effect on our operations or financial condition or any material capital expenditure as a result of our efforts to comply with environmental laws. As of September 30, 2000, we had reserved $2.2 million for known on-site and off-site environmental liabilities. Some risk of environmental liability is inherent in our business; however, we cannot assure you that material environmental costs will not arise in the future. See "Legal Proceedings". We engage in hedging transactions in the ordinary course of our business. See Note 2(q) to our consolidated financial statements. IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 133, ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES, as amended by SFAS 137, ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES--DEFERRAL OF THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF FASB STATEMENT NO. 133, and SFAS 138, ACCOUNTING FOR CERTAIN DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND CERTAIN HEDGING ACTIVITIES, is effective for the Company as of October 1, 2000. SFAS 133 requires that an entity recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the use of the derivative. Adoption of these new accounting standards will result in a cumulative after-tax reduction in other comprehensive income of approximately $155 in the first quarter of fiscal 2001. The adoption will also result in $299 of hedge assets and $627 of hedge liabilities recorded on the balance sheet. In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, "Revenue Recognition" (SAB 101). An amendment in June 2000 delayed the effective date for the Company until the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001, which is when the Company will adopt this bulletin. The impact of adopting SAB 101 is still being evaluated and the Company does not currently believe its adoption will have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. In May 2000, the Financial Accounting Standards Board's Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on Issue No. 00-14, "Accounting for Certain Sales Incentives". This Issue addresses the recognition, measurement, and income statement classification for various types of sales incentives including discounts, coupons, rebates and free products. The Company will adopt this consensus in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2001. The impact of this consensus on the Company's consolidated financial statements is still being evaluated and the Company does not currently believe its adoption will have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. 28 ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK MARKET RISK FACTORS We have market risk exposure from changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. We use derivative financial instruments for purposes other than trading to mitigate the risk from such exposures. A discussion of our accounting policies for derivative financial instruments is included in Note 2 "Significant Accounting Policies and Practices" in Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements. INTEREST RATE RISK We have bank lines of credit at variable interest rates. The general level of U.S. interest rates, LIBOR, IBOR, and to a lesser extent European Base rates, primarily affects interest expense. We use interest rate swaps to manage such risk. The net amounts to be paid or received under interest rate swap agreements are accrued as interest rates change, and are recognized over the life of the swap agreements, as an adjustment to interest expense from the underlying debt to which the swap is designated. The related amounts payable to, or receivable from, the contract counter-parties are included in accrued liabilities or accounts receivable. FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISK We are subject to risk from sales and loans to our subsidiaries as well as sales to, purchases from and bank lines of credit with, third-party customers, suppliers and creditors, respectively, denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign currency sales are made primarily in Pounds Sterling, Canadian Dollars, Euro, German Marks, French Francs, Italian Lira, Spanish Pesetas, Dutch Guilders, Mexican Pesos, Guatemalan Quetzals, Dominican Pesos, Venezuelan Bolivars, Argentine Pesos, Chilean Pesos and Honduran Lempira. Foreign currency purchases are made primarily in Pounds Sterling, German Marks, French Francs, Mexican Pesos, Dominican Pesos, Guatemalan Quetzals and Honduran Lempira. We manage our foreign exchange exposure from anticipated sales, accounts receivable, intercompany loans, firm purchase commitments and credit obligations through the use of naturally occurring offsetting positions (borrowing in local currency), forward foreign exchange contracts, foreign exchange rate swaps and foreign exchange options. The related amounts payable to, or receivable from, the contract counter parties are included in accounts payable or accounts receivable. COMMODITY PRICE RISK We are exposed to fluctuation in market prices for purchases of zinc used in the manufacturing process. We use commodity swaps, calls and puts to manage such risk. The maturity of, and the quantities covered by, the contracts are closely correlated to our anticipated purchases of the commodities. The cost of calls, and the premiums received from the puts, are amortized over the life of the contracts and are recorded in cost of goods sold, along with the effects of the swap, put and call contracts. The related amounts payable to, or receivable from, the counterparties are included in accounts payable or accounts receivable. SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS The analysis below is hypothetical and should not be considered a projection of future risks. Earnings projections are before tax. As of September 30, 2000, the potential change in fair value of outstanding interest rate derivative instruments, assuming a 1% unfavorable shift in the underlying interest rates would be a loss of $1.2 million. The net impact on reported earnings, after also including the reduction in one year's interest expense on the related debt due to the same shift in interest rates, would be a net gain of $1.2 million. 29 As of September 30, 2000, the potential change in fair value of outstanding foreign exchange rate derivative instruments, assuming a 10% unfavorable change in the underlying foreign exchange rates would be a loss of $1.8 million. The net impact on future cash flows, after also including the gain in value on the related accounts receivable and contractual payment obligations outstanding at September 30, 2000 due to the same change in exchange rates, would be a net gain of $1.4 million. As of September 30, 2000, the potential change in fair value of outstanding commodity price derivative instruments, assuming a 10% unfavorable change in the underlying commodity prices would be a loss of $0.8 million. The net impact on reported earnings, after also including the reduction in cost of one year's purchases of the related commodities due to the same change in commodity prices, would be a net gain of $0.6 million. ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA The information required for this Item is included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K on pages F-1 through F-40, inclusive and is incorporated herein by reference. ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE None. 30 PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT Set forth below is certain information, as of December 1, 2000, regarding each of our directors and executive officers:
NAME AGE POSITION AND OFFICES - ---- -------- -------------------------------------------------- David A. Jones..................... 51 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer Kent J. Hussey..................... 54 President, Chief Operating Officer and Director Stephen P. Shanesy................. 44 Executive Vice President of Global Brand Management Merrell M. Tomlin.................. 48 Executive Vice President of Sales Randall J. Steward................. 46 Executive Vice President of Administration and Chief Financial Officer Kenneth V. Biller.................. 52 Executive Vice President of Operations Luis A. Cancio..................... 60 Executive Vice President--Latin America Joseph W. Deering.................. 60 Director (resigned June 30, 2000) John S. Lupo....................... 54 Director Scott A. Schoen.................... 42 Director Thomas R. Shepherd................. 70 Director Warren C. Smith, Jr................ 44 Director Philip F. Pellegrino............... 60 Director (elected November 7, 2000)
Mr. Jones has served as Chairman of our Board of Directors and our Chief Executive Officer since September 12, 1996. From September 1996 to April 1998, Mr. Jones also served as our President. Between February 1995 and March 1996, Mr. Jones was Chief Operating Officer, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Thermoscan, Inc., a manufacturer and marketer of infrared ear thermometers for consumer and professional use. From 1989 to September 1994, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of The Regina Company, a manufacturer of vacuum cleaners and other floor care equipment. In addition, Mr. Jones serves as a director of United Industries Corp., Tyson Foods, Inc. and SCI Systems, Inc. Mr. Jones has over 30 years of experience working in the consumer products industry. Mr. Hussey is a director of Rayovac and has served as our President and Chief Operating Officer since April 1998. Prior to that time and since joining us in October 1996, Mr. Hussey was the Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration and the Chief Financial Officer and a director of the company. From 1994 to 1996, Mr. Hussey was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of ECC International, a producer of industrial minerals and specialty chemicals and from 1991 to July 1994 he served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Regina Company. Mr. Hussey also serves as a director of American Woodmark Corporation. Mr. Shanesy has been our Executive Vice President of Global Brand Management since April 1998. Prior to that time and from December 1997, Mr. Shanesy has served as our Senior Vice President of Marketing and the General Manager of General Batteries and Lights. From December 1996 to December 1997, Mr. Shanesy was our Senior Vice President of Marketing and the General Manager of General Batteries. Prior to joining us, from 1993 to 1996, Mr. Shanesy was Vice President of Marketing of Oscar Mayer. Mr. Tomlin has been our Executive Vice President of Sales since October 1998. Mr. Tomlin joined Rayovac in October 1996 as Senior Vice President of Sales. From March 1996 to September 30, 1996, 31 Mr. Tomlin served as Vice President of Sales of Braun of North America/Thermoscan and from August 1995 to March 1996, he served as Vice President Sales of Thermoscan, Inc. Prior to that time, Mr. Tomlin was Vice President of Sales of various divisions of Casio Electronics. Mr. Steward was named our Executive Vice President of Administration and Chief Financial Officer in October 1999. Mr. Steward joined us in March of 1998 as our Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and was named Senior Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer in April 1998, a position he held until October 1999. From October 1997 to March 1998, Mr. Steward worked as an independent consultant, primarily with Thermoscan, Inc. and Braun AG, assisting with financial and operational issues. From March 1996 to September 1997, Mr. Steward served as President and General Manager of Thermoscan, Inc. From January 1992 to March 1996, he served as Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer of Thermoscan, Inc. Mr. Biller was named our Executive Vice President of Operations in October 1999. From August 1998 to October 1999, he was Senior Vice President of Operations and was our Senior Vice President of Manufacturing/Supply Chain from January to August 1998. Prior to that time and since 1996 he was our Senior Vice President and General Manager of Lighting Products & Industrial and since 1995 was our Vice President and General Manager of Lighting Products & Industrial. Mr. Biller joined us in 1972 and has held several positions with us, including Director of Technology/Battery Products and Vice President of Manufacturing. Mr. Cancio was named our Executive Vice President--Latin America on October 15, 2000. He joined Rayovac in August 1999 as our Senior Vice President and General Manager of Latin America and served in that position until his October 15, 2000 promotion. In April 1997, Mr. Cancio became a founding principal of XCELL Group LLC, a private investment firm, and remains a director of that firm. From 1980 to 1996 he held positions of increasing responsibility at Duracell International Inc., beginning as Vice President in Latin America and ending his tenure as Senior Vice President in other international markets. Mr. Deering was a director of Rayovac from July of 1998 until his retirement from our Board of Directors on June 30, 2000. He served as President for the food equipment group of Premark International, Incorporated from 1992 until his retirement in December 1999. Previously, Mr. Deering served as President for Leucadia Manufacturing and President and Chief Executive Officer for Tomkins Industries. Mr. Deering is also a director of both Quadlux Inc. and Trion, Inc. Mr. Lupo has been a director of Rayovac since July of 1998 and is a principal in the consulting firm Renaissance Partners, LLC, which he joined in February 2000. From October 1998 until November 1999, he served as Executive Vice President for Sales and Marketing for Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc. From April 1998 to October 1998, Mr. Lupo served as a consultant in the consumer products industry. Prior to that time and since August 1996, Mr. Lupo served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for the international division of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. From October 1990 to August 1996, Mr. Lupo served as Senior Vice President--General Merchandise Manager of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Mr. Schoen has been a director of Rayovac since our September 1996 recapitalization. He is a Managing Director of Thomas H. Lee Company, which he joined in 1986. In addition, Mr. Schoen is a Vice President of Thomas H. Lee Advisors I and Thomas H. Lee Advisors II. Mr. Schoen is also a Trustee of the THL Equity Trust III, the general partner of THL Equity Advisors Limited Partnership III, which is the general partner of Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund III L.P. He is also a Managing Director and Member of THL Equity Advisors IV, LLC, which is the general partner of Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund IV, L.P. Mr. Schoen also is a director of Syratech Corporation, TransWestern Communications Corp. and several private corporations. Mr. Shepherd has been a director of Rayovac since our September 1996 recapitalization. He is a currently a Special Partner of Thomas H. Lee Company and has been engaged as a consultant to Thomas H. Lee Company since 1986. In addition, Mr. Shepherd is an Executive Vice President of Thomas H. Lee 32 Advisors I and an officer of various other affiliates of Thomas H. Lee Company. He is Chairman of TSG Equity Partners, LLC, and is also a director of The Vermont Teddy Bear Co. Inc., and various private corporations. Mr. Smith has been a director of Rayovac since September 1996 and has been employed by Thomas H. Lee Co. since 1990 and currently serves as a Managing Director of Thomas H. Lee Co. Mr. Smith also serves as a Managing Director of TH Lee.Putnam Internet Fund Advisors, LLC, the general partner of TH Lee.Putnam Internet Fund Advisors, L.P., the general partner of TH Lee.Putnam Internet Partners, L.P. In addition, Mr. Smith is a Managing Director of TH Lee Global Internet Advisors, LLC, the general partner of TH Lee Global Internet Managers, L.P., which in turn serves as manager to TH Lee.Putnam Internet Partners, L.P. In addition, Mr. Smith is a Vice President of Thomas H. Lee Advisor I and T.H. Lee Mezzanine II. Mr. Smith is also a Managing Director and Member of THL Equity Advisors Limited Partnership III, which is the general partner of Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund III L.P. and a Managing Director and Member of THL Equity Advisors IV, LLC, which is the general partner of Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund IV, L.P. He is also a director of Finlay Enterprises, Inc., Finlay Fine Jewelry Corporation, Eye Care Centers of America, Inc. and various private corporations. Mr. Pellegrino has served as a director since November 7, 2000. He currently serves as Senior Vice President and President of Sales for Kraft Foods and has held that position since September 2000. From 1995 to September 2000, he served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Customer Service for Kraft, a wholly owned subsidiary of Philip Morris Companies, Inc. He has been employed by Kraft Foods or its subsidiary Oscar Mayer since 1964 in various management and executive positions. SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires the Company's directors, officers and persons who own more than 10% of a registered class of the Company's equity securities to file reports of ownership and changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Based solely upon review of Forms 3, 4 and 5 (and amendments thereto) furnished to the Company during or in respect of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2000, the Company is not aware of any director or executive officer who has not timely filed reports required by Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act during or in respect of such fiscal year, except for (i) the inadvertent late reporting by each of Kenneth V. Biller, John S. Lupo, Stephen P. Shanesy, Randall J. Steward and Merrell M. Tomlin of one option grant; (ii) the inadvertent late reporting by each of Joseph W. Deering and John S. Lupo of two purchases of common stock and by Randall J. Steward of one purchase of common stock; and (iii) the inadvertent late reporting by Kent J. Hussey of one option exercise (and the related transfer of shares in payment of tax). Each of these transactions were reported on the Form 5 filed for such director or executive officer for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2000. 33 ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION The following table sets forth compensation paid to our Chief Executive Officer and the other four most highly compensated executive officers during fiscal 2000, fiscal 1999 and fiscal 1998 (the "Named Executive Officers") for services rendered in all capacities to the Company.
OTHER SECURITIES ANNUAL UNDERLYING ALL OTHER SALARY BONUS COMPENSATION OPTIONS COMPENSATION NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION FISCAL YEAR ($) ($) ($) (#) ($) - --------------------------- ----------- --------- -------- ---------------- ----------- ---------------- David A. Jones, 2000 $500,000 $400,000 $267,800(1) $ 10,900(2) Chairman of the Board and 1999 500,000 250,000 264,800(3) 12,700(4) Chief Executive Officer...... 1998 465,000 250,000 168,900(5) 11,100(2) Kent J. Hussey, 2000 350,000 46,000(6) 40,000 10,500(2) President and Chief Operating 1999 325,000 412,500 14,300(4) Officer...................... 1998 304,600 162,500 72,106 489,800(7) Luis A. Cancio, 2000 286,000 50,000 14,000(2) Executive Vice 1999 47,700 100,000 10,000(8) President--Latin America...................... 1998 Stephen P. Shanesy, 2000 265,000 35,000 6,800(2) Executive Vice President of 1999 250,000 100,000 25,000 8,200(4) Global Brand Management...... 1998 235,000 94,000 8,800(2) Merrell M. Tomlin, 2000 250,000 35,000 8,500(2) Executive Vice President of 1999 230,000 114,000 25,000 151,600(9) Sales........................ 1998 197,500 82,000 48,900(10)
- ------------------------------ (1) Includes approximately $70,000 related to a Company provided residence, $70,000 related to interest on the Executive Note (as defined herein) and $90,000 related to personal use of the Company aircraft. (2) Represents contributions to 401K plan. (3) Includes approximately $120,000 related to a Company provided residence, $70,000 related to interest on the Executive Note (as defined herein) and $50,000 related to personal use of the Company aircraft. (4) Represents contributions to 401K plan and pension plan termination benefits. (5) Includes approximately $70,000 related to interest on the Executive Note (as defined herein) and $48,000 related to a Company provided condominium. (6) Represents personal use of the Company aircraft and a Company provided vehicle. (7) Represents relocation payments, compensation from the exercise of stock options and contributions to 401K plan. (8) Represents relocation payments. (9) Represents relocation payments, contributions to 401K plan and pension plan termination benefits. (10) Represents relocation payments and contributions to 401K plan. OPTION GRANTS AND EXERCISES In connection with the 1996 recapitalization, the Board adopted the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan (the "1996 Plan"). Pursuant to the 1996 Plan, options may be granted with respect to an aggregate of 3,000,000 shares of Common Stock. At September 30, 2000 an aggregate of 1,987,718 options to purchase shares of Common Stock at a weighted average exercise price of $6.41 per share, 911,577 of which have been granted to David A. Jones in accordance with the terms of his employment agreement were outstanding. See "Employment Agreement". In September 1997, the Board adopted the 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan ("Incentive Plan"). Pursuant to the Incentive Plan, we may grant stock-based awards, including options and restricted stock, to purchase up to 3,000,000 shares of Common Stock. At September 30, 2000 an aggregate of 1,288,489 options at a weighted average exercise price of $21.00 were outstanding under the Incentive Plan. Pursuant to the Rayovac Corporation 1997 Stock Option Plan (the "1997 Plan"), options to purchase an aggregate of 556,222 shares of Common Stock were granted to 34 certain management employees, which options were immediately exercised or surrendered to the Company's Deferred Compensation Plan as of such date. The following table discloses the grants of stock options during fiscal 2000 to the Named Executive Officers. OPTION GRANTS IN FISCAL 2000
INDIVIDUAL GRANTS ------------------------------------------------------------ POTENTIAL REALIZABLE NUMBER OF VALUE AT ASSUMED SECURITIES PERCENT OF TOTAL ANNUAL RATES OF STOCK UNDERLYING OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE APPRECIATION FOR OPTIONS GRANTED TO OR BASE OPTION TERM GRANTED EMPLOYEES IN PRICE ------------------------- NAME (#) FISCAL YEAR ($/SHARE) EXPIRATION DATE 5% ($) 10% ($) - ---- ----------- ---------------- --------- --------------- -------- ---------- David A. Jones................. -- -- -- -- -- -- Kent J. Hussey................. 40,000 5.5 $ 21.625 9/30/2009 $544,000 $1,378,600 Luis A. Cancio................. 50,000 6.9 $20.9375 4/28/2009 $658,375 $1,668,449 Stephen P. Shanesy............. 35,000 4.8 $ 21.625 9/30/2009 $476,000 $1,206,275 Merrell M. Tomlin.............. 35,000 4.8 $ 21.625 9/30/2009 $476,000 $1,206,275
The following table sets forth information concerning options to purchase Common Stock held by the Named Executive Officers. AGGREGATED OPTION EXERCISES IN FISCAL 2000 AND FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
NUMBER OF SECURITIES VALUE OF UNEXERCISED UNDERLYING UNEXERCISED IN-THE-MONEY SHARES OPTIONS AT OPTIONS AT ACQUIRED VALUE FISCAL YEAR END (#) FISCAL YEAR END ($)(1) NAME ON EXERCISE REALIZED $ (EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE) (EXERCISABLE/UNEXERCISABLE) - ---- ----------- ---------- --------------------------- --------------------------- David A. Jones................. -- -- 546,945/364,632 $6,965,345/4,643,589 Kent J. Hussey................. -- -- 134,143/171,716 1,306,573/1,160,872 Luis A. Cancio................. -- -- 12,500/137,500 0 / 0 Stephen P. Shanesy............. -- -- 73,368/100,579 875,341/599,149 Merrell M. Tomlin.............. -- -- 73,368/100,579 875,341/599,149
- -------------------------- (1) These values are calculated using the $17.125 per share closing price of the Common Stock as quoted on the NYSE on September 30, 2000. PENSION PLAN In fiscal 1997 we contributed to a defined benefit pension plan covering all domestic non-union employees (the "Pension Plan"). On August 1, 1997 the Pension Plan accruals were frozen and the Pension Plan was officially terminated on October 1, 1997. We made no contributions to the Pension Plan during fiscal 1998, 1999 or 2000. Distribution of benefits due to participating employees under the Pension Plan was made during fiscal 1999. In fiscal 1999 and 2000, we contributed to a defined contribution 401(k) plan covering domestic non-union employees (the "401(k) Plan"). We made contributions allocated on the basis of compensation and age as identified in the summary compensation table. DIRECTOR COMPENSATION Directors who are employees of the Company receive no compensation for serving on the Board of Directors. Non-employee directors of the Company are reimbursed for their out-of-pocket expenses in 35 attending meetings of the Board of Directors. Messrs. Lupo and Deering received $5,000 per quarterly meeting in their capacities as directors for fiscal year 2000. Commencing fiscal year 2001, Messrs. Lupo and Pellegrino will receive $20,000 per year for their service, plus $1,000 per Board of Director meeting each attends. In addition, each will receive $500 for each Board Committee meeting each attends. Messrs. Schoen, Shepherd and Smith receive no fees in their capacities as directors. See Item 13, "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" for a description of certain other arrangements pursuant to which THL Co., of which Messrs. Schoen and Smith are managing directors and Mr. Shepherd is a special partner, receives compensation from the Company. EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS On October 1, 2000, we entered into amended and restated employment agreements with David A. Jones (the "Jones Employment Agreement") and Kent J. Hussey (the "Hussey Employment Agreement"), as well as Employment Agreements with Stephen P. Shanesy, Merrell M. Tomlin and Luis A. Cancio (together with the Jones Employment Agreement and the Hussey Employment Agreement, the "Executive Employment Agreements") (the "Executives"). Under their respective employment agreements, Mr. Jones is entitled to a base salary of $550,000 per annum, Mr. Hussey is entitled to a base salary of $385,000 per annum, Mr. Shanesy and Mr. Tomlin are each entitled to a base salary of $290,000 per annum and Mr. Cancio is entitled to a base salary of $275,000 per annum (such base salaries may be increased from time to time at the discretion of the Board of Directors) and each Executive is entitled to an annual bonus based upon the Company achieving certain annual performance goals established by the Board of Directors. The Jones Employment Agreement provides that he be paid a bonus of Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) in October, 2000 as compensation for past services, and an additional bonus of Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) on September 30, 2003. In addition, the Jones Employment Agreement provides that Mr. Jones will be granted the option to purchase his Company-owned home for a nominal amount on April 30, 2003. In connection with the 1996 recapitalization, Mr. Jones individually also purchased 227,895 shares of Common Stock at approximately $4.39 per share. One-half of the purchase price was paid in cash and one-half with a promissory note (the "Executive Note"). The Company holds the Executive Note in the principal amount of $500,000 from Mr. Jones in connection with the purchase of shares of Common Stock. Mr. Jones will receive additional salary at an initial rate of $35,000 annually as long as the promissory note remains outstanding. In the event of a "sale" of the Company (as defined), Mr. Jones' right to receive the $400,000 bonus and his right to acquire his home shall accelerate to the date of such "sale." Each Executive Employment Agreement has a term of three years expiring on September 30, 2003, and each Executive Employment Agreements other than the Jones Employment Agreement each provide for automatic renewal for successive one-year periods unless terminated earlier upon 90 days prior written notice by either the Executive or the Company. Under the Executive Employment Agreements, each of the Executives has the right to resign and terminate his respective Executive Employment Agreement at any time upon 60 days notice. Upon such resignation, we must pay to the resigning Executive any unpaid base salary. The Jones Employment Agreement provides that, upon termination of Mr. Jones for death or disability, we will pay him or his estate his base salary for the next twenty-four (24) months and we will pay him two times the pro rata portion of his annual bonus. In addition, we will pay him his "additional salary" for the duration of the term of his agreement, and he shall be entitled to insurance and other specified benefits for the greater of twenty-four (24) months or the remainder of the term. In the event Mr. Jones is terminated "without cause" (as defined), he shall be paid his base salary for the greater of twenty-four (24) months or the remainder of the term, and he will continue to be paid his annual bonus for the greater of twenty-four (24) months or the remainder of the term. Mr. Jones shall also be entitled to receive his 36 "additional salary" and insurance and other benefits for the greater of twenty-four (24) months or the remainder of the term. The Executive Employment Agreements, other than the Jones Employment Agreement, provide that, upon termination of such Executive's employment without cause or for death or disability, we will pay to the terminated Executive or such Executive's estate two times the Executive's base salary and annual bonus, to be paid out over the following twelve (12) months. In addition, each Executive shall be entitled to receive insurance and other benefits for the greater of twenty-four (24) months or the remainder of the term. Each Executive Employment Agreement provides us with the right to terminate the Executive's employment for "cause" (as defined), in which event we shall be obligated to pay to the terminated Executive any unpaid base salary accrued through the date of termination. Each Executive Employment Agreement also provides that, during the term of the agreement or the period of time served as an employee or director, and for one year thereafter, the Executive shall not engage in or have any business which is involved in the industries in which we are engaged. COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDER PARTICIPATION During fiscal 2000, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors was composed of Scott A. Schoen, Thomas R. Shepherd and Warren C. Smith, Jr. The Company and THL Co. (which together with its affiliates owns 42.0% of the outstanding Common Stock) are parties to a Management Agreement entered into in connection with the 1996 recapitalization pursuant to which we have engaged THL Co. to provide consulting and management advisory services for an initial period of five years through September 12, 2001. Under the Management Agreement and in connection with the closing of the 1996 recapitalization, we paid THL Co. and an affiliate an aggregate fee of $3.25 million (the "THL Transaction Fee"). In consideration of the consulting and management advisory services, we pay THL Co. and its affiliate an aggregate annual fee of $360,000 plus expenses (the "Management Fee"). We believe that this Management Agreement is on terms no less favorable to us than could have been obtained from an independent third party. In connection with the 1996 recapitalization, the Lee Group, certain other shareholders of the Company and the Company entered into the Shareholders Agreement. The Shareholders Agreement provides for certain restrictions on transfer of the shares beneficially owned by the parties thereto. Additionally, the Shareholders Agreement provides that, subject to certain limitations, so long as the Lee Group and their permitted transferees own at least 10% of the shares of Common Stock acquired in the 1996 recapitalization, the Lee Group shall have "demand" registrations with respect to their shares of Common Stock. The shareholders party to the Shareholders Agreement, including the Lee Group, are also entitled, subject to certain limitations, to include shares of Common Stock held by them in other registrations of equity securities of the Company initiated by the Company for its own account or pursuant to a request for registration by the Lee Group. ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT The following table sets forth information regarding the beneficial ownership of our Common Stock as of October 31, 2000 by: - each person who is known by us to beneficially own more than five percent of the outstanding shares of our Common Stock; - each of our directors and each named executive officer (as defined herein); and - all of our current directors and executive officers as a group. 37 This information is based upon information received from or on behalf of the individuals named herein. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as otherwise indicated, we believe that each person or entity named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares of Common Stock shown as beneficially owned by them, subject to applicable community property laws. The percentage of beneficial ownership set forth below is based upon 27,572,256 shares of Common Stock outstanding as of the close of business on October 31, 2000. In computing the number of shares of Common Stock beneficially owned by a person and the percentage ownership of that person, shares of Common Stock that are subject to options held by that person that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of October 31, 2000, are deemed outstanding. These shares are not, however, deemed outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.
NUMBER OF SHARES NUMBER SUBJECT NAMES AND ADDRESS OF BENEFICIAL OWNER OF SHARES TO OPTIONS(1) PERCENT - ------------------------------------- --------- ------------- -------- Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund III, L.P.(2) 75 State Street, Ste. 2600 Boston, MA 02109....................................... 9,928,579 -- 36.0% Thomas H. Lee Foreign Fund III, L.P.(2) 75 State Street, Ste. 2600 Boston, MA 02109....................................... 615,051 -- 2.2 THL-CCI Limited Partnership(3) 75 State Street, Suite 2600 Boston, MA 02109....................................... 1,042,405 -- 3.8 FMR Corp.(4) 82 Devonshire Street Boston, MA 02109-3614.................................. 2,136,950 -- 7.8 David A. Jones........................................... 109,294(5) 729,261 3.0 Kent J. Hussey........................................... 81,685(6) 197,734 1.0 Stephen P. Shanesy....................................... 52,941(7) 108,908 * Merrell M. Tomlin........................................ 36,216(9) 108,908 * Luis A. Cancio........................................... 34,979(8) 25,000 * Scott A. Schoen(2)(10)................................... 50,036 -- * Thomas R. Shepherd(2)(10)................................ 26,061 -- * Warren C. Smith, Jr.(2)(10).............................. 41,703 -- * Joseph W. Deering........................................ 10,000 3,000 * John S. Lupo............................................. 2,500 4,000 * Philip F. Pellegrino..................................... 1,000 -- * All directors and executive officers of the Company as a group (13 persons)........................................... 578,235(11) 1,367,564 6.7
- ------------------------ * Indicates less than 1% of the total number of outstanding shares of Common Stock. (1) Reflects the number of shares issuable upon the exercise of options exercisable within 60 days of October 31, 2000. 38 (2) THL Equity Advisors III Limited Partnership ("Advisors"), the general partner of the THL Fund and Thomas H. Lee Foreign Fund III, L.P., THL Equity Trust III ("Equity Trust"), the general partner of Advisors, Thomas H. Lee, Scott A. Schoen, Warren C. Smith, Jr. and other managing directors of Thomas H. Lee Co., as Trustees of Equity Trust, and Thomas H. Lee as sole shareholder of Equity Trust, may be deemed to be beneficial owners of the shares of Common Stock held by such Funds. Each of these persons disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares. (3) THL Investment Management Corp., the general partner of THL-CCI Limited Partnership, and Thomas H. Lee, as director and sole shareholder of THL Investment Management Corp., may also be deemed to be beneficial owners of the shares of Common Stock held by THL-CCI Limited Partnership. THL Investment Management Corp. disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares. Thomas H. Lee disclaims beneficial ownership of such shares except to the extent of his direct pecuniary interest. (4) FMR Corp. and related persons and entities reported on a Schedule 13G filed on September 10, 2000 that they were the beneficial owners of 2,136,950 shares of the Company's Common Stock. This report indicates that FMR Corp. has the sole or shared power to vote or direct the vote for none of such shares and sole investment power for all of such shares. (5) Includes 68,905 restricted shares whose restrictions have not lapsed as of October 31, 2000 and 4,538 shares held in the Company's 401(k) plan. It also includes 2,957 shares representing Mr. Jones' proportional interest in the THL Fund, shares of which Mr. Jones disclaims beneficial ownership. (6) Includes 48,234 restricted shares whose restrictions have not lapsed as of October 31, 2000 and 1,008 shares held in the Company's 401(k) plan. (7) Includes 33,138 restricted shares whose restrictions have not lapsed as of October 31, 2000 and 692 shares held in the Company's 401(k) plan. (8) Includes 31,387 restricted shares whose restrictions have not lapsed as of October 31, 2000. (9) Includes 32,700 restricted shares whose restrictions have not lapsed as of October 31, 2000. (10) Represents the proportional interest of such individual in THL-CCI Limited Partnership. In the case of Mr. Smith, share amounts also include 9,786 shares which Mr. Smith may be deemed to beneficially own as a result of Mr. Smith's childrens' proportional beneficial interest in THL-CCI Limited Partnership. (11) Includes 277,138 restricted shares whose restrictions have not lapsed as of October 31, 2000 and 11,676 shares held in the Company's 401(k) plan. ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS Rayovac and THL Co. (which, together with its affiliates owns 42.0% of the outstanding Common Stock) are parties to a Management Agreement entered into in connection with the 1996 recapitalization pursuant to which we engaged THL Co. to provide consulting and management advisory services for an initial period of five years through September 12, 2001. Under the Management Agreement and in connection with the closing of the 1996, recapitalization, we paid THL Co. and an affiliate a transaction fee. In consideration of the consulting and management advisory services, we pay THL Co. and its affiliate a management fee. We believe that this Management Agreement is on terms no less favorable to us than could have been obtained from an independent third party. Rayovac and David A. Jones are parties to the Jones Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Jones agreed to be our Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Jones also purchased from us 227,895 shares of Common Stock with cash and a $500,000 promissory note held by us with interest payable at a rate of 7% per annum and principal payable on the earliest of the following to occur: (i) the fifth anniversary of the note; (ii) the date on which (a) Mr. Jones terminates his employment 39 for any reason other than a Constructive Termination (as defined in the Jones Employment Agreement) and (b) he is no longer a director of the Company; or (iii) the date we terminate Mr. Jones' employment for Cause (as defined in the Jones Employment Agreement). Proceeds from any sale of Mr. Jones' shares must be used to immediately prepay, in whole or in part, the principal amount of the promissory note outstanding and any accrued and unpaid interest on the portion prepaid or the holder of the promissory note may declare the entire principal amount of such note to be immediately due and payable. Mr. Jones receives additional salary at an initial rate of $35,000 annually during the period the promissory note is outstanding. In addition, the Company and Kent J. Hussey are parties to the Hussey Employment Agreement pursuant to which Mr. Hussey agreed to be our President and Chief Operating Officer, and the Company is also party to Executive Employment Agreements with Luis A. Cancio, Stephen P. Shanesy, and Merrell M. Tomlin pursuant to which these executives agreed to be employed by us. See Item 11, "Executive Compensation--Employment Agreements." We hold five-year promissory notes dated March 17, 1997, from Messrs. Tomlin and Shanesy, in principal amounts of $60,000 and $80,000, respectively, with interest payable at 8% per annum. Such notes were incurred in connection with the purchase of shares of Common Stock by Messrs. Tomlin and Shanesy upon joining the Company. We also hold a five-year promissory note with Mr. Hussey, dated April 1, 2000, in principal amount of $200,000 with interest payable at 8% per annum. Pursuant to the 1997 Plan, on August 1, 1997, certain executive officers of the Company, including Messrs. Tomlin and Shanesy, exercised options to purchase shares of Common Stock under the 1997 Plan with five-year promissory notes held by us, in principal amounts of $50,000 and $20,000, respectively, with interest payable at 8% per annum. On September 15, 1997, Mr. Shanesy exercised options under the 1997 Plan with another five-year promissory note held by us, in the principal amount of $30,002, with interest payable at 8% per annum. On July 20, 2000, the Board of Directors authorized additional loans to Messrs. Jones, Hussey, Shanesy, Tomlin, and Cancio up to the amount of $1,950,000, $800,000, $200,000, $500,000, and $200,000, respectively. Interest on these notes is to be adjusted annually to the IRS minimum rate for 3-5 year maturities. These loans are secured by a security interest in shares of Rayovac common stock (including vested options) owned by the borrower. On August 25, 2000, Messrs. Jones and Hussey executed five-year promissory notes in principal amount of $1,500,000 and $200,000 respectively, under the loan program. In connection with the 1996 recapitalization, the Lee Group, certain of our other shareholders and the Company entered into the Shareholders Agreement. The Shareholders Agreement provides for certain restrictions on transfer of the shares beneficially owned by the parties thereto. Additionally, the Shareholders Agreement provides that, subject to certain limitations, so long as the Lee Group and their permitted transferees own at least 10% of the shares of Common Stock acquired in the 1996 recapitalization, the Lee Group shall have "demand" registrations. The shareholders party to the Shareholders Agreement including the Lee Group are also entitled, subject to certain limitations, to include shares of Common Stock held by them in other registrations of equity securities of the Company initiated by us for our own account or pursuant to a request for registration by the Lee Group. 40 PART IV ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (a) The following documents are filed as part of or are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K: 1. The financial statements listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule, filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 2. The financial statement schedule listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedule, filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. 3. The exhibits listed in the Exhibit Index filed as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. (b) Reports on Form 8-K: On August 24, 1999, we filed a Current Report on Form 8-K in connection with our acquisition of ROV Limited. The Form 8-K was subsequently amended on October 26, 1999. 41 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULE
PAGE -------- Independent Auditors' Report................................ F-2 Consolidated Balance Sheets................................. F-3 Consolidated Statements of Operations....................... F-4 Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income............. F-5 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity............. F-6 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows....................... F-7 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.................. F-8 Independent Auditors' Report................................ II-1 Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts............... II-2
F-1 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT The Board of Directors Rayovac Corporation: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Rayovac Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1999 and 2000, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2000. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Rayovac Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1999 and 2000, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2000 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. /s/ KPMG LLP KPMG LLP Milwaukee, Wisconsin November 3, 2000 F-2 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 AND 2000 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
1999 2000 --------- --------- ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents................................. $ 11,065 $ 9,757 Receivables: Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful receivables of $1,253 and $1,020, respectively........ 138,155 147,767 Other................................................... 3,166 5,900 Inventories............................................... 81,618 100,676 Deferred income taxes..................................... 9,271 6,074 Prepaid expenses and other................................ 13,578 20,996 --------- --------- Total current assets.................................. 256,853 291,170 --------- --------- Property, plant and equipment, net.......................... 110,778 111,897 Deferred charges and other.................................. 24,146 33,781 Intangible assets........................................... 128,850 122,114 Debt issuance costs......................................... 12,274 10,054 --------- --------- Total assets.......................................... $ 532,901 $ 569,016 ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt...................... $ 22,895 $ 44,815 Accounts payable.......................................... 85,524 97,857 Accrued liabilities: Wages and benefits...................................... 11,481 12,012 Accrued interest........................................ 5,109 5,790 Recapitalization and other special charges.............. 6,482 978 Other................................................... 20,966 25,028 --------- --------- Total current liabilities............................. 152,457 186,480 Long-term debt, net of current maturities................... 307,426 272,815 Employee benefit obligations, net of current portion........ 12,860 15,365 Deferred income taxes....................................... 8,619 8,242 Other....................................................... 5,079 5,418 --------- --------- Total liabilities..................................... 486,441 488,320 --------- --------- Shareholders' equity: Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 150,000 shares; issued 56,970 and 57,101 shares, respectively; outstanding 27,490 and 27,570 shares, respectively...... 570 571 Additional paid-in capital................................ 103,577 104,197 Retained earnings......................................... 70,100 108,450 Accumulated other comprehensive income.................... 2,199 650 Notes receivable from officers/shareholders............... (890) (3,190) --------- --------- 175,556 210,678 Less treasury stock, at cost, 29,480 and 29,531 shares, respectively.............................................. (129,096) (129,982) --------- --------- Total shareholders' equity............................ 46,460 80,696 --------- --------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity............ $ 532,901 $ 569,016 ========= =========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-3 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998, 1999 AND 2000 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Net sales................................................... $495,733 $564,302 $703,933 Cost of goods sold.......................................... 258,293 293,858 358,226 Other special charges....................................... -- 1,300 -- -------- -------- -------- Gross profit................................................ 237,440 269,144 345,707 -------- -------- -------- Operating expenses: Selling................................................... 148,875 160,223 195,067 General and administrative................................ 32,413 37,366 50,546 Research and development.................................. 9,424 9,785 10,763 Other special charges..................................... 6,183 8,132 -- -------- -------- -------- 196,895 215,506 256,376 -------- -------- -------- Income from operations...................................... 40,545 53,638 89,331 Interest expense............................................ 15,670 16,354 30,626 Other (income) expense, net................................. (155) (314) 753 -------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes and extraordinary item........... 25,030 37,598 57,952 Income tax expense.......................................... 8,660 13,462 19,602 -------- -------- -------- Income before extraordinary item............................ 16,370 24,136 38,350 Extraordinary item, loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of income tax benefit of $1,263....................... (1,975) -- -- -------- -------- -------- Net income.................................................. $ 14,395 $ 24,136 $ 38,350 ======== ======== ======== Basic net income per common share: Income before extraordinary item.......................... $ 0.62 $ 0.88 $ 1.39 Extraordinary item........................................ (0.08) -- -- -------- -------- -------- Net income.................................................. $ 0.54 $ 0.88 $ 1.39 ======== ======== ======== Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding......... 26,477 27,486 27,504 ======== ======== ======== Diluted net income per common share: Income before extraordinary item.......................... $ 0.58 $ 0.83 $ 1.32 Extraordinary item........................................ (0.07) -- -- -------- -------- -------- Net income.................................................. $ 0.51 $ 0.83 $ 1.32 ======== ======== ======== Weighted average shares of common stock and equivalents outstanding............................................... 28,091 29,233 29,069 ======== ======== ========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-4 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998, 1999 AND 2000 (IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------------------ 1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Net income.................................................. $14,395 $24,136 $38,350 Other comprehensive income: Foreign currency translation adjustment................... 230 166 (1,964) Minimum pension liability adjustment...................... (678) 342 638 ------- ------- ------- Other comprehensive (loss) income before tax................ (448) 508 (1,326) Income tax benefit (expense) related to minimum pension liability................................................. 237 (120) (223) ------- ------- ------- Comprehensive income, net of tax............................ $14,184 $24,524 $36,801 ======= ======= =======
