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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Item 9B. Other Information

Table of Contents

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549



FORM 10-K


ý

 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For The Fiscal Year Ended March 1, 2014

OR

o

 

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For The Transition Period From                To              

Commission File Number 1-5742

RITE AID CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  23-1614034
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

30 Hunter Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
(Address of principal executive offices)

 

17011
(Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (717) 761-2633

         Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class   Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $1.00 par value   New York Stock Exchange

         Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ý    No o

         Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to section 13 or section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes o    No ý

         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 ý    No o

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

         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. ý

         Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of "Accelerated Filer" and "Large Accelerated Filer" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large Accelerated Filer ý   Accelerated Filer o   Non-Accelerated Filer o
(Do not check if a
smaller reporting company)
  Smaller reporting company o

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

         The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common stock of the registrant held by non-affiliates of the registrant based on the closing price at which such stock was sold on the New York Stock Exchange on August 31, 2013 was approximately $3,137,147,179. For purposes of this calculation, executive officers, directors and 5% shareholders are deemed to be affiliates of the registrant.

         As of April 11, 2014 the registrant had outstanding 971,797,750 shares of common stock, par value $1.00 per share.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

         Portions of the proxy statement for the registrant's annual meeting of stockholders to be held on June 19, 2014 are incorporated by reference into Part III.

   


Table of Contents


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
   
  Page  

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    2  

PART I

 

 

       

ITEM 1.

 

Business

    3  

ITEM 1A.

 

Risk Factors

    11  

ITEM 1B.

 

Unresolved Staff Comments

    17  

ITEM 2.

 

Properties

    17  

ITEM 3.

 

Legal Proceedings

    20  

ITEM 4.

 

Mine Safety Disclosures

    21  

PART II

 

 

       

ITEM 5.

 

Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

    22  

ITEM 6.

 

Selected Financial Data

    24  

ITEM 7.

 

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

    25  

ITEM 7A.

 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

    45  

ITEM 8.

 

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

    45  

ITEM 9.

 

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

    46  

ITEM 9A.

 

Controls and Procedures

    46  

ITEM 9B.

 

Other Information

    48  

PART III

 

 

       

ITEM 10.

 

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

       

ITEM 11.

 

Executive Compensation

       

ITEM 12.

 

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

       

ITEM 13.

 

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

       

ITEM 14.

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

       

PART IV

 

 

       

ITEM 15.

 

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule

    48  

SIGNATURES

    112  

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CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

        This report, as well as our other public filings or public statements, include forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are often identified by terms and phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "continue," "should," "could," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "will" and similar expressions and include references to assumptions and relate to our future prospects, developments and business strategies.

        Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:

        We undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements included in this report, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date of this report. Our actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences are discussed in the sections entitled "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Overview and Factors Affecting Our Future Prospects" included in this annual report on Form 10-K.

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PART I

Item 1.    Business

Overview

        Rite Aid is the third largest retail drugstore chain in the United States based on both revenues and number of stores. As of March 1, 2014, we operated 4,587 stores in 31 states across the country and in the District of Columbia.

        In our stores, we sell prescription drugs and a wide assortment of other merchandise, which we call "front-end" products. In fiscal 2014, prescription drug sales accounted for 67.9% of our total sales. We believe that pharmacy operations will continue to represent a significant part of our business due to favorable industry trends, including an aging population, increased life expectancy, anticipated growth in the federally funded Medicare Part D prescription program as "baby boomers" start to enroll, expanded coverage for uninsured Americans as the result of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the discovery of new and better drug therapies. We carry a full assortment of front-end products, which accounted for the remaining 32.1% of our total sales in fiscal 2014. Front-end products include over-the-counter medications, health and beauty aids, personal care items, cosmetics, household items, food and beverages, greeting cards, seasonal merchandise and numerous other everyday and convenience products. We also offer various photo processing services in virtually all our stores.

        We differentiate our stores from other national chain drugstores, in part, through our wellness+ loyalty program, our Wellness format stores, innovative merchandising, private brands and our expanded strategic partnership with GNC, a leading retailer of vitamin and mineral supplements. We offer a wide variety of products through our portfolio of private brands, which continue to be well received by our customers. Private brand items contributed approximately 18.2% of our front-end sales in fiscal 2014.

        The average size of each store in our chain is approximately 12,600 square feet, and average store size is larger for our locations in the western United States. As of March 1, 2014, 61% of our stores were freestanding; 52% of our stores included a drive-thru pharmacy; and 48% included a GNC store within Rite Aid store.

        Our headquarters are located at 30 Hunter Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011, and our telephone number is (717) 761-2633. Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol of "RAD." We were incorporated in 1968 and are a Delaware corporation.

Industry Trends

        The rate of pharmacy sales growth in the United States has slowed in recent years, driven by a decline in new blockbuster drugs, a longer FDA approval process, drug safety concerns, higher copays, the loss of individual health insurance with the rise of unemployment and an increase in the use of generic (non-brand name) drugs, which are less expensive but generate higher gross margins. However, we expect prescription usage to grow in the coming years due to the aging U.S. population, increased life expectancy, "baby boomers" becoming eligible for the federally funded Medicare prescription program and new drug therapies. Furthermore, we expect that Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will have a positive impact on our business as more Americans gain health insurance and prescription drug coverage. Additionally, rising U.S. healthcare costs and the shortage of primary care physicians are creating opportunities for pharmacists and drugstores to play a more active role in driving positive health outcomes for patients. Services such as immunizations, medication therapy management, chronic condition management and medication compliance counseling extend our efforts well beyond filling prescriptions. We believe that offerings such as these will gain additional momentum in a rapidly changing healthcare environment.

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        In terms of our traditional drug dispensing business, generic prescription drugs continue to help lower overall costs for customers and third party payors. We believe the utilization of existing generic pharmaceuticals will continue to increase. After a slowdown of new generic introductions in fiscal 2014, the next wave of generic introductions will begin in the second half of fiscal 2015 as additional popular branded drugs are scheduled to lose patent protection. The gross profit from a generic drug prescription in the retail drugstore industry is generally greater than the gross profit from a brand drug prescription. However, the sale amount can be substantially less and can impact our overall revenues and same store sales.

        The retail drugstore industry is highly competitive and has been experiencing consolidation. We believe that the continued consolidation of the drugstore industry, continued new store openings, increased competition from internet and mail order based providers and aggressive generic pricing programs at competitors such as Wal-Mart and various supermarket chains will further increase competitive pressures in the industry. The pharmacy business has continued to be highly promotional, which contributes to additional competitive pressures.

        The retail drugstore industry relies significantly on third party payors. Third party payors, including the Medicare Part D plans and the state sponsored Medicaid and related managed care Medicaid agencies, at times change the eligibility requirements of participants or reduce certain reimbursement rates. These changes and reductions are expected to continue. When third party payors, including the Medicare Part D program and state sponsored Medicaid agencies, reduce the number of participants and/or reduce their reimbursement rates, sales and margins in the industry could be reduced, and profitability of the industry adversely affected. These possible adverse effects can be partially or entirely offset by lowering our product cost, controlling expenses, dispensing more higher margin generics and dispensing more prescriptions overall.

Strategy

        Our strategy for fiscal 2015 is to accelerate the transformation of Rite Aid into a neighborhood destination for health and wellness. This strategic objective will not only allow us to better meet the needs of our customers and patients in a rapidly changing healthcare environment, but will also help us to continue the positive financial momentum we have generated over the past several years.

        Financially, our primary goal for fiscal 2015, consistent with fiscal 2014, is to continue growing same stores sales while expanding EBITDA margins, both of which are critical to achieving long-term financial success. By growing same-store sales, we can take full advantage of our recent cost control improvements, including the refinancing transactions we completed in fiscal 2014.

        In order to drive our financial performance and sustainable sales growth, we will continue to increase the level of capital investment in our store base through initiatives such as the Wellness store remodel program and prescription file purchases. We will also continue to build upon key initiatives we have implemented in recent years such as our highly successful wellness+ customer loyalty program and expanded pharmacy services, including immunizations. At the same time, we will focus on developing new programs that meet the evolving needs of our customers as we enter a period of rapid change in the U.S. healthcare industry. We expect that these continued investments and our focus on key initiatives will generate long-term value for our shareholders.