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-5 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998, 1999 AND 2000 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ------------------------------------ FOREIGN MINIMUM COMMON STOCK ADDITIONAL CURRENCY PENSION ------------------- PAID-IN RETAINED TRANSLATION LIABILITY SHARES AMOUNT CAPITAL EARNINGS ADJUSTMENT ADJUSTMENT TOTAL -------- -------- ---------- -------- ----------- ----------- -------- Balances at September 30, 1997.... 20,581 $500 $ 15,974 $31,569 $ 2,270 $(248) $ 2,022 Net income........................ -- -- -- 14,395 -- -- -- Sale of common stock.............. 6,823 68 87,092 -- -- -- -- Sale of common stock by trust..... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Treasury stock acquired........... (27) -- -- -- -- -- -- Exercise of stock options......... 94 1 238 -- -- -- -- Notes receivable from officers/shareholders........... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Adjustment of additional minimum pension liability............... -- -- -- -- -- (441) (441) Translation adjustment............ -- -- -- -- 230 -- 230 Unrealized (gain)/loss on stock held in trust................... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- ------ ---- -------- -------- ------- ----- ------- Balances at September 30, 1998.... 27,471 569 103,304 45,964 2,500 (689) 1,811 Net income........................ -- -- -- 24,136 -- -- -- Sale of common stock by trust..... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Treasury stock acquired........... (20) -- -- -- -- -- -- Exercise of stock options......... 39 1 273 -- -- -- -- Adjustment of additional minimum pension liability............... -- -- -- -- -- 222 222 Translation adjustment............ -- -- -- -- 166 -- 166 Unrealized (gain)/loss on stock held in trust................... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- ------ ---- -------- -------- ------- ----- ------- Balances at September 30, 1999.... 27,490 570 103,577 70,100 2,666 (467) 2,199 Net income........................ -- -- -- 38,350 -- -- -- Treasury stock acquired........... (51) -- -- -- -- -- -- Exercise of stock options......... 131 1 620 -- -- -- -- Notes receivable from officers/shareholders........... -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Adjustment of additional minimum pension liability............... -- -- -- -- -- 415 415 Translation adjustment............ -- -- -- -- (1,964) -- (1,964) ------ ---- -------- -------- ------- ----- ------- Balances at September 30, 2000.... 27,570 $571 $104,197 $108,450 $ 702 $ (52) $ 650 ====== ==== ======== ======== ======= ===== ======= NOTES RECEIVABLE FROM STOCK TOTAL OFFICERS/ HELD IN TREASURY SHAREHOLDERS' SHAREHOLDERS TRUST STOCK EQUITY --------------- -------- --------- ------------- Balances at September 30, 1997.... $(1,658) $(962) $(128,040) $(80,595) Net income........................ -- -- -- 14,395 Sale of common stock.............. -- -- -- 87,160 Sale of common stock by trust..... -- 817 -- 817 Treasury stock acquired........... -- -- (432) (432) Exercise of stock options......... -- -- -- 239 Notes receivable from officers/shareholders........... 768 -- -- 768 Adjustment of additional minimum pension liability............... -- -- -- (441) Translation adjustment............ -- -- -- 230 Unrealized (gain)/loss on stock held in trust................... -- (267) -- (267) ------- ----- --------- -------- Balances at September 30, 1998.... (890) (412) (128,472) 21,874 Net income........................ -- -- -- 24,136 Sale of common stock by trust..... -- 394 -- 394 Treasury stock acquired........... -- -- (624) (624) Exercise of stock options......... -- -- -- 274 Adjustment of additional minimum pension liability............... -- -- -- 222 Translation adjustment............ -- -- -- 166 Unrealized (gain)/loss on stock held in trust................... -- 18 -- 18 ------- ----- --------- -------- Balances at September 30, 1999.... (890) -- (129,096) 46,460 Net income........................ -- -- -- 38,350 Treasury stock acquired........... -- -- (886) (886) Exercise of stock options......... -- -- -- 621 Notes receivable from officers/shareholders........... (2,300) -- -- (2,300) Adjustment of additional minimum pension liability............... -- -- -- 415 Translation adjustment............ -- -- -- (1,964) ------- ----- --------- -------- Balances at September 30, 2000.... $(3,190) $ -- $(129,982) $ 80,696 ======= ===== ========= ========
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-6 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998, 1999 AND 2000 (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, --------------------------------- 1998 1999 2000 --------- --------- --------- Cash flows from operating activities: Net income................................................ $ 14,395 $ 24,136 $ 38,350 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided (used) by operating activities: Extraordinary item, loss on early extinguishment of debt.................................................. 3,238 -- -- Amortization............................................ 2,977 3,079 6,309 Depreciation............................................ 10,873 11,890 16,024 Deferred income taxes................................... 2,361 1,038 2,905 (Gain) loss on disposal of fixed assets................. (2,439) 162 (1,297) Settlement of deferred compensation agreement........... (1,243) -- -- Changes in assets and liabilities, net of businesses acquired: Accounts receivable................................... (19,362) (29,267) (15,697) Inventories........................................... (2,987) (4,667) (20,344) Prepaid expenses and other assets..................... (7,989) (9,075) (5,416) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities.............. (3,494) 12,242 22,126 Accrued recapitalization and other special charges.... 2,177 999 (5,147) --------- --------- --------- Net cash (used) provided by operating activities............ (1,493) 10,537 37,813 --------- --------- --------- Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property, plant and equipment................ (15,931) (24,113) (18,996) Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment....... 3,678 26 1,051 Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired............ (11,124) (145,076) -- --------- --------- --------- Net cash used by investing activities....................... (23,377) (169,163) (17,945) --------- --------- --------- Cash flows from financing activities: Reduction of debt......................................... (140,024) (102,974) (215,394) Proceeds from debt financing.............................. 81,928 275,125 203,189 Cash overdraft............................................ (378) 2,745 (4,971) Debt issuance costs....................................... (150) (5,904) -- Premiums paid on extinguishment of debt................... (3,238) -- -- Proceeds from direct financing lease...................... 200 200 -- Proceeds from (advances for) notes receivable from officers/shareholders................................... 768 -- (2,300) Issuance of stock......................................... 87,160 -- -- Acquisition of treasury stock............................. (343) (390) (886) Exercise of stock options................................. 149 40 621 Payments on capital lease obligation...................... (720) (794) (1,233) --------- --------- --------- Net cash provided (used) by financing activities.......... 25,352 168,048 (20,974) --------- --------- --------- Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents............................................... (21) 49 (202) --------- --------- --------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents........ 461 9,471 (1,308) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year................ 1,133 1,594 11,065 --------- --------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of year...................... $ 1,594 $ 11,065 $ 9,757 ========= ========= ========= Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Cash paid for interest.................................... $ 16,767 $ 12,837 $ 27,691 Cash paid for income taxes................................ 5,735 11,114 14,318
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. F-7 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (1) DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS Rayovac Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries (Company) manufacture and market batteries. Products include general (alkaline, rechargeables, heavy duty, lantern and general purpose), button cell and lithium batteries. The Company also produces a variety of battery powered lighting devices such as flashlights and lanterns. The Company's products are sold primarily to retailers in the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, and the Far East. (2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRACTICES (a) PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION AND FISCAL YEAR END The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Rayovac Corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries and are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated. The Company's fiscal year ends September 30. References herein to 1998, 1999 and 2000 refer to the fiscal years ended September 30, 1998, 1999 and 2000. (b) REVENUE RECOGNITION The Company recognizes revenue from product sales upon shipment to the customer which is the point at which all risks and rewards of ownership of the product is passed. The Company is not obligated to allow for returns. (c) USE OF ESTIMATES The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. At the beginning of 2000, the Company made certain changes in accounting estimates including a change in the estimated useful life of permanent fixtures provided to retail outlets which will now be amortized over an estimated useful life of one to two years rather than expensed when shipped. In addition, the Company now expenses maintenance materials when used rather than when purchased. These changes in estimates increased 2000 net income by approximately $2,500. (d) CASH EQUIVALENTS For purposes of the statements of cash flows, the Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. (e) CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK, MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND EMPLOYEES The Company has one customer that represented over 10% of its net sales. The Company derived 19%, 20% and 21% of its net sales from this customer during 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. F-8 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRACTICES (CONTINUED) A significant number of the Company's factory employees are represented by labor unions. The Company believes its relationship with its employees is good and there have been no work stoppages involving Company employees since 1981 in North America and since 1991 in the United Kingdom. The Company has entered into collective bargaining agreements with expiration dates as follows:
LOCATION EXPIRATION DATE - -------- --------------- Washington, UK Production.................................. November 2000 Guatemala City, Guatemala.................................. March 2001 Mexico City, Mexico........................................ February 2002 Portage, WI................................................ July 2002 Hayward, CA................................................ May 2003 Madison, WI................................................ August 2003 Fennimore, WI.............................................. March 2005
Approximately 46% of the total labor force is covered by collective bargaining agreements. Bargaining agreements that expire in 2001 represent approximately 4% of the total labor force. Negotiations are ongoing to extend the agreement covering 21 employees at our Washington, UK production facility. The existing agreement provides for automatic weekly renewals and the Company anticipates an agreement will be finalized in the second quarter of fiscal 2001. (f) DISPLAYS AND FIXTURES The costs of temporary displays are capitalized and recorded as a prepaid asset and charged to expense when shipped to a customer location. Permanent fixtures are capitalized and amortized over an estimated useful life of one to two years. Such prepaid assets amount to approximately $1,839 and $3,304 as of September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively. (g) INVENTORIES Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for approximately 81% and 78% of the inventories at September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively. Costs for other inventories have been determined primarily using the average cost method. (h) PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation on plant and equipment is calculated on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Depreciable lives by major classification are as follows: Building and improvements................................... 20-30 years Machinery, equipment and other.............................. 2-15 years
The Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. The Company evaluates recoverability of assets to be held and used by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows F-9 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRACTICES (CONTINUED) expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. (i) INTANGIBLE ASSETS Intangible assets are recorded at cost and are amortized, using the straight-line method, over their estimated useful lives. Excess cost over fair value of net assets acquired (goodwill) is amortized over 15 to 40 years. The trade name is being amortized over 40 years. Other intangibles are amortized over 3 to 17 years. The Company assesses the recoverability of its intangible assets by determining whether the amortization of the remaining balance over its remaining life can be recovered through projected undiscounted future cash flows. If projected future cash flows indicate that the unamortized carrying value of intangible assets will not be recovered, an adjustment would be made to reduce the carrying value to an amount equal to projected future cash flows discounted at the Company's incremental borrowing rate. Cash flow projections are based on trends of historical performance and management's estimate of future performance, giving consideration to existing and anticipated competitive and economic conditions. (j) DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS Debt issuance costs are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the lives of the related debt agreements. (k) ACCOUNTS PAYABLE Included in accounts payable at September 30, 1999 and 2000, is approximately $7,843 and $2,456, respectively, of book overdrafts on disbursement accounts which were replenished when checks were presented for payment. (l) INCOME TAXES Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carry forwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. (m) FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION Assets and liabilities of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are translated at the rate of exchange existing at year-end, with revenues, expenses, and cash flows translated at the average of the monthly exchange rates. Adjustments resulting from translation of the financial statements are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. Exchange losses on foreign currency transactions F-10 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRACTICES (CONTINUED) aggregating $334, $708 and $1,334 for 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively, are included in other (income) expense, net, in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. (n) ADVERTISING COSTS The Company incurred expenses for advertising of $33,441, $33,292 and $34,011 in 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. The Company expenses advertising production costs the first time the advertising takes place. (o) RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COSTS Research and development costs are charged to expense in the year they are incurred. (p) NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE Basic net income per common share is computed by dividing net income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Basic net income per common share does not consider common stock equivalents. Diluted net income per common share reflects the dilution that would occur if convertible debt securities and employee stock options were exercised or converted into common shares or resulted in the issuance of common shares that then shared in the net income of the entity. The computation of diluted net income per common share uses the "if converted" and "treasury stock" methods to reflect dilution. The difference between the numbers of shares used in the two calculations is due to assumed conversion of employee stock options where the exercise price is less than the market price of the underlying stock. Net income per common share is calculated based upon the following shares:
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Basic............................................... 26,477 27,486 27,504 Effect of assumed conversion of stock options....... 1,614 1,747 1,565 ------ ------ ------ Diluted............................................. 28,091 29,233 29,069 ====== ====== ======
(q) DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Derivative financial instruments are used by the Company principally in the management of its interest rate, foreign currency and raw material price exposures. The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. The Company uses interest rate swaps to manage its interest rate risk. The net amounts to be paid or received under interest rate swap agreements designated as hedges are accrued as interest rates change, and are recognized over the life of the swap agreements, as an adjustment to interest expense from the underlying debt to which the swap is designated. The related amounts payable to, or receivable from, the counter-parties are included in accrued liabilities or accounts receivable. The Company has entered into a series of interest rate swap agreements which effectively fix the interest rate on floating rate debt at a rate of 6.404% for a notional principal amount of $75,000 through October 2002. The unrealized portion of the fair value of these contracts at September 30, 2000 was $210. F-11 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRACTICES (CONTINUED) The Company enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to mitigate the risk from anticipated settlement in local currencies of inter-company purchases and sales. These contracts generally require the Company to exchange foreign currencies for U.S. dollars. The contracts are marked to market, and the related adjustment is recognized in other expense (income). The related amounts payable to, or receivable from, the counter-parties are included in accounts payable or accounts receivable. The Company has $3,760 of such forward exchange contracts at September 30, 2000. The unrealized portion of the fair value of the contracts at September 30, 2000 was immaterial. The Company enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge the risk from anticipated settlement in local currencies of trade sales. These contracts generally require the Company to exchange foreign currencies for Pounds Sterling. The related amounts receivable from the trade customers are included in accounts receivable. The Company has approximately $1,466 of such forward exchange contracts at September 30, 2000. The unrealized portion of the fair value of the contracts at September 30, 2000, was $81. The Company enters into forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge the risk from anticipated settlement in local currencies of trade purchases. These contracts generally require the Company to exchange foreign currencies for U.S. Dollars. The Company has approximately $10,900 of such forward exchange contracts denominated in Mexican Pesos at September 30, 2000. The unrealized portion of the fair value of the contracts at September 30, 2000, was ($613). The Company is exposed to risk from fluctuating prices for zinc used in the manufacturing process. The Company hedges some of this risk through the use of commodity swaps, calls and puts. The swaps effectively fix the floating price on a specified quantity of a commodity through a specified date. Buying calls allows the Company to purchase a specified quantity of a commodity for a fixed price through a specified date. Selling puts allows the buyer of the put to sell a specified quantity of a commodity to the Company for a fixed price through a specific date. The maturity of, and the quantities covered by, the contracts highly correlate to the Company's anticipated purchases of the commodities. The cost of the calls, and the premiums received from the puts, are amortized over the life of the contracts and are recorded in cost of goods sold, along with the effects of the swap, put and call contracts. At September 30, 2000, the Company had entered into a series of swaps for zinc with a contract value of $7,843 for the period October 2000 through September 2001. While these transactions have no carrying value, the unrealized portion of the fair value of these contracts at September 30, 2000, was immaterial. (r) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The carrying amounts of financial instruments approximate the fair value of those instruments except for the $65,000 of Senior Subordinated Notes due November 2006 with interest payable semi-annually at 10 1/4%. The fair value of these notes at September 30, 2000 was $66,944 (See also note 2(q)). (s) ENVIRONMENTAL EXPENDITURES Environmental expenditures which relate to current ongoing operations or to conditions caused by past operations are expensed. The Company determines its liability on a site-by-site basis and records a liability at the time when it is probable and can be reasonably estimated. The estimated liability is not reduced for possible recoveries from insurance carriers. F-12 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND PRACTICES (CONTINUED) (t) RECLASSIFICATIONS Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform with the current year presentation. (u) IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 133, ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES, as amended by SFAS 137, ACCOUNTING FOR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES--DEFERRAL OF THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF FASB STATEMENT NO. 133, and SFAS 138, ACCOUNTING FOR CERTAIN DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND CERTAIN HEDGING ACTIVITIES, is effective for the Company as of October 1, 2000. SFAS 133 requires that an entity recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities measured at fair value. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative depends on the use of the derivative. Adoption of these new accounting standards will result in a cumulative after-tax reduction in other comprehensive income of approximately $155 in the first quarter of fiscal 2001. The adoption will also result in $299 of hedge assets and $627 of hedge liabilities recorded on the balance sheet. In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, "Revenue Recognition" (SAB 101). An amendment in June 2000 delayed the effective date for the Company until the fourth quarter of 2001, which is when the Company will adopt the bulletin. The impact of adopting SAB 101 is still being evaluated and the Company does not currently believe its adoption will have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. In May 2000, the Financial Accounting Standards Board's Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) reached a consensus on Issue No. 00-14, "Accounting for Certain Sales Incentives". This Issue addresses the recognition, measurement, and income statement classification for various types of sales incentives including discounts, coupons, rebates and free products. The Company will adopt this consensus in the fourth quarter of 2001. The impact of this consensus on the Company's consolidated financial statements is still being evaluated and the Company does not currently believe its adoption will have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. (3) INVENTORIES Inventories consist of the following:
SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------- 1999 2000 -------- -------- Raw material............................................. $29,014 $ 31,355 Work-in-process.......................................... 15,888 11,650 Finished goods........................................... 36,716 57,671 ------- -------- $81,618 $100,676 ======= ========
F-13 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (4) PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:
SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------- 1999 2000 -------- -------- Land, building and improvements......................... $ 34,726 $ 37,638 Machinery, equipment and other.......................... 157,307 168,068 Construction in process................................. 26,328 23,159 -------- -------- 218,361 228,865 Less accumulated depreciation........................... 107,583 116,968 -------- -------- $110,778 $111,897 ======== ========
Machinery, equipment and other includes capitalized leases, net of amortization, totaling $1,913 and $1,283 at September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively. (5) INTANGIBLE ASSETS Intangible assets consist of the following:
SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------- 1999 2000 -------- -------- Excess cost over fair value of assets acquired (goodwill)............................................ $ 36,874 $ 33,878 Trade name.............................................. 90,000 90,000 Non-competition agreement............................... 1,730 730 Underfunded pension..................................... 2,263 2,660 Proprietary technology.................................. 525 525 -------- -------- 131,392 127,793 Less: Accumulated amortization.......................... 2,542 5,679 -------- -------- $128,850 $122,114 ======== ========
F-14 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (6) DEBT Debt consists of the following:
SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------- 1999 2000 -------- -------- Revolving credit facility............................... $181,300 $175,700 Term loan facility...................................... 75,000 62,830 Series B Senior Subordinated Notes, due November 1, 2006, with interest at 10 1/4% payable semi-annually......................................... 65,000 65,000 Capitalized lease obligations........................... 1,098 1,019 Notes and obligations, weighted average interest rate of 8.49% at September 30, 2000........................... 7,923 13,081 -------- -------- 330,321 317,630 Less current maturities................................. 22,895 44,815 -------- -------- Long-term debt.......................................... $307,426 $272,815 ======== ========
On September 12, 1996, the Company executed a Credit Agreement ("Old Agreement") with a group of financial institutions and other accredited investors. The Old Agreement provided for senior bank facilities, including term and revolving credit facilities in an aggregate amount of $170,000. The term facility included three tranches totaling $105,000 and the revolving credit facility provided for aggregate working capital loans up to $65,000 reduced by outstanding letters of credit ($10,000 limit) and other existing credit facilities and outstanding obligations. On December 30, 1997, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement ("First Restated Agreement"). The First Restated Agreement provided for senior bank facilities, including revolving and acquisition credit facilities in an aggregate amount of $160,000. The revolving credit facility provided for aggregate working capital loans up to $90,000 reduced by outstanding letters of credit ($10,000 limit) and other existing credit facilities and outstanding obligations. The acquisition facility provided for aggregate qualifying acquisition loans up to $70,000. On August 9, 1999, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement ("Second Restated Agreement"). The Second Restated Agreement provides for senior bank facilities, including term and revolving credit facilities in an aggregate amount of $325,000. Interest on borrowings is computed, at the Company's option, based on the base rate, as defined ("Base Rate"), or the Interbank Offering Rate ("IBOR"). The Company recorded $3,700 of fees paid as a result of the amendments as a debt issuance cost which is being amortized over the remaining life of the Second Restated Agreement. The term facility initially totaled $75,000. The facility provides for quarterly amortization totaling $10,000 in 2000, $15,000 in 2001, 2002 and 2003, and $20,000 in 2004. The term facility also provides for annual prepayments, over and above the normal amortization. Such payments would be a portion of "Excess Cash Flow" (EBITDA less certain operating expenditures including scheduled principal payments of long-term debt). The revolving credit facility provides for aggregate working capital loans up to $250,000 reduced by outstanding letters of credit (initially limited to $20,000) and other existing credit facilities and outstanding obligations. F-15 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (6) DEBT (CONTINUED) On July 28, 2000, the Company Amended the Second Restated Agreement ("First Amendment"). This First Amendment provides for letters of credit of up to $40,000, loans to employees in the ordinary course of business of up to $10,000 and capital expenditures of up to $40,000 in fiscal years 2001, 2002 and 2003. The Company recorded $25 of fees paid as a result of the amendment as a debt issuance cost which is being amortized over the remaining life of the Second Restated Agreement. Interest on these borrowings is at the Base Rate plus a margin (0.00% to 0.75%) per annum (10.00% at September 30, 2000) or IBOR plus a margin (0.75% to 1.75%) per annum (8.27% at September 30, 2000). The Company had outstanding letters of credit of approximately $15,970 at September 30, 2000. A fee (0.75% to 1.75%) per annum (1.50% at September 30, 2000) is payable on the outstanding letters of credit. The Company also incurs a fee of 0.25% per annum of the average daily maximum amount available to be drawn on each letter of credit issued. If an equity offering is not completed by September 30, 2002, the revolving credit facility is reduced by $25,000 on September 30, 2002 and on 2003. The Second Restated Agreement contains financial covenants with respect to borrowings which include maintaining minimum interest coverage and maximum leverage ratios. The limits imposed by such ratios vary depending on whether or not the Company executes equity offerings during the term of the agreement. In addition, the Second Restated Agreement restricts the Company's ability to incur additional indebtedness, create liens, make investments or specified payments, give guarantees, pay dividends, make capital expenditures, and merge or acquire or sell assets. The Company is in compliance with the restrictive covenants of the Second Restated Agreement. The Company is required to pay a commitment fee (0.25% to 0.50%) per annum (0.375% at September 30, 2000) on the average daily-unused portion of the facilities. The facilities' margin and commitment fee may be adjusted if the Company's leverage ratio, as defined, increases or decreases. Borrowings under the Second Restated Agreement are collateralized by substantially all of the assets of the Company. The Series B Senior Subordinated Notes ("Notes") will mature on November 1, 2006. In connection with the Company's initial public offering of common stock, $35,000 of the outstanding Notes were redeemed in December 1997. The Company recorded the $3,238 premium paid as a result of the early redemption as an extraordinary item. On or after November 1, 2001, the Notes will be redeemable at the option of the Company, in whole or in part, at prescribed redemption prices plus accrued and unpaid interest. In connection with the acquisition of the consumer battery business of ROV Limited ("Acquisition"), the Company obtained the consent of the holders of the Notes to certain amendments to the Indenture governing these Notes. On February 26, 1999 the Company entered into a Supplemental Indenture ("First Supplemental Indenture") to allow the Company to finance the Acquisition entirely with senior secured debt. The amendments were to become effective upon the Company giving notice of its decision to consummate the Acquisition on or before April 30, 1999. Such notice was not given and the First Supplemental Indenture did not become effective. On August 6, 1999 the Company entered into a Second Supplemental Indenture ("Second Supplemental Indenture") to allow the Company to finance the Acquisition entirely with senior secured debt. As a result of The Second Supplemental Indenture, in addition to ROV Holding, Inc., the Company's directly and wholly owned subsidiaries Rovcal and Vidor Battery Company also became joint and several guarantors. The Second Supplemental Indenture became effective upon notice by the Company of its F-16 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (6) DEBT (CONTINUED) intent to proceed with the amendments. Such notice was given on August 9, 1999. The Company recorded $2,200 of fees paid as a result of the amendments as a debt issuance cost which is being amortized over the remaining life of the Notes. Upon a change in control, the Company shall be required to repurchase all or any part of the Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount. The Company is also required to offer to repurchase all or a portion of the Notes upon consummation of an asset sale, as defined, in excess of $5,000. The terms of the Notes restrict or limit the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to, among other things, (i) pay dividends or make other restricted payments, (ii) incur additional indebtedness and issue preferred stock, (iii) create liens, (iv) incur dividend and other payment restrictions affecting subsidiaries, (v) enter into mergers, consolidations, or sales of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, (vi) make asset sales, (vii) enter into transactions with affiliates, and (viii) issue or sell capital stock of wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company. The Company is in compliance with the terms of the Notes. Payment obligations under the Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a joint and several basis by the Company's directly and wholly owned subsidiaries, ROV Holding, Inc., Rovcal, and Vidor Battery Company, each a guarantor. Vidor Battery Company was dissolved and the assets transferred to the Company on September 2, 1999. The foreign subsidiaries of the Company currently do not guarantee the payment obligations under the Notes (Nonguarantor Subsidiaries), and are wholly owned directly or indirectly by ROV Holding, Inc. (See note 18). The aggregate scheduled maturities of debt are as follows: 2001........................................................ 44,815 2002........................................................ 15,159 2003........................................................ 15,127 2004........................................................ 177,529 2005........................................................ -- Thereafter.................................................. 65,000 -------- $317,630 ========
In 2000, the Company entered into capital leases with an aggregate obligation of $1,163. Aggregate capitalized lease obligations are payable in installments of $713 in 2001, $159 in 2002, $127 in 2003 and $20 in 2004. $85 payable in each of 2001 and 2002 is due in Mexican Pesos. $126 payable in 2001 is due in Chilean Pesos. The carrying values of the debt instruments noted above are approximately 99% of their estimated fair values. F-17 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (7) SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY In January 1997, the Company established a trust to fund future payments under a deferred compensation plan. Certain employees eligible to participate in the plan assigned stock options to the plan. The trust exercised the options and purchased 160 shares of the Company's common stock. In June 1998, the trust sold 136 shares in connection with a secondary offering of common stock. The remaining 24 shares held by the trust at September 30, 1998, valued at $412, were sold during 1999. On November 21, 1997, the Company completed an initial public offering of approximately 6,800 shares of Common Stock. The net proceeds of approximately $87,900 after deducting the underwriting discounts and offering expenses were used to repurchase $35,000 principal amount of Notes, pay the associated premium, and repay approximately $49,700 of the Company's term loan facility. On June 30, 1998, the Thomas H. Lee Group and its affiliates sold approximately 5,300 shares and certain Rayovac officers and employees sold approximately 1,100 shares in a secondary offering of common stock. The Company did not receive any proceeds from the sale of the shares but incurred expenses for the offering of approximately $900. (8) STOCK OPTION PLANS In 1996, the Company's Board of Directors ("Board") approved the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan ("1996 Plan"). Under the 1996 Plan, stock options to acquire up to 3,000 shares of common stock, in the aggregate, may be granted to select employees and directors of the Company under either or both a time-vesting or a performance-vesting formula at an exercise price equal to the market price of the common stock on the date of grant. The time-vesting options become exercisable primarily in equal 20% increments over a five-year period. The performance-vesting options become exercisable at the end of ten years with accelerated vesting over each of the first five years if the Company achieves certain performance goals. Accelerated vesting may occur upon sale of the Company, as defined in the 1996 Plan. As of September 30, 2000, there were options with respect to 1,988 shares of common stock outstanding under the 1996 Plan. In 1997, the Board adopted the 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan ("Incentive Plan"). The Incentive Plan replaces the 1996 Plan and no further awards will be granted under the 1996 Plan other than awards of options for shares up to an amount equal to the number of shares covered by options that terminate or expire prior to being exercised. Under the Incentive Plan, the Company may grant to employees and non-employee directors stock options, stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), restricted stock, and other stock-based awards, as well as cash-based annual and long-term incentive awards. Accelerated vesting will occur in the event of a change in control, as defined in the Incentive Plan. Up to 3,000 shares of common stock may be issued under the Incentive Plan. The Incentive Plan expires in August 2007. As of September 30, 2000, there were options with respect to 1,288 shares of common stock outstanding under the Incentive Plan. F-18 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (8) STOCK OPTION PLANS (CONTINUED) A summary of the status of the Company's plans is as follows:
1998 1999 2000 ------------------------- ------------------------- ------------------------- WEIGHTED- WEIGHTED- WEIGHTED- AVERAGE AVERAGE AVERAGE OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE -------- -------------- -------- -------------- -------- -------------- Outstanding, beginning of period...... 2,318 $ 4.33 2,561 $ 7.17 2,832 $ 9.14 Granted............................... 442 20.52 452 18.72 729 21.62 Exercised............................. (107) 3.81 (39) 4.39 (132) 4.71 Forfeited............................. (92) 4.39 (142) 5.18 (153) 8.39 ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ Outstanding, end of period............ 2,561 $ 7.17 2,832 $ 9.16 3,276 $12.15 ===== ====== ===== ====== ===== ====== Options exercisable, end of period.... 828 $ 4.47 876 $ 6.05 1,325 $ 7.67 ===== ====== ===== ====== ===== ======
The following table summarizes information about options outstanding and outstanding and exercisable as of September 30, 2000:
OPTIONS OUTSTANDING OPTIONS OUTSTANDING AND EXERCISABLE --------------------------------------------- -------------------------- WEIGHTED- AVERAGE WEIGHTED- WEIGHTED- RANGE OF NUMBER OF REMAINING AVERAGE NUMBER OF AVERAGE EXERCISE PRICES SHARES CONTRACTUAL LIFE EXERCISE PRICE SHARES EXERCISE PRICE --------------- --------- ---------------- -------------- --------- -------------- $4.39 1,707 6 years $ 4.39 1,044 $ 4.39 $15.875 - $23.375 1,472 8.4 20.26 273 19.61 $23.6875 - $29.50 97 8.9 25.80 8 27.15
The Company has adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 123, ACCOUNTING FOR STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION, and continues to apply Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 and related interpretations in accounting for its stock plans. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for the stock option plans. If the Company had elected to recognize compensation cost for all of the plans based upon the fair value at the grant dates for awards under those plans, consistent with the method prescribed by SFAS No. 123, net income per common share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below:
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Net income reported.............................. $14,395 $24,136 $38,350 Pro forma net income............................. $13,645 $22,697 $35,887 Pro forma basic net income per common share...... $ 0.52 $ 0.83 $ 1.30 Pro forma diluted net income per common share.... $ 0.49 $ 0.78 $ 1.23
F-19 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (8) STOCK OPTION PLANS (CONTINUED) The fair value of the Company's stock options used to compute pro forma net income and diluted net income per common share disclosures is the estimated fair value at grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Assumptions used: Volatility...................................... 26.2% 28.0% 28.6% Risk-free interest rate......................... 5.01% 6.22% 6.17% Expected life................................... 8 years 8 years 8 years Dividend yield.................................. -- -- -- Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during period........................... $ 8.99 $ 9.15 $ 10.49
The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility. Because the Company's options have characteristics significantly different from traded options, and because changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate, in the opinion of management, the existing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single value of its options and may not be representative of the future effects on reported net income or the future stock price of the Company. For purposes of proforma disclosure, the estimated fair value of the options is amortized to expense over the option's vesting period. F-20 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (9) INCOME TAXES Pretax income (income before income taxes and extraordinary item) and income tax expense consist of the following:
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Pretax income: United States.................................. $19,352 $26,929 $30,383 Outside the United States...................... 2,440 10,669 27,569 ------- ------- ------- Total pretax income.............................. $21,792 $37,598 $57,952 ======= ======= ======= Income tax expense (benefit): Current: Federal...................................... $ 3,533 $ 7,908 $ 7,850 Foreign...................................... 1,667 3,988 8,142 State........................................ (164) 528 705 ------- ------- ------- Total current.................................. 5,036 12,424 16,697 ------- ------- ------- Deferred: Federal...................................... 2,243 784 2,032 Foreign...................................... (606) 55 731 State........................................ 724 199 142 ------- ------- ------- Total deferred................................... 2,361 1,038 2,905 ------- ------- ------- $ 7,397 $13,462 $19,602 ======= ======= =======
In June 1998, a tax benefit of $1,263 was recorded in conjunction with the loss on early extinguishment of debt. The following reconciles the Federal statutory income tax rate with the Company's effective tax rate:
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Statutory Federal income tax rate....................... 35.0% 35.0% 35.0% FSC benefit............................................. (1.6) (0.7) (0.6) Effect of foreign items and rate differentials.......... 0.8 1.6 (0.9) State income taxes, net................................. 4.1 1.2 1.0 Reduction of prior year tax provision................... (2.8) (2.0) (1.3) Other................................................... (1.6) 0.7 0.6 ---- ---- ---- 33.9% 35.8% 33.8% ==== ==== ====
F-21 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (9) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) The tax effects of temporary differences which give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows:
SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------- 1999 2000 -------- -------- Current deferred tax assets: Other special charges................................. $ 2,205 $ 565 Inventories and receivables........................... 2,091 2,815 Marketing and promotional accruals.................... 1,009 3,492 Employee benefits..................................... 1,839 733 Environmental accruals................................ 874 600 Other................................................. 1,253 1,572 -------- -------- Total current deferred tax assets....................... 9,271 9,777 -------- -------- Current deferred tax liabilities: Inventories........................................... -- (4,395) Other................................................. -- (670) -------- -------- Total current deferred tax liabilities.................. -- (5,065) -------- -------- Net current deferred tax assets......................... $ 9,271 $ 4,712 ======== ======== Noncurrent deferred tax assets: Employee benefits..................................... 2,296 2,725 Package design expense................................ 1,279 1,226 Foreign tax credits................................... -- 1,096 Other................................................. 1,319 1,118 -------- -------- Total noncurrent deferred tax assets.................... 4,894 6,165 -------- -------- Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities: Property, plant, and equipment........................ (12,923) (11,548) Other................................................. (119) (1,111) -------- -------- Total noncurrent deferred tax liabilities............... (13,042) (12,659) -------- -------- Net noncurrent deferred tax liabilities................. $ (8,148) $ (6,494) ======== ========
At September 30, 2000, net noncurrent deferred tax assets of $1,748 are included in Deferred charges and other and net current deferred tax liabilities of $1,362 are included in Other accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At September 30, 1999, net noncurrent deferred tax assets of $471 are included in Deferred charges and other on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. During 2000, the Company utilized state net operating loss carry-forwards of approximately $936. At September 30, 2000, the Company had no remaining state net operating loss carry-forwards. The Company believes that it is more likely than not that the results of future operations will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the deferred tax assets. F-22 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (9) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) Provision has not been made for United States income taxes on a portion of the undistributed earnings of the Company's foreign subsidiaries (approximately $9,084 and $25,115 at September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively), either because any taxes on dividends would be offset substantially by foreign tax credits or because the Company intends to reinvest those earnings. Such earnings would become taxable upon the sale or liquidation of these foreign subsidiaries or upon remittance of dividends. It is not practicable to estimate the amount of the deferred tax liability on such earnings. (10) LEASES Future minimum rental commitments under non-cancelable operating leases, principally pertaining to land, buildings and equipment, are as follows: 2001....................................................... $ 6,099 2002....................................................... 5,409 2003....................................................... 4,552 2004....................................................... 3,556 2005....................................................... 3,453 Thereafter................................................. 20,871 ------- $43,940 =======
The leases on the properties require annual lease payments of $3,229 subject to annual inflationary increases. All of the leases expire during the years 2001 through 2014. Total rental expenses were $7,397, $6,902, and $6,924 for 1998, 1999, and 2000 respectively. (11) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS PENSION BENEFITS The Company has various defined benefit pension plans covering substantially all of its domestic hourly employees and union members. Plans generally provide benefits of stated amounts for each year of service. The Company's practice is to fund pension costs at amounts within the acceptable ranges established by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. The Company also has various nonqualified deferred compensation agreements with certain of its employees. Under certain agreements, the Company has agreed to pay certain amounts annually for the first 15 years subsequent to retirement or to a designated beneficiary upon death. It is management's intent that life insurance contracts owned by the Company will fund these agreements. Under the other agreements the Company has agreed to pay such deferral amounts in up to 15 annual installments beginning on a date specified by the employee, subsequent to retirement or disability, or to designated beneficiary upon death. The Company established a rabbi trust to fund these agreements. OTHER BENEFITS The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits to eligible retired employees. Participants earn retiree health care benefits after reaching age 45 over the next 10 succeeding years of F-23 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (11) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (CONTINUED) service and remain eligible until reaching age 65. The plan is contributory; retiree contributions have been established as a flat dollar amount with contribution rates expected to increase at the active medical trend rate. The plan is unfunded. The Company is amortizing the transition obligation over a 20-year period.
PENSION BENEFITS OTHER BENEFITS ------------------- ------------------- 1999 2000 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- -------- CHANGE IN BENEFIT OBLIGATION Benefit obligation at beginning of year............... $ 50,198 $16,838 $ 2,218 $ 2,878 Service cost.......................................... 495 506 236 335 Interest cost......................................... 1,431 1,239 156 209 Amendments............................................ 34 860 -- (94) Actuarial (gain) loss................................. (573) (1,039) 454 (230) Benefits paid......................................... (34,747) (673) (186) (173) -------- ------- ------- ------- Benefit obligation at end of year..................... $ 16,838 $17,731 $ 2,878 $ 2,925 ======== ======= ======= ======= CHANGE IN PLAN ASSETS Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year........ $ 42,742 $ 9,955 $ -- $ -- Actual return on plan assets.......................... 735 604 -- -- Employer contribution................................. 1,357 1,493 186 173 Benefits paid......................................... (34,747) (673) (186) (173) Plan expenses paid.................................... (132) (121) -- -- -------- ------- ------- ------- Fair value of plan assets at end of year.............. $ 9,955 $11,258 $ -- $ -- ======== ======= ======= ======= Funded status........................................... $ (6,883) $(6,473) $(2,878) $(2,925) Unrecognized net transition obligation................ 301 257 511 375 Unrecognized prior service cost....................... 2,235 2,861 -- -- Unrecognized net actuarial (gain) loss................ 191 (410) 895 609 Adjustment for minimum liability...................... (2,730) (2,712) -- -- -------- ------- ------- ------- Accrued benefit cost.................................. $ (6,886) $(6,477) $(1,472) $(1,941) ======== ======= ======= ======= Weighted-average assumptions: Discount rate......................................... 7.5% 8.0% 7.25% 7.5% Expected return on plan assets........................ 9.0% 8.5% 0.0% 0.0%
PENSION BENEFITS OTHER BENEFITS ------------------------------ ------------------------------ 1998 1999 2000 1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- COMPONENTS OF NET PERIODIC BENEFIT COST Service cost.................................. $ 569 $ 495 $ 506 $245 $236 $335 Interest cost................................. 3,783 1,431 1,239 173 156 209 Actual return on assets....................... (2,766) (735) (604) -- -- -- Amortization of prior service cost............ 201 233 234 -- -- -- Recognized net actuarial (gain) loss.......... (905) (347) (272) 114 63 96 ------- ------ ------ ---- ---- ---- Net periodic benefit cost..................... $ 882 $1,077 $1,103 $532 $455 $640 ======= ====== ====== ==== ==== ====
F-24 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (11) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (CONTINUED) Pension plan assets and obligations are measured at June 30 each year. The contributions to the pension plans between July 1 and September 30 were $898 and $2,338 in 1999 and 2000, respectively. During 1997, the Company merged two of its defined benefit plans and ceased future benefit accruals. In 1999, the merged plans were liquidated and $34,120 in benefits were paid out. The Company has recorded an additional minimum pension liability of $2,730 and $2,712 at September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively, to recognize the under funded position of certain of its benefit plans. An intangible asset of $2,263 and $2,660 at September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively, equal to the unrecognized prior service cost of these plans, has also been recorded. The excess of the additional minimum liability over the unrecognized prior service cost of $467 at September 30, 1999 and $52 at September 30, 2000, has been recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The Company sponsors a defined contribution pension plan for its domestic salaried employees, which allows participants to make contributions by salary reduction pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Company contributes annually from 3% to 6% of participants' compensation based on age, and may make additional discretionary contributions. The Company also sponsors defined contribution pension plans for employees of certain foreign subsidiaries. Company contributions charged to operations, including discretionary amounts, for the years ended September 30, 1999 and 2000, were $2,013 and $2,171, respectively. For measurement purposes, annual rates of increase of 8.0% in the per capita costs of covered health care benefits were assumed for 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively, gradually decreasing to 5.5%. The health care cost trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the amounts reported. For example, increasing the assumed health care cost trend rates by one percentage point in each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of September 30, 2000, by $191 and the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost for the year ended September 30, 2000, by $58. A discount rate of 7.25% and 7.5% was used to determine the accumulated postretirement benefit obligations as of September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively. (12) SEGMENT INFORMATION The Company manages operations in three reportable segments based upon geographic area. North America includes the United States and Canada; Latin America includes Mexico, Central America, and South America; Europe/Rest of World ("Europe/ROW") includes the United Kingdom, Europe and all other countries in which the Company does business. The Company manufactures and markets dry cell batteries including alkaline, zinc carbon, alkaline rechargeable, hearing aid, and other specialty batteries and lighting products throughout the world. These product lines are sold in all geographic areas except Latin America where revenues have historically been derived primarily from zinc carbon and some alkaline batteries. Net sales and cost of sales to other segments have been eliminated. The gross contribution of inter segment sales is included in the segment selling the product to the external customer. Segment revenues are based upon the geographic area in which the product is sold. The reportable segment profits do not include interest expense, interest income, and income tax expense. Also, not included in the reportable segments, are corporate expenses including corporate F-25 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (12) SEGMENT INFORMATION (CONTINUED) purchasing expense, general and administrative expense and research and development expense. All depreciation and amortization included in income from operations is related to reportable segments. Costs are identified to reportable segments or corporate, according to the function of each cost center. The reportable segment assets do not include cash, deferred tax benefits, investments, long term intercompany receivables, most deferred charges, and miscellaneous assets. All capital expenditures are related to reportable segments. Variable allocations of assets are not made for segment reporting. Wal-Mart Store, Inc., the Company's largest mass merchandiser customer, represented 19%, 20% and 21% of its net sales during 1998, 1999, and 2000, respectively, primarily in North America. REVENUES FROM EXTERNAL CUSTOMERS
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- North America................................. $422,350 $478,336 $535,839 Latin America................................. -- 19,273 112,179 Europe/ROW.................................... 73,383 66,693 55,915 -------- -------- -------- Total segments................................ $495,733 $564,302 $703,933 ======== ======== ========
INTER SEGMENT REVENUES
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- North America.................................... $17,091 $17,162 $23,563 Latin America.................................... -- -- 1,293 Europe/ROW....................................... 1,432 1,096 1,058 ------- ------- ------- Total segments................................... $18,523 $18,258 $25,914 ======= ======= =======
DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- North America.................................... $ 9,920 $11,430 $13,266 Latin America.................................... -- 703 5,253 Europe/ROW....................................... 2,410 1,324 1,504 ------- ------- ------- Total segments................................... $12,330 $13,457 $20,023 ======= ======= =======
F-26 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (12) SEGMENT INFORMATION (CONTINUED) SEGMENT PROFIT
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- North America................................... $61,352 $77,785 $ 95,561 Latin America................................... -- 3,535 20,061 Europe/ROW...................................... 9,129 9,942 6,085 ------- ------- -------- Total segments.................................. 70,481 91,262 121,707 Corporate expenses.............................. 23,753 28,192 32,376 Special charges................................. 6,183 9,432 -- Interest expense................................ 15,670 16,354 30,626 Other (income) expense net...................... (155) (314) 753 ------- ------- -------- Income before income taxes and extraordinary items......................................... $25,030 $37,598 $ 57,952 ======= ======= ========
SEGMENT ASSETS
SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------------------ 1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- North America................................. $227,163 $280,394 $294,210 Latin America................................. -- 177,135 199,865 Europe/ROW.................................... 34,479 33,790 31,233 -------- -------- -------- Total segments................................ 261,642 491,319 525,308 Corporate..................................... 22,217 41,582 43,708 -------- -------- -------- Total assets at year end...................... $283,859 $532,901 $569,016 ======== ======== ========
EXPENDITURES FOR SEGMENT ASSETS
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- North America.................................... $14,529 $22,678 $14,668 Latin America.................................... -- 622 3,448 Europe/ROW....................................... 1,402 813 880 ------- ------- ------- Total segments................................... $15,931 $24,113 $18,996 ======= ======= =======
F-27 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (12) SEGMENT INFORMATION (CONTINUED) PRODUCT LINE REVENUES
1998 1999 2000 -------- -------- -------- Alkaline...................................... $243,400 $282,700 $335,500 Heavy Duty.................................... 38,800 55,700 144,400 Rechargeables................................. 26,800 25,600 32,200 Hearing Aid batteries......................... 73,400 74,900 67,800 Specialty and Other batteries................. 44,900 48,400 43,400 Lighting products and Lantern Batteries....... 68,400 77,000 80,600 -------- -------- -------- Total revenues from external customers........ $495,700 $564,300 $703,900 ======== ======== ========
(13) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES In March 1998, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase certain equipment and to pay annual royalties. In connection with this 1998 agreement, which supersedes previous agreements dated December 1991, and March 1994, the Company committed to pay royalties of $2,000 in 1998 and 1999, $3,000 in 2000 through 2002, and $500 in each year thereafter, as long as the related equipment patents are enforceable (2022). The Company incurred royalty expenses of $2,000 for 1998, 1999 and $2,250 for 2000. Additionally, the Company has committed to purchase $83 of tooling at September 30, 2000. The Company has provided for the estimated costs associated with environmental remediation activities at some of its current and former manufacturing sites. In addition, the Company, together with other parties, has been designated a potentially responsible party of various third-party sites on the United States EPA National Priorities List (Superfund). The Company provides for the estimated costs of investigation and remediation of these sites when such losses are probable and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. The actual cost incurred may vary from these estimates due to the inherent uncertainties involved. The Company believes that any additional liability in excess of the amounts provided of $2,167, which may result from resolution of these matters, will not have a material adverse effect on the financial condition, liquidity, or cash flow of the Company. The Company has certain other contingent liabilities with respect to litigation, claims and contractual agreements arising in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, such contingent liabilities are not likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition, liquidity or cash flow of the Company. (14) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS The Company and Thomas H. Lee Company (THL Co.) are parties to a Management Agreement pursuant to which the Company has engaged THL Co. to provide consulting and management advisory services for an initial period of five years through September 2001. In consideration of ongoing consulting and management advisory services, the Company will pay THL Co. an aggregate annual fee of $360 plus expenses. The Company paid THL Co. aggregate fees and expenses of $408, $437 and $458 for 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. F-28 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (14) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (CONTINUED) The Company has notes receivable from officers in the amount of $890 and $3,190 at September 30, 1999 and 2000, respectively, generally payable in FY2002 through FY2005, which bear interest at 6.6% to 8.0%. Since the officers utilized the proceeds of the notes to purchase common stock of the Company, directly or through the exercise of stock options, the notes have been recorded as a reduction of shareholders' equity. (15) OTHER SPECIAL CHARGES During the period from July 1, 1996 through September 30, 1996, the Company recorded special charges as follows: (i) $2,700 of charges related to the exit of certain manufacturing operations, (ii) $1,700 of charges to increase net deferred compensation plan obligations to reflect curtailment of such plans; (iii) $1,500 of charges reflecting the present value of lease payments for land which management has determined will not be used for any future productive purpose; (iv) $6,900 in costs and asset write-downs principally related to changes in product pricing strategies adopted by management subsequent to the Recapitalization; and (v) $3,300 of employee termination benefits and other charges. Payment for these costs was or is expected to be as follows: $7,700 was paid prior to September 30, 1996; $5,600 was paid in 1997; $1,100 was paid in 1998; $700 was paid in 1999; $200 was paid in 2000 and $800 is expected to be paid thereafter. Future payments are primarily environmental-related costs of a former manufacturing site. During 1997, the Company recorded special charges as follows: (i) $2,500 of charges related to the exit of certain manufacturing and distribution operations at the Company's Kinston, North Carolina facility by early 1998, which includes $1,100 of employee termination benefits for 137 employees, (ii) $1,400 of employee termination benefits for 71 employees related to organizational restructuring in Europe and the exit of certain manufacturing operations in the Company's Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom facility which the Company completed in 1998, (iii) $2,000 of charges for employee termination benefits for 77 employees related to organizational restructuring in the United States which the Company completed in 1998. The number of employees anticipated to be terminated was approximately equal to the actual numbers referenced above. The charges were partially offset by a $2,900 million gain related to the curtailment of the Company's defined benefit pension plan covering all domestic non-union employees. A summary of the 1997 restructuring activities follows: 1997 RESTRUCTURING SUMMARY
TERMINATION OTHER BENEFITS COSTS TOTAL ----------- -------- -------- Expenses accrued............................... $ 4,000 $ 600 $ 4,600 Change in estimate............................. 500 600 1,100 Expensed as incurred........................... -- 200 200 Expenditures................................... (3,300) (700) (4,000) ------- ----- ------- Balance September 30, 1997....................... $ 1,200 $ 700 $ 1,900 Change in estimate............................. (200) (400) (600) Expenditures................................... (1,000) (300) (1,300) ------- ----- ------- Balance September 30, 1998....................... $ -- $ -- $ -- ======= ===== =======
F-29 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (15) OTHER SPECIAL CHARGES (CONTINUED) During 1998, the Company recorded special charges and credits as follows: (i) a credit of $1,243 related to the settlement of deferred compensation agreements with certain former employees, (ii) charges of $5,280 related to (a) the September 1998 closing of the Company's Newton Aycliffe, United Kingdom, packaging facility, (b) the phasing out of direct distribution through June 1998 in the United Kingdom, and (c) the September 1998 closing of one of the Company's German sales offices, which amounts include $1,771 of employee termination benefits for 73 employees, $1,457 of lease cancellation costs, and $1,032 of equipment and intangible asset write-offs, and $1,020 of other costs, (iii) charges of $2,184 related to the closing of the Company's Appleton, Wisconsin, manufacturing facility, which amount includes $1,449 of employee termination benefits for 153 employees, $200 of fixed asset write-offs and $535 of other costs, (iv) charges of $1,963 related to the exit of certain manufacturing operations at the Company's Madison, Wisconsin, facility, which amount includes $295 of employee termination benefits for 29 employees, $1,256 of fixed asset write-offs, and $412 of other costs, (v) a $2,435 gain on the sale of the Company's previously closed Kinston, North Carolina, facility, (vi) charges of $854 related to the secondary offering of the Company's common stock, and (vii) miscellaneous credits of $420. A summary of the 1998 restructuring activities follows: 1998 RESTRUCTURING SUMMARY
TERMINATION OTHER BENEFITS COSTS TOTAL ----------- -------- -------- Expense accrued.............................. $ 3,700 $ 3,800 $ 7,500 Change in estimate........................... (100) 500 400 Expensed as incurred......................... 200 1,300 1,500 Cash expenditures............................ (1,500) (1,400) (2,900) Non-cash charges............................. -- (1,600) (1,600) ------- ------- ------- Balance September 30, 1998..................... $ 2,300 $ 2,600 $ 4,900 Change in estimate........................... (500) -- (500) Expensed as incurred......................... 300 2,800 3,100 Cash expenditures............................ (2,000) (4,500) (6,500) Non-cash charges............................. -- (900) (900) ------- ------- ------- Balance September 30, 1999..................... $ 100 $ -- $ 100 Cash expenditures............................ (100) -- (100) ------- ------- ------- Balance September 30, 2000..................... $ -- $ -- $ -- ======= ======= =======
During 1999, the Company recorded special charges as follows: (i) $2,528 of employee termination benefits for 43 employees related to organizational restructuring in the U.S. and Europe, (ii) $1,300 of charges related to the discontinuation of the manufacturing of silver-oxide cells at the Company's Portage, Wisconsin, facility, and (iii) $2,100 of charges related to the termination of non-performing foreign distributors. The Company also recognized special charges of $803 related to the investigation of financing F-30 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (15) OTHER SPECIAL CHARGES (CONTINUED) options and developing organizational strategies for the Latin American acquisition. A summary of the 1999 restructuring activities follows: 1999 RESTRUCTURING SUMMARY
TERMINATION OTHER BENEFITS COSTS TOTAL ----------- -------- -------- Expense accrued................................ $ 2,500 $ 3,400 $ 5,900 Cash expenditures.............................. (200) -- (200) ------- ------- ------- Balance September 30, 1999..................... $ 2,300 $ 3,400 $ 5,700 Change in estimate............................. -- 100 100 Cash expenditures.............................. (2,200) -- (2,200) Non cash charges............................... -- (3,300) (3,300) ------- ------- ------- Balance September 30, 2000..................... $ 100 $ 200 $ 300 ======= ======= =======
(16) ACQUISITIONS AND DIVESTITURES On August 9, 1999, the Company acquired the consumer battery business of ROV Limited for approximately $145,100, net of cash. These operations market and manufacture a line of general batteries under the Rayovac name in many Latin American countries. They also market and distribute batteries to other countries in South America, the Middle East, Africa and selected Asian countries. These operations had calendar 1998 sales of $97,000. This acquisition provides Rayovac with control of the Rayovac brand rights for battery products worldwide, except for Brazil. The acquisition has been accounted for by the purchase method and, accordingly, the results of operations of the acquired business for the period from August 9, 1999 through September 30, 1999 have been included in Rayovac Corporation's consolidated financial statements. The trade name, valued at $90,000, was recorded as an intangible asset. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired of $28,424 has been recorded as goodwill. The trade name and goodwill are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of 40 years. In September 2000, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement and a license agreement with a Hong Kong company to sell certain inventory and for the exclusive right to use the Rayovac trade name for the manufacture, sale and distribution of the Company's camcorder battery product line. In exchange for the license, the Company received a $6,000 promissory note, payable over five years, and will receive a royalty on future sales of camcorder batteries. The Company will receive a minimum royalty of $100 over the balance of the license arrangement and will receive a variable royalty on sales of camcorder batteries. The company has no substantive future obligation relative to this agreement. As a result of this transaction, the Company recognized a pre-tax gain on the sale of the trade name licensing rights of $1,997, net of write-off of related tangible and intangible assets. F-31 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (17) QUARTERLY RESULTS (UNAUDITED)
QUARTER ENDED ------------------------------------------------ JANUARY 3, APRIL 4, JULY 4, SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 1999 1999 1999 ---------- -------- -------- ------------- Net sales......................................... $160,542 $110,969 $120,440 $172,351 Gross profit...................................... 78,683 52,312 57,073 81,076 Net income........................................ 9,992 3,063 6,151 4,930 Basic net income per common share................. 0.36 0.11 0.22 0.19 Diluted net income per common share............... 0.34 0.10 0.21 0.18
QUARTER ENDED ------------------------------------------------ JANUARY 2, APRIL 2, JULY 2, SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 2000 2000 2000 ---------- -------- -------- ------------- Net sales......................................... $214,790 $142,596 $152,000 $194,547 Gross profit...................................... 103,961 69,864 74,698 97,184 Net income........................................ 13,919 3,651 8,078 12,702 Basic net income per common share................. 0.51 0.13 0.29 0.46 Diluted net income per common share............... 0.48 0.13 0.28 0.44
(18) CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The following condensed consolidating financial data illustrates the composition of the consolidated financial statements. Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for using the equity method for purposes of the consolidating presentation. Earnings of subsidiaries are therefore reflected in the Company's and Guarantor Subsidiaries' investment accounts and earnings. The principal elimination entries eliminate investments in subsidiaries and intercompany balances and transactions. Separate financial statements of the Guarantor Subsidiaries are not presented because management has determined that such financial statements would not be material to investors. There are no components of other comprehensive income related to the Guarantor Subsidiaries. F-32 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET SEPTEMBER 30, 2000
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARIES SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL --------- ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents................... $ 2,691 $ 44 $ 7,022 $ -- $ 9,757 Receivables: Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful receivables...... 91,053 36,131 46,662 (26,079) 147,767 Other..................................... 4,368 -- 1,532 -- 5,900 Inventories................................. 67,447 -- 33,354 (125) 100,676 Deferred income taxes....................... 4,544 342 1,188 -- 6,074 Prepaid expenses and other.................. 14,509 -- 6,487 -- 20,996 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total current assets...................... 184,612 36,517 96,245 (26,204) 291,170 Property, plant and equipment, net............ 79,348 48 32,501 -- 111,897 Deferred charges and other.................... 29,997 274 4,367 (857) 33,781 Intangible assets............................. 91,981 -- 30,321 (188) 122,114 Debt issuance costs........................... 10,054 -- -- -- 10,054 Investment in subsidiaries.................... 127,635 92,121 -- (219,756) -- --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total assets.............................. $ 523,627 $128,960 $163,434 $(247,005) $ 569,016 ========= ======== ======== ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt........ $ 31,588 $ -- $ 13,362 $ (135) $ 44,815 Accounts payable............................ 88,560 -- 34,450 (25,153) 97,857 Accrued liabilities: Wages and benefits........................ 9,556 -- 2,456 -- 12,012 Accrued Interest.......................... 5,703 -- 87 -- 5,790 Recapitalization and other special charges................................. 978 -- -- -- 978 Other................................... 12,710 1,325 10,953 40 25,028 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total current liabilities............... 149,095 1,325 61,308 (25,248) 186,480 Long-term debt, net of current maturities..... 273,445 -- 171 (801) 272,815 Employee benefit obligations, net of current portion..................................... 15,365 -- -- -- 15,365 Deferred income taxes......................... 2,558 -- 5,684 -- 8,242 Other......................................... 1,268 -- 4,150 -- 5,418 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total liabilities....................... 441,731 1,325 71,313 (26,049) 488,320 Shareholders' equity: Common stock................................ 570 1 12,072 (12,072) 571 Additional paid-in capital.................. 104,079 62,788 54,898 (117,568) 104,197 Retained earnings........................... 109,769 64,144 24,449 (89,912) 108,450 Accumulated other comprehensive income...... 650 702 702 (1,404) 650 Notes receivable from officers/shareholders..................... (3,190) -- -- -- (3,190) --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- 211,878 127,635 92,121 (220,956) 210,678 Less treasury stock, at cost................ (129,982) -- -- -- (129,982) --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total shareholders' equity................ 81,896 127,635 92,121 (220,956) 80,696 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity.................................. $ 523,627 $128,960 $163,434 $(247,005) $ 569,016 ========= ======== ======== ========= =========
F-33 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARIES SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL -------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net sales........................... $509,729 $ 43,479 $187,445 $(36,720) $703,933 Cost of goods sold.................. 248,581 42,175 103,962 (36,492) 358,226 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Gross profit.................... 261,148 1,304 83,483 (228) 345,707 Operating expenses: Selling........................... 156,298 662 38,268 (161) 195,067 General and administrative........ 46,517 (11,791) 16,753 (933) 50,546 Research and development.......... 10,646 -- 117 -- 10,763 Other special charges............. (250) -- 250 -- -- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- 213,211 (11,129) 55,388 (1,094) 256,376 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Income from operations.......... 47,937 12,433 28,095 866 89,331 Interest expense.................... 30,109 -- 548 (31) 30,626 Equity in profit of subsidiary...... (29,685) (17,354) -- 47,039 -- Other (income) expense, net......... (844) (134) 1,556 175 753 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes.......... 48,357 29,921 25,991 (46,317) 57,952 Income tax expense.................. 10,729 236 8,637 -- 19,602 -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- Net income........................ $ 37,628 $ 29,685 $ 17,354 $(46,317) $ 38,350 ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
F-34 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARIES SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL --------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net cash provided (used) by operating activities............. $ 41,211 $(3) $ 4,453 $(7,848) $ 37,813 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property, plant and equipment...................... (14,668) -- (4,328) -- (18,996) Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment........... 1,051 -- -- -- 1,051 --------- --- -------- ------- --------- Net cash used by investing activities....................... (13,617) -- (4,328) -- (17,945) Cash flows from financing activities: Reduction of debt................ (199,970) -- (15,424) -- (215,394) Proceeds from debt financing..... 182,274 -- 12,966 7,949 203,189 Cash overdraft and other......... (8,578) -- (91) (100) (8,769) --------- --- -------- ------- --------- Net cash used by financing activities....................... (26,274) -- (2,549) 7,849 (20,974) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents........ -- -- (202) -- (202) --------- --- -------- ------- --------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents................. 1,320 (3) (2,626) 1 (1,308) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year................ 1,371 47 9,648 (1) 11,065 --------- --- -------- ------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of year............................. $ 2,691 $44 $ 7,022 $ -- $ 9,757 ========= === ======== ======= =========
F-35 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET SEPTEMBER 30, 1999
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARIES SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL --------- ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents................... $ 1,371 $ 47 $ 9,648 $ (1) $ 11,065 Receivables: Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful receivables...... 97,746 17,978 35,158 (12,727) 138,155 Other..................................... 1,642 -- 1,524 -- 3,166 Inventories................................. 58,980 -- 23,419 (781) 81,618 Deferred income taxes....................... 6,338 342 2,591 -- 9,271 Prepaid expenses and other.................. 11,574 -- 2,004 -- 13,578 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total current assets.................... 177,651 18,367 74,344 (13,509) 256,853 Property, plant and equipment, net............ 77,224 69 33,485 -- 110,778 Deferred charges and other.................... 24,792 50,000 2,536 (53,182) 24,146 Intangible assets............................. 53,517 -- 76,462 (1,129) 128,850 Debt issuance costs........................... 12,274 -- -- -- 12,274 Investment in subsidiaries.................... 144,915 76,731 -- (221,646) -- --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total assets............................ $ 490,373 $145,167 $186,827 $(289,466) $ 532,901 ========= ======== ======== ========= ========= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Current maturities of long-term debt........ $ 14,936 $ -- $ 8,951 $ (992) $ 22,895 Accounts payable............................ 74,595 -- 22,902 (11,973) 85,524 Accrued liabilities: Wages and benefits........................ 8,709 -- 2,772 -- 11,481 Accrued interest.......................... 4,975 -- 134 -- 5,109 Recapitalization and other special charges................................. 6,426 -- 56 -- 6,482 Other..................................... 14,293 (188) 13,359 (6,498) 20,966 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total current liabilities............... 123,934 (188) 48,174 (19,463) 152,457 Long-term debt, net of current maturities..... 308,135 -- 52,182 (52,891) 307,426 Employee benefit obligations, net of current portion..................................... 12,860 -- -- -- 12,860 Deferred income taxes......................... 2,179 440 6,000 -- 8,619 Other......................................... 1,339 -- 3,740 -- 5,079 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total liabilities....................... 448,447 252 110,096 (72,354) 486,441 Shareholders' equity: Common stock................................ 570 1 12,072 (12,073) 570 Additional paid-in capital.................. 103,459 107,788 54,897 (162,567) 103,577 Retained earnings........................... 65,684 34,459 7,095 (37,138) 70,100 Accumulated other comprehensive income...... 2,199 2,667 2,667 (5,334) 2,199 Notes receivable from officers/shareholders..................... (890) -- -- -- (890) --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- 171,022 144,915 76,731 (217,112) 175,556 Less treasury stock, at cost................ (129,096) -- -- -- (129,096) Total shareholders' equity.............. 41,926 144,915 76,731 (217,112) 46,460 --------- -------- -------- --------- --------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity................................ $ 490,373 $145,167 $186,827 $(289,466) $ 532,901 ========= ======== ======== ========= =========
F-36 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARIES SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL -------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net sales........................... $460,511 $ 37,848 $94,456 $(28,513) $564,302 Cost of goods sold.................. 231,818 36,712 53,531 (28,203) 293,858 Other special charges............... 1,300 -- -- -- 1,300 -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- Gross profit.................. 227,393 1,136 40,925 (310) 269,144 Operating expenses: Selling........................... 139,464 646 20,113 -- 160,223 General and administrative........ 39,747 (10,879) 8,570 (72) 37,366 Research and development.......... 9,765 -- 20 -- 9,785 Other special charges............. 7,344 -- 788 -- 8,132 -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- 196,320 (10,233) 29,491 (72) 215,506 -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- Income from operations........ 31,073 11,369 11,434 (238) 53,638 Interest expense.................... 15,727 -- 996 (369) 16,354 Equity in profit of subsidiary...... (16,797) (5,693) -- 22,490 -- Other (income) expense, net......... (1,126) (347) 790 369 (314) -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes.......... 33,269 17,409 9,648 (22,728) 37,598 Income tax expense.................. 8,895 612 3,955 -- 13,462 -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- Net income........................ $ 24,374 $ 16,797 $ 5,693 $(22,728) $ 24,136 ======== ======== ======= ======== ========
F-37 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARIES SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL --------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Net cash provided by operating activities........................ $ 4,230 $ 2 $ 7,542 $ (1,237) $ 10,537 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property, plant and equipment....................... (22,671) -- (1,442) -- (24,113) Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment............ 26 -- -- -- 26 Payment for acquisitions, net of cash acquired................... (149,145) -- (100,076) 104,145 (145,076) --------- --- --------- --------- --------- Net cash used by investing activities........................ (171,790) -- (101,518) 104,145 (169,163) --------- --- --------- --------- --------- Cash flows from financing activities: Reduction of debt................. (96,310) -- (7,900) 1,236 (102,974) Proceeds from debt financing...... 267,673 -- 111,597 (104,145) 275,125 Other............................. (3,786) -- (317) -- (4,103) --------- --- --------- --------- --------- Net cash provided by financing activities........................ 167,577 -- 103,380 (102,909) 168,048 --------- --- --------- --------- --------- Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents......... -- -- 49 -- 49 --------- --- --------- --------- --------- Net increase in cash and cash equivalents....................... 17 2 9,453 (1) 9,471 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year........................... 1,354 45 195 -- 1,594 --------- --- --------- --------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of year.............................. $ 1,371 $47 $ 9,648 $ (1) $ 11,065 ========= === ========= ========= =========
F-38 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARY SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL -------- ---------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Net sales............................ $438,767 $ -- $84,786 $(27,820) $495,733 Cost of goods sold................... 234,065 -- 51,912 (27,684) 258,293 -------- ------ ------- -------- -------- Gross profit................... 204,702 -- 32,874 (136) 237,440 Operating expenses: Selling............................ 131,396 -- 17,479 -- 148,875 General and administrative......... 25,366 (978) 8,097 (72) 32,413 Research and development........... 9,424 -- -- -- 9,424 Other special charges.............. 1,166 -- 5,017 -- 6,183 -------- ------ ------- -------- -------- 167,352 (978) 30,593 (72) 196,895 -------- ------ ------- -------- -------- Income from operations......... 37,350 978 2,281 (64) 40,545 Interest expense..................... 15,204 -- 466 -- 15,670 Equity in profit of subsidiary....... (888) (771) -- 1,659 -- Other (income) expense, net.......... (994) 543 296 -- (155) -------- ------ ------- -------- -------- Income before income taxes and extraordinary item................. 24,028 1,206 1,519 (1,723) 25,030 Income taxes......................... 7,594 318 748 -- 8,660 -------- ------ ------- -------- -------- Income (loss) before extraordinary item............................... 16,434 888 771 (1,723) 16,370 Extraordinary item, net of income tax benefit............................ (1,975) -- -- -- (1,975) -------- ------ ------- -------- -------- Net income......................... $ 14,459 $ 888 $ 771 $ (1,723) $ 14,395 ======== ====== ======= ======== ========
F-39 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS) (18) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
GUARANTOR NONGUARANTOR CONSOLIDATED PARENT SUBSIDIARY SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS TOTAL --------- ---------- ------------ ------------ ------------ Net cash provided (used) by operating activities......................... $ (10,114) $(2) $ 2,703 $ 5,920 $ (1,493) Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property, plant and equipment........................ (14,395) -- (1,536) -- (15,931) Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment.............. 3,334 -- 344 -- 3,678 Payment for acquisitions........... (6,271) -- (4,853) -- (11,124) --------- --- ------- ------- --------- Net cash used by investing activities......................... (17,332) -- (6,045) -- (23,377) --------- --- ------- ------- --------- Cash flows from financing activities: Reduction of debt.................. (135,500) -- (4,524) -- (140,024) Proceeds from debt financing....... 79,755 -- 8,093 (5,920) 81,928 Proceeds from issuance of common stock............................ 87,160 -- -- -- 87,160 Other.............................. (3,247) -- (465) -- (3,712) --------- --- ------- ------- --------- Net cash provided by financing activities......................... 28,168 -- 3,104 (5,920) 25,352 --------- --- ------- ------- --------- Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents.......... -- -- (21) -- (21) --------- --- ------- ------- --------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents................... 722 (2) (259) -- 461 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year............................ 633 46 454 -- 1,133 --------- --- ------- ------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of year............................... $ 1,355 $44 $ 195 $ -- $ 1,594 ========= === ======= ======= =========
F-40 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT The Board of Directors Rayovac Corporation: On November 3, 2000, we reported on the consolidated balance sheets of Rayovac Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 1999 and 2000, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2000, which are included in the 2000 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In connection with our audits of the aforementioned consolidated financial statements, we also audited the related financial statement schedule as listed in Item 14. The financial statement schedule is the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statement schedule based on our audits. In our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein. /s/ KPMG LLP KPMG LLP Milwaukee, Wisconsin November 3, 2000 II-1 RAYOVAC CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000, 1999 AND 1998 (IN THOUSANDS)
COLUMN A COLUMN B COLUMN C COLUMN D COLUMN E -------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ADDITIONS BALANCE AT CHARGED TO BALANCE AT BEGINNING COSTS AND END OF DESCRIPTIONS OF PERIOD EXPENSES DEDUCTIONS PERIOD - ------------ ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- September 30, 2000: Allowance for doubtful accounts................... $1,253 $583 $816 $1,020 ====== ==== ==== ====== September 30, 1999: Allowance for doubtful accounts................... $1,356 $750 $853 $1,253 ====== ==== ==== ====== September 30, 1998: Allowance for doubtful accounts................... $1,221 $745 $610 $1,356 ====== ==== ==== ======
See accompanying Independent Auditors' Report II-2 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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. DATE: December 19, 2000
NAME TITLE ---- ----- /s/ DAVID A. JONES --------------------------------- Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer David A. Jones (PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER) /s/ KENT J. HUSSEY --------------------------------- President and Chief Operating Officer and Director Kent J. Hussey /s/ RANDALL J. STEWARD --------------------------------- Executive VP Administration and Chief Financial Officer Randall J. Steward (PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL AND ACCOUNTING OFFICER) /s/ JOHN S. LUPO --------------------------------- Director John S. Lupo /s/ PHILIP F. PELLEGRINO --------------------------------- Director Philip F. Pellegrino /s/ SCOTT A. SCHOEN --------------------------------- Director Scott A. Schoen /s/ THOMAS R. SHEPHERD --------------------------------- Director Thomas R. Shepherd /s/ WARREN C. SMITH, JR, --------------------------------- Director Warren C. Smith, Jr.
II-3 EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION - -------------- ----------- 2.1++++ Share Purchase Agreement made as of June 11, 1999, by and among the Company, Vidor Battery Company, Rayovac Latin America, Ltd., the shareholders of ROV Limited, ROV Limited, ESB ROV Ltd., Duranmas, S.A., certain second-tier subsidiaries of ROV Limited, Ray-O-Vac Overseas Corporation, and Alfredo J. Diez and Richard T. Doyle, Jr., as selling group representatives. 2.2++++ Form of Stock Purchase Agreement entered into on or around June 11, 1999, by and among the Company, Rayovac Latin America, Ltd. and certain persons who hold minority interests in certain of the operating subsidiaries of Ray-O-Vac Overseas Corporation. 3.1+ Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company. 3.2****** Amended and Restated By-laws of the Company, as amended through May 17, 1999. 4.1** Indenture, dated as of October 22, 1996, by and among the Company, ROV Holding, Inc. and Marine Midland Bank, as trustee, relating to the Company's 10 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2006. 4.2****** First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 26, 1999, by and among the Company, ROV Holding, Inc. and HSBC Bank USA (formerly known as Marine Midland Bank) as trustee, relating to the Company's 10 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2006. 4.3++++ Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 6, 1999, by and among the Company, ROV Holding, Inc. and HSBC Bank USA (formerly known as Marine Midland Bank) as trustee, relating to the Company's 10 1/4% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2006. 4.4** Specimen of the Notes (included as an exhibit to Exhibit 4.1) 4.5**** Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of December 30, 1997, by and among the Company, the lenders party thereto and Bank of America National Trust and Savings Association ("BofA"), as Administrative Agent. 4.6++++ Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of August 9, 1999, by and among the Company, the lenders party thereto and Bank of America, NA as Administrative Agent. 4.7 The First Amendment dated as of July 28, 2000 to the Second Amendment and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of August 9, 1999, by and among the Company, the lenders party thereto and Bank of America, NA as Administrative Agent. 4.8** The Security Agreement, dated as of September 12, 1996, by and among the Company, ROV Holding, Inc. and BofA. 4.9** The Company Pledge Agreement, dated as of September 12, 1996, by and between the Company and BofA. 4.10*** Shareholders Agreement, dated as of September 12, 1996, by and among the Company and the shareholders of the Company referred to therein. 4.11*** Amendment No. 1 to Rayovac Shareholders Agreement dated August 1, 1997, by and among the Company and the shareholders of the Company referred to therein. 4.12***** Amendment No. 2 to Rayovac Shareholders Agreement, dated as of January 8, 1999, by and among the Company and the Shareholders of the Company referred to therein. 4.13* Specimen certificate representing the Common Stock. 10.1** Management Agreement, dated as of September 12, 1996, by and between the Company and Thomas H. Lee Company. 10.2** Confidentiality, Non-Competition and No-Hire Agreement, dated as of September 12, 1996, by and between the Company and Thomas F. Pyle. 10.3 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and David A. Jones.
EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION - -------------- ----------- 10.4 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and Kent J. Hussey 10.5 Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and Randall J. Steward. 10.6 Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and Kenneth V. Biller. 10.7 Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and Stephen P. Shanesy. 10.8 Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and Merrell M. Tomlin. 10.9 Employment Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2000, by and between the Company and Luis A. Cancio. 10.10** Technology, License and Service Agreement between Battery Technologies (International) Limited and the Company, dated June 1, 1991, as amended April 19, 1993, and December 31, 1995. 10.11** Building Lease between the Company and SPG Partners dated May 14, 1985, as amended June 24, 1986, and June 10, 1987. 10.12***** Amendment, dated December 31, 1998, between the Company and SPG Partners, to the Building Lease, between the Company and SPG Partners, dated May 14, 1985. 10.13*** Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan. 10.14* 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan. 10.15* Rayovac Profit Sharing and Savings Plan. 10.16+++ Technical Collaboration, Sale and Supply Agreement, dated as of March 5, 1998, by and among the Company. Matsushita Battery Industrial Co., Ltd. and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. 21 Subsidiaries of the Company. 23 Consent of KPMG LLP. 27 Financial Data Schedule.
- ------------------------ * Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-35181) filed with the Commission. ** Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-17895) filed with the Commission. *** Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 29, 1997, filed with the Commission on August 13, 1997. **** Incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-49281) filed with the Commission. ***** Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended January 3, 1999, filed with the Commission on February 17, 1999. ****** Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended April 4, 1999, filed with the Commission on May 17, 1999. + Incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1997, filed with the Commission on December 23, 1997. ++ Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Quarterly period ended June 27, 1998, filed with the Commission on August 4, 1998. +++ Incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 28, 1998, filed with the Commission on May 5, 1998. ++++ Incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Commission on August 24, 1999, as subsequently amended on October 26, 1999.