        Below are descriptions of our key initiatives:

        wellness+—Since its launch in April of 2010, our free wellness+ program has provided customers and patients with the opportunity to earn significant discounts and wellness rewards in return for being loyal Rite Aid shoppers. Enrolled members earn rewards based on the accumulation of points for certain front-end and prescription purchases. The program has been well received by Rite Aid customers and continues to provide significant value to members earning enough points to reach the

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Gold, Silver or Bronze tier levels. In addition to tiered discounts and wellness rewards, members receive exclusive sale pricing and the opportunity to earn Plus Up Rewards, which are offers on certain items featured in our weekly circular that provide additional savings during return shopping trips.

        Participation in the wellness+ program and wellness+ card usage continues to be strong. As of March 1, 2014, the wellness+ program had nearly 25 million active members, which we define as members who have used their wellness+ card at least twice over the previous 26 weeks. In fiscal 2014, wellness+ members accounted for 78% of front-end sales and 70% of prescriptions filled. In addition, our number of Gold and Silver members—Rite Aid's most valuable and satisfied customers—continues to increase.

        We introduced the biggest extension of wellness+ since its inception by successfully launching wellness65+ for seniors in June of 2013. Enrolled seniors can also become "Gold Members for a Day" and receive a 20% discount during special "wellness65+ Wednesday" events held each month at every Rite Aid store. These benefits are designed to give seniors a strong incentive to visit their local Rite Aid, get to know our store and pharmacy teams and learn more about the various products, services and advice Rite Aid has to offer. As of March 1, 2014, more than 1.6 million seniors were enrolled in the program. In fiscal 2014, we continued efforts to form stronger relationships with our best customers by leveraging program data to deliver more personalized and targeted offers.

        Heading forward, we will continue to look for new and innovative ways to further enhance our highly popular customer loyalty program.

        Wellness Store Remodels—In fiscal 2014, we continued to strengthen Rite Aid as a wellness destination by converting 405 stores to our Wellness Store format, which brought our total number of Wellness stores to 1,215 by the end of the fiscal year. As a result, more than a quarter of all Rite Aid stores are now Wellness stores.

        In addition to improved interior design, expanded clinical pharmacy services, innovative merchandising and new wellness product offerings, these stores are staffed with our unique Wellness Ambassadors, who serve as a bridge from the front-end of our stores to the pharmacy and provide an added level of customer service. Our customers have responded favorably to this unique store format. Our Wellness stores are outperforming the rest of our chain in terms of both front-end same-store sales and same-store prescription count.

        We plan to complete an additional 450 Wellness remodels in fiscal 2015. We believe these remodels are a cost-effective way to strengthen our store base, grow sales and offer our customers an engaging wellness experience.

        As we continue our store remodeling efforts, we will also begin setting the stage to complete store relocations and build net new stores over the next few years, allowing us to further expand the reach of our Wellness store format.

        Expanded Healthcare Services—In fiscal 2014, we continued to expand the role of our Rite Aid pharmacists in delivering wellness services that go beyond simply filling prescriptions. A key area of focus has been our immunizations program, which has grown significantly in recent years. In fiscal 2014, our pharmacists administered more than 2.8 million flu shots compared to nearly 2.4 million the previous year, an increase of more than 450,000. We also increased our number of vaccinations that protect against other conditions such as shingles, pneumonia and whooping cough by five percent over last year. Immunizations will continue to be a key area of focus in fiscal 2015.

        We are also piloting an innovative program named Rite Aid Health Alliance that positions Rite Aid to partner with local physicians and support patients with chronic conditions in achieving positive health outcomes. Through Rite Aid Health Alliance, doctors recommend our program to patients with one or more chronic conditions such as congestive heart failure, COPD, high cholesterol and diabetes.

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Once a patient enrolls, Rite Aid pharmacists and specially-trained in-store care coaches work with the physician to create a personalized health care action plan and engage with the patient between physician visits to support the patient in implementing the plan and improving overall health.

        As of March 1, 2014, the Rite Aid Health Alliance program was active in three markets and we intend to expand the program to additional markets and stores throughout fiscal 2015. We are committed to continue to grow and develop our pharmacy and healthcare related service offerings to better meet the needs of customers and further strengthen our brand of health and wellness, both organically and through our recent acquisitions of Health Dialog and RediClinic.

        On April 1, 2014 we acquired Boston-based Health Dialog, a provider of health coaching, shared decision making tools and health care analytics. Health Dialog helps health plans, employers and physician groups improve healthcare quality while reducing overall costs. Health Dialog offerings include health coaching for medical decisions, chronic conditions, and wellness; population analytic solutions; and consulting services. Our acquisition of Health Dialog will play a key role in advancing our Rite Aid Health Alliance program. We will benefit from Health Dialog's industry-leading analytics and shared decision making tools as we continue to strengthen our health care offering. At the same time, the acquisition will provide Health Dialog with an expanded footprint to grow its portfolio of clients and services as a 100 percent owned subsidiary.

        On April 10, 2014 we acquired Houston-based RediClinic, a leading operator of retail clinics. Retail clinics play a critical role in today's health care delivery system and will play an important role in our overall health and wellness strategy. RediClinic currently operates 30 clinics in the greater Austin, San Antonio and Houston areas. RediClinics are staffed by board certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who are trained and licensed to treat common conditions and provide preventative services, in collaboration with local physicians who are affiliated with a leading health care system in each market. Patients can be treated for more than 30 common medical conditions and RediClinic's clinicians are able to write prescriptions for these conditions when appropriate. Additionally, RediClinics provide a broad range of preventive services, including screenings, medical tests, immunizations and basic physical exams. We are committed to expanding RediClinic's footprint in Texas and will leverage their expertise to deliver convenient health care and wellness programs to our customers in selected markets. We expect to open an additional 70 RediClinics over the next 18 to 24 months.

        Prescription File Purchases—In fiscal 2014, we increased the amount of capital spent on the purchase of prescription files to $87.4 million, up from $67.1 million in fiscal 2013. We have allocated $90.0 million of our fiscal 2015 capital expenditures budget for prescription file buys as they typically deliver a strong return on investment.

        Drug Purchasing and Distribution Efficiencies—In fiscal 2014, we announced an expanded agreement with our long-time partner McKesson for pharmaceutical purchasing and distribution. As part of this five-year agreement, McKesson will assume responsibility for purchasing all brand and generic medications we dispense in our stores as well as delivering those medications to our nearly 4,600 store locations. We expect that this partnership will leverage the scale of both companies to deliver greater purchasing and distribution efficiencies, ensure the highest levels of service for our customers and generate additional cash flow to further fuel our long-term growth.

        Private Brands—In fiscal 2011, we began to roll out our new private brand architecture, which included the consolidation of our private brands into three separate tiers. The initiative included enhanced package designs for our private brand items and the introduction of our price-fighter brand, Simplify. We now have approximately 3,000 private brand items and our private brand penetration has increased from 16% in fiscal 2011 to 18.2% as of the end of fiscal 2014. In fiscal 2015, we will continue to aggressively promote our private brands, which offer great value to our customers and strong

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margins for Rite Aid, through specific promotional programs and the introduction of new private brand items.

        Enhanced Digital Offerings—As we continue working hard to improve the customer experience in our 4,600 stores, we're also focused on providing enhanced digital resources that better reflect our brand of health and wellness. In addition to our new and improved www.riteaid.com website, we continue to enhance our mobile app with quarterly updates while engaging with customers on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter.

        Customer Service—We have put several store programs in place to improve the customer service experience, including the addition of Wellness Ambassadors to more stores and our chain-wide emphasis on greeting our customers more frequently and assisting them with purchases. We have also made investments in technology to make it easier for our store associates to perform necessary tasks such as price changes and backroom inventory management. By providing our associates with the ability to execute these tasks more efficiently, we give our store teams more time to focus on providing excellent service to our customers. In addition, fiscal 2015 will be the third consecutive year in which we have increased our budget for associate training and development. We believe this additional focus on developing our associates to provide superior customer service has and will continue to help us drive our improved overall performance.

        Cost Control—We continue to leverage the significant reductions we have made to our SG&A expense over the past few years. At the same time, we have completed several refinancing transactions that saved approximately $85 million in annual interest expense for fiscal 2014 and will continue to benefit our business heading forward. We will continue to focus on controlling costs in fiscal 2015 so that we can maximize the benefits of our sales and customer service initiatives and capital investments.

Products and Services

        Sales of prescription drugs represented approximately 67.9%, 67.6%, and 68.1% of our total sales in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. In fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, prescription drug sales were $17.2 billion, $17.1 billion, and $17.7 billion, respectively. See "Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our consolidated financial statements.

        We carry a full assortment of non-prescription, or front end products. The types and number of front end products in each store vary, and selections are based on customer needs and preferences and available space. No single front end product category contributed significantly to our sales during fiscal 2014. We also offer photo finishing services in a majority of our stores. Our principal classes of products in fiscal 2014 were the following:

Product Class
  Percentage of
Sales
 

Prescription drugs

    67.9 %

Over-the-counter medications and personal care

    9.8 %

Health and beauty aids

    5.1 %

General merchandise and other

    17.2 %

        We offer a wide variety of products under our private brands. We intend to increase the private brand sales percentage in fiscal 2015 by entering new categories, enhancing our seasonal programs and improving the in-stock position with our private brand suppliers. We believe that our customers find these products to be of high quality and provide great value.

        We have a strategic alliance with GNC under which we have opened over 2,200 GNC stores within Rite Aid store as of March 1, 2014 and have a contractual commitment to open at least 300 additional

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GNC stores within Rite Aid stores by December 2019. We incorporate the GNC stores within Rite Aid store concept into many of our new and relocated stores and into many of our Wellness remodels. GNC is a leading nationwide retailer of vitamin and mineral supplements, personal care, fitness and other health-related products.

Technology

        All of our stores are integrated into a common information system, which enables our customers to fill or refill prescriptions in any of our stores throughout the country, reduces chances of adverse drug interactions, and enables our pharmacists to fill prescriptions more accurately and efficiently. This system can be expanded to accommodate new stores. Our customers may also order prescription refills over the Internet through our recently enhanced website, www.riteaid.com, or over the phone through our telephonic automated refill systems for pick up at a Rite Aid store. We have automated pharmacy dispensing units in high volume stores, which are linked to our pharmacists' computers that fill and label prescription drug orders. The efficiency of these units allows our pharmacists to spend more time consulting with our customers. Additionally, each of our stores employs point-of-sale technology that supports sales analysis and recognition of customer trends. This same point-of-sale technology facilitates the maintenance of perpetual inventory records which, together with our sales analysis, drives our automated inventory replenishment process.

        We continue to embrace technology as a way to enhance the customer experience. We completed the development and implementation of our improved mobile app, which is now available for download for both the Android and iPhone platforms. This free app allows our customers to use their smartphones to manage their wellness + account, access the weekly circular to view sale items, order photo prints and locate a nearby Rite Aid store. We have continued to strengthen our presence on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest through unique promotions and contests.

Sources and Availability of Raw Materials

        During fiscal 2014, we purchased brand pharmaceuticals and some generic pharmaceuticals from McKesson Corporation ("McKesson"). Beginning in fiscal 2015, we will, with limited exceptions, purchase all of our branded pharmaceutical products and almost all of our generic (non-brand name) pharmaceutical products from McKesson. If our relationship with McKesson were disrupted, we could temporarily have difficulty filling prescriptions for brand-named and generic drugs until we executed a replacement wholesaler agreement or developed and implemented self-distribution processes.

        We purchase our non-pharmaceutical merchandise from numerous manufacturers and wholesalers. We believe that competitive sources are readily available for substantially all of the non-pharmaceutical merchandise we carry and that the loss of any one supplier would not have a material effect on our business.

        We sell private brand and co-branded products that generally are supplied by numerous competitive sources. The Rite Aid and GNC co-branded PharmAssure vitamin and mineral supplement products and the GNC branded vitamin and mineral supplement products that we sell in our stores are developed by GNC, and along with our Rite Aid brand vitamin and mineral supplements, are manufactured by GNC.

Customers and Third Party Payors

        During fiscal 2014, our stores filled approximately 295 million prescriptions and served an average of 2.0 million customers per day. The loss of any one customer would not have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.

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        In fiscal 2014, 97.0% of our pharmacy sales were to customers covered by third party payors (such as insurance companies, prescription benefit management companies, government agencies, private employers or other managed care providers) that agree to pay for all or a portion of a customer's eligible prescription purchases based on negotiated and contracted reimbursement rates. During fiscal 2014, the top five third party payors accounted for approximately 65.8% of our pharmacy sales. The largest third party payor, Express Scripts, represented 31.6% of our pharmacy sales.

        During fiscal 2014, Medicaid and related managed care Medicaid payors sales were approximately 13.7% of our pharmacy sales, of which the largest single Medicaid payor was approximately 1.1% of our pharmacy sales. During fiscal 2014, approximately 30.6% of our pharmacy sales were to customers covered by Medicare Part D.

Competition

        The retail drugstore industry is highly competitive. We compete with, among others, retail drugstore chains, independently owned drugstores, supermarkets, mass merchandisers, discount stores, wellness offerings, dollar stores and mail order pharmacies. We compete on the basis of store location and convenient access, customer service, product selection and price. We believe continued consolidation of the drugstore industry, the aggressive discounting of generic drugs by supermarkets and mass merchandisers and the increase of promotional incentives to drive prescription sales will further increase competitive pressures in the industry.

Marketing and Advertising

        In fiscal 2014, marketing and advertising expense was approximately $322.8 million, which was spent primarily on weekly circular advertising. Our marketing and advertising activities centered primarily on the following:

        Under the umbrella of our "With Us It's Personal" brand positioning, we promote educational programs focusing on specific health conditions and incentives for patients to transfer their prescriptions to Rite Aid. We are also emphasizing our automated courtesy refill service. We believe all of these programs will help us improve customer satisfaction and grow profitable sales.

Associates

        We believe that our relationships with our associates are good. As of March 1, 2014, we had approximately 89,000 associates: 11% were pharmacists, 44% were part-time and 27% were represented by unions. Associate satisfaction is critical to our success. Annually we survey our associates to obtain feedback on various employment-related topics, including job satisfaction and their understanding of our core values and mission.

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        The pharmacist shortage has eased significantly. The increase in the number of graduates from U.S. Schools of Pharmacy is meeting our workforce demand. However, pharmacist employment opportunities still exist in certain areas.

Research and Development

        We do not make significant expenditures for research and development.

Licenses, Trademarks and Patents

        The Rite Aid name is our most significant trademark and the most important factor in marketing our stores and private brand products. We hold licenses to sell beer, wine and liquor, cigarettes and lottery tickets. As part of our strategic alliance with GNC, we have a license to operate GNC "stores-within-Rite Aid-stores." We also hold licenses to operate our pharmacies and our distribution facilities. Collectively, these licenses are material to our operations.

Seasonality

        We experience moderate seasonal fluctuations in our results of operations concentrated in the first and fourth fiscal quarters as the result of the concentration of the cough, cold and flu season and the holidays. We tailor certain front end merchandise to capitalize on holidays and seasons. We increase our inventory levels during our third fiscal quarter in anticipation of the seasonal fluctuations described above. Our results of operations in the fourth and first fiscal quarters may fluctuate based upon the timing and severity of the cough, cold and flu season, both of which are unpredictable.