                                                                    Exhibit 4.7

                                 FIRST AMENDMENT

         THIS FIRST AMENDMENT dated as of July 28, 2000 (this "AMENDMENT")
amends the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 9,
1999 (the "CREDIT AGREEMENT") among RAYOVAC CORPORATION (the "COMPANY"), various
financial institutions and BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., as Administrative Agent (in
such capacity, the "ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT"). Unless otherwise defined herein,
capitalized terms used herein have the respective meanings assigned thereto in
the Credit Agreement.

         WHEREAS, the parties hereto desire to amend the Credit Agreement as set
forth below,

         NOW, THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration (the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged), the parties hereto agree as
follows:

         SECTION 1 AMENDMENTS. Effective on (and subject to the occurrence of)
the Amendment Effective Date (as defined below), the Credit Agreement shall be
amended as set forth below.

         1.1 AMENDMENT TO DEFINITION OF L/C COMMITMENT. The definition of "L/C
Commitment" is amended by deleting the amount "$20,000,000" therein and
substituting the amount "$40,000,000" therefor.

         1.2 AMENDMENT TO SECTION 8.4. Clause (e) of Section 8.4 is amended by
deleting the amount "$3,000,000" therein and substituting the amount
"$10,000,000" therefor.

         1.3 AMENDMENT TO SECTION 8.16. The table in Section 8.16 is amended in
its entirety to read as follows:

FISCAL YEAR AMOUNT ending 9/30/99 $30,000,000 ending 9/30/00 $30,000,000 ending 9/30/01 $40,000,000 ending 9/30/02 $40,000,000 ending 9/30/03 $40,000,000.
SECTION 2 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The Company represents and warrants to the Administrative Agent and the Lenders that (a) the representations and warranties made in Section 6 of the Credit Agreement are true and correct on and as of the Amendment Effective Date with the same effect as if made on and as of such date (except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly refer to an earlier date, in which case they were true and correct as of such earlier date); and (b) no Event of Default or Unmatured Event of Default exists or will result from the execution and delivery of this Amendment. SECTION 3 EFFECTIVENESS. The amendments set forth in SECTION 1 above shall become effective, as of the day and year first above written, on the date (the "AMENDMENT EFFECTIVE DATE") on which the Administrative Agent has received (a) a counterpart of this Amendment executed by the Company and the Required Lenders (or, in the case of any party from which the Administrative Agent has not received a counterpart hereof, facsimile confirmation of the execution of a counterpart hereof by such party) and (b) a Confirmation, substantially in the form of EXHIBIT A, executed by the Company and each Subsidiary (other than any Foreign Subsidiary or Dormant Subsidiary). SECTION 4 MISCELLANEOUS. 4.1 CONTINUING EFFECTIVENESS, ETC. As herein amended, the Credit Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and is hereby ratified and confirmed in all respects. After the Amendment Effective Date, all references in the Credit Agreement and each other Loan Document to the "Credit Agreement" or similar terms shall refer to the Credit Agreement as amended hereby. 4.2 COUNTERPARTS. This Amendment may be executed in any number of counterparts and by the different parties on separate counterparts, and each such counterpart shall be deemed to be an original but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same Amendment. 4.3 EXPENSES. The Company agrees to pay the reasonable costs and expenses of the Administrative Agent (including Attorney Costs) in connection with the preparation, execution and delivery of this Amendment. 4.4 GOVERNING LAW. This Amendment shall be a contract made under and governed by the internal laws of the State of New York. 4.5 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Amendment shall be binding upon the Company, the Lenders and the Administrative Agent and their respective successors and assigns, and shall inure to the benefit of the Company, the Lenders and the Administrative Agent and the successors and assigns of the Lenders and the Administrative Agent. [REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK] -2- IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed and delivered by their duly-authorized officers as of the day and year first above written. RAYOVAC CORPORATION By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. as Administrative Agent, Issuing Lender, Swingline Lender and a Lender By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- BANK LEUMI USA By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- THE BANK OF NEW YORK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- THE BANK OF NOVA SCOTIA By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- -3- BANK OF TOKYO-MITSUBISHI TRUST COMPANY By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- BNP PARIBAS By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- COMERICA BANK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- DRESDNER BANK AG, NEW YORK AND GRAND CAYMAN BRANCHES By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- BANK ONE, NA (Main Office Chicago) By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- FIRSTAR BANK, N.A. By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- -4- FLEET NATIONAL BANK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- HARRIS TRUST AND SAVINGS BANK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- M&I MARSHALL & ILSLEY BANK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- THE MITSUBISHI TRUST AND BANKING CORPORATION By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- NATIONAL CITY BANK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- -5- THE NORTHERN TRUST COMPANY By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- THE ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND PLC By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- ST. FRANCIS BANK, F.S.B. By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- SUNTRUST BANK By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION By: ------------------------------------------ Title: --------------------------------------- -6- EXHIBIT A CONFIRMATION Dated as of July 28, 2000 To: Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and the Lenders which are parties to the Credit Agreement referred to below Please refer to (a) the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 9, 1999 (the "CREDIT AGREEMENT") among Rayovac Corporation (the "COMPANY"), various financial institutions (the "LENDERS") and Bank of America, N.A., as Administrative Agent (the "ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT"); (b) the Security Agreement dated as of September 12, 1996 among the Company, ROV Holding, Inc., Rovcal, Inc. and the Administrative Agent; (c) the Trademark Security Agreement dated as of September 12, 1996 executed by the Company in favor of the Administrative Agent; (d) the Patent Security Agreement dated as of September 12, 1996 executed by the Company in favor of the Administrative Agent; (e) the Copyright Security Agreement dated as of September 12, 1996 executed by the Company in favor of the Administrative Agent; (f) the Guaranty dated as of September 12, 1996 executed by ROV Holding, Inc. and Rovcal, Inc. in favor of the Lenders and the Administrative Agent; (g) the Company Pledge Agreement dated as of September 12, 1996 between the Company and the Administrative Agent; (h) the Deed of Charge and Memorandum of Deposit dated September 12, 1996 between ROV Holding, Inc. and the Administrative Agent; (i) the Share Pledge Agreement dated as of November 11, 1996 executed by ROV Holding, Inc. in favor of the Administrative Agent; (j) the Deed of Charge and Memorandum of Deposit dated as of November 11, 1996 between ROV Holding, Inc. and the Administrative Agent; (k) the Deed of Pledge dated as of November 11, 1996 between ROV Holding, Inc. and the Administrative Agent; (l) the Charge Over Shares dated August 9, 1999 between ROV Holding, Inc. and the Administrative Agent; and (m) the First Amendment dated as of July 28, 2000, amending the Credit Agreement (the "FIRST AMENDMENT"). Each of the documents referred to in items (b) through (l) above is called a "CREDIT DOCUMENT". Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Credit Agreement. Each of the undersigned (a) confirms to the Lenders and the Administrative Agent that, after giving effect to the First Amendment, each Credit Document to which such undersigned is a party continues in full force and effect and is the legal, valid and binding obligation of such undersigned, enforceable against such undersigned in accordance with its terms; and (b) agrees that each reference in each Credit Document to the "Credit Agreement" or any similar term shall, after the date hereof, be deemed to be a reference to the Credit Agreement as amended by the First Amendment. RAYOVAC CORPORATION By: --------------------------------- Name: ------------------------------- Title: ------------------------------ ROV HOLDING, INC. By: --------------------------------- Name: ------------------------------- Title: ------------------------------ ROVCAL, INC. By: --------------------------------- Name: ------------------------------- Title: ------------------------------ Accepted and Agreed as of July 28, 2000 BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., as Administrative Agent By: ----------------------------- Name: --------------------------- Title: -------------------------- -2-



                                                                    Exhibit 10.3

                    AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

                  THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT is entered into
as of the 1st day of October, 2000 ("Effective Date"), by and between Rayovac
Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and David A. Jones (the
"Executive").

                  WHEREAS, the Executive and the Company were parties to an
Employment Agreement dated September 12, 1996, with respect to the employment of
the Executive by the Company (the "1996 Agreement");

                  WHEREAS, the Executive and the Company modified the terms of
Executive's employment with the Company by entering into an Amended and Restated
Employment Agreement dated April 27, 1998 (the "1998 Agreement"), and the
parties wish to amend and restate the provisions of the 1998 Agreement as set
forth herein; and

                  WHEREAS, the Company desires the benefit of the experience,
supervision and services of the Executive and desires to employ the Executive
upon the terms and conditions set forth herein; and

                  WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such
employment on such terms and conditions.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual
agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the
Executive hereby agree as follows:

1.       EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the
         Executive, and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment, as
         the Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of
         the Company, reporting directly to the Board of Directors of the
         Company (the "Board"). In connection therewith, as Chairman of the
         Board and Chief Executive Officer, the Executive shall oversee and
         direct the operations of the Company and perform such other duties
         consistent with the responsibilities of Chairman of the Board and Chief
         Executive Officer, all subject to the direction and control of the
         Board. During the Term (as defined below), the Executive shall devote
         substantial time to such employment which will be his primary business
         activity.



2.       TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's
         employment and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on
         the date hereof and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term").

3.       COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of
         his duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive
         the following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
         satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
         withholding taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted
         from such compensation:

         (a)      BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal
                  to Five Hundred and Fifty Thousand Dollars ($550,000) per
                  annum effective October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term
                  ("Base Salary"), which Base Salary shall be paid in equal
                  monthly installments each year, to be paid monthly in arrears.
                  The Board will review from time to time the Base Salary
                  payable to the Executive hereunder and may, in its discretion,
                  increase the Executive's Base Salary. Any such increased Base
                  Salary shall be and become the "Base Salary" for purposes of
                  this Agreement.

         (b)      BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal
                  year ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears,
                  which shall be based, as set forth on SCHEDULE A hereto, on
                  the Company achieving certain annual performance goals
                  established by the Board from time to time (the "Bonus"). The
                  Board may, in its discretion, increase the annual Bonus. Any
                  such increased annual Bonus shall be and become the "Bonus"
                  for such fiscal year for purposes of this Agreement.

         (c)      ADDITIONAL SALARY. In addition to the compensation described
                  above, (i) so long as the promissory note (the "Note") of the
                  Executive attached hereto as EXHIBIT A is not due and payable
                  in full, the Executive shall receive additional compensation
                  at an initial rate of Thirty-five Thousand Dollars ($35,000)
                  per annum during the Term, payable (A) at the time the Bonus
                  is payable hereunder, (B) if no Bonus is payable hereunder, at
                  the time the Board determines that no Bonus is payable
                  hereunder or (C) if payment of principal of and interest on
                  the Note is accelerated, at the time of the Executive's
                  payment in full of the Note; provided, however, that to the
                  extent the Note is prepaid, the rate set forth above shall be
                  decreased by the amount by which interest on the Note has been
                  reduced as a result of such prepayment and (ii) the Executive
                  shall also receive an additional $18,500 per annum during the
                  Term, payable at the time

                                       2



                  the first monthly installment of Base Salary is payable
                  hereunder and on each anniversary thereafter (all such
                  payments set forth in clauses (i) and (ii) above are referred
                  to herein as the "Additional Salary").

         (d)      INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as
                  are generally made available by the Company to its executive
                  officers from time to time.

         (e)      STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the
                  Executive shall remain in full force and effect in accordance
                  with their terms. If the Company implements a new stock option
                  program in the future, the Executive may participate to the
                  extent authorized by the Board.

         (f)      RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
                  employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby
                  granted a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
                  Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions
                  of the Rayovac Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement
                  attached hereto as Schedule B.

         (g)      VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks
                  vacation each year.

         (h)      HOUSING AND OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  reimbursement of all reasonable and documented expenses
                  actually incurred or paid by the Executive in the performance
                  of the Executive's duties under this Agreement, upon
                  presentation of expense statements, vouchers or other
                  supporting information in accordance with Company policy. In
                  addition, the Company will reimburse the Executive for
                  expenses associated with reasonable travel to and from Atlanta
                  and will pay or reimburse the Executive for the reasonable
                  expenses associated with providing the Executive with the use
                  of a suitable home purchased by the Company in the Madison
                  area, other than utilities and maintenance. All expense
                  reimbursements and other perquisites of the Executive are
                  reviewable periodically by the Compensation Committee of the
                  Board, if there be one, or the Board.

         (i)      AUTOMOBILE. The Company shall provide the Executive with the
                  use of a leased automobile suitable for a chief executive
                  officer of a company similar to the Company.

         (j)      D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  indemnification from the Company to the maximum extent
                  provided by law, but not

                                       3


                  for any action, suit, arbitration or other proceeding (or
                  portion thereof) initiated by the Executive, unless authorized
                  or ratified by the Board. Such indemnification shall be
                  covered by the terms of the Company's policy of insurance for
                  directors and officers in effect from time to time (the "D&O
                  Insurance"). Copies of the Company's charter, by-laws and D&O
                  Insurance will be made available to the Executive upon
                  request.

         (k)      LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
                  reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the
                  preparation of this Agreement.

         (l)      RETENTION BONUS; HOUSE SALE.

                  (i)      Within thirty (30) days after the Effective Date of
                           this Agreement, Company shall pay Executive Four
                           Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000) as a bonus for
                           past services to the Company, and then, on the
                           earlier of September 30, 2003 or a Sale (as described
                           in the first sentence of Section 4(d)), the Company
                           shall pay the Executive an additional amount of Four
                           Hundred Thousand Dollars ($400,000).

                  (ii)     If the Company does not terminate the Executive's
                           employment hereunder pursuant to Section 4(a) and the
                           Executive does not terminate his employment hereunder
                           pursuant to Section 4(d) (other than following a Sale
                           as described in the first sentence of Section 4(d)),
                           then at any time after the earlier of April 30, 2003
                           or the date on which the Executive's employment is
                           terminated, at the option of and upon the request of
                           the Executive or his estate, the Company shall sell
                           to the Executive or his estate fee simple title to
                           the home purchased by the Company for the use of the
                           Executive, free and clear of all liens and
                           encumbrances arising after the date of the Company's
                           acquisition of the home and not created by the
                           Executive other than liens or encumbrances that do
                           not materially affect the use or value thereof; the
                           purchase price shall be One Dollar ($1.00).

4.       TERMINATION.

         (a)      TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  hereunder without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of
                  the following (any such termination being referred to as a
                  termination for "Cause"):

                                       4


                  (i)      the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                           premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith
                           against the interests of the Company;

                  (ii)     the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO
                           CONTENDERE with respect to, any felony, or of any
                           lesser crime or offense having as its predicate
                           element fraud, dishonesty or misappropriation of the
                           property of the Company;

                  (iii)    the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the
                           Executive which negatively impacts his job
                           performance or the Executive's failure of a
                           Company-required drug test;

                  (iv)     the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to
                           perform his duties as set forth herein or the willful
                           failure or refusal to follow the direction of the
                           Board, provided such failure or refusal continues
                           after thirty (30) days of the receipt of notice in
                           writing from the Board of such failure or refusal,
                           which notice refers to this Section 4(a) and
                           indicates the Company's intention to terminate the
                           Executive's employment hereunder if such failure or
                           refusal is not remedied within such thirty (30) day
                           period; or

                  (v)      the Executive breaches any of the terms of this
                           Agreement or any other agreement between the
                           Executive and the Company which breach is not cured
                           within thirty (30) days subsequent to notice from the
                           Company to the Executive of such breach, which notice
                           refers to this Section 4(a) and indicates the
                           Company's intention to terminate the Executive's
                           employment hereunder if such breach is not cured
                           within such thirty (30) day period.

                  If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
                  conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based
                  or performance-based Stock Option Agreement to purchase
                  455,786 shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $4.39
                  per share (collectively the "Stock Option Agreements"), or any
                  agreements referred to therein, the definition set forth
                  herein shall control.

         (b)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY. The Company
                  shall have the right at any time to terminate the Executive's
                  employment

                                       5


                  hereunder without prior notice upon the Executive's inability
                  to perform his duties hereunder by reason of any mental,
                  physical or other disability for a period of at least six (6)
                  consecutive months (for purposes hereof, "disability" has the
                  same meaning as in the Company's disability policy). The
                  Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the
                  provisions of Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of
                  the Executive.

         (c)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  for any other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior
                  written notice to the Executive.

         (d)      VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder
                  upon sixty (60) days prior written notice to the Company, or
                  upon thirty (30) days prior written notice after a Sale (as
                  such term is defined in the Stock Option Agreements). Any such
                  termination shall be treated as a termination by the Company
                  for "Cause" under Section 5, unless notice of such termination
                  was given within thirty (30) days after a Sale (as such term
                  is defined in the Stock Option Agreements), in which case such
                  termination shall be treated in accordance with Section 5(d)
                  hereof.

         (e)      CONSTRUCTIVE TERMINATION BY THE EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall
                  be entitled to terminate his employment and appointment
                  hereunder, without prior notice, upon the occurrence of a
                  Constructive Termination. Any such termination shall be
                  treated as a termination by the Company without Cause. For
                  this purpose, a "Constructive Termination" shall mean:

                  (i)      a reduction in Base Salary or Additional Salary
                           (other than as permitted hereby);

                  (ii)     a reduction in annual Bonus opportunity;

                  (iii)    a change in location of office of more than
                           seventy-five (75) miles from Madison, Wisconsin;

                  (iv)     unless with the express written consent of the
                           Executive, (a) the assignment to the Executive of any
                           duties inconsistent in any substantial respect with
                           the Executive's position, authority or
                           responsibilities as contemplated by Section 1 of this
                           Agreement or (b) any other substantial change in such

                                       6


                           position, including titles, authority or
                           responsibilities from those contemplated by Section 1
                           of the Agreement; or

                  (v)      any material reduction in any of the benefits
                           described in Section 3(g), (h), (i) or (j) hereof.

                  For purposes of the Stock Option Agreements, Constructive
                  Termination shall be treated as a termination of employment by
                  the Company without "Cause."

         (f)      NOTICE OF TERMINATION. Any termination by the Company for
                  Cause or by the Executive for Constructive Termination shall
                  be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other party
                  hereto given in accordance with Section 8. For purposes of
                  this Agreement, a "Notice of Termination" means a written
                  notice given prior to the termination which (i) indicates
                  the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied
                  upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and
                  circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of
                  the Executive's employment under the provision so indicated
                  and (iii) if the termination date is other than the date of
                  receipt of such notice, specifies the termination date of
                  this Agreement (which date shall be not more than fifteen
                  (15) days after the giving of such notice). The failure by
                  any party to set forth in the Notice of Termination any fact
                  or circumstance which contributes to a showing of Cause or
                  Constructive Termination shall not waive any right of such
                  party hereunder or preclude such party from asserting such
                  fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder.

5.       EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

         (a)      WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with
                  Cause, the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in
                  Section 3 shall cease at the time of such termination, and the
                  Executive shall not be entitled to any compensation specified
                  in Section 3 which was not required to be paid prior to such
                  termination; provided, however, that the Executive shall be
                  entitled to continue to participate in the Company's medical
                  benefit plans to the extent required by law.

         (b)      DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's employment is
                  terminated by the death or disability of the Executive
                  (pursuant to Section 4(b)), the Executive's compensation
                  provided in Section 3 shall be paid to the Executive or, in
                  the event of the death of the Executive, the Executive's
                  estate, as follows:

                                       7


                  (i)      the Executive's Base Salary specified in Section 3(a)
                           shall continue to be paid in monthly installments
                           until the first to occur of (i) twenty-four (24)
                           months following such termination or (ii) such time
                           as the Executive or the Executive's estate breaches
                           the provisions of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement;

                  (ii)     double the PRO RATA portion (based on days worked and
                           percentage of achievement of annual performance
                           goals) of the annual Bonus payable to the Executive,
                           if any, specified in Section 3(b) shall be paid,
                           unless the Board determines to pay a greater amount
                           in its sole discretion;

                  (iii)    the Executive's Additional Salary (or, for any
                           partial year, the pro rata portion thereof) specified
                           in Section 3(c) shall continue to be paid until the
                           first to occur of (i) the remaining period of the
                           Term or (ii) such time as the Executive or the
                           Executive's estate breaches the provisions of
                           Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement;

                  (iv)     If the Executive's employment is terminated as a
                           result of disability, the Executive's additional
                           benefits specified in Section 3(d) shall continue to
                           be available to the Executive until the first to
                           occur of (i) the remaining period of the Term (or
                           twenty-four (24) months following such termination,
                           if greater) or (ii) such time as the Executive
                           breaches the provisions of Sections 6 or 7 of this
                           Agreement; and

                  (v)      the Executive's accrued vacation (determined in
                           accordance with Company policy) at the time of
                           termination shall be paid as soon as reasonably
                           practicable.

         (c)      WITHOUT CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated by
                  the Company without Cause (pursuant to Section 4(c) or 4(e)),
                  the Executive's compensation provided in Section 3 shall be
                  paid as follows:

                  (i)      the Executive's Base Salary specified in Section 3(a)
                           shall continue to be paid in monthly installments
                           until the first to occur of (i) the remaining period
                           of the Term (or twenty-four (24) months following
                           such termination, if greater) or (ii) such time as
                           the Executive breaches the provisions of Sections 6
                           or 7 of this Agreement;

                                       8


                  (ii)     the Executive's annual Bonus shall continue to be
                           paid in accordance with this Section 5(c) at the
                           times set forth in Section 3(b) until the first to
                           occur of (i) the remaining period of the Term (or
                           twenty-four (24) months following such termination,
                           if greater) or (ii) such time as the Executive
                           breaches the provisions of Sections 6 or 7 of this
                           Agreement. The annual Bonus payable pursuant to this
                           Section 5(c) shall equal the amount of the annual
                           Bonus (if any) previously paid or required to be paid
                           pursuant to this Agreement (or the 1998 Agreement)
                           for the full fiscal year immediately prior to the
                           Executive's termination of employment;

                  (iii)    the Executive's Additional Salary (or, for any
                           partial year, the pro rata portion thereof) specified
                           in Section 3(c) shall continue to be paid until the
                           first to occur of (i) the remaining period of the
                           Term (or twenty-four (24) months following such
                           termination, if longer) or (ii) such time as the
                           Executive breaches the provisions of Sections 6 or 7
                           of this Agreement; and

                  (iv)     the Executive's additional benefits specified in
                           Section 3(d) shall continue to be available to the
                           Executive until the first to occur of (i) twenty-four
                           (24) months following such termination or (ii) such
                           time as the Executive breaches the provisions of
                           Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement.