Regulation

        Our business is subject to federal, state and local laws, regulations, and administrative practices concerning the provision of and payment for health care services, including, without limitation: federal, state and local licensure and registration requirements concerning the operation of pharmacies and the practice of pharmacy; Medicare, Medicaid and other publicly financed health benefit plan regulations prohibiting kickbacks, beneficiary inducement and the submission of false claims; the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA); regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, including regulations governing the purchase, sale, storing and dispensing of controlled substances and other products, as well as regulations promulgated by state and other federal agencies concerning the sale, advertisement and promotion of the products we sell, including tobacco and alcoholic beverages.

        Our business is also subject to patient privacy and other obligations, including corporate, pharmacy and associate responsibility imposed by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. As a covered entity, we are required to implement privacy standards, train our associates on the permitted uses and disclosures of protected health information, provide a notice of privacy practice to our pharmacy customers and permit pharmacy customers to access and amend their records and receive an accounting of disclosures of protected health information.

        We are also subject to laws governing our relationship with our associates, including health and safety, minimum wage requirements, overtime, working conditions, equal employment opportunity and unionizing efforts.

        In addition, in connection with the ownership and operations of our stores, distribution centers and other sites, we are subject to laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and health and safety matters, including those governing the management and disposal of hazardous substances and the cleanup of contaminated sites.

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Corporate Governance and Internet Address

        We recognize that good corporate governance is an important means of protecting the interests of our stockholders, associates, customers and the community. We have closely monitored and implemented relevant legislative and regulatory corporate governance reforms, including provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 ("Sarbanes-Oxley"), the rules of the SEC interpreting and implementing Sarbanes-Oxley and the corporate governance listing standards of the NYSE.

        Our corporate governance information and materials, including our Certificate of Incorporation, Bylaws, Corporate Governance Guidelines, the charters of our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and Nominating and Governance Committee, our Code of Ethics for the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers, our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and our Related Person Transaction Policy are posted on the corporate governance section of our website at www.riteaid.com and are available in print upon request to Rite Aid Corporation, 30 Hunter Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011, Attention: Corporate Secretary. Our Board will regularly review corporate governance developments and modify these materials and practices as warranted.

        Our website also provides information on how to contact us and other items of interest to investors. We make available on our website, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) data files of our annual report and quarterly reports beginning with our fiscal 2011 second quarter 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to these reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after we file these reports with, or furnish them to, the SEC. We do not intend for the information contained on our website to be part of this annual report on Form 10-K.

Item 1A.    Risk Factors

Factors Affecting our Future Prospects

        Set forth below is a description of certain risk factors which we believe may be relevant to an understanding of us and our business. Security holders are cautioned that these and other factors may affect future performance and cause actual results to differ from those which may be anticipated. See "Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements."


Risks Related to our Financial Condition

Current economic conditions may adversely affect our industry, business and results of operations.

        The United States economy is continuing to feel the impact of the economic downturn that began in late 2007, and the future economic environment may not fully recover to levels prior to the downturn. This economic uncertainty has and could further lead to reduced consumer spending for the foreseeable future. If consumer spending decreases or does not grow, we may not be able to sustain the improvement in our same store sales. In addition, reduced or flat consumer spending may drive us and our competitors to offer additional products at promotional prices, which would have a negative impact on our gross profit. We operate a number of stores in areas that are experiencing a lower recovery than the economy on a national level. A continued softening or slow recovery in consumer spending may adversely affect our industry, business and results of operations. Reduced revenues as a result of decreased consumer spending may also reduce our liquidity and otherwise hinder our ability to implement our long term strategy.

We are highly leveraged. Our substantial indebtedness could limit cash flow available for our operations and could adversely affect our ability to service debt or obtain additional financing if necessary.

        We had, as of March 1, 2014, $5.8 billion of outstanding indebtedness and stockholders' deficit of $2.1 billion. We also had additional borrowing capacity under our $1.795 billion senior secured

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revolving credit facility of approximately $1,315.1 million, net of outstanding letters of credit of $79.9 million. Our earnings were sufficient to cover fixed charges for fiscal 2014 by $233.4 million. However, our earnings were insufficient to cover fixed charges and preferred stock dividends for fiscal 2013, 2012, 2011 and 2010 by $14.0 million, $412.4 million, $564.8 million and $498.4 million, respectively.

        Our high level of indebtedness will continue to restrict our operations. Among other things, our indebtedness will:

        Our ability to meet our cash requirements, including our debt service obligations, is dependent upon our ability to substantially improve our operating performance, which will be subject to general economic and competitive conditions and to financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond our control. We cannot provide any assurance that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations to fund our cash requirements and debt service obligations.

        We believe we have adequate sources of liquidity to meet our anticipated requirements for working capital, debt service and capital expenditures through fiscal 2015 and have no significant debt maturities prior to February 2018. However, if our operating results, cash flow or capital resources prove inadequate, or if interest rates rise significantly, we could face liquidity constraints. If we are unable to service our debt or experience a significant reduction in our liquidity, we could be forced to reduce or delay planned capital expenditures and other initiatives, sell assets, restructure or refinance our debt or seek additional equity capital, and we may be unable to take any of these actions on satisfactory terms or in a timely manner. Further, any of these actions may not be sufficient to allow us to service our debt obligations or may have an adverse impact on our business. Our existing debt agreements limit our ability to take certain of these actions. Our failure to generate sufficient operating cash flow to pay our debts or refinance our indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on us.

Borrowings under our senior secured credit facility are based upon variable rates of interest, which could result in higher expense in the event of increases in interest rates.

        As of March 1, 2014, approximately $2.5 billion of our outstanding indebtedness bore interest at a rate that varies depending upon the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"). Borrowings under our Second Lien facilities Tranche 1 Term Loan due August 2020 and Tranche 2 Term Loan due June 2021 are subject to a minimum LIBOR floor of 100 basis points. Borrowings under our new Tranche 7 Term Loan due February 2020 (we refinanced our Tranche 6 Term Loan due February 2020 on March 14, 2014) are subject to a minimum LIBOR floor of 75 basis points. Borrowings under our senior secured revolving credit facility are most sensitive to LIBOR fluctuations because there is no floor. If LIBOR rises, the interest rates on outstanding debt will increase. Therefore an increase in LIBOR would increase our interest payment obligations under those loans and have a negative effect on our cash flow and financial condition. We currently do not maintain hedging contracts that would limit our exposure to variable rates of interest.

The covenants in the instruments that govern our current indebtedness may limit our operating and financial flexibility.

        The covenants in the instruments that govern our current indebtedness limit our ability to:

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        The senior secured credit facility contains covenants which place restrictions on the incurrence of debt beyond the restrictions described above, the payment of dividends, sale of assets, mergers and acquisitions and the granting of liens. Our senior secured credit facility has a financial covenant which requires us to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. The covenant requires that, if availability on the revolving credit facility is less than $150.0 million, we maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.00 to 1.00. As of March 1, 2014, we had availability under our revolving credit facility of approximately $1,315.1 million, our fixed charge coverage ratio was greater than 1.00 to 1.00, and were in compliance with the senior secured credit facility's financial covenant.

Our stockholders will experience dilution if we issue additional common stock.

        We are generally not restricted from issuing additional shares of our common shares or preferred stock, including, subject to the terms of our outstanding debt instruments, any securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, common shares or preferred stock or any substantially similar securities, whether for cash, as part of incentive compensation or in refinancing transactions. Any additional future issuances of common stock will reduce the percentage of our common stock owned by investors who do not participate in such issuances. In most circumstances, stockholders will not be entitled to vote on whether or not we issue additional shares of common stock. The market price of our common stock could decline as a result of issuances of a large number of shares of our common stock or the perception that such issuances could occur.


Risks Related to our Operations

We need to improve our operations in order to improve our financial condition, but our operations will not improve if we cannot effectively implement our business strategy or if our strategy is negatively affected by worsening economic conditions.

        We have not yet achieved the sales productivity level of our major competitors. We believe that improving the sales of existing stores is important to improving profitability and operating cash flow. If we are not successful in implementing our strategies, including our efforts to increase sales and further reduce costs, or if our strategies are not effective, we may not be able to improve our operations. In addition, any further adverse change or continued weakness in general economic conditions or major industries can adversely affect drug benefit plans and reduce our pharmacy sales. Adverse changes in general economic conditions could affect consumer buying practices and consequently reduce our sales of front end products, and cause a decrease in our profitability. Failure to improve operations or a continued weakness in major industries or general economic conditions would adversely affect our

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results of operations, financial condition and cash flows and our ability to make principal or interest payments on our debt.

We purchase all of our brand and generic drugs from a single wholesaler. A disruption in this relationship may have a negative effect on us.

        We purchase all of our brand prescription and beginning during fiscal 2015, will purchase, with limited exceptions, all of our generic drugs from a single wholesaler, McKesson. Pharmacy sales represented approximately 67.9% of our total sales during fiscal 2014. While we believe that alternative sources of supply for most generic and brand name pharmaceuticals are readily available, a significant disruption in our relationship with McKesson could make it difficult for us to continue to operate our business on a regular basis until we executed a replacement wholesaler agreement or developed and implemented self-distribution processes. We believe we could obtain and qualify alternative sources, including through self-distribution, for substantially all of the prescription drugs we sell on an acceptable basis, and accordingly that the impact of any disruption would be temporary. In addition, because McKesson acts as a wholesaler for drugs purchased from ultimate manufacturers worldwide, any disruption in the supply of a given drug could adversely impact McKesson's ability to fulfill our demands, which could adversely effect us.

A significant disruption in our computer systems or a cyber security breach could adversely affect our operations.

        We rely extensively on our computer systems to manage our ordering, pricing, point-of-sale, inventory replenishment and other processes. Our systems are subject to damage or interruption from power outages, computer and telecommunications failures, computer viruses, cyber security breaches, vandalism, severe weather conditions, catastrophic events and human error, and our disaster recovery planning cannot account for all eventualities. Although we deploy a layered approach to address information security threats and vulnerabilities, including ones from a cyber security standpoint, designed to protect confidential information against data security breaches, a compromise of our information security controls or of those businesses with whom we interact, which results in confidential information being accessed, obtained, damaged or used by unauthorized or improper persons, could harm our reputation and expose us to regulatory actions and claims from customers and clients, financial institutions, payment card associations and other persons, any of which could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations. Moreover, a data security breach could require that we expend significant resources related to our information systems and infrastructure, and could distract management and other key personnel from performing their primary operational duties. If our systems are damaged, fail to function properly or otherwise become unavailable, we may incur substantial costs to repair or replace them, and may experience loss of critical data and interruptions or delays in our ability to perform critical functions, which could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Any compromise of our security could also result in a violation of applicable privacy and other laws, significant legal and financial exposure, damage to our reputation, loss or misuse of the information and a loss of confidence in our security measures, which could harm our business. Although we maintain cyber security insurance, we cannot assure you that the coverage limits under our insurance program will be adequate to protect us against future claims.


Risks Related to our Industry

The markets in which we operate are very competitive and further increases in competition could adversely affect us.

        We face intense competition with local, regional and national companies, including other drugstore chains, independently owned drugstores, supermarkets, mass merchandisers, dollar stores and internet pharmacies. Competition from discount stores has significantly increased during the past few years. Our

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industry also faces growing competition from companies who import drugs directly from other countries, such as Canada, as well as from large-scale retailers that offer generic drugs at a substantial discount. Some of our competitors have or may merge with or acquire pharmaceutical services companies, pharmacy benefit managers, mail order facilities or enter into strategic partnership alliances with wholesalers, which may further increase competition. We may not be able to effectively compete against them because our existing or potential competitors may have financial and other resources that are superior to ours. In addition, we may be at a competitive disadvantage because we are more highly leveraged than our competitors. The ability of our stores to achieve profitability depends on their ability to achieve a critical mass of loyal, repeat customers. We believe that the continued consolidation of the drugstore industry will further increase competitive pressures in the industry. We cannot assure you that we will be able to continue to effectively compete in our markets or increase our sales volume in response to further increased competition.

Consolidation in the healthcare industry could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

        Many organizations in the healthcare industry, including pharmacy benefit managers, have consolidated, such as the merger of Express Scripts and Medco Health Solutions, to create larger healthcare enterprises with greater market power, which has resulted in greater pricing pressures. If this consolidation trend continues, it could give the resulting enterprises even greater bargaining power, which may lead to further pressure on the prices for our products and services. If these pressures result in reductions in our prices, our business will become less profitable unless we are able to achieve corresponding reductions in costs or develop profitable new revenue streams. We expect that market demand, government regulation, third-party reimbursement policies, government contracting requirements, and societal pressures will continue to cause the healthcare industry to evolve, potentially resulting in further business consolidations and alliances among the industry participants we engage with, which may adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

The availability of pharmacy drugs is subject to governmental regulations.

        The continued conversion of various prescription drugs, including potential conversions of a number of popular medications, to over-the-counter medications may reduce our pharmacy sales and customers may seek to purchase such medications at non-pharmacy stores. Also, if the rate at which new prescription drugs become available slows or if new prescription drugs that are introduced into the market fail to achieve popularity, our pharmacy sales may be adversely affected. The withdrawal of certain drugs from the market or concerns about the safety or effectiveness of certain drugs or negative publicity surrounding certain categories of drugs may also have a negative effect on our pharmacy sales or may cause shifts in our pharmacy or front end product mix.

Changes in third party reimbursement levels for prescription drugs and changes in industry pricing benchmarks could reduce our margins and have a material adverse effect on our business.

        Sales of prescription drugs reimbursed by third party payors, including the Medicare Part D plans and state sponsored Medicaid and related managed care Medicaid agencies, represented 97.0% of our business in fiscal 2014.

        The continued efforts of the Federal government, health maintenance organizations, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit management companies, other State and local government entities, and other third-party payors to reduce prescription drug costs and pharmacy reimbursement rates, as well as litigation relating to how drugs are priced, may impact our profitability. In addition, some of these entities may offer pricing terms that we may not be willing to accept or otherwise restrict our participation in their networks of pharmacy providers. Any significant loss of third-party business could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

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        Certain provisions of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 ("DRA") sought to reduce federal spending by altering the Medicaid reimbursement formula for multi-source (i.e., generic) drugs ("AMP"). Although those reductions did not go into effect, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, signed into law on March 23, 2010 (the "Patient Care Act") enacted a modified AMP reimbursement formula for multi-source drugs. The modified formula, when implemented, may reduce Medicaid reimbursements which could affect our revenues and profits. There have also been a number of other recent proposals and enactments by the Federal government and various states to reduce Medicare Part D and Medicaid reimbursement levels in response to budget problems. We expect other similar proposals in the future.

We are subject to governmental regulations, procedures and requirements; our noncompliance or a significant regulatory change could adversely affect our business, the results of our operations or our financial condition.

        Our business is subject to numerous federal, state and local laws and regulations ("Regulations"). Changes in these Regulations may require extensive system and operating changes that may be difficult to implement. Untimely compliance or noncompliance with applicable Regulations could result in the imposition of civil and criminal penalties that could adversely affect the continued operation of our business, including: (i) suspension of payments from government programs; (ii) loss of required government certifications; (iii) loss of authorizations to participate in or exclusion from government reimbursement programs, such as the Medicare and Medicaid programs; (iv) loss of licenses; or (v) significant fines or monetary penalties. The Regulations to which we are subject include, but are not limited to, federal, state and local registration and regulation of pharmacies; dispensing and sale of controlled substances and products containing pseudoephedrine; applicable Medicare and Medicaid Regulations; the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act or ("HIPAA"); Regulations relating to the protection of the environment and health and safety matters, including those governing exposure to and the management and disposal of hazardous substances; Regulations enforced by the U. S. Federal Trade Commission, the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Drug Enforcement Administration as well as state regulatory authorities, governing the sale, advertisement and promotion of products we sell; anti-kickback laws; false claims laws and federal and state laws governing the practice of the profession of pharmacy. We are also governed by federal and state laws of general applicability, including laws regulating matters of wage and hour laws, working conditions, health and safety and equal employment opportunity.