         (d)      FOLLOWING SALE. If the Executive elects to terminate his
                  employment within thirty (30) days following a Sale in
                  accordance with Section 4(d), such termination by the
                  Executive shall be treated as a termination by the Company
                  without Cause, and the Executive shall be entitled to the
                  compensation provided in Section 5(c); provided, however, that
                  Executive's Base Salary, annual Bonus, Additional Salary and
                  Section 3(d) additional benefits shall continue to be paid
                  only until the first to occur of (i) the remaining period of
                  the Term (or twelve (12) months following the expiration of
                  the Post-Term Period (as defined below)) or (ii) such time as
                  the Executive breaches the provisions of Sections 6 or 7 of
                  this Agreement. In no event, however, shall Executive receive
                  less than twelve (12) months Base Salary and annual Bonus
                  following the expiration of the Post-Term Period.
                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company may require that
                  the Executive continue to remain in the employ of the Company
                  for up to a maximum of thirty (30) days following the Sale
                  (the "Post-Term Period"). The Company shall place the maximum
                  cash payments payable pursuant to Section 5(c) in escrow with
                  a

                                       9


                  commercial bank or trust company mutually acceptable to the
                  Company and the Executive as soon as practicable following the
                  Sale. For the Post-Term Period, the Company shall make the
                  cash payments that would otherwise be required pursuant to
                  Section 3 (all such cash payments to be deducted from the
                  amount placed in escrow). At the expiration of the Post-Term
                  Period, the Executive shall receive all cash amounts due the
                  Executive from the remaining amount held in escrow ratably
                  monthly over the Non-Competition Period (as defined below),
                  with the balance (if any) returned to the Company. If the
                  Company does not require that the Executive remain in the
                  employ of the Company, the Company shall pay the Executive all
                  cash amounts payable pursuant to Section 5(c) ratably monthly
                  over the Non-Competition Period (all such cash payments to be
                  deducted from the amount placed in escrow) with the balance
                  (if any) returned to the Company.

         The Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any
         payment provided for herein by seeking other employment or otherwise,
         and if the Executive does obtain other employment, all amounts payable
         by the Company under this Agreement shall remain fully due and payable.

6.       AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

         (a)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period
                  (as defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in
                  any capacity, either separately, jointly or in association
                  with others, as an officer, director, consultant, agent,
                  employee, owner, principal, partner or stockholder of any
                  business, or in any other capacity, engage or have a financial
                  interest in any business which is involved in the design,
                  manufacturing, marketing or sale of batteries or battery
                  operated lighting devices (excepting only the ownership of not
                  more than 5% of the outstanding securities of any class listed
                  on an exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market). The
                  "Non-Competition Period" is (a) the longer of the Executive's
                  employment hereunder or time period which he serves as a
                  director of the Company plus (b) a period of one (1) year
                  thereafter.

         (b)      Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the
                  Executive further agrees that during the Non-Competition
                  Period, he will not, directly or indirectly, in any capacity,
                  either separately, jointly or in association with others,
                  solicit or otherwise contact any of the Company's customers or
                  prospects, as shown by the Company's records, that were
                  customers or prospects of the Company at any time during the
                  Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact

                                       10


                  is for the general purpose of selling products that satisfy
                  the same general needs as any products that the Company had
                  available for sale to its customers or prospects during the
                  Non-Competition Period.

         (c)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period,
                  he shall not, other than in connection with employment for the
                  Company, solicit the employment or services of any employee of
                  Company who is or was an employee of Company at any time
                  during the Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition
                  Period, the Executive shall not hire any employee of Company
                  for any other business.

         (d)      If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too
                  broad or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law,
                  including with respect to time or space, the court is hereby
                  requested and authorized by the parties hereto to revise the
                  foregoing restrictions to include the maximum restrictions
                  allowed under the applicable law.

         (e)      For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company"
                  refers to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated
                  affiliates of the Company.

7.       SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

         (a)      The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except
                  as the Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any
                  person or use (except in the performance of his services
                  hereunder) any confidential information or materials received
                  by the Executive from the Company and any confidential
                  information or materials of other parties received by the
                  Executive in connection with the performance of his duties
                  hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a), confidential
                  information or materials shall include existing and potential
                  customer information, existing and potential supplier
                  information, product information, design and construction
                  information, pricing and profitability information, financial
                  information, sales and marketing strategies and techniques and
                  business ideas or practices. The restriction on the
                  Executive's use or disclosure of the confidential information
                  or materials shall remain in force until such information is
                  of general knowledge in the industry through no fault of the
                  Executive or any agent of the Executive. The Executive also
                  agrees to return to the Company promptly upon its request any
                  Company information or materials in the Executive's possession
                  or under the Executive's control.

                                       11


         (b)      The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no
                  other person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries,
                  improvements, trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes,
                  know-how and similar matters, whether or not patentable and
                  whether or not reduced to practice, which are conceived or
                  learned by the Executive during the period of the Executive's
                  employment with the Company, either alone or with others,
                  which relate to or result from the actual or anticipated
                  business or research of the Company or which result, to any
                  extent, from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or
                  property (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive
                  acknowledges and agrees that all the Inventions shall be the
                  sole property of the Company, and the Executive hereby assigns
                  to the Company all of the Executive's rights and interests in
                  and to all of the Inventions, it being acknowledged and agreed
                  by the Executive that all the Inventions are works made for
                  hire. The Company shall be the sole owner of all domestic and
                  foreign rights and interests in the Inventions. The Executive
                  agrees to assist the Company at the Company's expense to
                  obtain and from time to time enforce patents and copyrights on
                  the Inventions.

         (c)      Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of
                  the Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive
                  shall promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data,
                  records, notes, drawings, manuals and all other tangible
                  information in whatever form which pertains to the Company,
                  and the Executive will not retain any such information or any
                  reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.       NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in
         writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered
         personally, (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other
         communication is sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery
         to an overnight delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the
         date of deposit in the United States mail if sent first class, postage
         prepaid, by registered or certified mail. The addresses for such
         notices shall be as follows:

         (a)      For notices and communications to the Company:

                           Rayovac Corporation
                           601 Rayovac Drive
                           Madison, WI 53711
                           Facsimile: (608) 278-6666
                           Attention: Board of Directors

                                       12


                  with a copy to:

                           Thomas H. Lee Company
                           75 State Street
                           Boston, MA  02109
                           Facsimile: (617) 227-3514
                           Attention: Warren C. Smith, Jr.

                  and a copy to:

                           Skadden, Arps, Slate,
                             Meagher & Flom LLP
                           One Beacon Street,
                           Boston, MA  02108
                           Facsimile:  (617) 573-4822
                           Attention:  Louis A. Goodman, Esq.

         (b)      For notices and communications to the Executive:

                           David A. Jones
                           7912 Via Vecchia
                           Naples, Florida  34108

                  with a copy to:

                           Sutherland, Asbill & Brennan LLP
                           999 Peachtree Street, N.E.
                           Atlanta, GA  30309
                           Facsimile: (404) 853-8806
                           Attention: Mark D. Kaufman, Esq.

         Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for
         receipt of notices hereunder.

9.       GENERAL.

         9.1      GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and
                  governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without
                  reference to its conflicts of law principles.

                                       13


         9.2      AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
                  superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms
                  hereof may be waived, only by a written instrument executed by
                  all of the parties hereto or, in the case of a waiver, by the
                  party waiving compliance. The failure of any party at any time
                  or times to require performance of any provision hereof shall
                  in no manner affect the right at a later time to enforce the
                  same. No waiver by any party of the breach of any term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or
                  otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to
                  be, or construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any
                  such breach, or a waiver of the breach of any other term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement.

         9.3      SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon
                  the Executive, without regard to the duration of his
                  employment by the Company or reasons for the cessation of such
                  employment, and inure to the benefit of his administrators,
                  executors, heirs and assigns, although the obligations of the
                  Executive are personal and may be performed only by him. This
                  Agreement shall also be binding upon and inure to the benefit
                  of the Company and its subsidiaries, successors and assigns,
                  including any corporation with which or into which the Company
                  or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to their
                  assets or business.

         9.4      COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two
                  counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but
                  which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

         9.5      ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to
                  enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain
                  money damages for the breach thereof, and such action results
                  in the award of a judgment for money damages or in the
                  granting of any injunction in favor of one of the parties to
                  this Agreement, all expenses, including reasonable attorneys'
                  fees, shall be paid by the non-prevailing party.

         9.6      NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall
                  prevent or limit the Executive's continuing or future
                  participation during his employment hereunder in any benefit,
                  bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by the
                  Company or any of its affiliates and for which the Executive
                  may qualify. Amounts which are vested benefits or which the
                  Executive is otherwise entitled to receive under any plan or
                  program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
                  subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of
                  employment

                                       14


                  with the Company shall, subject to the terms hereof or any
                  other agreement entered into by the Company and the Executive
                  on or subsequent to the date hereof, be payable in accordance
                  with such plan or program.

         9.7      MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to
                  seek other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts
                  payable to the Executive under any of the provisions of this
                  Agreement. In the event that the Executive shall give a Notice
                  of Termination for Constructive Termination and it shall
                  thereafter be determined that Constructive Termination did not
                  take place, the employment of the Executive shall, unless the
                  Corporation and the Executive shall otherwise mutually agree,
                  be deemed to have terminated, at the date of giving such
                  purported Notice of Termination, and the Executive shall be
                  entitled to receive only those payments and benefits which he
                  would have been entitled to receive at such date had he
                  terminated his employment voluntarily at such date under
                  Section 4(d) of this Agreement.

         9.8      EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach
                  of any provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would
                  result in irreparable injuries to the Company, that the remedy
                  at law for any such breach will be inadequate and that upon
                  breach of such provisions, the Company, in addition to all
                  other available remedies, shall be entitled as a matter of
                  right to injunctive relief in any court of competent
                  jurisdiction without the necessity of proving the actual
                  damage to the Company.

         9.9      TERMINATION OF 1998 AGREEMENT. The 1998 Agreement is hereby
                  terminated.

         9.10     ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the exhibit and schedule
                  hereto constitute the entire understanding of the parties
                  hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede
                  all prior negotiations, discussions, writings and agreements
                  between them.



                                       15


         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the
date first above written.

                                          RAYOVAC CORPORATION

                                          By
                                            ------------------------------------
                                          Kent J. Hussey
                                          President and Chief Operating Officer

EXECUTIVE:


- ------------------------------------
David A. Jones






                                       16


                                   SCHEDULE A

                            EXECUTIVE BONUS SCHEDULE
=============================================================================== Bonus Available Percentage of as Percentage Plan Achieved of Annual Base Salary - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137.5% 120% - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 130 110 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122.5 100 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 115 90 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107.5 75 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 100 60 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 90 30 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 80 0 ===============================================================================
Any level of Company performance which falls between two specific points set forth above under "Percentage of Plan Achieved" shall entitle the Executive to receive a percentage of Base Salary determined on a straight line basis between such two points. Such amount shall be calculated as follows: [(A-B) x .1] x (C-D) + D Where: A = The actual Percentage of Plan Achieved. B = The Percentage of Plan Achieved set forth above which is less than and closest to actual results. C = The Bonus Available as Percentage of Base Salary set forth above which is greater than and closest to the percentage that would apply based on actual results. D = The Bonus Available as Percentage of Base Salary set forth above which is less than and closest to the percentage that would apply based on actual results. 17 SCHEDULE B RAYOVAC CORPORATION RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and David A. Jones (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the mutuality and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this Agreement hereby agree as follows: 1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage such individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the Company. The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive of shares of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common Stock"), as additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an inducement to the continued services by the Executive to the Company and its subsidiaries, subject to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions contained herein. The Executive acknowledges that he has received a copy of the Plan and any prospectus related thereto from the Company. 2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the Executive an Award of Fifty-One Thousand Three Hundred Eighty-Seven (51,387) shares of Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and collectively, the "Shares"). 3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following restrictions: (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment of the Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of restrictions on the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates for any reason other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse, the Shares shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall have no further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and "disability" shall be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of Executive's Amended and Restated Employment Agreement of October 1, 2000. 18 (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, exchanged, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the Executive. 4. LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS. (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on the Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive the Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30) days after such vesting date. (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the Shares subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment with the Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability. (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. 5. CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall be registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its designee and shall bear the following legend: "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including forfeiture and restrictions against transfer) contained in The 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan and an Agreement entered into between Rayovac Corporation and the registered owner. Release from such terms and conditions shall be obtained only in accordance with the provisions of such Plan and Agreement, copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary of Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin." The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or powers in blank with respect to the Shares. 6. SECTION 83 ELECTION. The Executive agrees not to file an election under section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to the Shares. 19 7. CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously forfeited as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the occurrence of a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in Control has occurred, all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately prior to the effective date of the Change in Control . 8. INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of the Plan were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict between the Plan and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall govern. Unless otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms in the Plan. 9. MISCELLANEOUS. (a) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to the benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin. (b) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the Executive any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of Directors, or to defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of the restrictions with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in additional shares of Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that become payable while any of the Shares remain subject to restrictions hereunder to Executive with respect to the restricted shares may, in the Company's discretion, be net of an amount sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax requirements with respect to such dividends. (c) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract of employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right to remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in any way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or responsibilities of the Executive. (d) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the provisions for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the approval of the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under applicable tax, securities or other laws or the rules and regulations thereunder, or to correct any omission in this Agreement. 20 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement, effective as of the date set forth below. Rayovac Corporation October 1, 2000 By: --------------------------- Kent J. Hussey President and Chief Operating Officer EXECUTIVE - ------------------------------------- Name: David A. Jones Address: 7912 Via Vecchia Naples, Florida 34108 21



                                                                    Exhibit 10.4

                              AMENDED AND RESTATED
                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

                  THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is
entered into as of the 1st day of October, 2000, by and between Rayovac
Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and Kent J.
Hussey (the "Executive").

                  WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive wish to amend and
restate the provisions of the Executive's Employment Agreement with the Company,
dated April 27, 1998, as amended October 1, 1998 and January 13, 2000, because
the Company desires to employ the Executive upon the terms and conditions set
forth herein; and

                  WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such
employment on such terms and conditions.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual
agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the
Executive hereby agree as follows:

1.   EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the Executive,
     and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment, as the President
     and Chief Operating Officer of the Company, reporting directly to the Chief
     Executive Officer of the Company (the "CEO"). In connection therewith, as
     President and Chief Operating Officer, the Executive shall have general
     supervision of the day-to-day affairs of the Company and the supervision
     and direction of the actions of the other officers of the Company, subject
     to the supervision of the CEO. During the Term (as defined below), the
     Executive shall devote all of his working time to such employment and
     appointment, shall devote his best efforts to advance the interests of the
     Company and shall not engage in any other business activities, as an
     employee, director, consultant or in any other capacity, whether or not he
     receives any compensation therefor, without the prior written consent of
     the Board.

2.   TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's employment
     and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on the date hereof
     and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term"). Upon expiration of the
     Term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for successive periods of
     one (1) year, unless the Executive or the Company shall give notice to the
     other at least ninety (90) days prior to the end of the Term (or any annual
     extension thereof) indicating that it does not intend to renew the
     Agreement.

3.   COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of his
     duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive the
     following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
     satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
     withholding

                                       1


     taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted from such
     compensation:

     (a)    BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal to
            Three Hundred Eighty-Five Thousand Dollars ($385,000) per annum
            effective October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term ("Base
            Salary"), which Base Salary shall be paid in equal monthly
            installments each year, to be paid monthly in arrears. The Board
            will review from time to time the Base Salary payable to the
            Executive hereunder and may, in its discretion, increase the
            Executive's Base Salary. Any such increased Base Salary shall be and
            become the "Base Salary" for purposes of this Agreement.

     (b)    BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal year
            ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears, which shall be
            based, as set forth on SCHEDULE A hereto, on the Company achieving
            certain annual performance goals established by the Board from time
            to time (the "Bonus"). The Board may, in its discretion, increase
            the annual Bonus. Any such increased annual Bonus shall be and
            become the "Bonus" for such fiscal year for purposes of this
            Agreement.

     (c)    INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
            entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as are
            generally made available by the Company to its executive officers
            from time to time.

     (d)    STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the Executive
            shall remain in full force and effect in accordance with their
            terms. In connection with the Executive's employment and appointment
            hereunder, the Executive was previously granted certain time-based
            and performance-based options to purchase, in the aggregate, 72,106
            shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $22.88 per share. If
            the Company implements a new stock option program in the future, the
            Executive may participate to the extent authorized by the Board.

     (e)    RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
            employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby
            granted a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
            Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions of the
            Rayovac Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement attached hereto
            as Schedule B.

     (f)    VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks vacation
            each year.

     (g)    OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to reimbursement of
            all reasonable and documented expenses actually incurred or paid by
            the Executive in the performance of the Executive's duties under
            this Agreement, upon presentation of expense statements, vouchers or
            other supporting information in accordance with Company policy. All
            expense reimbursements and other perquisites of the Executive

                                       2


            are reviewable periodically by the Compensation Committee of the
            Board, if there be one, or the Board.

     (h)    AUTOMOBILE. The Company shall provide the Executive with the use of
            a leased automobile suitable for a chief operating officer of a
            company similar to the Company. Unless the Executive's employment is
            terminated by the Company for Cause or by the Executive pursuant to
            Section 5(c), the Executive shall be entitled to purchase such
            automobile for $100 upon the earlier of (i) the expiration of the
            lease for such automobile or (ii) the termination of Executive's
            employment.

     (i)    D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to indemnification
            from the Company to the maximum extent provided by law, but not for
            any action, suit, arbitration or other proceeding (or portion
            thereof) initiated by the Executive, unless authorized or ratified
            by the Board. Such indemnification shall be covered by the terms of
            the Company's policy of insurance for directors and officers in
            effect from time to time (the "D&O Insurance"). Copies of the
            Company's charter, by-laws and D&O Insurance will be made available
            to the Executive upon request.

     (j)    LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
            reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the preparation of
            this Agreement.

4.   TERMINATION.

     (a)    TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have the
            right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment hereunder
            without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of the following
            (any such termination being referred to as a termination for
            "Cause"):

            (i)   the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                  premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith against
                  the interests of the Company;

            (ii)  the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO CONTENDERE
                  with respect to, any felony, or of any lesser crime or offense
                  having as its predicate element fraud, dishonesty or
                  misappropriation of the property of the Company;

            (iii) the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the Executive
                  which negatively impacts his job performance or the
                  Executive's failure of a Company-required drug test;

            (iv)  the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to perform his
                  duties as set forth herein or the willful failure or refusal
                  to follow the direction of the CEO or the Board, provided such
                  failure or refusal continues after thirty (30) days of the
                  receipt of notice in writing from the CEO or the Board of such
                  failure or refusal, which notice refers to this Section 4(a)
                  and

                                       3


                  indicates the Company's intention to terminate the Executive's
                  employment hereunder if such failure or refusal is not
                  remedied within such thirty (30) day period; or

            (v)   the Executive breaches any of the terms of this Agreement or
                  any other agreement between the Executive and the Company
                  which breach is not cured within thirty (30) days subsequent
                  to notice from the Company to the Executive of such breach,
                  which notice refers to this Section 4(a) and indicates the
                  Company's intention to terminate the Executive's employment
                  hereunder if such breach is not cured within such thirty (30)
                  day period.

            If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
            conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based or
            performance- based Stock Option Agreements to purchase 227,894
            shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $4.39 per share
            (collectively, the "Stock Option Agreements") or any agreements
            referred to therein, the definition set forth herein shall control.

     (b)    TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY. The Company shall
            have the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
            hereunder upon thirty (30) days prior written notice upon the
            Executive's inability to perform his duties hereunder by reason of
            any mental, physical or other disability for a period of at least
            six (6) consecutive months (for purposes hereof, "disability" has
            the same meaning as in the Company's disability policy), if within
            30 days after such notice of termination is given, the Executive
            shall not have returned to the full-time performance of his duties.
            The Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the provisions
            of Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of the Executive.

     (c)    TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have the
            right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment for any
            other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior written notice
            to the Executive.

     (d)    VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be entitled
            to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder upon sixty
            (60) days prior written notice to the Company. Any such termination
            shall be treated as a termination by the Company for "Cause" under
            Section 5, unless notice of such termination was given within sixty
            (60) days after a Sale (as such term is defined in the Stock Option
            Agreements), in which case such termination shall be treated in
            accordance with Section 5(c) hereof.

     (e)    CONSTRUCTIVE TERMINATION BY THE EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
            entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder,
            without prior notice, upon the occurrence of a Constructive
            Termination. Any such termination shall be treated as a termination
            by the Company without Cause. For this purpose, a "Constructive
            Termination" shall mean:

                                       4


            (i)   a reduction in Base Salary (other than as permitted hereby);

            (ii)  a reduction in annual Bonus opportunity;

            (iii) a change in location of office of more than seventy-five (75)
                  miles from Madison, Wisconsin;

            (iv)  unless with the express written consent of the Executive, (a)
                  the assignment to the Executive of any duties inconsistent in
                  any substantial respect with the Executive's position,
                  authority or responsibilities as contemplated by Section 1 of
                  this Agreement or (b) any other substantial change in such
                  position, including titles, authority or responsibilities from
                  those contemplated by Section 1 of the Agreement; or

            (v)   any material reduction in any of the benefits described in
                  Section 3(f), (g), (h) or (i) hereof.

            For purposes of the Stock Option Agreements, Constructive
            Termination shall be treated as a termination of employment by the
            Company without "Cause."

     (f)    NOTICE OF TERMINATION. Any termination by the Company for Cause or
            by the Executive for Constructive Termination shall be communicated
            by Notice of Termination to the other party hereto given in
            accordance with Section 8. For purposes of this Agreement, a "Notice
            of Termination" means a written notice given prior to the
            termination which (i) indicates the specific termination provision
            in this Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail
            the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for
            termination of the Executive's employment under the provision so
            indicated and (iii) if the termination date is other than the date
            of receipt of such notice, specifies the termination date of this
            Agreement (which date shall be not more than fifteen (15) days after
            the giving of such notice). The failure by any party to set forth in
            the Notice of Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes
            to a showing of Cause or Constructive Termination shall not waive
            any right of such party hereunder or preclude such party from
            asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights
            hereunder.

5.   EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

     (a)    WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with Cause,
            the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in Section 3
            shall cease at the time of such termination, and the Executive shall
            not be entitled to any compensation specified in Section 3 which was
            not required to be paid prior to such termination; provided,
            however, that the Executive shall be entitled to continue to
            participate in the Company's medical benefit plans to the extent
            required by law.

     (b)    WITHOUT CAUSE, DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's employment is
            terminated by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or

                                       5


            disability, then the Company shall pay the Executive the amounts and
            provide the Executive the benefits as follows:

            (i)   The Company shall pay to the Executive as severance, an amount
                  in cash equal to double the sum of (i) the Executive's Base
                  Salary, and (ii) the annual Bonus (if any) earned by the
                  Executive pursuant to any annual bonus or incentive plan
                  maintained by the Company in respect of the fiscal year ending
                  immediately prior to the fiscal year in which the termination
                  occurs, such cash amount to be paid to the Executive ratably
                  monthly in arrears over the Non-Competition Period (as defined
                  below).

            (ii)  For the greater of (i) the 24-month period immediately
                  following such termination or (ii) the remainder of the Term,
                  the Company shall arrange to provide the Executive and his
                  dependents the additional benefits specified in Section 3(c).
                  Benefits otherwise receivable by the Executive pursuant to
                  this Section 5(b)(ii) shall cease immediately upon the
                  discovery by the Company of the Executive's breach of the
                  covenants contained in Section 6 or 7 hereof.

            (iii) The Executive's accrued vacation (determined in accordance
                  with Company policy) at the time of termination shall be paid
                  as soon as reasonably practicable.

            (iv)  Any payments provided for hereunder shall be paid net of any
                  applicable withholding required under federal, state, or local
                  law and any additional withholding to which the Executive has
                  agreed.

            (v)   If the Executive's employment with the Company terminates
                  during the Term, the Executive shall not be required to seek
                  other employment or to attempt in any way to reduce any
                  amounts payable to the Executive by the Company pursuant to
                  this Section 5.

     (c)    FOLLOWING SALE. If the Executive elects to terminate his employment
            within sixty (60) days following a Sale in accordance with Section
            4(d), such termination by the Executive shall be treated as a
            termination by the Company without Cause, and the Executive shall be
            entitled to the compensation provided in Section 5(b) except that
            instead of the payment provided for in Section 5(b)(i)(ii) hereof,
            the Executive shall be entitled to the annual Bonus (if any) earned
            pursuant to any annual bonus or incentive plan maintained by the
            Company in respect of the fiscal year in which such termination
            occurs, and he shall be entitled to the full amount of such Bonus
            even if he terminates his employment pursuant to this Section 5(c)
            before the end of such fiscal year. Notwithstanding the foregoing,
            the Company may require that the Executive continue to remain in the
            employ of the Company for up to a maximum of six (6) months
            following the Sale (the "Post-Term Period"). The Company shall place
            the maximum cash payments payable pursuant to Section 5(b) (as
            modified by the provisions of this Section 5(c) above with respect
            to Section 5(b)(i)(ii) hereof) in escrow with a commercial bank

                                       6



            or trust company mutually acceptable to the Company and the
            Executive as soon as practicable following the Sale. For the
            Post-Term Period, the Company shall make the cash payments that
            would otherwise be required pursuant to Section 3 (all such cash
            payments to be deducted from the amount placed in escrow). At the
            expiration of the Post-Term Period, the Executive shall receive all
            cash amounts due the Executive from the remaining amount held in
            escrow ratably monthly over the Non-Competition Period (as defined
            below), with the balance (if any) returned to the Company. If the
            Company does not require that the Executive remain in the employ of
            the Company, the Company shall pay the Executive all cash amounts
            payable pursuant to Section 5(b) (as modified by the provisions of
            this Section 5(c) above with respect to Section 5(b)(i)(ii) hereof)
            ratably monthly over the Non-Competition Period (all such cash
            payments to be deducted from the amount placed in escrow) with the
            balance (if any) returned to the Company.

The Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment
provided for in this Agreement by seeking other employment or otherwise, and if
the Executive does obtain other employment, all amounts payable by the Company
under this Agreement shall remain fully due and payable.

6.   AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

     (a)    The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period (as
            defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in any
            capacity, either separately, jointly or in association with others,
            as an officer, director, consultant, agent, employee, owner,
            principal, partner or stockholder of any business, or in any other
            capacity, engage or have a financial interest in any business which
            is involved in the design, manufacturing, marketing or sale of
            batteries or battery operated lighting devices (excepting only the
            ownership of not more than 5% of the outstanding securities of any
            class listed on an exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market). The
            "Non-Competition Period" is (a) the longer of the Executive's
            employment hereunder or time period which he serves as a director of
            the Company plus (b) a period of one (1) year thereafter.

     (b)    Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the Executive
            further agrees that during the Non-Competition Period, he will not,
            directly or indirectly, in any capacity, either separately, jointly
            or in association with others, solicit or otherwise contact any of
            the Company's customers or prospects, as shown by the Company's
            records, that were customers or prospects of the Company at any time
            during the Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact is
            for the general purpose of selling products that satisfy the same
            general needs as any products that the Company had available for
            sale to its customers or prospects during the Non-Competition
            Period.

     (c)    The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period, he
            shall not, other than in connection with employment for the Company,
            solicit the employment or services of any employee of

                                       7


            Company who is or was an employee of Company at any time during the
            Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition Period, the
            Executive shall not hire any employee of Company for any other
            business.

     (d)    If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too broad
            or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law, including with
            respect to time or space, the court is hereby requested and
            authorized by the parties hereto to revise the foregoing
            restrictions to include the maximum restrictions allowed under the
            applicable law.

     (e)    For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company" refers
            to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated affiliates of
            the Company.

7.   SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

     (a)    The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except as the
            Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any person or use
            (except in the performance of his services hereunder) any
            confidential information or materials received by the Executive from
            the Company and any confidential information or materials of other
            parties received by the Executive in connection with the performance
            of his duties hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a),
            confidential information or materials shall include existing and
            potential customer information, existing and potential supplier
            information, product information, design and construction
            information, pricing and profitability information, financial
            information, sales and marketing strategies and techniques and
            business ideas or practices. The restriction on the Executive's use
            or disclosure of the confidential information or materials shall
            remain in force until such information is of general knowledge in
            the industry through no fault of the Executive or any agent of the
            Executive. The Executive also agrees to return to the Company
            promptly upon its request any Company information or materials in
            the Executive's possession or under the Executive's control.

     (b)    The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no other
            person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries, improvements,
            trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes, know-how and similar
            matters, whether or not patentable and whether or not reduced to
            practice, which are conceived or learned by the Executive during the
            period of the Executive's employment with the Company, either alone
            or with others, which relate to or result from the actual or
            anticipated business or research of the Company or which result, to
            any extent, from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or
            property (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive
            acknowledges and agrees that all the Inventions shall be the sole
            property of the Company, and the Executive hereby assigns to the
            Company all of the Executive's rights and interests in and to all of
            the Inventions, it being acknowledged and agreed by the Executive
            that all the Inventions are works made for hire. The Company shall
            be the sole owner of all domestic and foreign rights and interests
            in the

                                       8


            Inventions. The Executive agrees to assist the Company at the
            Company's expense to obtain and from time to time enforce patents
            and copyrights on the Inventions.

     (c)    Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of the
            Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive shall
            promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data, records, notes,
            drawings, manuals and all other tangible information in whatever
            form which pertains to the Company, and the Executive will not
            retain any such information or any reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.   NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in writing
     and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered personally,
     (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other communication is
     sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery to an overnight
     delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the date of deposit in
     the United States mail if sent first class, postage prepaid, by registered
     or certified mail. The addresses for such notices shall be as follows:

     (a)   For notices and communications to the Company:

               Rayovac Corporation
               601 Rayovac Drive
               Madison, WI 53711
               Facsimile: (608) 278-6666
               Attention: Board of Directors

            with a copy to:

               Thomas H. Lee Company
               75 State Street
               Boston, MA  02109
               Facsimile: (617) 227-3514
               Attention: Warren C. Smith, Jr.

            and a copy to:

               Skadden, Arps, Slate,
                 Meagher & Flom LLP
               One Beacon Street,
               Boston, MA  02108
               Facsimile: (617) 573-4822
               Attention: Louis A. Goodman

     (b)    For notices and communications to the Executive:

               Kent J. Hussey
               7801 Noll Valley Road
               Verona, WI  53593
               Facsimile: (608) 798-0715

            with a copy to:

               Sutherland, Asbill & Brennan LLP
               999 Peachtree Street, N.E.
               Atlanta, GA 30309
               Facsimile: (404) 853-8806
               Attention: Mark D. Kaufman

                                       9


Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for receipt of
notices hereunder.

9.       GENERAL.

         9.1 GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and governed
by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without reference to its conflicts of law
principles.

         9.2 AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms hereof may be waived,
only by a written instrument executed by all of the parties hereto or, in the
case of a waiver, by the party waiving compliance. The failure of any party at
any time or times to require performance of any provision hereof shall in no
manner affect the right at a later time to enforce the same. No waiver by any
party of the breach of any term or covenant contained in this Agreement, whether
by conduct or otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be, or
construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any such breach, or a waiver of
the breach of any other term or covenant contained in this Agreement.

         9.3 SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon the
Executive, without regard to the duration of his employment by the Company or
reasons for the cessation of such employment, and inure to the benefit of his
administrators, executors, heirs and assigns, although the obligations of the
Executive are personal and may be performed only by him. This Agreement shall
also be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company and its
subsidiaries, successors and assigns, including any corporation with which or
into which the Company or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to
their assets or business.

         9.4 COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two counterparts,
each of which shall be deemed an original but which together shall constitute
one and the same instrument.

         9.5 ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to enforce
any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain money damages for the
breach thereof, and such action results in the award of a judgment for money
damages or in the granting of any injunction in favor of one of the parties to
this Agreement, all expenses, including reasonable attorneys' fees, shall be
paid by the non-prevailing party.

         9.6 NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent
or limit the Executive's continuing or future participation during his
employment hereunder in any benefit, bonus, incentive or other plan or program
provided by the Company or any of its affiliates and for which the Executive may
qualify. Amounts which are vested benefits or which the Executive is otherwise
entitled to

                                       10


receive under any plan or program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of employment with the
Company shall, subject to the terms hereof or any other agreement entered into
by the Company and the Executive on or subsequent to the date hereof, be payable
in accordance with such plan or program.

         9.7 MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to seek
other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts payable to the Executive
under any of the provisions of this Agreement. In the event that the Executive
shall give a Notice of Termination for Constructive Termination and it shall
thereafter be determined that Constructive Termination did not take place, the
employment of the Executive shall, unless the Corporation and the Executive
shall otherwise mutually agree, be deemed to have terminated, at the date of
giving such purported Notice of Termination, and the Executive shall be entitled
to receive only those payments and benefits which he would have been entitled to
receive at such date had he terminated his employment voluntarily at such date
under Section 4(d) of this Agreement.

         9.8 EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach of any
provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would result in irreparable
injuries to the Company, that the remedy at law for any such breach will be
inadequate and that upon breach of such provisions, the Company, in addition to
all other available remedies, shall be entitled as a matter of right to
injunctive relief in any court of competent jurisdiction without the necessity
of proving the actual damage to the Company.

         9.9 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the schedules hereto
constitute the entire understanding of the parties hereto with respect to the
subject matter hereof and supersede all prior negotiations, discussions,
writings and agreements between them with respect to the subject matter hereof.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the
date first above written.


                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION

                               By:
                                  ---------------------------------------------
                                  David A. Jones
                                  Chief Executive Officer

EXECUTIVE:

- -----------------------
Kent J. Hussey



                                       11


                                   SCHEDULE A

                            EXECUTIVE BONUS SCHEDULE
===================================================================================== Bonus Available Percentage of as Percentage Plan Achieved of Annual Base Salary ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137.5% 120% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 130 110 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122.5 100 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 115 90 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107.5 75 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 100 60 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 90 30 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 80 0 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Any level of Company performance which falls between two specific points set forth above under "Percentage of Plan Achieved" shall entitle the Executive to receive a percentage of Base Salary determined on a straight line basis between such two points. Such amount shall be calculated as follows: [(A-B) x .1] x (C-D) + D Where: A = The actual Percentage of Plan Achieved. B = The Percentage of Plan Achieved set forth above which is less than and closest to actual results. C = The Bonus Available as Percentage of Base Salary set forth above which is greater than and closest to the percentage that would apply based on actual results. D = The Bonus Available as Percentage of Base Salary set forth above which is less than and closest to the percentage that would apply based on actual results. 12 SCHEDULE B RAYOVAC CORPORATION RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and Kent J. Hussey (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the mutuality and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this Agreement hereby agree as follows: 1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage such individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the Company. The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive of shares of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common Stock"), as additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an inducement to the continued services by the Executive to the Company and its subsidiaries, subject to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions contained herein. The Executive acknowledges that he has received a copy of the Plan and any prospectus related thereto from the Company. 2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the Executive an Award of Thirty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred Seventy-One (35,971) shares of Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and collectively, the "Shares"). 3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following restrictions: (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment of the Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of restrictions on the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates for any reason other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse, the Shares shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall have no further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and "disability" shall be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of Executive's Amended and Restated Employment Agreement of October 1, 2000. 13 (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, exchanged, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the Executive. 4. LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS. (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on the Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive the Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30) days after such vesting date. (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the Shares subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment with the Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability. (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. 5. CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall be registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its designee and shall bear the following legend: "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including forfeiture and restrictions against transfer) contained in The 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan and an Agreement entered into between Rayovac Corporation and the registered owner. Release from such terms and conditions shall be obtained only in accordance with the provisions of such Plan and Agreement, copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary of Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin." The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or powers in blank with respect to the Shares. 6. SECTION 83 ELECTION. The Executive agrees not to file an election under section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to the Shares. 7. CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously forfeited 14 as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the occurrence of a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in Control has occurred, all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately prior to the effective date of the Change in Control . 8. INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of the Plan were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict between the Plan and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall govern. Unless otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms in the Plan. 9. MISCELLANEOUS. (a) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to the benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin. (b) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the Executive any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of Directors, or to defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of the restrictions with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in additional shares of Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that become payable while any of the Shares remain subject to restrictions hereunder to Executive with respect to the restricted shares may, in the Company's discretion, be net of an amount sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax requirements with respect to such dividends. (c) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract of employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right to remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in any way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or responsibilities of the Executive. (d) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the provisions for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the approval of the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under applicable tax, securities or other laws or the rules and regulations thereunder, or to correct any omission in this Agreement. 15 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement, effective as of the date set forth below. Rayovac Corporation October 1, 2000 By: --------------------------------------- David A. Jones Chief Executive Officer EXECUTIVE - -------------------------------- Name: Kent J. Hussey Address: 7801 Noll Valley Road Verona, WI 53593 16


                                                                  Exhibit 10.5

                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT


                  THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is entered into
as of the 1st day of October, 2000, by and between Rayovac Corporation, a
Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and Randall J. Steward (the "Executive").