Certain risks are inherent in providing pharmacy services; our insurance may not be adequate to cover any claims against us.

        Pharmacies are exposed to risks inherent in the packaging and distribution of pharmaceuticals and other healthcare products, such as with respect to improper filling of prescriptions, labeling of prescriptions, adequacy of warnings, unintentional distribution of counterfeit drugs and expiration of drugs. In addition, federal and state laws that require our pharmacists to offer counseling, without additional charge, to their customers about medication, dosage, delivery systems, common side effects and other information the pharmacists deem significant can impact our business. Our pharmacists may also have a duty to warn customers regarding any potential negative effects of a prescription drug if the warning could reduce or negate these effects. Although we maintain professional liability and errors and omissions liability insurance, from time to time, claims result in the payment of significant amounts, some portions of which are not funded by insurance. We cannot assure you that the coverage limits under our insurance programs will be adequate to protect us against future claims, or that we will be able to maintain this insurance on acceptable terms in the future. Our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows may be adversely affected if in the future our insurance coverage proves to be inadequate or unavailable or there is an increase in liability for which we self-insure or we suffer reputational harm as a result of an error or omission.

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We may be subject to significant liability should the consumption of any of our products cause injury, illness or death.

        Products that we sell could become subject to contamination, product tampering, mislabeling or other damage requiring us to recall our private brand products. In addition, errors in the dispensing and packaging of pharmaceuticals could lead to serious injury or death. Product liability claims may be asserted against us with respect to any of the products or pharmaceuticals we sell and we may be obligated to recall our private brand products. A product liability judgment against us or a product recall could have a material, adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

If we fail to protect the security of personal information about our customers and associates, we could be subject to costly government enforcement actions or private litigation.

        Through our sales and marketing activities, we collect and store certain personal information that our customers provide to purchase products or services, enroll in promotional programs, register on our web site, or otherwise communicate and interact with us. We also gather and retain information about our associates in the normal course of business. We may share information about such persons with vendors that assist with certain aspects of our business. Despite instituted safeguards for the protection of such information, security could be compromised and confidential customer or business information misappropriated, for which we have paid related penalties in the past. Loss of customer or business information could disrupt our operations, damage our reputation, and expose us to claims from customers, financial institutions, payment card associations and other persons, any of which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, compliance with tougher privacy and information security laws and standards may result in significant expense due to increased investment in technology and the development of new operational processes.

Item 1B.    Unresolved SEC Staff Comments

        None

Item 2.    Properties

        As of March 1, 2014, we operated 4,587 retail drugstores. The average selling square feet of each store in our chain is approximately 10,000 square feet. The average total square feet of each store in our chain is approximately 12,600. The stores in the eastern part of the U.S. average 8,900 selling square feet per store (11,100 average total square feet per store). The stores in the western part of the U.S. average 14,900 selling square feet per store (19,400 average total square feet per store).

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        The table below identifies the number of stores by state as of March 1, 2014:

State
  Store Count  

Alabama

    93  

California

    580  

Colorado

    20  

Connecticut

    77  

Delaware

    42  

District of Columbia

    7  

Georgia

    186  

Idaho

    13  

Indiana

    10  

Kentucky

    116  

Louisiana

    63  

Massachusetts

    148  

Maine

    79  

Maryland

    143  

Michigan

    277  

Mississippi

    26  

North Carolina

    224  

Nevada

    1  

New Hampshire

    68  

New Jersey

    257  

New York

    613  

Ohio

    225  

Oregon

    71  

Pennsylvania

    536  

Rhode Island

    43  

South Carolina

    95  

Tennessee

    81  

Utah

    22  

Vermont

    37  

Virginia

    192  

Washington

    138  

West Virginia

    104  
       

Total

    4,587  
       
       

        Our stores have the following attributes at March 1, 2014:

Attribute
  Number   Percentage  

Freestanding

    2,812     61.3 %

Drive through pharmacy

    2,407     52.4 %

GNC stores within a Rite Aid store

    2,222     48.4 %

        We lease 4,329 of our operating drugstore facilities under non-cancelable leases, many of which have original terms of 10 to 22 years. In addition to minimum rental payments, which are set at competitive market rates, certain leases require additional payments based on sales volume, as well as reimbursement for taxes, maintenance and insurance. Most of our leases contain renewal options, some of which involve rent increases. The remaining 258 drugstore facilities are owned.

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        We own our corporate headquarters, which is located in a 205,000 square foot building at 30 Hunter Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011. We lease 366,400 square feet of space in various buildings near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania for document warehousing use and additional administrative personnel. We own additional buildings near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania which total 105,800 square feet and house our model store and additional administrative personnel.

        We operate the following distribution centers and satellite distribution locations, which we own or lease as indicated:

Location
  Owned or
Leased
  Approximate
Square
Footage
 

Poca, West Virginia

  Owned     255,000  

Dunbar, West Virginia(1)

  Leased     110,000  

Perryman, Maryland

  Owned     885,000  

Perryman, Maryland(1)

  Leased     262,000  

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

  Owned     230,000  

Cottondale, Alabama(1)

  Leased     224,000  

Pontiac, Michigan

  Owned     325,000  

Woodland, California

  Owned     513,000  

Woodland, California(1)

  Leased     200,000  

Wilsonville, Oregon

  Leased     547,000  

Lancaster, California

  Owned     914,000  

Charlotte, North Carolina

  Owned     585,500  

Charlotte, North Carolina(1)

  Leased     291,000  

Dayville, Connecticut

  Owned     460,000  

Liverpool, New York

  Owned     828,000  

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  Owned     245,000  

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania(1)

  Leased     415,000  

(1)
Satellite distribution locations.

        The original terms of the leases for our distribution centers and satellite distribution locations range from 5 to 22 years. In addition to minimum rental payments, certain distribution centers require tax reimbursement, maintenance and insurance. Most leases contain renewal options, some of which involve rent increases. Although from time to time, we may be near capacity at some of our distribution facilities, particularly at our older facilities, we believe that the capacity of our facilities is adequate.

        We also own a 55,800 square foot ice cream manufacturing facility and lease a 32,000 square foot storage facility located in El Monte, California.

        On a regular basis and as part of our normal business, we evaluate store performance and may reduce in size, close or relocate a store if the store is redundant, underperforming or otherwise deemed unsuitable. We also evaluate strategic dispositions and acquisitions of facilities and prescription files. When we reduce in size, close or relocate a store or close distribution center facilities, we often continue to have leasing obligations or own the property. We attempt to sublease this space. As of March 1, 2014, we had 7,383,081 square feet of excess space, 5,101,190 square feet of which was subleased.

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Item 3.    Legal Proceedings

        We have been named in a collective and class action lawsuit, Indergit v. Rite Aid Corporation et al pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, filed purportedly on behalf of current and former store managers working in our stores at various locations around the country. The lawsuit alleges that we failed to pay overtime to store managers as required under the FLSA and under certain New York state statutes. The lawsuit also seeks other relief, including liquidated damages, punitive damages, attorneys' fees, costs and injunctive relief arising out of state and federal claims for overtime pay. On April 2, 2010, the Court conditionally certified a nationwide collective group of individuals who worked for us as store managers since March 31, 2007. The Court ordered that Notice of the Indergit action be sent to the purported members of the collective group (approximately 7,000 current and former store managers) and approximately 1,550 joined the Indergit action. Discovery as to certification issues has been completed. On September 26, 2013, the Court granted Rule 23 class certification of the New York store manager claims as to liability only, but denied it as to damages, and denied our motion for decertification of the nationwide collective action claims. We have filed a motion seeking reconsideration of the Court's September 26, 2013 decision and briefing on that motion is complete and awaiting a ruling. Once approved by the Court, notice of the Rule 23 class certification as to liability only will be sent to approximately 1,750 current and former store managers in the state of New York. At this time, we are not able to either predict the outcome of this lawsuit or estimate a potential range of loss with respect to the lawsuit. Our management believes, however, that this lawsuit is without merit and not appropriate for collective or class action treatment and is vigorously defending this lawsuit.