                  WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive wish to terminate
Executive's Severance Agreement with the Company, dated October 1, 1998, because
the Company desires to employ the Executive upon the terms and conditions set
forth herein; and

                  WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such
employment on such terms and conditions.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual
agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the
Executive hereby agree as follows:

1.       EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the
         Executive, and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment with
         the Company as Executive Vice President - Administration and Chief
         Financial Officer. During the Term (as defined below), the Executive
         shall devote all of his working time to such employment and
         appointment, shall devote his best efforts to advance the interests of
         the Company and shall not engage in any other business activities, as
         an employee, director, consultant or in any other capacity, whether or
         not he receives any compensation therefor, without the prior written
         consent of the Board.

2.       TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's
         employment and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on
         the date hereof and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term"). Upon
         expiration of the Term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for
         successive periods of one (1) year, unless the Executive or the Company
         shall give notice to the other at least ninety (90) days prior to the
         end of the Term (or any annual extension thereof) indicating that it
         does not intend to renew the Agreement.

3.       COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of
         his duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive
         the following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
         satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
         withholding taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted
         from such compensation:

         (a)      BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal
                  to Two Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($275,000) per
                  annum effective October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term
                  ("Base Salary"), which Base Salary shall be paid in equal
                  semi-monthly installments each year, to be paid semi-monthly
                  in arrears. The Board will review from time to time the Base
                  Salary payable to the Executive hereunder and may, in its
                  discretion, increase the Executive's Base Salary. Any such
                  increased Base Salary shall be and become the "Base Salary"
                  for purposes of this Agreement.

                                       1



         (b)      BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal
                  year ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears,
                  which shall be based on fifty percent (50%) of Base Salary,
                  provided the Company achieves certain annual performance goals
                  established by the Board from time to time (the "Bonus"). The
                  Board may, in its discretion, increase the annual Bonus. Any
                  such increased annual Bonus shall be and become the "Bonus"
                  for such fiscal year for purposes of this Agreement.

         (c)      INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as
                  are generally made available by the Company to its executive
                  officers from time to time.

         (d)      STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the
                  Executive shall remain in full force and effect in accordance
                  with their terms. If the Company implements a new stock option
                  program in the future, the Executive may participate to the
                  extent authorized by the Board.

         (e)      RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
                  employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby
                  granted a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
                  Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions
                  of the Rayovac Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement
                  attached hereto as Schedule A.

         (f)      VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks
                  vacation each year.

         (g)      OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  reimbursement of all reasonable and documented expenses
                  actually incurred or paid by the Executive in the performance
                  of the Executive's duties under this Agreement, upon
                  presentation of expense statements, vouchers or other
                  supporting information in accordance with Company policy. All
                  expense reimbursements and other perquisites of the Executive
                  are reviewable periodically by the Compensation Committee of
                  the Board, if there be one, or the Board.

         (h)      VEHICLE. Pursuant to the Company's policy for use of vehicles
                  by executives, Executive shall be provided the use of a leased
                  vehicle. Unless the Executive's employment is terminated by
                  the Company for Cause or by the Executive pursuant to Section
                  5(c), Executive shall be permitted to drive his Company
                  vehicle for the duration of the 12-month period following
                  termination; at the end of such 12-month period, Executive
                  will be permitted to purchase his Company vehicle at book
                  value as of such date.

                                       2



         (i)      D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  indemnification from the Company to the maximum extent
                  provided by law, but not for any action, suit, arbitration or
                  other proceeding (or portion thereof) initiated by the
                  Executive, unless authorized or ratified by the Board. Such
                  indemnification shall be covered by the terms of the Company's
                  policy of insurance for directors and officers in effect from
                  time to time (the "D&O Insurance"). Copies of the Company's
                  charter, by-laws and D&O Insurance will be made available to
                  the Executive upon request.

         (j)      LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
                  reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the
                  preparation of this Agreement.

4.       TERMINATION.

         (a)      TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  hereunder without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of
                  the following (any such termination being referred to as a
                  termination for "Cause"):

                  (i)   the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                        premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith
                        against the interests of the Company;

                  (ii)  the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO
                        CONTENDERE with respect to, any felony, or of any
                        lesser crime or offense having as its predicate
                        element fraud, dishonesty or misappropriation of the
                        property of the Company;

                  (iii) the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the
                        Executive which negatively impacts his job performance
                        or the Executive's failure of a Company-required drug
                        test;

                  (iv)  the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to
                        perform his duties as set forth herein or the willful
                        failure or refusal to follow the direction of the
                        President, the CEO or the Board, provided such
                        failure or refusal continues after thirty (30) days
                        of the receipt of notice in writing from the
                        President, the CEO or the Board of such failure or
                        refusal, which notice refers to this Section 4(a) and
                        indicates the Company's intention to terminate the
                        Executive's employment hereunder if such failure or
                        refusal is not remedied within such thirty (30) day
                        period; or

                  (v)   the Executive breaches any of the terms of this
                        Agreement or any other agreement between the
                        Executive and the Company which breach is not cured
                        within thirty (30) days subsequent to notice from the
                        Company to the Executive of such breach, which notice
                        refers to this Section 4(a) and indicates the
                        Company's intention to terminate the Executive's
                        employment hereunder if such breach is not cured
                        within such thirty (30) day period.

                                       3



                  If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
                  conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based
                  or performance- based Stock Option Agreements pursuant to the
                  1997 Plan or the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan
                  (collectively, the "Stock Option Agreements") or any
                  agreements referred to therein, the definition set forth
                  herein shall control.

         (b)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY. The Company
                  shall have the right at any time to terminate the Executive's
                  employment hereunder upon thirty (30) days prior written
                  notice upon the Executive's inability to perform his duties
                  hereunder by reason of any mental, physical or other
                  disability for a period of at least six (6) consecutive months
                  (for purposes hereof, "disability" has the same meaning as in
                  the Company's disability policy), if within 30 days after such
                  notice of termination is given, the Executive shall not have
                  returned to the full-time performance of his duties. The
                  Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the
                  provisions of Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of
                  the Executive.

         (c)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  for any other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior
                  written notice to the Executive.

         (d)      VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder
                  upon sixty (60) days prior written notice to the Company. Any
                  such termination shall be treated as a termination by the
                  Company for "Cause" under Section 5.

         (e)      NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any termination by the Company for
                  Cause shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the
                  other party hereto given in accordance with Section 8. For
                  purposes of this Agreement, a "Notice of Termination" means a
                  written notice given prior to the termination which
                  (i) indicates the specific termination provision in this
                  Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail
                  the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for
                  termination of the Executive's employment under the provision
                  so indicated and (iii) if the termination date is other than
                  the date of receipt of such notice, specifies the termination
                  date of this Agreement (which date shall be not more than
                  fifteen (15) days after the giving of such notice). The
                  failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of
                  Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes to a
                  showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company
                  hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or
                  circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder.

5.       EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

         (a)      WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with
                  Cause, the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in
                  Section 3 shall cease at the time of such termination, and the
                  Executive shall not be entitled to any compensation specified
                  in Section 3 which was not required to be paid prior to such
                  termination; provided, however, that the Executive shall be
                  entitled to continue to participate in the Company's medical
                  benefit plans to the extent required by law.

                                       4



         (b)      WITHOUT CAUSE, DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's
                  employment is terminated by the Company without Cause or by
                  reason of death or disability, then the Company shall pay the
                  Executive the amounts and provide the Executive the benefits
                  as follows:

                  (i)      The Company shall pay to the Executive as severance,
                           an amount in cash equal to double the sum of (i) the
                           Executive's Base Salary, and (ii) the annual Bonus
                           (if any) earned by the Executive pursuant to any
                           annual bonus or incentive plan maintained by the
                           Company in respect of the fiscal year ending
                           immediately prior to the fiscal year in which the
                           termination occurs, such cash amount to be paid to
                           the Executive ratably monthly in arrears over the
                           Non-Competition Period (as defined below).

                  (ii)     For the greater of (i) the 24-month period
                           immediately following such termination or (ii) the
                           remainder of the Term, the Company shall arrange to
                           provide the Executive and his dependents the
                           additional benefits specified in Section 3(c).
                           Benefits otherwise receivable by the Executive
                           pursuant to this Section 5(b)(ii) shall cease
                           immediately upon the discovery by the Company of the
                           Executive's breach of the covenants contained in
                           Section 6 or 7 hereof.

                  (iii)    The Executive's accrued vacation (determined in
                           accordance with Company policy) at the time of
                           termination shall be paid as soon as reasonably
                           practicable.

                  (iv)     Any payments provided for hereunder shall be paid net
                           of any applicable withholding required under federal,
                           state, or local law and any additional withholding to
                           which the Executive has agreed.

                  (v)      If the Executive's employment with the Company
                           terminates during the Term, the Executive shall not
                           be required to seek other employment or to attempt in
                           any way to reduce any amounts payable to the
                           Executive by the Company pursuant to this Section 5.

6.       AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

         (a)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period
                  (as defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in
                  any capacity, either separately, jointly or in association
                  with others, as an officer, director, consultant, agent,
                  employee, owner, principal, partner or stockholder of any
                  business, or in any other capacity, engage or have a financial
                  interest in any business which is involved in the design,
                  manufacturing, marketing or sale of batteries or battery

                                       5



                  operated lighting devices (excepting only the ownership of not
                  more than 5% of the outstanding securities of any class listed
                  on an exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market). The
                  "Non-Competition Period" is (a) the longer of the Executive's
                  employment hereunder or time period which he serves as a
                  director of the Company plus (b) a period of one (1) year
                  thereafter.

         (b)      Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the
                  Executive further agrees that during the Non-Competition
                  Period, he will not, directly or indirectly, in any capacity,
                  either separately, jointly or in association with others,
                  solicit or otherwise contact any of the Company's customers or
                  prospects, as shown by the Company's records, that were
                  customers or prospects of the Company at any time during the
                  Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact is for
                  the general purpose of selling products that satisfy the same
                  general needs as any products that the Company had available
                  for sale to its customers or prospects during the
                  Non-Competition Period.

         (c)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period,
                  he shall not, other than in connection with employment for the
                  Company, solicit the employment or services of any employee of
                  Company who is or was an employee of Company at any time
                  during the Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition
                  Period, the Executive shall not hire any employee of Company
                  for any other business.

         (d)      If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too
                  broad or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law,
                  including with respect to time or space, the court is hereby
                  requested and authorized by the parties hereto to revise the
                  foregoing restrictions to include the maximum restrictions
                  allowed under the applicable law.

         (e)      For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company"
                  refers to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated
                  affiliates of the Company.

7.       SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

         (a)      The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except
                  as the Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any
                  person or use (except in the performance of his services
                  hereunder) any confidential information or materials received
                  by the Executive from the Company and any confidential
                  information or materials of other parties received by the
                  Executive in connection with the performance of his duties
                  hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a), confidential
                  information or materials shall include existing and potential
                  customer information, existing and potential supplier
                  information, product information, design and construction
                  information, pricing and profitability information, financial
                  information, sales and marketing strategies and techniques and
                  business ideas or practices. The restriction on the
                  Executive's use or disclosure of the confidential information

                                       6



                  or materials shall remain in force until such information is
                  of general knowledge in the industry through no fault of the
                  Executive or any agent of the Executive. The Executive also
                  agrees to return to the Company promptly upon its request any
                  Company information or materials in the Executive's possession
                  or under the Executive's control.

         (b)      The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no
                  other person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries,
                  improvements, trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes,
                  know-how and similar matters, whether or not patentable and
                  whether or not reduced to practice, which are conceived or
                  learned by the Executive during the period of the Executive's
                  employment with the Company, either alone or with others,
                  which relate to or result from the actual or anticipated
                  business or research of the Company or which result, to any
                  extent, from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or
                  property (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive
                  acknowledges and agrees that all the Inventions shall be the
                  sole property of the Company, and the Executive hereby assigns
                  to the Company all of the Executive's rights and interests in
                  and to all of the Inventions, it being acknowledged and agreed
                  by the Executive that all the Inventions are works made for
                  hire. The Company shall be the sole owner of all domestic and
                  foreign rights and interests in the Inventions. The Executive
                  agrees to assist the Company at the Company's expense to
                  obtain and from time to time enforce patents and copyrights on
                  the Inventions.

         (c)      Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of
                  the Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive
                  shall promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data,
                  records, notes, drawings, manuals and all other tangible
                  information in whatever form which pertains to the Company,
                  and the Executive will not retain any such information or any
                  reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.       NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in
         writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered
         personally, (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other
         communication is sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery
         to an overnight delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the
         date of deposit in the United States mail if sent first class, postage
         prepaid, by registered or certified mail. The addresses for such
         notices shall be as follows:

         (a)      For notices and communications to the Company:
                           Rayovac Corporation
                           601 Rayovac Drive
                           Madison, WI  53711
                           Facsimile:  (608) 278-6666
                           Attention:  James T. Lucke

         (b)      For notices and communications to the Executive:
                           Randall J. Steward
                           3024 Woodland Trail
                           Middleton, WI  53562

                                       7



         Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for
         receipt of notices hereunder.

9.       GENERAL.

         9.1      GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and
                  governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without
                  reference to its conflicts of law principles.

         9.2      AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
                  superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms
                  hereof may be waived, only by a written instrument executed by
                  all of the parties hereto or, in the case of a waiver, by the
                  party waiving compliance. The failure of any party at any time
                  or times to require performance of any provision hereof shall
                  in no manner affect the right at a later time to enforce the
                  same. No waiver by any party of the breach of any term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or
                  otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to
                  be, or construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any
                  such breach, or a waiver of the breach of any other term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement.

         9.3      SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon
                  the Executive, without regard to the duration of his
                  employment by the Company or reasons for the cessation of such
                  employment, and inure to the benefit of his administrators,
                  executors, heirs and assigns, although the obligations of the
                  Executive are personal and may be performed only by him. This
                  Agreement shall also be binding upon and inure to the benefit
                  of the Company and its subsidiaries, successors and assigns,
                  including any corporation with which or into which the Company
                  or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to their
                  assets or business.

         9.4      COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two
                  counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but
                  which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

         9.5      ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to
                  enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain
                  money damages for the breach thereof, and such action results
                  in the award of a judgment for money damages or in the
                  granting of any injunction in favor of one of the parties to
                  this Agreement, all expenses, including reasonable attorneys'
                  fees, shall be paid by the non-prevailing party.

         9.6      NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall
                  prevent or limit the Executive's continuing or future
                  participation during his employment hereunder in any benefit,
                  bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by the
                  Company or any of its affiliates and for which the Executive
                  may qualify. Amounts which are vested benefits or which the
                  Executive is otherwise entitled to receive under any plan or
                  program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
                  subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of
                  employment with the Company shall, subject to the terms hereof
                  or any other agreement entered into by the Company and the
                  Executive on or subsequent to the date hereof, be payable in
                  accordance with such plan or program.

                                       8



         9.7      MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to
                  seek other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts
                  payable to the Executive under any of the provisions of this
                  Agreement.

         9.8      EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach
                  of any provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would
                  result in irreparable injuries to the Company, that the remedy
                  at law for any such breach will be inadequate and that upon
                  breach of such provisions, the Company, in addition to all
                  other available remedies, shall be entitled as a matter of
                  right to injunctive relief in any court of competent
                  jurisdiction without the necessity of proving the actual
                  damage to the Company.

         9.9      SEVERANCE AGREEMENT.  The Severance Agreement between the
                  parties dated October 1, 1998 is hereby terminated and all
                  rights and obligations thereunder are of no further force or
                  effect.

         9.10     ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the schedule hereto
                  constitute the entire understanding of the parties hereto with
                  respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior
                  negotiations, discussions, writings and agreements between
                  them with respect to the subject matter hereof.

                                       9



                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement
as of the date first above written.


                                            RAYOVAC CORPORATION



                                      By:
                                          ----------------------------
                                          David A. Jones
                                          Chief Executive Officer



EXECUTIVE:



- -------------------------
Name:  Randall J. Steward

                                       10



                                   SCHEDULE A

                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION
                        RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT


         This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of
October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the
"Company"), and Randall J. Steward (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997
Rayovac Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual
promises set forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the
mutuality and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this
Agreement hereby agree as follows:

    1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional
incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage
such individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the
Company. The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive
of shares of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common
Stock"), as additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an
inducement to the continued services by the Executive to the Company and its
subsidiaries, subject to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions
contained herein. The Executive acknowledges that he has received a copy of
the Plan and any prospectus related thereto from the Company.

    2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the
Executive an Award of Twenty-Four Thousand Eighty-Eight (24,088) shares of
Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and
collectively, the "Shares").

    3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this
Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following
restrictions:

   (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment of the
Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of restrictions on
the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates for any reason
other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or
disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse, the Shares
shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall have no
further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and "disability" shall
be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of Executive's Employment
Agreement of October 1, 2000.

                                       11



   (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, exchanged,
pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the Executive.

    4. LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS.

   (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on the
Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive the
Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30) days
after such vesting date.

   (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the Shares
subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment with the
Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than termination by the
Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability.

   (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the
power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable
restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of
the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on
Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

    5. CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall be
registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its
designee and shall bear the following legend:

                  "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented
                  hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including
                  forfeiture and restrictions against transfer) contained in The
                  1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan and an Agreement entered into
                  between Rayovac Corporation and the registered owner. Release
                  from such terms and conditions shall be obtained only in
                  accordance with the provisions of such Plan and Agreement,
                  copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary of
                  Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin."

         The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or
powers in blank with respect to the Shares.

    6. SECTION 83 ELECTION.  The Executive  agrees not to file an election
under section 83(b) of the Internal  Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with
respect to the Shares.

                                       12



    7. CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all
restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously
forfeited as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the
occurrence of a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in
Control has occurred, all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately
prior to the effective date of the Change in Control.

    8. INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated herein by
reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of the Plan
were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict between the Plan
and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall govern. Unless
otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all capitalized terms in this
Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms in the Plan.

    9. MISCELLANEOUS.

   (a) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to the
benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in
interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

   (b) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the Executive
any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of Directors, or to
defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of the restrictions
with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in additional shares of
Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that become payable while any
of the Shares remain subject to restrictions hereunder to Executive with respect
to the restricted shares may, in the Company's discretion, be net of an amount
sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax requirements
with respect to such dividends.

   (c) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract of
employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right to
remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in any
way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or
responsibilities of the Executive.

   (d) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the provisions
for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the approval of
the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under applicable tax,
securities or other laws or the rules and regulations thereunder, or to correct
any omission in this Agreement.

                                       13



                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement,
effective as of the date set forth below.


                                                    Rayovac Corporation


October 1, 2000                                     By:
                                                       ------------------------
                                                       David A. Jones
                                                       Chief Executive Officer


EXECUTIVE


- ---------------------------
Name:    Randall J. Steward

Address: 3024 Woodland Trail
         Middleton, WI  53562




                                                                   Exhibit 10.6
                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT


                  THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is entered into
as of the 1st day of October, 2000, by and between Rayovac Corporation, a
Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and Kenneth V. Biller (the "Executive").

                  WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive wish to terminate
Executive's Severance Agreement with the Company, dated October 1, 1998, because
the Company desires to employ the Executive upon the terms and conditions set
forth herein; and

                  WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such
employment on such terms and conditions.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual
agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the
Executive hereby agree as follows:

1.       EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the
         Executive, and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment with
         the Company as Executive Vice President - Operations. During the Term
         (as defined below), the Executive shall devote all of his working time
         to such employment and appointment, shall devote his best efforts to
         advance the interests of the Company and shall not engage in any other
         business activities, as an employee, director, consultant or in any
         other capacity, whether or not he receives any compensation therefor,
         without the prior written consent of the Board.

2.       TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's
         employment and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on
         the date hereof and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term"). Upon
         expiration of the Term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for
         successive periods of one (1) year, unless the Executive or the Company
         shall give notice to the other at least ninety (90) days prior to the
         end of the Term (or any annual extension thereof) indicating that it
         does not intend to renew the Agreement.

3.       COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of
         his duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive
         the following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
         satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
         withholding taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted
         from such compensation:

         (a)      BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal
                  to Two Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($275,000) per
                  annum effective October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term
                  ("Base Salary"), which Base Salary shall be paid in equal
                  semi-monthly installments each year, to be paid semi-monthly
                  in arrears. The Board will review from time to time the Base
                  Salary payable to the Executive hereunder and may, in its
                  discretion, increase the Executive's Base Salary. Any such
                  increased Base Salary shall be and become the "Base Salary"
                  for purposes of this Agreement.

                                       1



         (b)      BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal
                  year ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears,
                  which shall be based on fifty percent (50%) of Base Salary,
                  provided the Company achieves certain annual performance goals
                  established by the Board from time to time (the "Bonus"). The
                  Board may, in its discretion, increase the annual Bonus. Any
                  such increased annual Bonus shall be and become the "Bonus"
                  for such fiscal year for purposes of this Agreement.

         (c)      INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as
                  are generally made available by the Company to its executive
                  officers from time to time.

         (d)      STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the
                  Executive shall remain in full force and effect in accordance
                  with their terms. If the Company implements a new stock option
                  program in the future, the Executive may participate to the
                  extent authorized by the Board.

         (e)      RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
                  employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby
                  granted a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
                  Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions
                  of the Rayovac Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement
                  attached hereto as Schedule A.

         (f)      VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to five (5) weeks
                  vacation each year.

         (g)      OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  reimbursement of all reasonable and documented expenses
                  actually incurred or paid by the Executive in the performance
                  of the Executive's duties under this Agreement, upon
                  presentation of expense statements, vouchers or other
                  supporting information in accordance with Company policy. All
                  expense reimbursements and other perquisites of the Executive
                  are reviewable periodically by the Compensation Committee of
                  the Board, if there be one, or the Board.

         (h)      VEHICLE. Pursuant to the Company's policy for use of vehicles
                  by executives, Executive shall be provided the use of a leased
                  vehicle. Unless the Executive's employment is terminated by
                  the Company for Cause or by the Executive pursuant to Section
                  5(c), Executive shall be permitted to drive his Company
                  vehicle for the duration of the 12-month period following
                  termination; at the end of such 12-month period, Executive
                  will be permitted to purchase his Company vehicle at book
                  value as of such date.

                                       2



         (i)      D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  indemnification from the Company to the maximum extent
                  provided by law, but not for any action, suit, arbitration or
                  other proceeding (or portion thereof) initiated by the
                  Executive, unless authorized or ratified by the Board. Such
                  indemnification shall be covered by the terms of the Company's
                  policy of insurance for directors and officers in effect from
                  time to time (the "D&O Insurance"). Copies of the Company's
                  charter, by-laws and D&O Insurance will be made available to
                  the Executive upon request.

         (j)      LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
                  reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the
                  preparation of this Agreement.

4.       TERMINATION.

         (a)      TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  hereunder without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of
                  the following (any such termination being referred to as a
                  termination for "Cause"):

                  (i)   the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                        premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith
                        against the interests of the Company;

                  (ii)  the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO
                        CONTENDERE with respect to, any felony, or of any
                        lesser crime or offense having as its predicate element
                        fraud, dishonesty or misappropriation of the property of
                        the Company;

                  (iii) the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the
                        Executive which negatively impacts his job performance
                        or the Executive's failure of a Company-required drug
                        test;

                  (iv)  the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to
                        perform his duties as set forth herein or the willful
                        failure or refusal to follow the direction of the
                        President, the CEO or the Board, provided such failure
                        or refusal continues after thirty (30) days of the
                        receipt of notice in writing from the President, the CEO
                        or the Board of such failure or refusal, which notice
                        refers to this Section 4(a) and indicates the Company's
                        intention to terminate the Executive's employment
                        hereunder if such failure or refusal is not remedied
                        within such thirty (30) day period; or

                  (v)   the Executive breaches any of the terms of this
                        Agreement or any other agreement between the Executive
                        and the Company which breach is not cured within thirty
                       (30) days subsequent to notice from the Company to the
                        Executive of such breach, which notice refers to this
                        Section 4(a) and indicates the Company's intention to
                        terminate the Executive's employment hereunder if such
                        breach is not cured within such thirty (30) day period.

                                       3



                  If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
                  conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based
                  or performance- based Stock Option Agreements pursuant to the
                  1997 Plan or the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan
                  (collectively, the "Stock Option Agreements") or any
                  agreements referred to therein, the definition set forth
                  herein shall control.

         (b)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY. The Company
                  shall have the right at any time to terminate the Executive's
                  employment hereunder upon thirty (30) days prior written
                  notice upon the Executive's inability to perform his duties
                  hereunder by reason of any mental, physical or other
                  disability for a period of at least six (6) consecutive months
                  (for purposes hereof, "disability" has the same meaning as in
                  the Company's disability policy), if within 30 days after such
                  notice of termination is given, the Executive shall not have
                  returned to the full-time performance of his duties. The
                  Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the
                  provisions of Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of
                  the Executive.

         (c)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  for any other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior
                  written notice to the Executive.

         (d)      VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder
                  upon sixty (60) days prior written notice to the Company. Any
                  such termination shall be treated as a termination by the
                  Company for "Cause" under Section 5.

         (e)      NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any termination by the Company for
                  Cause shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the
                  other party hereto given in accordance with Section 8. For
                  purposes of this Agreement, a "Notice of Termination" means a
                  written notice given prior to the termination which
                 (i) indicates the specific termination provision in this
                  Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail
                  the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for
                  termination of the Executive's employment under the provision
                  so indicated and (iii) if the termination date is other than
                  the date of receipt of such notice, specifies the termination
                  date of this Agreement (which date shall be not more than
                  fifteen (15) days after the giving of such notice). The
                  failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of
                  Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes to a
                  showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company
                  hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or
                  circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder.

5.       EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

         (a)      WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with
                  Cause, the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in
                  Section 3 shall cease at the time of such termination, and the
                  Executive shall not be entitled to any compensation specified

                                       4



                  in Section 3 which was not required to be paid prior to such
                  termination; provided, however, that the Executive shall be
                  entitled to continue to participate in the Company's medical
                  benefit plans to the extent required by law.

         (b)      WITHOUT CAUSE, DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's
                  employment is terminated by the Company without Cause or by
                  reason of death or disability, then the Company shall pay the
                  Executive the amounts and provide the Executive the benefits
                  as follows:

                  (i)      The Company shall pay to the Executive as severance,
                           an amount in cash equal to double the sum of (i) the
                           Executive's Base Salary, and (ii) the annual Bonus
                           (if any) earned by the Executive pursuant to any
                           annual bonus or incentive plan maintained by the
                           Company in respect of the fiscal year ending
                           immediately prior to the fiscal year in which the
                           termination occurs, such cash amount to be paid to
                           the Executive ratably monthly in arrears over the
                           Non-Competition Period (as defined below).

                  (ii)     For the greater of (i) the 24-month period
                           immediately following such termination or (ii) the
                           remainder of the Term, the Company shall arrange to
                           provide the Executive and his dependents the
                           additional benefits specified in Section 3(c).
                           Benefits otherwise receivable by the Executive
                           pursuant to this Section 5(b)(ii) shall cease
                           immediately upon the discovery by the Company of the
                           Executive's breach of the covenants contained in
                           Section 6 or 7 hereof.

                  (iii)    The Executive's accrued vacation (determined in
                           accordance with Company policy) at the time of
                           termination shall be paid as soon as reasonably
                           practicable.

                  (iv)     Any payments provided for hereunder shall be paid net
                           of any applicable withholding required under federal,
                           state, or local law and any additional withholding to
                           which the Executive has agreed.

                  (v)      If the Executive's employment with the Company
                           terminates during the Term, the Executive shall not
                           be required to seek other employment or to attempt in
                           any way to reduce any amounts payable to the
                           Executive by the Company pursuant to this Section 5.

6.       AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

         (a)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period
                 (as defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in any
                  capacity, either separately, jointly or in association with
                  others, as an officer, director, consultant, agent, employee,
                  owner, principal, partner or stockholder of any business, or
                  in any other capacity, engage or have a financial interest in
                  any business which is involved in the design, manufacturing,
                  marketing or sale of batteries or battery operated lighting

                                       5



                  devices (excepting only the ownership of not more than 5% of
                  the outstanding securities of any class listed on an exchange
                  or the Nasdaq Stock Market).  The "Non-Competition Period" is
                 (a) the longer of the Executive's employment hereunder or time
                  period which he serves as a director of the Company plus
                 (b) a period of one (1) year thereafter.

         (b)      Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the
                  Executive further agrees that during the Non-Competition
                  Period, he will not, directly or indirectly, in any capacity,
                  either separately, jointly or in association with others,
                  solicit or otherwise contact any of the Company's customers or
                  prospects, as shown by the Company's records, that were
                  customers or prospects of the Company at any time during the
                  Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact is for
                  the general purpose of selling products that satisfy the same
                  general needs as any products that the Company had available
                  for sale to its customers or prospects during the
                  Non-Competition Period.

         (c)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period,
                  he shall not, other than in connection with employment for the
                  Company, solicit the employment or services of any employee of
                  Company who is or was an employee of Company at any time
                  during the Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition
                  Period, the Executive shall not hire any employee of Company
                  for any other business.

         (d)      If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too
                  broad or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law,
                  including with respect to time or space, the court is hereby
                  requested and authorized by the parties hereto to revise the
                  foregoing restrictions to include the maximum restrictions
                  allowed under the applicable law.

         (e)      For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company"
                  refers to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated
                  affiliates of the Company.

7.       SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

         (a)      The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except
                  as the Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any
                  person or use (except in the performance of his services
                  hereunder) any confidential information or materials received
                  by the Executive from the Company and any confidential
                  information or materials of other parties received by the
                  Executive in connection with the performance of his duties
                  hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a), confidential
                  information or materials shall include existing and potential
                  customer information, existing and potential supplier
                  information, product information, design and construction
                  information, pricing and profitability information, financial
                  information, sales and marketing strategies and techniques and
                  business ideas or practices. The restriction on the
                  Executive's use or disclosure of the confidential information
                  or materials shall remain in force until such information is
                  of general knowledge in the industry through no fault of the

                                       6



                  Executive or any agent of the Executive. The Executive also
                  agrees to return to the Company promptly upon its request any
                  Company information or materials in the Executive's possession
                  or under the Executive's control.

         (b)      The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no
                  other person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries,
                  improvements, trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes,
                  know-how and similar matters, whether or not patentable and
                  whether or not reduced to practice, which are conceived or
                  learned by the Executive during the period of the Executive's
                  employment with the Company, either alone or with others,
                  which relate to or result from the actual or anticipated
                  business or research of the Company or which result, to any
                  extent, from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or
                  property (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive
                  acknowledges and agrees that all the Inventions shall be the
                  sole property of the Company, and the Executive hereby assigns
                  to the Company all of the Executive's rights and interests in
                  and to all of the Inventions, it being acknowledged and agreed
                  by the Executive that all the Inventions are works made for
                  hire. The Company shall be the sole owner of all domestic and
                  foreign rights and interests in the Inventions. The Executive
                  agrees to assist the Company at the Company's expense to
                  obtain and from time to time enforce patents and copyrights on
                  the Inventions.

         (c)      Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of
                  the Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive
                  shall promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data,
                  records, notes, drawings, manuals and all other tangible
                  information in whatever form which pertains to the Company,
                  and the Executive will not retain any such information or any
                  reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.       NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in
         writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered
         personally, (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other
         communication is sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery
         to an overnight delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the
         date of deposit in the United States mail if sent first class, postage
         prepaid, by registered or certified mail. The addresses for such
         notices shall be as follows:

         (a)      For notices and communications to the Company:
                           Rayovac Corporation
                           601 Rayovac Drive
                           Madison, WI  53711
                           Facsimile:  (608) 278-6666
                           Attention:  James T. Lucke

         (b)               For notices and communications to the Executive:
                           Kenneth V. Biller
                           7318 W. Old Sauk Road
                           Middleton, WI 53562

                                       7



         Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for
receipt of notices hereunder.

9.       GENERAL.

         9.1      GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and
                  governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without
                  reference to its conflicts of law principles.

         9.2      AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
                  superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms
                  hereof may be waived, only by a written instrument executed by
                  all of the parties hereto or, in the case of a waiver, by the
                  party waiving compliance. The failure of any party at any time
                  or times to require performance of any provision hereof shall
                  in no manner affect the right at a later time to enforce the
                  same. No waiver by any party of the breach of any term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or
                  otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to
                  be, or construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any
                  such breach, or a waiver of the breach of any other term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement.

         9.3      SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon
                  the Executive, without regard to the duration of his
                  employment by the Company or reasons for the cessation of such
                  employment, and inure to the benefit of his administrators,
                  executors, heirs and assigns, although the obligations of the
                  Executive are personal and may be performed only by him. This
                  Agreement shall also be binding upon and inure to the benefit
                  of the Company and its subsidiaries, successors and assigns,
                  including any corporation with which or into which the Company
                  or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to their
                  assets or business.

         9.4      COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two
                  counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but
                  which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

         9.5      ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to
                  enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain
                  money damages for the breach thereof, and such action results
                  in the award of a judgment for money damages or in the
                  granting of any injunction in favor of one of the parties to
                  this Agreement, all expenses, including reasonable attorneys'
                  fees, shall be paid by the non-prevailing party.