        We are currently a defendant in several putative class action lawsuits filed in state courts in California alleging violations of California wage and hour laws, rules and regulations pertaining primarily to failure to pay overtime, pay for missed meals and rest periods and failure to provide employee seating. These suits purport to be class actions and seek substantial damages. We have aggressively challenged both the merits of the lawsuits and the allegations that the cases should be certified as class or representative actions. With respect to cases involving meal and rest periods (Chase and Scherwin v. Rite Aid Corporation pending in Los Angeles County Superior Court and Kyle v. Rite Aid Corporation pending in Sacramento County Superior Court), in light of the cost and uncertainty involved in these lawsuits, we are involved in ongoing discussions with counsel for the Plaintiffs concerning a possible resolution of these matters. With respect to the other lawsuits described in this paragraph, we, at this time, are not able to predict either the outcome of these lawsuits or estimate a potential range of loss with respect to said lawsuits.

        We were served with a United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General ("OIG") subpoena dated March 5, 2010 in connection with an investigation being conducted by the OIG and the United States Attorney's Office for the Central District of California. The subpoena requests records related to any gift card inducement programs for customers who transferred prescriptions for drugs or medicines to our pharmacies, and whether any customers who receive federally funded prescription benefits (e.g. Medicare and Medicaid) may have benefited from those programs. We have substantially completed our production of records in response to the subpoena. In June 2013, the government contacted us, and we are involved in ongoing discussions with the government regarding the matter. We are unable to predict the timing or outcome of any review by the government of such information.

        We were served with a Civil Investigative Demand Subpoena Duces Tecum dated August 26, 2011 by the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan. The subpoena requests records regarding Rite Aid's Rx Savings Program and the reporting of usual and customary charges to publicly funded health programs. In connection with the same investigation, we were served with a Civil Subpoena Duces Tecum dated February 22, 2013 by the State of Indiana Office of the Attorney

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General. We have substantially completed our response to both of the subpoenas and are unable to predict the timing or outcome of any review by the government of such information.

        In April 2012, we received an administrative subpoena from the Drug Enforcement Administration ("DEA"), Albany, New York District Office, requesting information regarding our sale of products containing pseudoephedrine ("PSE"). In April 2012, we also received a communication from the United States Attorneys Office ("USAO") for the Northern District of New York concerning an investigation of possible civil violations of the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005 ("CMEA"). In April 2013, we received additional administrative subpoenas from DEA concerning certain retail PSE transactions at New York stores and the USAO commenced discussions with us regarding whether, from 2009 (upon implementation of an electronic PSE transaction logbook system) through the present, we sold products containing PSE in violation of the CMEA. Violations of the CMEA could result in the imposition of administrative, civil and/or criminal penalties against us. We are cooperating with the government and continue to provide information responsive to the subpoenas. We have entered into a tolling agreement with the USAO. We are unable to predict the timing or outcome of any review by the government of such information.

        We received an additional administrative subpoena from the DEA in December 2013 requesting information in connection with an investigation of violations of the CMEA in West Virginia. We are unable to predict the timing or outcome of any review by the government of such information.

        In January 2013, the DEA, Los Angeles District Office, served an administrative subpoena on us seeking documents related to prescriptions by a certain prescriber. The USAO, Central District of California, also contacted us about a related investigation into allegations that Rite Aid pharmacies filled certain controlled substance prescriptions for a number of practitioners after their DEA registrations had expired or otherwise become invalid in violation of the federal Controlled Substances Act and DEA regulations. We responded to the administrative subpoena and subsequent informal requests for information from the USAO. We met with the USAO and DEA in January 2014 and are involved in ongoing discussions on the matter.

        We were served with a Civil Investigative Demand dated June 21, 2013 by the USAO for the Eastern District of California. The CID requests records and responses to interrogatories regarding Rite Aid's Drug Utilization Review and prescription dispensing protocol and the dispensing of drugs designated "Code 1" by the State of California. We are in the process of producing responsive documents and interrogatory responses and are unable to predict the timing or outcome of any review by the government of such information.

        In addition to the above described matters, we are subject from time to time to various claims and lawsuits and governmental investigations arising in the ordinary course of business. While our management cannot predict the outcome of any of the claims, our management does not believe that the outcome of any of these legal matters will be material to our consolidated financial position. It is possible, however, that our results of operations or cash flows in a particular fiscal period could be materially affected by an unfavorable resolution of pending litigation or contingencies.

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures

        Not applicable

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PART II

Item 5.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

        Our common stock is listed on the NYSE under the symbol "RAD." On April 11, 2014, we had approximately 22,200 stockholders of record. Quarterly high and low closing stock prices, based on the composite transactions, are shown below.

Fiscal Year
  Quarter   High   Low  

2015 (through April 11, 2014)

  First   $ 7.04   $ 6.05  

2014

  First     2.97     1.65  

  Second     3.52     2.74  

  Third     5.92     3.46  

  Fourth     6.74     4.99  

2013

  First     2.05     1.18  

  Second     1.45     1.12  

  Third     1.33     1.00  

  Fourth     1.70     0.97  

        We have not declared or paid any cash dividends on our common stock since the third quarter of fiscal 2000 and we do not anticipate paying cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. Our senior secured credit facility, second priority secured term loan facilities and some of the indentures that govern our other outstanding indebtedness restrict our ability to pay dividends.

        We have not sold any unregistered equity securities during the period covered by this report, nor have we repurchased any of our common stock, during the period covered by this report.

        Rite Aid Lease Management Company, a subsidiary of the Company, had 213,000 shares of its Cumulative Preferred Stock, Class A, par value $100 per share ("RALMCO Cumulative Preferred Stock"), outstanding. On November 29, 2013, we repurchased all of the outstanding RALMCO Cumulative Preferred Stock for $21,034.

        On September 26, 2013, we agreed to exchange eight shares of our 7% Series G Convertible Preferred Stock (the "Series G preferred stock") and 1,876,013 shares of our 6% Series H Convertible Preferred Stock (the "Series H preferred stock", collectively the "Preferred Stock"), held by Green Equity Investors III, L.P. ("LGP") for 40,000,000 shares of our common stock, par value $1.00 per share (the "Exchange"), with a market value of $190,400 at the $4.76 per share closing price on the Settlement Date (as hereinafter defined), pursuant to an individually negotiated exchange transaction. The Exchange settled on September 30, 2013 (the "Settlement Date"). Following the Settlement Date, no shares of the Series G preferred stock or Series H preferred stock remained outstanding and our restated certificate of incorporation was amended to eliminate all references to the Series G preferred stock and Series H preferred stock.

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STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH

        The graph below compares the yearly percentage change in the cumulative total stockholder return on our common stock for the last five fiscal years with the cumulative total return on (i) the Russell 2000 Consumer Staples Index and (ii) the Russell 2000 Index, over the same period (assuming the investment of $100.00 in our common stock and such indexes on February 28, 2009 and reinvestment of dividends).

        For comparison of cumulative total return, we have elected to use the Russell 2000 Consumer Staples Index, consisting of 66 companies, and the Russell 2000 Index. The Russell 2000 Consumer Staples Index is a capitalization-weighted index of companies that provide products directly to consumers that are typically considered nondiscretionary items based on consumer purchasing habits. The Russell 2000 Index consists of the smallest 2000 companies in the Russell 3000 Index and represents the universe of small capitalization stocks from which many active money managers typically select.


STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH
Comparison of 5 Year Cumulative Total Return
Assumes Initial Investment of $100
March 2014

GRAPHIC

 
  2010   2011   2012   2013   2014  

RITE AID CORP

    542.86     457.14     596.43     600.00     2,353.57  

Russell 2000 Index

    163.95     217.01     214.80     248.56     325.70  

Russell 2000 Consumer Staples Index

    143.15     168.51     176.05     208.47     288.03  

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Item 6.    Selected Financial Data

        The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the audited consolidated financial statements and related notes.