         9.6      NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall
                  prevent or limit the Executive's continuing or future
                  participation during his employment hereunder in any benefit,
                  bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by the
                  Company or any of its affiliates and for which the Executive
                  may qualify. Amounts which are vested benefits or which the
                  Executive is otherwise entitled to receive under any plan or
                  program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
                  subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of

                                       8



                  employment with the Company shall, subject to the terms hereof
                  or any other agreement entered into by the Company and the
                  Executive on or subsequent to the date hereof, be payable in
                  accordance with such plan or program.

         9.7      MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to
                  seek other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts
                  payable to the Executive under any of the provisions of this
                  Agreement.

         9.8      EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach
                  of any provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would
                  result in irreparable injuries to the Company, that the remedy
                  at law for any such breach will be inadequate and that upon
                  breach of such provisions, the Company, in addition to all
                  other available remedies, shall be entitled as a matter of
                  right to injunctive relief in any court of competent
                  jurisdiction without the necessity of proving the actual
                  damage to the Company.

         9.9      SEVERANCE AGREEMENT.  The Severance Agreement between the
                  parties dated October 1, 1998 is hereby terminated and all
                  rights and obligations thereunder are of no further force or
                  effect.

         9.10     ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the schedule hereto
                  constitute the entire understanding of the parties hereto with
                  respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior
                  negotiations, discussions, writings and agreements between
                  them with respect to the subject matter hereof.

                                       9



                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement
as of the date first above written.


                                            RAYOVAC CORPORATION



                                      By:
                                          --------------------------
                                          David A. Jones
                                          Chief Executive Officer



EXECUTIVE:



- -------------------------
Name:  Kenneth V. Biller

                                       10




                                   SCHEDULE A

                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION
                        RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT


         This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of
October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the
"Company"), and Kenneth V. Biller (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual promises set
forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the mutuality and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this Agreement
hereby agree as follows:

    1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional
incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage
such individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the
Company. The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive
of shares of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common
Stock"), as additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an
inducement to the continued services by the Executive to the Company and its
subsidiaries, subject to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions
contained herein. The Executive acknowledges that he has received a copy of
the Plan and any prospectus related thereto from the Company.

    2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the
Executive an Award of Twenty-Four Thousand Eighty-Eight (24,088) shares of
Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and
collectively, the "Shares").

    3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this
Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following
restrictions:

   (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment of the
Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of restrictions on
the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates for any reason
other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or
disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse, the Shares
shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall have no
further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and "disability" shall
be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of Executive's Employment
Agreement of October 1, 2000.

                                       11



   (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, exchanged,
pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the Executive.

    4. LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS.

   (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on the
Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive the
Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30) days
after such vesting date.

   (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the Shares
subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment with the
Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than termination by the
Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability.

   (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the
power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable
restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of
the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on
Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

    5. CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall
be registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its
designee and shall bear the following legend:

                  "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented
                  hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including
                  forfeiture and restrictions against transfer) contained in The
                  1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan and an Agreement entered into
                  between Rayovac Corporation and the registered owner. Release
                  from such terms and conditions shall be obtained only in
                  accordance with the provisions of such Plan and Agreement,
                  copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary of
                  Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin."

         The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or
powers in blank with respect to the Shares.

    6. SECTION 83 ELECTION.  The Executive  agrees not to file an election
under section 83(b) of the Internal  Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with
respect to the Shares.

                                       12



    7. CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all
restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously
forfeited as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the
occurrence of a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in
Control has occurred, all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately
prior to the effective date of the Change in Control.

    8. INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated herein
by reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of the
Plan were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict between
the Plan and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall
govern. Unless otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all capitalized
terms in this Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms in the Plan.

    9. MISCELLANEOUS.

   (a) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to the
benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in
interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

   (b) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the Executive
any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of Directors, or to
defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of the restrictions
with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in additional shares of
Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that become payable while any
of the Shares remain subject to restrictions hereunder to Executive with respect
to the restricted shares may, in the Company's discretion, be net of an amount
sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax requirements
with respect to such dividends.

   (c) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract of
employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right to
remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in any
way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or
responsibilities of the Executive.

   (d) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the
provisions for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the
approval of the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under
applicable tax, securities or other laws or the rules and regulations
thereunder, or to correct any omission in this Agreement.

                                       13



                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement,
effective as of the date set forth below.


                                                     Rayovac Corporation


October 1, 2000                                      By:
                                                        ------------------------
                                                        David A. Jones
                                                        Chief Executive Officer


EXECUTIVE


- ----------------------------
Name:      Kenneth V. Biller

Address:   7318 W. Old Sauk Road
           Middleton, WI  53562






                                                                   Exhibit 10.7
                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT


                  THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is entered into
as of the 1st day of October, 2000, by and between Rayovac Corporation, a
Wisconsin corporation (the "Company"), and Stephen P. Shanesy (the "Executive").

                  WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive wish to terminate
Executive's Severance Agreement with the Company, dated October 1, 1998, because
the Company desires to employ the Executive upon the terms and conditions set
forth herein; and

                  WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such
employment on such terms and conditions.

                  NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual
agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the
receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the
Executive hereby agree as follows:

1.       EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the
         Executive, and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment with
         the Company as Executive Vice President of Global Brand Management.
         During the Term (as defined below), the Executive shall devote all of
         his working time to such employment and appointment, shall devote his
         best efforts to advance the interests of the Company and shall not
         engage in any other business activities, as an employee, director,
         consultant or in any other capacity, whether or not he receives any
         compensation therefor, without the prior written consent of the Board.

2.       TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's
         employment and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on
         the date hereof and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term"). Upon
         expiration of the Term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for
         successive periods of one (1) year, unless the Executive or the Company
         shall give notice to the other at least ninety (90) days prior to the
         end of the Term (or any annual extension thereof) indicating that it
         does not intend to renew the Agreement.

3.       COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of
         his duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive
         the following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
         satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
         withholding taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted
         from such compensation:

         (a)      BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal
                  to Two Hundred Ninety Thousand Dollars ($290,000) per annum
                  effective October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term ("Base
                  Salary"), which Base Salary shall be paid in equal
                  semi-monthly installments each year, to be paid semi-monthly

                                       1



                  in arrears. The Board will review from time to time the Base
                  Salary payable to the Executive hereunder and may, in its
                  discretion, increase the Executive's Base Salary. Any such
                  increased Base Salary shall be and become the "Base Salary"
                  for purposes of this Agreement.

         (b)      BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal
                  year ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears,
                  which shall be based on fifty percent (50%) of Base Salary,
                  provided the Company achieves certain annual performance goals
                  established by the Board from time to time (the "Bonus"). The
                  Board may, in its discretion, increase the annual Bonus. Any
                  such increased annual Bonus shall be and become the "Bonus"
                  for such fiscal year for purposes of this Agreement.

         (c)      INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as
                  are generally made available by the Company to its executive
                  officers from time to time.

         (d)      STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the
                  Executive shall remain in full force and effect in accordance
                  with their terms. If the Company implements a new stock option
                  program in the future, the Executive may participate to the
                  extent authorized by the Board.

         (e)      RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
                  employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby
                  granted a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
                  Incentive Plan (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions
                  of the Rayovac Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement
                  attached hereto as Schedule A.

         (f)      VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks
                  vacation each year.

         (g)      OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  reimbursement of all reasonable and documented expenses
                  actually incurred or paid by the Executive in the performance
                  of the Executive's duties under this Agreement, upon
                  presentation of expense statements, vouchers or other
                  supporting information in accordance with Company policy. All
                  expense reimbursements and other perquisites of the Executive
                  are reviewable periodically by the Compensation Committee of
                  the Board, if there be one, or the Board.

         (h)      VEHICLE. Pursuant to the Company's policy for use of vehicles
                  by executives, Executive shall be provided the use of a leased
                  vehicle. Unless the Executive's employment is terminated by
                  the Company for Cause or by the Executive pursuant to Section
                  5(c), Executive shall be permitted to drive his Company
                  vehicle for the duration of the 12-month period following
                  termination; at the end of such 12-month period, Executive
                  will be permitted to purchase his Company vehicle at book
                  value as of such date.

                                       2



         (i)      D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to
                  indemnification from the Company to the maximum extent
                  provided by law, but not for any action, suit, arbitration or
                  other proceeding (or portion thereof) initiated by the
                  Executive, unless authorized or ratified by the Board. Such
                  indemnification shall be covered by the terms of the Company's
                  policy of insurance for directors and officers in effect from
                  time to time (the "D&O Insurance"). Copies of the Company's
                  charter, by-laws and D&O Insurance will be made available to
                  the Executive upon request.

         (j)      LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
                  reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the
                  preparation of this Agreement.

4.       TERMINATION.

         (a)      TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  hereunder without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of
                  the following (any such termination being referred to as a
                  termination for "Cause"):

                  (i)   the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                        premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith
                        against the interests of the Company;

                  (ii)  the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO
                        CONTENDERE with respect to, any felony, or of any
                        lesser crime or offense having as its predicate
                        element fraud, dishonesty or misappropriation of the
                        property of the Company;

                  (iii) the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the
                        Executive which negatively impacts his job performance
                        or the Executive's failure of a Company-required drug
                        test;

                  (iv)  the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to
                        perform his duties as set forth herein or the willful
                        failure or refusal to follow the direction of the
                        President, the CEO or the Board, provided such failure
                        or refusal continues after thirty (30) days of the
                        receipt of notice in writing from the President, the CEO
                        or the Board of such failure or refusal, which notice
                        refers to this Section 4(a) and indicates the Company's
                        intention to terminate the Executive's employment
                        hereunder if such failure or refusal is not remedied
                        within such thirty (30) day period; or

                  (v)   the Executive breaches any of the terms of this
                        Agreement or any other agreement between the
                        Executive and the Company which breach is not cured
                        within thirty (30) days subsequent to notice from the
                        Company to the Executive of such breach, which notice
                        refers to this Section 4(a) and indicates the
                        Company's intention to terminate the Executive's
                        employment hereunder if such breach is not cured
                        within such thirty (30) day period.

                                       3



                  If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
                  conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based
                  or performance- based Stock Option Agreements pursuant to the
                  1997 Plan or the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan
                  (collectively, the "Stock Option Agreements") or any
                  agreements referred to therein, the definition set forth
                  herein shall control.

         (b)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY. The Company
                  shall have the right at any time to terminate the Executive's
                  employment hereunder upon thirty (30) days prior written
                  notice upon the Executive's inability to perform his duties
                  hereunder by reason of any mental, physical or other
                  disability for a period of at least six (6) consecutive months
                  (for purposes hereof, "disability" has the same meaning as in
                  the Company's disability policy), if within 30 days after such
                  notice of termination is given, the Executive shall not have
                  returned to the full-time performance of his duties. The
                  Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the
                  provisions of Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of
                  the Executive.

         (c)      TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have
                  the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
                  for any other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior
                  written notice to the Executive.

         (d)      VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
                  entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder
                  upon sixty (60) days prior written notice to the Company. Any
                  such termination shall be treated as a termination by the
                  Company for "Cause" under Section 5.

         (e)      NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any termination by the Company for
                  Cause shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the
                  other party hereto given in accordance with Section 8. For
                  purposes of this Agreement, a "Notice of Termination" means a
                  written notice given prior to the termination which
                 (i) indicates the specific termination provision in this
                  Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail
                  the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for
                  termination of the Executive's employment under the provision
                  so indicated and (iii) if the termination date is other than
                  the date of receipt of such notice, specifies the termination
                  date of this Agreement (which date shall be not more than
                  fifteen (15) days after the giving of such notice). The
                  failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of
                  Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes to a
                  showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company
                  hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or
                  circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder.

                                       4



5.       EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

         (a)      WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with
                  Cause, the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in
                  Section 3 shall cease at the time of such termination, and the
                  Executive shall not be entitled to any compensation specified
                  in Section 3 which was not required to be paid prior to such
                  termination; provided, however, that the Executive shall be
                  entitled to continue to participate in the Company's medical
                  benefit plans to the extent required by law.

         (b)      WITHOUT CAUSE, DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's
                  employment is terminated by the Company without Cause or by
                  reason of death or disability, then the Company shall pay the
                  Executive the amounts and provide the Executive the benefits
                  as follows:

                  (i)      The Company shall pay to the Executive as severance,
                           an amount in cash equal to double the sum of (i) the
                           Executive's Base Salary, and (ii) the annual Bonus
                           (if any) earned by the Executive pursuant to any
                           annual bonus or incentive plan maintained by the
                           Company in respect of the fiscal year ending
                           immediately prior to the fiscal year in which the
                           termination occurs, such cash amount to be paid to
                           the Executive ratably monthly in arrears over the
                           Non-Competition Period (as defined below).

                  (ii)     For the greater of (i) the 24-month period
                           immediately following such termination or (ii) the
                           remainder of the Term, the Company shall arrange to
                           provide the Executive and his dependents the
                           additional benefits specified in Section 3(c).
                           Benefits otherwise receivable by the Executive
                           pursuant to this Section 5(b)(ii) shall cease
                           immediately upon the discovery by the Company of the
                           Executive's breach of the covenants contained in
                           Section 6 or 7 hereof.

                  (iii)    The Executive's accrued vacation (determined in
                           accordance with Company policy) at the time of
                           termination shall be paid as soon as reasonably
                           practicable.

                  (iv)     Any payments provided for hereunder shall be paid net
                           of any applicable withholding required under federal,
                           state, or local law and any additional withholding to
                           which the Executive has agreed.

                  (v)      If the Executive's employment with the Company
                           terminates during the Term, the Executive shall not
                           be required to seek other employment or to attempt in
                           any way to reduce any amounts payable to the
                           Executive by the Company pursuant to this Section 5.

6.       AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

         (a)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period
                  (as defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in

                                       5



                  any capacity, either separately, jointly or in association
                  with others, as an officer, director, consultant, agent,
                  employee, owner, principal, partner or stockholder of any
                  business, or in any other capacity, engage or have a financial
                  interest in any business which is involved in the design,
                  manufacturing, marketing or sale of batteries or battery
                  operated lighting devices (excepting only the ownership of not
                  more than 5% of the outstanding securities of any class listed
                  on an exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market). The
                  "Non-Competition Period" is (a) the longer of the Executive's
                  employment hereunder or time period which he serves as a
                  director of the Company plus (b) a period of one (1) year
                  thereafter.

         (b)      Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the
                  Executive further agrees that during the Non-Competition
                  Period, he will not, directly or indirectly, in any capacity,
                  either separately, jointly or in association with others,
                  solicit or otherwise contact any of the Company's customers or
                  prospects, as shown by the Company's records, that were
                  customers or prospects of the Company at any time during the
                  Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact is for
                  the general purpose of selling products that satisfy the same
                  general needs as any products that the Company had available
                  for sale to its customers or prospects during the
                  Non-Competition Period.

         (c)      The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period,
                  he shall not, other than in connection with employment for the
                  Company, solicit the employment or services of any employee of
                  Company who is or was an employee of Company at any time
                  during the Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition
                  Period, the Executive shall not hire any employee of Company
                  for any other business.

         (d)      If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too
                  broad or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law,
                  including with respect to time or space, the court is hereby
                  requested and authorized by the parties hereto to revise the
                  foregoing restrictions to include the maximum restrictions
                  allowed under the applicable law.

         (e)      For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company"
                  refers to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated
                  affiliates of the Company.

7.       SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

         (a)      The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except
                  as the Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any
                  person or use (except in the performance of his services
                  hereunder) any confidential information or materials received
                  by the Executive from the Company and any confidential
                  information or materials of other parties received by the
                  Executive in connection with the performance of his duties
                  hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a), confidential
                  information or materials shall include existing and potential
                  customer information, existing and potential supplier

                                       6



                  information, product information, design and construction
                  information, pricing and profitability information, financial
                  information, sales and marketing strategies and techniques and
                  business ideas or practices. The restriction on the
                  Executive's use or disclosure of the confidential information
                  or materials shall remain in force until such information is
                  of general knowledge in the industry through no fault of the
                  Executive or any agent of the Executive. The Executive also
                  agrees to return to the Company promptly upon its request any
                  Company information or materials in the Executive's possession
                  or under the Executive's control.

         (b)      The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no
                  other person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries,
                  improvements, trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes,
                  know-how and similar matters, whether or not patentable and
                  whether or not reduced to practice, which are conceived or
                  learned by the Executive during the period of the Executive's
                  employment with the Company, either alone or with others,
                  which relate to or result from the actual or anticipated
                  business or research of the Company or which result, to any
                  extent, from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or
                  property (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive
                  acknowledges and agrees that all the Inventions shall be the
                  sole property of the Company, and the Executive hereby assigns
                  to the Company all of the Executive's rights and interests in
                  and to all of the Inventions, it being acknowledged and agreed
                  by the Executive that all the Inventions are works made for
                  hire. The Company shall be the sole owner of all domestic and
                  foreign rights and interests in the Inventions. The Executive
                  agrees to assist the Company at the Company's expense to
                  obtain and from time to time enforce patents and copyrights on
                  the Inventions.

         (c)      Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of
                  the Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive
                  shall promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data,
                  records, notes, drawings, manuals and all other tangible
                  information in whatever form which pertains to the Company,
                  and the Executive will not retain any such information or any
                  reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.       NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in
         writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered
         personally, (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other
         communication is sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery
         to an overnight delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the
         date of deposit in the United States mail if sent first class, postage
         prepaid, by registered or certified mail. The addresses for such
         notices shall be as follows:

         (a)      For notices and communications to the Company:
                           Rayovac Corporation
                           601 Rayovac Drive
                           Madison, WI  53711
                           Facsimile:  (608) 278-6666
                           Attention:  James T. Lucke

                                       7



         (b)      For notices and communications to the Executive:
                           Stephen P. Shanesy
                           7866 Black River Road
                           Verona, WI  53593

         Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for
receipt of notices hereunder.

9.       GENERAL.

         9.1      GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and
                  governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without
                  reference to its conflicts of law principles.

         9.2      AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
                  superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms
                  hereof may be waived, only by a written instrument executed by
                  all of the parties hereto or, in the case of a waiver, by the
                  party waiving compliance. The failure of any party at any time
                  or times to require performance of any provision hereof shall
                  in no manner affect the right at a later time to enforce the
                  same. No waiver by any party of the breach of any term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or
                  otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to
                  be, or construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any
                  such breach, or a waiver of the breach of any other term or
                  covenant contained in this Agreement.

         9.3      SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon
                  the Executive, without regard to the duration of his
                  employment by the Company or reasons for the cessation of such
                  employment, and inure to the benefit of his administrators,
                  executors, heirs and assigns, although the obligations of the
                  Executive are personal and may be performed only by him. This
                  Agreement shall also be binding upon and inure to the benefit
                  of the Company and its subsidiaries, successors and assigns,
                  including any corporation with which or into which the Company
                  or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to their
                  assets or business.

         9.4      COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two
                  counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but
                  which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

         9.5      ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to
                  enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain
                  money damages for the breach thereof, and such action results
                  in the award of a judgment for money damages or in the
                  granting of any injunction in favor of one of the parties to
                  this Agreement, all expenses, including reasonable attorneys'
                  fees, shall be paid by the non-prevailing party.

         9.6      NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall
                  prevent or limit the Executive's continuing or future
                  participation during his employment hereunder in any benefit,

                                       8



                  bonus, incentive or other plan or program provided by the
                  Company or any of its affiliates and for which the Executive
                  may qualify. Amounts which are vested benefits or which the
                  Executive is otherwise entitled to receive under any plan or
                  program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
                  subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of
                  employment with the Company shall, subject to the terms hereof
                  or any other agreement entered into by the Company and the
                  Executive on or subsequent to the date hereof, be payable in
                  accordance with such plan or program.

         9.7      MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to
                  seek other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts
                  payable to the Executive under any of the provisions of this
                  Agreement.

         9.8      EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach
                  of any provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would
                  result in irreparable injuries to the Company, that the remedy
                  at law for any such breach will be inadequate and that upon
                  breach of such provisions, the Company, in addition to all
                  other available remedies, shall be entitled as a matter of
                  right to injunctive relief in any court of competent
                  jurisdiction without the necessity of proving the actual
                  damage to the Company.

         9.9      SEVERANCE AGREEMENT.  The Severance Agreement between the
                  parties dated October 1, 1998 is hereby terminated and all
                  rights and obligations thereunder are of no further force or
                  effect.

         9.10     ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the schedule hereto
                  constitute the entire understanding of the parties hereto with
                  respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior
                  negotiations, discussions, writings and agreements between
                  them with respect to the subject matter hereof.

                                       9



                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement
as of the date first above written.


                                     RAYOVAC CORPORATION



                                      By:
                                         -------------------------------
                                         David A. Jones
                                         Chief Executive Officer



EXECUTIVE:



- -------------------------
Name:  Stephen P. Shanesy

                                       10



                                   SCHEDULE A

                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION
                        RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT

         This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of
October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the
"Company"), and Stephen P. Shanesy (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997
Rayovac Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual
promises set forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the
mutuality and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this
Agreement hereby agree as follows:

    1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional
incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage
such individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the
Company. The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive
of shares of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common
Stock"), as additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an
inducement to the continued services by the Executive to the Company and its
subsidiaries, subject to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions
contained herein. The Executive acknowledges that he has received a copy of
the Plan and any prospectus related thereto from the Company.

    2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the
Executive an Award of Twenty-Five Thousand Four Hundred One (25,401) shares
of Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and
collectively, the "Shares").

    3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this
Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following
restrictions:

   (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment of the
Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of restrictions on
the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates for any reason
other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or
disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse, the Shares
shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall have no
further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and "disability" shall
be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of Executive's Employment
Agreement of October 1, 2000.

                                       11



   (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred, exchanged,
pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the Executive.

    4. LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS.

   (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on the
Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive the
Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30) days
after such vesting date.

   (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the Shares
subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment with the
Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than termination by the
Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability.

   (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the
power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable
restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of
the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on
Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

    5. CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall
be registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its
designee and shall bear the following legend:

                  "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented
                  hereby are subject to the terms and conditions (including
                  forfeiture and restrictions against transfer) contained in The
                  1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan and an Agreement entered into
                  between Rayovac Corporation and the registered owner. Release
                  from such terms and conditions shall be obtained only in
                  accordance with the provisions of such Plan and Agreement,
                  copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary of
                  Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin."

         The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or
powers in blank with respect to the Shares.

    6. SECTION 83 ELECTION.  The Executive  agrees not to file an election
under section 83(b) of the Internal  Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with
respect to the Shares.

                                       12



    7. CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all
restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously
forfeited as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the
occurrence of a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in
Control has occurred, all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately
prior to the effective date of the Change in Control.

    8. INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated herein
by reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of the
Plan were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict between
the Plan and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall
govern. Unless otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all capitalized
terms in this Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms in the Plan.

    9. MISCELLANEOUS.

    (A) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to the
benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in
interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

    (B) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the
Executive any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of
Directors, or to defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of
the restrictions with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in
additional shares of Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that
become payable while any of the Shares remain subject to restrictions
hereunder to Executive with respect to the restricted shares may, in the
Company's discretion, be net of an amount sufficient to satisfy any federal,
state and local withholding tax requirements with respect to such dividends.

    (C) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract of
employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right
to remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in
any way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or
responsibilities of the Executive.

    (D) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the
provisions for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the
approval of the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under
applicable tax, securities or other laws or the rules and regulations
thereunder, or to correct any omission in this Agreement.

                                       13




                  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement,
effective as of the date set forth below.


                                                     Rayovac Corporation


October 1, 2000                                      By:
                                                         ----------------------
                                                         David A. Jones
                                                         Chief Executive Officer


EXECUTIVE


- -----------------------------
Name:      Stephen P. Shanesy

Address:   7866 Black River Road
           Verona, WI  53593

                                        14




                                                                   Exhibit 10.8


                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

     THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is entered into as of the 1st
day of October, 2000, by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin
corporation (the "Company"), and Merrell M. Tomlin (the "Executive").

     WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive wish to terminate Executive's
Severance Agreement with the Company, dated October 1, 1998, because the Company
desires to employ the Executive upon the terms and conditions set forth herein;
and

     WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such employment on
such terms and conditions.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual agreements
contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Executive
hereby agree as follows:

1.   EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the
     Executive, and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment with the
     Company as Executive Vice President - Sales. During the Term (as defined
     below), the Executive shall devote all of his working time to such
     employment and appointment, shall devote his best efforts to advance the
     interests of the Company and shall not engage in any other business
     activities, as an employee, director, consultant or in any other capacity,
     whether or not he receives any compensation therefor, without the prior
     written consent of the Board.

2.   TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's
     employment and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on the
     date hereof and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term"). Upon
     expiration of the Term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for
     successive periods of one (1) year, unless the Executive or the Company
     shall give notice to the other at least ninety (90) days prior to the end
     of the Term (or any annual extension thereof) indicating that it does not
     intend to renew the Agreement.

3.   COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of
     his duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive the
     following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
     satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
     withholding taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted from
     such compensation:

     (a)  BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal
          to Two Hundred Ninety Thousand Dollars ($290,000) per annum effective
          October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term ("Base Salary"), which
          Base Salary shall be paid in equal semi-monthly installments each
          year, to be paid semi-monthly in arrears. The Board will review from
          time to time the Base Salary payable to the


                                       1



          Executive hereunder and may, in its discretion, increase the
          Executive's Base Salary. Any such increased Base Salary shall be and
          become the "Base Salary" for purposes of this Agreement.

     (b)  BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal
          year ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears, which shall
          be based on fifty percent (50%) of Base Salary, provided the Company
          achieves certain annual performance goals established by the Board
          from time to time (the "Bonus"). The Board may, in its discretion,
          increase the annual Bonus. Any such increased annual Bonus shall be
          and become the "Bonus" for such fiscal year for purposes of this
          Agreement.

     (c)  INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
          entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as are
          generally made available by the Company to its executive officers from
          time to time.

     (d)  STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the
          Executive shall remain in full force and effect in accordance with
          their terms. If the Company implements a new stock option program in
          the future, the Executive may participate to the extent authorized by
          the Board.

     (e)  RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
          employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby granted
          a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan
          (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions of the Rayovac
          Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement attached hereto as
          Schedule A.

     (f)  VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks
          vacation each year.

     (g)  OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to
          reimbursement of all reasonable and documented expenses actually
          incurred or paid by the Executive in the performance of the
          Executive's duties under this Agreement, upon presentation of expense
          statements, vouchers or other supporting information in accordance
          with Company policy. All expense reimbursements and other perquisites
          of the Executive are reviewable periodically by the Compensation
          Committee of the Board, if there be one, or the Board.

     (h)  VEHICLE. Pursuant to the Company's policy for use of vehicles
          by executives, Executive shall be provided the use of a leased
          vehicle. Unless the Executive's employment is terminated by the
          Company for Cause or by the Executive pursuant to Section 5(c),
          Executive shall be permitted to drive his Company vehicle for the
          duration of the 12-month period following termination; at the end of
          such 12-month period, Executive will be permitted to purchase his
          Company vehicle at book value as of such date.

     (i)  D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to
          indemnification from the Company to the maximum extent provided by
          law, but not


                                       2



          for any action, suit, arbitration or other proceeding (or portion
          thereof) initiated by the Executive, unless authorized or ratified by
          the Board. Such indemnification shall be covered by the terms of the
          Company's policy of insurance for directors and officers in effect
          from time to time (the "D&O Insurance"). Copies of the Company's
          charter, by-laws and D&O Insurance will be made available to the
          Executive upon request.

     (j)  LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
          reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the preparation of
          this Agreement.

4.   TERMINATION.

     (a) TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have
          the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
          hereunder without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of the
          following (any such termination being referred to as a termination for
          "Cause"):

          (i)    the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                 premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith against
                 the interests of the Company;

          (ii)   the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO
                 CONTENDERE with respect to, any felony, or of any lesser
                 crime or offense having as its predicate element fraud,
                 dishonesty or misappropriation of the property of the
                 Company;

          (iii)  the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the
                 Executive which negatively impacts his job performance or
                 the Executive's failure of a Company-required drug test;

          (iv)   the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to
                 perform his duties as set forth herein or the willful
                 failure or refusal to follow the direction of the President,
                 the CEO or the Board, provided such failure or refusal
                 continues after thirty (30) days of the receipt of notice in
                 writing from the President, the CEO or the Board of such
                 failure or refusal, which notice refers to this Section 4(a)
                 and indicates the Company's intention to terminate the
                 Executive's employment hereunder if such failure or refusal
                 is not remedied within such thirty (30) day period; or

          (v)    the Executive breaches any of the terms of this
                 Agreement or any other agreement between the Executive and
                 the Company which breach is not cured within thirty (30)
                 days subsequent to notice from the Company to the Executive
                 of such breach, which notice refers to this Section 4(a) and
                 indicates the Company's intention to terminate the
                 Executive's employment hereunder if such breach is not cured
                 within such thirty (30) day period.


                                       3




                 If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
                 conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based
                 or performance- based Stock Option Agreements pursuant to
                 the 1997 Plan or the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option
                 Plan (collectively, the "Stock Option Agreements") or any
                 agreements referred to therein, the definition set forth
                 herein shall control.

     (b)  TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY.  The Company shall
          have the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
          hereunder upon thirty (30) days prior written notice upon the
          Executive's inability to perform his duties hereunder by reason of any
          mental, physical or other disability for a period of at least six (6)
          consecutive months (for purposes hereof, "disability" has the same
          meaning as in the Company's disability policy), if within 30 days
          after such notice of termination is given, the Executive shall not
          have returned to the full-time performance of his duties. The
          Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the provisions of
          Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of the Executive.

     (c)  TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have
          the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment for any
          other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior written notice
          to the Executive.

     (d)  VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
          entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder upon
          sixty (60) days prior written notice to the Company. Any such
          termination shall be treated as a termination by the Company for
          "Cause" under Section 5.

     (e)  NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any termination by the Company for Cause shall
          be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other party hereto
          given in accordance with Section 8. For purposes of this Agreement, a
          "Notice of Termination" means a written notice given prior to the
          termination which (i) indicates the specific termination provision in
          this Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail the
          facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of
          the Executive's employment under the provision so indicated and (iii)
          if the termination date is other than the date of receipt of such
          notice, specifies the termination date of this Agreement (which date
          shall be not more than fifteen (15) days after the giving of such
          notice). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of
          Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes to a showing of
          Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude
          the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its
          rights hereunder.

5.   EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

     (a)  WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with
          Cause, the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in Section
          3 shall cease at the time of such termination, and the Executive shall
          not be entitled to any compensation specified in Section 3 which was


                                       4





          not required to be paid prior to such termination; provided, however,
          that the Executive shall be entitled to continue to participate in the
          Company's medical benefit plans to the extent required by law.

     (b)  WITHOUT CAUSE, DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's
          employment is terminated by the Company without Cause or by reason of
          death or disability, then the Company shall pay the Executive the
          amounts and provide the Executive the benefits as follows:

          (i)    The Company shall pay to the Executive as severance,
                 an amount in cash equal to double the sum of (i) the
                 Executive's Base Salary, and (ii) the annual Bonus (if any)
                 earned by the Executive pursuant to any annual bonus or
                 incentive plan maintained by the Company in respect of the
                 fiscal year ending immediately prior to the fiscal year in
                 which the termination occurs, such cash amount to be paid to
                 the Executive ratably monthly in arrears over the
                 Non-Competition Period (as defined below).

          (ii)   For the greater of (i) the 24-month period
                 immediately following such termination or (ii) the remainder
                 of the Term, the Company shall arrange to provide the
                 Executive and his dependents the additional benefits
                 specified in Section 3(c). Benefits otherwise receivable by
                 the Executive pursuant to this Section 5(b)(ii) shall cease
                 immediately upon the discovery by the Company of the
                 Executive's breach of the covenants contained in Section 6
                 or 7 hereof.

          (iii)  The Executive's accrued vacation (determined in
                 accordance with Company policy) at the time of termination
                 shall be paid as soon as reasonably practicable.

          (iv)   Any payments provided for hereunder shall be paid net
                 of any applicable withholding required under federal, state,
                 or local law and any additional withholding to which the
                 Executive has agreed.

          (v)    If the Executive's employment with the Company
                 terminates during the Term, the Executive shall not be
                 required to seek other employment or to attempt in any way
                 to reduce any amounts payable to the Executive by the
                 Company pursuant to this Section 5.

6.   AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

     (a)  The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period (as
          defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in any capacity,
          either separately, jointly or in association with others, as an
          officer, director, consultant, agent, employee, owner, principal,
          partner or stockholder of any business, or in any other capacity,
          engage or have a financial interest in any business which is involved
          in the design, manufacturing, marketing or sale of batteries or
          battery operated lighting devices (excepting only the ownership of not
          more


                                       5



          than 5% of the outstanding securities of any class listed on an
          exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market). The "Non-Competition Period" is
          (a) the longer of the Executive's employment hereunder or time period
          which he serves as a director of the Company plus (b) a period of one
          (1) year thereafter.

     (b)  Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the Executive
          further agrees that during the Non-Competition Period, he will not,
          directly or indirectly, in any capacity, either separately, jointly or
          in association with others, solicit or otherwise contact any of the
          Company's customers or prospects, as shown by the Company's records,
          that were customers or prospects of the Company at any time during the
          Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact is for the
          general purpose of selling products that satisfy the same general
          needs as any products that the Company had available for sale to its
          customers or prospects during the Non-Competition Period.

     (c)  The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period,
          he shall not, other than in connection with employment for the
          Company, solicit the employment or services of any employee of Company
          who is or was an employee of Company at any time during the
          Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition Period, the
          Executive shall not hire any employee of Company for any other
          business.

     (d)  If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too
          broad or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law, including with
          respect to time or space, the court is hereby requested and authorized
          by the parties hereto to revise the foregoing restrictions to include
          the maximum restrictions allowed under the applicable law.

     (e)  For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company"
          refers to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated
          affiliates of the Company.

7.   SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

     (a)  The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except as the
          Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any person or use
          (except in the performance of his services hereunder) any confidential
          information or materials received by the Executive from the Company
          and any confidential information or materials of other parties
          received by the Executive in connection with the performance of his
          duties hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a), confidential
          information or materials shall include existing and potential customer
          information, existing and potential supplier information, product
          information, design and construction information, pricing and
          profitability information, financial information, sales and marketing
          strategies and techniques and business ideas or practices. The
          restriction on the Executive's use or disclosure of the confidential
          information or materials shall remain in force until such information
          is of general knowledge in the industry through no fault of the


                                       6




          Executive or any agent of the Executive. The Executive also agrees to
          return to the Company promptly upon its request any Company
          information or materials in the Executive's possession or under the
          Executive's control.

     (b)  The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no other
          person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries, improvements,
          trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes, know-how and similar
          matters, whether or not patentable and whether or not reduced to
          practice, which are conceived or learned by the Executive during the
          period of the Executive's employment with the Company, either alone or
          with others, which relate to or result from the actual or anticipated
          business or research of the Company or which result, to any extent,
          from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or property
          (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive acknowledges and
          agrees that all the Inventions shall be the sole property of the
          Company, and the Executive hereby assigns to the Company all of the
          Executive's rights and interests in and to all of the Inventions, it
          being acknowledged and agreed by the Executive that all the Inventions
          are works made for hire. The Company shall be the sole owner of all
          domestic and foreign rights and interests in the Inventions. The
          Executive agrees to assist the Company at the Company's expense to
          obtain and from time to time enforce patents and copyrights on the
          Inventions.

     (c)  Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of
          the Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive shall
          promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data, records, notes,
          drawings, manuals and all other tangible information in whatever form
          which pertains to the Company, and the Executive will not retain any
          such information or any reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.   NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in
     writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered
     personally, (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other
     communication is sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery to
     an overnight delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the date
     of deposit in the United States mail if sent first class, postage prepaid,
     by registered or certified mail. The addresses for such notices shall be as
     follows:

     (a)  For notices and communications to the Company:
               Rayovac Corporation
               601 Rayovac Drive
               Madison, WI 53711
               Facsimile: (608) 278-6666
               Attention: James T. Lucke

     (b)  For notices and communications to the Executive:
               Merrell M. Tomlin
               3576 Timber Lane
               Cross Plains, WI 53528


                                       7





     Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for
     receipt of notices hereunder.

9.  GENERAL.

    9.1   GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and
          governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without reference to
          its conflicts of law principles.

    9.2   AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
          superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms hereof may be
          waived, only by a written instrument executed by all of the parties
          hereto or, in the case of a waiver, by the party waiving compliance.
          The failure of any party at any time or times to require performance
          of any provision hereof shall in no manner affect the right at a later
          time to enforce the same. No waiver by any party of the breach of any
          term or covenant contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or
          otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be, or
          construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any such breach, or a
          waiver of the breach of any other term or covenant contained in this
          Agreement.

    9.3   SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon
          the Executive, without regard to the duration of his employment by the
          Company or reasons for the cessation of such employment, and inure to
          the benefit of his administrators, executors, heirs and assigns,
          although the obligations of the Executive are personal and may be
          performed only by him. This Agreement shall also be binding upon and
          inure to the benefit of the Company and its subsidiaries, successors
          and assigns, including any corporation with which or into which the
          Company or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to their
          assets or business.

    9.4   COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two
          counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but which
          together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

    9.5   ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to
          enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain money
          damages for the breach thereof, and such action results in the award
          of a judgment for money damages or in the granting of any injunction
          in favor of one of the parties to this Agreement, all expenses,
          including reasonable attorneys' fees, shall be paid by the
          non-prevailing party.

    9.6   NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall
          prevent or limit the Executive's continuing or future participation
          during his employment hereunder in any benefit, bonus, incentive or
          other plan or program provided by the Company or any of its affiliates
          and for which the Executive may qualify. Amounts which are vested
          benefits or which the Executive is otherwise entitled to receive under
          any plan or program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
          subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of employment
          with the Company shall, subject to the terms hereof or any other


                                       8




          agreement entered into by the Company and the Executive on or
          subsequent to the date hereof, be payable in accordance with such plan
          or program.

    9.7   MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to
          seek other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts payable to
          the Executive under any of the provisions of this Agreement.

    9.8   EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach
          of any provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would result in
          irreparable injuries to the Company, that the remedy at law for any
          such breach will be inadequate and that upon breach of such
          provisions, the Company, in addition to all other available remedies,
          shall be entitled as a matter of right to injunctive relief in any
          court of competent jurisdiction without the necessity of proving the
          actual damage to the Company.

    9.9   SEVERANCE AGREEMENT. The Severance Agreement between the
          parties dated October 1, 1998 is hereby terminated and all rights and
          obligations thereunder are of no further force or effect.

    9.10  ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the schedule hereto
          constitute the entire understanding of the parties hereto with respect
          to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior negotiations,
          discussions, writings and agreements between them with respect to the
          subject matter hereof.


                                       9




     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date
first above written.

                                RAYOVAC CORPORATION

                                By:
                                   -----------------------------
                                   David A. Jones
                                   Chief Executive Officer



EXECUTIVE:


- ----------------------------
Name:  Merrell M. Tomlin


                                       10



                                   SCHEDULE A

                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION
                        RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT

     This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of
October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the
"Company"), and Merrell M. Tomlin (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual promises set
forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the mutuality and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this Agreement
hereby agree as follows:

     1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional
incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage such
individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the Company.
The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive of shares
of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common Stock"), as
additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an inducement to the
continued services by the Executive to the Company and its subsidiaries, subject
to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions contained herein. The Executive
acknowledges that he has received a copy of the Plan and any prospectus related
thereto from the Company.

     2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the
Executive an Award of Twenty-Five Thousand Four Hundred One (25,401) shares of
Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and
collectively, the "Shares").

     3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this
Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following
restrictions:

          (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment
of the Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of
restrictions on the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates
for any reason other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason
of death or disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse,
the Shares shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall
have no further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and
"disability" shall be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of
Executive's Employment Agreement of October 1, 2000.


                                       11




          (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred,
exchanged, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the
Executive.

    4. LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS.

          (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on
the Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive
the Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30)
days after such vesting date.

          (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the
Shares subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment
with the Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than
termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability.

          (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the
power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable
restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of
the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on
Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

    5. CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall
be registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its
designee and shall bear the following legend:

          "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented hereby
          are subject to the terms and conditions (including forfeiture and
          restrictions against transfer) contained in The 1997 Rayovac Incentive
          Plan and an Agreement entered into between Rayovac Corporation and the
          registered owner. Release from such terms and conditions shall be
          obtained only in accordance with the provisions of such Plan and
          Agreement, copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary
          of Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin."

     The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or
powers in blank with respect to the Shares.

     6. SECTION 83 ELECTION. The Executive agrees not to file an election under
section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with respect to
the Shares.

     7. CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all
restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously
forfeited


                                       12





as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the
occurrence of a Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in
Control has occurred, all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately
prior to the effective date of the Change in Control.

     8. INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated herein by
reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of the Plan
were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict between the Plan
and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan shall govern. Unless
otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all capitalized terms in this
Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms in the Plan.

     9. MISCELLANEOUS.

          (a) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to
the benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in
interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

          (b) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the
Executive any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of
Directors, or to defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of the
restrictions with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in additional
shares of Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that become payable
while any of the Shares remain subject to restrictions hereunder to Executive
with respect to the restricted shares may, in the Company's discretion, be net
of an amount sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax
requirements with respect to such dividends.

          (c) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract
of employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right
to remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in any
way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or
responsibilities of the Executive.

          (d) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the
provisions for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the
approval of the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under
applicable tax, securities or other laws or the rules and regulations
thereunder, or to correct any omission in this Agreement.


                                       13



     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement, effective as
of the date set forth below.

                                       Rayovac Corporation

October 1, 2000                        By:
                                          -----------------------------------
                                          David A. Jones
                                          Chief Executive Officer


EXECUTIVE


- --------------------------------------
Name:    Merrell M. Tomlin

Address: 3576 Timber Lane
         Cross Plains, WI 53528

                                       14



                                                                  Exhibit 10.9


                              EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

     THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is entered into as of the 1st
day of October, 2000, by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin
corporation (the "Company"), and Luis A. Cancio (the "Executive").

     WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive wish to terminate Executive's
Severance Agreement with the Company, dated August 31, 1999, because the Company
desires to employ the Executive upon the terms and conditions set forth herein;
and

     WHEREAS, the Executive is willing and able to accept such employment on
such terms and conditions.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual agreements
contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Executive
hereby agree as follows:

1.   EMPLOYMENT DUTIES AND ACCEPTANCE. The Company hereby employs the
     Executive, and the Executive agrees to serve and accept employment with the
     Company as Senior Vice President/General Manager - Latin America. During
     the Term (as defined below), the Executive shall devote all of his working
     time to such employment and appointment, shall devote his best efforts to
     advance the interests of the Company and shall not engage in any other
     business activities, as an employee, director, consultant or in any other
     capacity, whether or not he receives any compensation therefor, without the
     prior written consent of the Board.

2.   TERM OF EMPLOYMENT. Subject to Section 4 hereof, the Executive's
     employment and appointment hereunder shall be for a term commencing on the
     date hereof and expiring on September 30, 2003 (the "Term"). Upon
     expiration of the Term, this Agreement shall automatically extend for
     successive periods of one (1) year, unless the Executive or the Company
     shall give notice to the other at least ninety (90) days prior to the end
     of the Term (or any annual extension thereof) indicating that it does not
     intend to renew the Agreement.

3.   COMPENSATION. In consideration of the performance by the Executive of
     his duties hereunder, the Company shall pay or provide to the Executive the
     following compensation which the Executive agrees to accept in full
     satisfaction for his services, it being understood that necessary
     withholding taxes, FICA contributions and the like shall be deducted from
     such compensation:

     (a)  BASE SALARY. The Executive shall receive a base salary equal
          to Two Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($275,000) per annum
          effective October 1, 2000 for the duration of the Term ("Base
          Salary"), which Base Salary shall be paid in equal semi-monthly
          installments each year, to be paid semi-monthly in arrears. The Board
          will review from time to time the Base Salary payable to the

                                       1




          Executive hereunder and may, in its discretion, increase the
          Executive's Base Salary. Any such increased Base Salary shall be and
          become the "Base Salary" for purposes of this Agreement.

     (b)  BONUS. The Executive shall receive a bonus for each fiscal
          year ending during the Term, payable annually in arrears, which shall
          be based on fifty percent (50%) of Base Salary, provided the Company
          achieves certain annual performance goals established by the Board
          from time to time (the "Bonus"). The Board may, in its discretion,
          increase the annual Bonus. Any such increased annual Bonus shall be
          and become the "Bonus" for such fiscal year for purposes of this
          Agreement.

     (c)  INSURANCE COVERAGES AND PENSION PLANS. The Executive shall be
          entitled to such insurance, pension and all other benefits as are
          generally made available by the Company to its executive officers from
          time to time.

     (d)  STOCK OPTIONS. All stock options previously granted to the
          Executive shall remain in full force and effect in accordance with
          their terms. If the Company implements a new stock option program in
          the future, the Executive may participate to the extent authorized by
          the Board.

     (e)  RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD. In connection with the Executive's
          employment and appointment hereunder, the Executive is hereby granted
          a Restricted Stock Award pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac Incentive Plan
          (the "1997 Plan") and the terms and conditions of the Rayovac
          Corporation Restricted Stock Award Agreement attached hereto as
          Schedule A.

     (f)  VACATION. The Executive shall be entitled to four (4) weeks
          vacation each year.

     (g)  OTHER EXPENSES. The Executive shall be entitled to
          reimbursement of all reasonable and documented expenses actually
          incurred or paid by the Executive in the performance of the
          Executive's duties under this Agreement, upon presentation of expense
          statements, vouchers or other supporting information in accordance
          with Company policy. All expense reimbursements and other perquisites
          of the Executive are reviewable periodically by the Compensation
          Committee of the Board, if there be one, or the Board.

     (h)  VEHICLE. Pursuant to the Company's policy for use of vehicles
          by executives, Executive shall be provided the use of a leased
          vehicle. Unless the Executive's employment is terminated by the
          Company for Cause or by the Executive pursuant to Section 5(c),
          Executive shall be permitted to drive his Company vehicle for the
          duration of the 12-month period following termination; at the end of
          such 12-month period, Executive will be permitted to purchase his
          Company vehicle at book value as of such date.

     (i)  D&O INSURANCE. The Executive shall be entitled to
          indemnification from the Company to the maximum extent provided by
          law, but not


                                       2



          for any action, suit, arbitration or other proceeding (or portion
          thereof) initiated by the Executive, unless authorized or ratified by
          the Board. Such indemnification shall be covered by the terms of the
          Company's policy of insurance for directors and officers in effect
          from time to time (the "D&O Insurance"). Copies of the Company's
          charter, by-laws and D&O Insurance will be made available to the
          Executive upon request.

     (j)  LEGAL FEES. The Company shall pay the Executive's actual and
          reasonable legal fees incurred in connection with the preparation of
          this Agreement.

4.   TERMINATION.

     (a)  TERMINATION BY THE COMPANY WITH CAUSE. The Company shall have
          the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment
          hereunder without prior notice upon the occurrence of any of the
          following (any such termination being referred to as a termination for
          "Cause"):

          (i)    the commission by the Executive of any deliberate and
                 premeditated act taken by the Executive in bad faith against
                 the interests of the Company;

          (ii)   the Executive has been convicted of, or pleads NOLO
                 CONTENDERE with respect to, any felony, or of any lesser
                 crime or offense having as its predicate element fraud,
                 dishonesty or misappropriation of the property of the
                 Company;

          (iii)  the habitual drug addiction or intoxication of the
                 Executive which negatively impacts his job performance or
                 the Executive's failure of a Company-required drug test;

          (iv)   the willful failure or refusal of the Executive to perform his
                 duties as set forth herein or the willful failure or refusal
                 to follow the direction of the President, the CEO or the
                 Board, provided such failure or refusal continues after
                 thirty (30) days of the receipt of notice in writing from
                 the President, the CEO or the Board of such failure or
                 refusal, which notice refers to this Section 4(a) and
                 indicates the Company's intention to terminate the
                 Executive's employment hereunder if such failure or refusal
                 is not remedied within such thirty (30) day period; or

          (v)    the Executive breaches any of the terms of this
                 Agreement or any other agreement between the Executive and
                 the Company which breach is not cured within thirty (30)
                 days subsequent to notice from the Company to the Executive
                 of such breach, which notice refers to this Section 4(a) and
                 indicates the Company's intention to terminate the
                 Executive's employment hereunder if such breach is not cured
                 within such thirty (30) day period.


                                       3





                 If the definition of termination for "Cause" set forth above
                 conflicts with such definition in the Executive's time-based
                 or performance- based Stock Option Agreements pursuant to the
                 1997 Plan or the Rayovac Corporation 1996 Stock Option Plan
                 (collectively, the "Stock Option Agreements") or any
                 agreements referred to therein, the definition set forth
                 herein shall control.

     (b)  TERMINATION BY COMPANY FOR DEATH OR DISABILITY.  The Company shall
          have the right at anytime to terminate the Executive's employment
          hereunder upon thirty (30) days prior written notice upon the
          Executive's inability to perform his duties hereunder by reason of any
          mental, physical or other disability for a period of at least six (6)
          consecutive months (for purposes hereof, "disability" has the same
          meaning as in the Company's disability policy), if within 30 days
          after such notice of termination is given, the Executive shall not
          have returned to the full-time performance of his duties. The
          Company's obligations hereunder shall, subject to the provisions of
          Section 5(b), also terminate upon the death of the Executive.

     (c)  TERMINATION BY COMPANY WITHOUT CAUSE. The Company shall have
          the right at any time to terminate the Executive's employment for any
          other reason without Cause upon sixty (60) days prior written notice
          to the Executive.

     (d)  VOLUNTARY TERMINATION BY EXECUTIVE. The Executive shall be
          entitled to terminate his employment and appointment hereunder upon
          sixty (60) days prior written notice to the Company. Any such
          termination shall be treated as a termination by the Company for
          "Cause" under Section 5.

     (e)  NOTICE OF TERMINATION.  Any termination by the Company for Cause shall
          be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other party hereto
          given in accordance with Section 8. For purposes of this Agreement, a
          "Notice of Termination" means a written notice given prior to the
          termination which (i) indicates the specific termination provision in
          this Agreement relied upon, (ii) sets forth in reasonable detail the
          facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of
          the Executive's employment under the provision so indicated and (iii)
          if the termination date is other than the date of receipt of such
          notice, specifies the termination date of this Agreement (which date
          shall be not more than fifteen (15) days after the giving of such
          notice). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of
          Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes to a showing of
          Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude
          the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its
          rights hereunder.

5.   EFFECT OF TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT.

     (a)  WITH CAUSE. If the Executive's employment is terminated with
          Cause, the Executive's salary and other benefits specified in Section
          3 shall cease at the time of such termination, and the Executive shall
          not be entitled to any compensation specified in Section 3 which was


                                       4





          not required to be paid prior to such termination; provided, however,
          that the Executive shall be entitled to continue to participate in the
          Company's medical benefit plans to the extent required by law.

     (b)  WITHOUT CAUSE, DEATH OR DISABILITY. If the Executive's
          employment is terminated by the Company without Cause or by reason of
          death or disability, then the Company shall pay the Executive the
          amounts and provide the Executive the benefits as follows:

          (i)    The Company shall pay to the Executive as severance,
                 an amount in cash equal to double the sum of (i) the
                 Executive's Base Salary, and (ii) the annual Bonus (if any)
                 earned by the Executive pursuant to any annual bonus or
                 incentive plan maintained by the Company in respect of the
                 fiscal year ending immediately prior to the fiscal year in
                 which the termination occurs, such cash amount to be paid to
                 the Executive ratably monthly in arrears over the
                 Non-Competition Period (as defined below).

          (ii)   For the greater of (i) the 24-month period
                 immediately following such termination or (ii) the remainder
                 of the Term, the Company shall arrange to provide the
                 Executive and his dependents the additional benefits
                 specified in Section 3(c). Benefits otherwise receivable by
                 the Executive pursuant to this Section 5(b)(ii) shall cease
                 immediately upon the discovery by the Company of the
                 Executive's breach of the covenants contained in Section 6
                 or 7 hereof.

          (iii)  The Executive's accrued vacation (determined in
                 accordance with Company policy) at the time of termination
                 shall be paid as soon as reasonably practicable.

          (iv)   Any payments provided for hereunder shall be paid net
                 of any applicable withholding required under federal, state,
                 or local law and any additional withholding to which the
                 Executive has agreed.

          (v)    If the Executive's employment with the Company
                 terminates during the Term, the Executive shall not be
                 required to seek other employment or to attempt in any way
                 to reduce any amounts payable to the Executive by the
                 Company pursuant to this Section 5.

6.   AGREEMENT NOT TO COMPETE.

     (a)  The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period (as
          defined below), he will not, directly or indirectly, in any capacity,
          either separately, jointly or in association with others, as an
          officer, director, consultant, agent, employee, owner, principal,
          partner or stockholder of any business, or in any other capacity,
          engage or have a financial interest in any business which is involved
          in the design, manufacturing, marketing or sale of batteries or
          battery operated lighting devices (excepting only the ownership of not
          more


                                       5





          than 5% of the outstanding securities of any class listed on an
          exchange or the Nasdaq Stock Market). The "Non-Competition Period" is
          (a) the longer of the Executive's employment hereunder or time period
          which he serves as a director of the Company plus (b) a period of one
          (1) year thereafter.

     (b)  Without limiting the generality of clause (a) above, the Executive
          further agrees that during the Non-Competition Period, he will not,
          directly or indirectly, in any capacity, either separately, jointly or
          in association with others, solicit or otherwise contact any of the
          Company's customers or prospects, as shown by the Company's records,
          that were customers or prospects of the Company at any time during the
          Non-Competition Period if such solicitation or contact is for the
          general purpose of selling products that satisfy the same general
          needs as any products that the Company had available for sale to its
          customers or prospects during the Non-Competition Period.

     (c)  The Executive agrees that during the Non-Competition Period,
          he shall not, other than in connection with employment for the
          Company, solicit the employment or services of any employee of Company
          who is or was an employee of Company at any time during the
          Non-Competition Period. During the Non-Competition Period, the
          Executive shall not hire any employee of Company for any other
          business.

     (d)  If a court determines that the foregoing restrictions are too
          broad or otherwise unreasonable under applicable law, including with
          respect to time or space, the court is hereby requested and authorized
          by the parties hereto to revise the foregoing restrictions to include
          the maximum restrictions allowed under the applicable law.

     (e)  For purposes of this Section 6 and Section 7, the "Company"
          refers to the Company and any incorporated or unincorporated
          affiliates of the Company.

7.   SECRET PROCESSES AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.

     (a)  The Executive agrees to hold in strict confidence and, except as the
          Company may authorize or direct, not disclose to any person or use
          (except in the performance of his services hereunder) any confidential
          information or materials received by the Executive from the Company
          and any confidential information or materials of other parties
          received by the Executive in connection with the performance of his
          duties hereunder. For purposes of this Section 7(a), confidential
          information or materials shall include existing and potential customer
          information, existing and potential supplier information, product
          information, design and construction information, pricing and
          profitability information, financial information, sales and marketing
          strategies and techniques and business ideas or practices. The
          restriction on the Executive's use or disclosure of the confidential
          information or materials shall remain in force until such information
          is of general knowledge in the industry through no fault of the


                                       6


          Executive or any agent of the Executive. The Executive also agrees to
          return to the Company promptly upon its request any Company
          information or materials in the Executive's possession or under the
          Executive's control.

     (b)  The Executive will promptly disclose to the Company and to no other
          person, firm or entity all inventions, discoveries, improvements,
          trade secrets, formulas, techniques, processes, know-how and similar
          matters, whether or not patentable and whether or not reduced to
          practice, which are conceived or learned by the Executive during the
          period of the Executive's employment with the Company, either alone or
          with others, which relate to or result from the actual or anticipated
          business or research of the Company or which result, to any extent,
          from the Executive's use of the Company's premises or property
          (collectively called the "Inventions"). The Executive acknowledges and
          agrees that all the Inventions shall be the sole property of the
          Company, and the Executive hereby assigns to the Company all of the
          Executive's rights and interests in and to all of the Inventions, it
          being acknowledged and agreed by the Executive that all the Inventions
          are works made for hire. The Company shall be the sole owner of all
          domestic and foreign rights and interests in the Inventions. The
          Executive agrees to assist the Company at the Company's expense to
          obtain and from time to time enforce patents and copyrights on the
          Inventions.

     (c)  Upon the request of, and, in any event, upon termination of
          the Executive's employment with the Company, the Executive shall
          promptly deliver to the Company all documents, data, records, notes,
          drawings, manuals and all other tangible information in whatever form
          which pertains to the Company, and the Executive will not retain any
          such information or any reproduction or excerpt thereof.

8.   NOTICES. All notices or other communications hereunder shall be in
     writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given (a) when delivered
     personally, (b) upon confirmation of receipt when such notice or other
     communication is sent by facsimile or telex, (c) one day after delivery to
     an overnight delivery courier, or (d) on the fifth day following the date
     of deposit in the United States mail if sent first class, postage prepaid,
     by registered or certified mail. The addresses for such notices shall be as
     follows:

     (a)  For notices and communications to the Company:
                 Rayovac Corporation
                 601 Rayovac Drive
                 Madison, WI  53711
                 Facsimile:  (608) 278-6666
                 Attention:  James T. Lucke

     (b)  For notices and communications to the Executive:
                 Luis A. Cancio
                 Marbella Building - Apt. 10B
                 250 S. Ocean Blvd.
                 Boca Raton, FL   33143



                                       7




     Any party hereto may, by notice to the other, change its address for
receipt of notices hereunder.

9.   GENERAL.

     9.1  GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be construed under and
          governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, without reference to
          its conflicts of law principles.

     9.2  AMENDMENT; WAIVER. This Agreement may be amended, modified,
          superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms hereof may be
          waived, only by a written instrument executed by all of the parties
          hereto or, in the case of a waiver, by the party waiving compliance.
          The failure of any party at any time or times to require performance
          of any provision hereof shall in no manner affect the right at a later
          time to enforce the same. No waiver by any party of the breach of any
          term or covenant contained in this Agreement, whether by conduct or
          otherwise, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be, or
          construed as, a further or continuing waiver of any such breach, or a
          waiver of the breach of any other term or covenant contained in this
          Agreement.

     9.3  SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS. This Agreement shall be binding upon
          the Executive, without regard to the duration of his employment by the
          Company or reasons for the cessation of such employment, and inure to
          the benefit of his administrators, executors, heirs and assigns,
          although the obligations of the Executive are personal and may be
          performed only by him. This Agreement shall also be binding upon and
          inure to the benefit of the Company and its subsidiaries, successors
          and assigns, including any corporation with which or into which the
          Company or its successors may be merged or which may succeed to their
          assets or business.

     9.4  COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in two
          counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but which
          together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

     9.5  ATTORNEYS' FEES. In the event that any action is brought to
          enforce any of the provisions of this Agreement, or to obtain money
          damages for the breach thereof, and such action results in the award
          of a judgment for money damages or in the granting of any injunction
          in favor of one of the parties to this Agreement, all expenses,
          including reasonable attorneys' fees, shall be paid by the
          non-prevailing party.

     9.6  NON-EXCLUSIVITY OF RIGHTS. Nothing in this Agreement shall
          prevent or limit the Executive's continuing or future participation
          during his employment hereunder in any benefit, bonus, incentive or
          other plan or program provided by the Company or any of its affiliates
          and for which the Executive may qualify. Amounts which are vested
          benefits or which the Executive is otherwise entitled to receive under
          any plan or program of the Company or any affiliated company at or
          subsequent to the date of the Executive's termination of employment



                                       8




          with the Company shall, subject to the terms hereof or any other
          agreement entered into by the Company and the Executive on or
          subsequent to the date hereof, be payable in accordance with such plan
          or program.

     9.7  MITIGATION. In no event shall the Executive be obligated to
          seek other employment by way of mitigation of the amounts payable to
          the Executive under any of the provisions of this Agreement.

     9.8  EQUITABLE RELIEF. The Executive expressly agrees that breach
          of any provision of Sections 6 or 7 of this Agreement would result in
          irreparable injuries to the Company, that the remedy at law for any
          such breach will be inadequate and that upon breach of such
          provisions, the Company, in addition to all other available remedies,
          shall be entitled as a matter of right to injunctive relief in any
          court of competent jurisdiction without the necessity of proving the
          actual damage to the Company.

     9.9  SEVERANCE AGREEMENT. The Severance Agreement between the
          parties dated August 31, 1999 is hereby terminated and all rights and
          obligations thereunder are of no further force or effect.

     9.10 ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the schedule hereto
          constitute the entire understanding of the parties hereto with respect
          to the subject matter hereof and supersede all prior negotiations,
          discussions, writings and agreements between them with respect to the
          subject matter hereof.



                                       9





     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date
first above written.


                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION



                               By:
                                  --------------------------------------
                                  David A. Jones
                                  Chief Executive Officer




EXECUTIVE:


- -------------------------------
Name:  Luis A. Cancio


                                       10




                                   SCHEDULE A

                               RAYOVAC CORPORATION
                        RESTRICTED STOCK AWARD AGREEMENT

     This is a Restricted Stock Award Agreement ("Agreement") dated as of
October 1, 2000 by and between Rayovac Corporation, a Wisconsin corporation (the
"Company"), and Luis A. Cancio (the "Executive") pursuant to The 1997 Rayovac
Incentive Plan (the "Plan"), and, in consideration of the mutual promises set
forth below and other good and valuable consideration, the mutuality and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties to this Agreement
hereby agree as follows:

     1. BACKGROUND. The Company has adopted the Plan to provide additional
incentive compensation to its officers and other employees and to encourage such
individuals, including the Executive, to remain in the employ of the Company.
The Company desires to grant an award (the "Award") to the Executive of shares
of the Company's common stock, par value $.01 per share ("Common Stock"), as
additional incentive for the Executive's services and as an inducement to the
continued services by the Executive to the Company and its subsidiaries, subject
to all of the terms, conditions and restrictions contained herein. The Executive
acknowledges that he has received a copy of the Plan and any prospectus related
thereto from the Company.

     2. GRANT OF AWARD. Pursuant to the Plan and subject to the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and the Plan, the Company hereby grants to the
Executive an Award of Twenty-Four Thousand Eighty-Eight (24,088) shares of
Common Stock, subject to certain restrictions (individually, a "Share" and
collectively, the "Shares").

     3. RESTRICTIONS. Until expiration of the restrictions provided in this
Agreement or in the Plan, the Shares shall be subject to the following
restrictions:

          (a) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Executive shall remain in the employment
of the Company or one of its subsidiaries and if, prior to the lapse of
restrictions on the Shares, the Executive's employment by the Company terminates
for any reason other than termination by the Company without Cause or by reason
of death or disability of Executive prior to the date the restrictions lapse,
the Shares shall immediately be forfeited to the Company and the Executive shall
have no further rights with respect the Shares. The terms "Cause" and
"disability" shall be defined as set forth in Sections 4(a) and (b) of
Executive's Employment Agreement of October 1, 2000.



                                       11



          (b) TRANSFER. The Shares may not be sold, assigned, transferred,
exchanged, pledged, hypothecated, or otherwise encumbered in any manner by the
Executive.

    4.  LAPSE OF RESTRICTIONS.

          (a) GENERAL. Subject to the terms of this Agreement, restrictions on
the Shares shall expire on September 30, 2003, and the Executive shall receive
the Shares with respect to which such restrictions expire within thirty (30)
days after such vesting date.

          (b) FORFEITURE OF SHARES. The Executive shall forfeit all of the
Shares subject to restrictions upon the Executive's termination of employment
with the Company or any of its subsidiaries for any reason other than
termination by the Company without Cause or by reason of death or disability.

          (c) TERMINATION OF RESTRICTIONS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company shall have the
power, in its sole discretion, to accelerate the expiration of the applicable
restriction period, to waive any restriction with respect to any part or all of
the Shares, or to waive the forfeiture of Shares and to retain restrictions on
Shares that would have been forfeited pursuant to the terms of this Agreement.

    5.  CERTIFICATES. Each certificate issued in respect of the Shares shall
be registered in the name of Executive and deposited with the Company or its
designee and shall bear the following legend:

          "This certificate and the shares of common stock represented hereby
          are subject to the terms and conditions (including forfeiture and
          restrictions against transfer) contained in The 1997 Rayovac Incentive
          Plan and an Agreement entered into between Rayovac Corporation and the
          registered owner. Release from such terms and conditions shall be
          obtained only in accordance with the provisions of such Plan and
          Agreement, copies of which are on file in the office of the Secretary
          of Rayovac Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin."

The Executive shall execute and deliver to the Company a stock power or powers
in blank with respect to the Shares.

    6.  SECTION 83 ELECTION. The Executive agrees not to file an election
under section 83(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, with
respect to the Shares.

    7.  CHANGE IN CONTROL. As more particularly provided in the Plan, all
restrictions with respect to any of the Shares that have not been previously
forfeited

                                       12




as provided in this Agreement shall expire and lapse upon the occurrence of a
Change in Control (as defined in the Plan). If a Change in Control has occurred,
all restrictions on the Shares shall expire immediately prior to the effective
date of the Change in Control.

    8.  INCORPORATION OF PLAN; DEFINED TERMS. The Plan is incorporated
herein by reference and made a part of this Agreement as if each provision of
the Plan were specifically set forth herein. In the event of a conflict
between the Plan and this Agreement, the terms and conditions of the Plan
shall govern. Unless otherwise expressly defined in this Agreement, all
capitalized terms in this Agreement shall have the meanings given such terms
in the Plan.

    9.  MISCELLANEOUS.

          (a) SUCCESSORS; GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall bind and inure to
the benefit of the parties, their heirs, personal representative, successors in
interest and assigns. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

          (b) DIVIDENDS. The Company shall have the discretion to pay to the
Executive any special or regular cash dividends declared by the Board of
Directors, or to defer the payment of cash dividends until the expiration of the
restrictions with respect to the Shares, or reinvest such amounts in additional
shares of Restricted Stock. Any cash payments of dividends that become payable
while any of the Shares remain subject to restrictions hereunder to Executive
with respect to the restricted shares may, in the Company's discretion, be net
of an amount sufficient to satisfy any federal, state and local withholding tax
requirements with respect to such dividends.

          (c) CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT. The Agreement does not constitute a contract
of employment. Participation in the Plan does not give the Executive the right
to remain in the employ of the Company or a subsidiary and does not limit in any
way the right of the Company or a subsidiary to change the duties or
responsibilities of the Executive.

          (d) AMENDMENT. The Company may amend this Agreement or modify the
provisions for the termination of the restrictions on the Shares without the
approval of the Executive to comply with any rules or regulations under
applicable tax, securities or other laws or the rules and regulations
thereunder, or to correct any omission in this Agreement.


                                       13




     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement, effective as
of the date set forth below.

                                       Rayovac Corporation

October 1, 2000                        By:
                                          -----------------------------------
                                          David A. Jones
                                          Chief Executive Officer


EXECUTIVE



- --------------------------------
Name:    Luis A. Cancio

Address: Marbella Building - Apt. 10B
         250 S. Ocean Blvd.
         Boca Raton, FL   33143


EXHIBIT 21

SUBSIDIARY ORGANIZATION JURISDICTION OF - ------------------------ --------------- ROV Holding, Inc. Delaware Rayovac Europe B.V. Netherlands Rayovac Far East Limited Hong Kong Rayovac Canada Inc. Canada Rayovac Europe Limited United Kingdom Rayovac (UK) Limited United Kingdom Rovcal, Inc. California Rayovac Latin America Ltd. Cayman Islands Rayovac Overseas Corp. Panama Rayovac Dominican Republic, S.A. Dominican Republic Rayovac Venezuela, S.A. Venezuela Rayovac Colombia, S.A. Colombia Rayovac Guatemala, S.A. Guatemala Distribuidora Rayovac Honduras, S.A. Honduras Rayovac El Salvador, S.A. de C.V. El Salvador Distribuidora Rayovac Guatemala, S.A. Guatemala Ray-O-Vac de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. Mexico Rayovac Honduras, S.A. Honduras Rayovac Costa Rica, S.A. Costa Rica Rayovac Argentina S.R.L. Argentina Rayovac Chile Ltda. Chile Rayovac Foreign Sales Corporation Barbados Zoephos International N.V. Netherlands Minera Vidaluz, S.A. de C.V. Mexico Brisco Electronics B.V. Netherlands Brisco Electronics GmbH Germany


                                                                     EXHIBIT 23


                             CONSENT OF KPMG LLP


The Board of Directors
Rayovac Corporation:

We consent to incorporation by reference in the registration statements on
Form S-3 (No. 333-69711) and Form S-8 (Nos. 333-39239, 333-41815, and
333-42443), of Rayovac Corporation of our reports dated November 3, 2000,
relating to the consolidated balance sheets of Rayovac Corporation and
Subsidiaries as of September 30, 1999 and 2000, and the related consolidated
statements of operations, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2000
and related financial statement schedule, which reports appear in the
September 30, 2000, Annual Report on Form 10-K of Rayovac Corporation.


Milwaukee, Wisconsin
December 19, 2000


 


5 THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE COMPANY'S AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF AND FOR THE TWELVE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 1,000 YEAR SEP-30-2000 OCT-01-1999 SEP-30-2000 9,757 0 148,787 1,020 100,676 291,170 228,865 116,968 569,016 186,480 317,630 0 0 571 80,125 569,016 703,933 703,933 358,226 358,226 256,546 583 30,626 57,952 19,602 38,350 0 0 0 38,350 1.39 1.32