 
  Fiscal Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 weeks)
  February 26,
2011
(52 weeks)
  February 27,
2010
(52 weeks)
 
 
  (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
 

Summary of Operations:

                               

Revenues

  $ 25,526,413   $ 25,392,263   $ 26,121,222   $ 25,214,907   $ 25,669,117  

Costs and expense:

                               

Cost of goods sold

    18,202,679     18,073,987     19,327,887     18,522,403     18,845,027  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    6,561,162     6,600,765     6,531,411     6,457,833     6,603,372  

Lease termination and impairment charges

    41,304     70,859     100,053     210,893     208,017  

Interest expense

    424,591     515,421     529,255     547,581     515,763  

Loss on debt retirements, net

    62,443     140,502     33,576     44,003     993  

Gain on sale of assets, net

    (15,984 )   (16,776 )   (8,703 )   (22,224 )   (24,137 )
                       

Total costs and expenses

    25,276,195     25,384,758     26,513,479     25,760,489     26,149,035  
                       

Income (loss) before income taxes

    250,218     7,505     (392,257 )   (545,582 )   (479,918 )

Income tax expense (benefit)

    804     (110,600 )   (23,686 )   9,842     26,758  
                       

Net income (loss)

  $ 249,414   $ 118,105   $ (368,571 ) $ (555,424 ) $ (506,676 )
                       
                       

Basic and diluted income (loss) per share:

                               

Basic income (loss) per share

  $ 0.23   $ 0.12   $ (0.43 ) $ (0.64 ) $ (0.59 )
                       
                       

Diluted income (loss) per share

  $ 0.23   $ 0.12   $ (0.43 ) $ (0.64 ) $ (0.59 )
                       
                       

Year-End Financial Position:

                               

Working capital

  $ 1,777,673   $ 1,830,777   $ 1,934,267   $ 1,991,042   $ 2,332,976  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    1,957,329     1,895,650     1,902,021     2,039,383     2,293,153  

Total assets

    6,944,871     7,078,719     7,364,291     7,555,850     8,049,911  

Total debt

    5,757,143     6,033,531     6,328,201     6,219,865     6,370,899  

Stockholders' deficit

    (2,113,702 )   (2,459,434 )   (2,586,756 )   (2,211,367 )   (1,673,551 )

Other Data:

                               

Cash flows provided by (used in):

                               

Operating activities

    702,046     819,588     266,537     395,849     (325,063 )

Investing activities

    (364,924 )   (346,305 )   (221,169 )   (156,677 )   (120,486 )

Financing activities

    (320,168 )   (506,116 )   25,801     (251,650 )   397,108  

Capital expenditures

    421,223     382,980     250,137     186,520     193,630  

Basic weighted average shares

    922,199     889,562     885,819     882,947     880,843  

Diluted weighted average shares

    979,092     907,259     885,819     882,947     880,843  

Number of retail drugstores

    4,587     4,623     4,667     4,714     4,780  

Number of associates

    89,000     89,000     90,000     91,800     97,500  

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Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

        Net income for fiscal 2014 was $249.4 million or $0.23 per basic and diluted share compared to net income for fiscal 2013 of $118.1 million or $0.12 per basic and diluted share. Contributing to the increase in net income was an increase in Adjusted EBITDA and lower interest expense, loss on debt retirement of $62.4 million versus $140.5 million in the prior year, and lower lease termination and impairment charges. Partially offsetting these improvements is a LIFO charge of $104.1 million in fiscal 2014 compared to a LIFO credit of $147.9 million in fiscal 2013.

        Adjusted EBITDA for fiscal 2014 was $1,325.0 million or 5.2 percent of revenues, compared to $1,128.4 million or 4.4% of revenues for fiscal year 2013. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA was driven by increased pharmacy gross profit due to the continued benefit of generic introductions on pharmacy gross margin in the first half of the fiscal year, purchasing efficiencies on generic drugs and strong cost control.

        Our operating results are described in more detail in the "Results of Operations" section below. Some of the key factors that impacted our results are summarized as follows:

        Sales Trends:    Our revenue growth for fiscal 2014 was 0.5% compared to revenue decline of 2.8% for fiscal 2013. Fiscal 2014 revenues were positively impacted by an increase in same store sales, partially offset by a decrease in same store prescription count and a negative impact from generic introductions and continued lower reimbursement rates and store closings.

        Gross Profit:    Our gross profit was positively impacted by the continued impact of generic introductions, which have a higher gross profit than their brand counterparts, and purchasing efficiencies on generic drugs, offset by a higher LIFO charge. We record the value of our inventory on the Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) method. We recorded a LIFO charge of $104.1 million and a LIFO credit of $147.9 million in fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively. The current year LIFO charge was due to higher pharmacy inflation rates.

        Selling, General and Administrative Expenses:    Our selling, general and administrative expenses ("SG&A") decreased in fiscal 2014 due primarily to a lower reversal of certain tax indemnifications assets, lower litigation costs and legal and professional fees, advertising, and depreciation and amortization. These amounts are partially offset by increased salary and benefit costs as well as the prior year $18.1 million favorable payment card interchange fee litigation settlement. Both the current and prior year reversals of $30.5 million and $91.3 million of tax indemnification assets resulting from our settlement with the IRS associated with a pre-acquisition Brooks Eckerd tax audit are offset by an income tax benefit.

        Lease Termination and Impairment Charges:    We recorded lease terminations and impairment charges of $41.3 million in fiscal 2014 compared to $70.9 million in fiscal 2013. Our charges have been trending lower due to improved results of operations, which reduces our impairment charges, and closing fewer stores that require lease termination charges.

        Debt Refinancing and Other Capital Transactions:    During fiscal 2014, we continued to take steps to extend the terms of our debt, reduce interest expense and to obtain more flexibility. We expect to engage in similar efforts in the future. During fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013, we completed several refinancing transactions which caused interest expense to decrease over $90.0 million in fiscal 2014. In March 2014, we completed the refinancing of our Tranche 6 Term Loan with our new Tranche 7 Term Loan which will reduce interest expense by an additional $5.0 million per year. These transactions are described in more detail in the "Liquidity and Capital Resources" section below.

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        Income Tax:    Net income for fiscal 2014 included income tax expense of $0.8 million, compared to income tax benefit of $110.6 million for fiscal 2013. Income tax expense for fiscal 2014 resulted in an increase in the deferred tax valuation allowance to offset the windfall tax benefits recorded in additional paid-in capital ("APIC") pursuant to the tax law ordering approach, offset by adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits due to the lapse of statute of limitations. The benefit recognized in fiscal 2013 was primarily comprised of recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits resulting from the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and Commonwealth of Massachusetts Appellate Divisions settlements related to the examinations of the Brooks Eckerd fiscal years 2004 - 2007 and fiscal years 2005 - 2007, respectively. This amount was offset by a reversal of the related tax indemnification asset which was recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses as these audits were related to pre-acquisition periods. Additionally, the income tax expense for 2014 and benefit for 2013 was recorded net of adjustments to maintain a full valuation allowance against our net deferred tax assets.

        We maintain a full valuation allowance against the net deferred tax assets as a result of a three year cumulative loss position as of March 1, 2014. ASC 740, "Income Taxes" requires a company to evaluate its deferred tax assets on a regular basis to determine if a valuation allowance against the net deferred tax assets is required. A cumulative loss in recent years is significant negative evidence in considering whether deferred tax assets are realizable. Based on the negative evidence, ASC 740 precludes relying on projections of future taxable income to support the recognition of deferred tax assets.

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 Weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 Weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 Weeks)
 
 
  (Dollars in thousands)
 

Revenues

  $ 25,526,413   $ 25,392,263   $ 26,121,222  

Revenue growth (decline)

    0.5 %   (2.8 )%   3.6 %

Same store sales growth (decline)

    0.7 %   (0.3 )%   2.0 %

Pharmacy sales growth (decline)

    0.9 %   (1.6 )%   1.9 %

Same store prescription count (decrease) increase

    (0.3 )%   3.4 %   0.9 %

Same store pharmacy sales growth (decline)

    1.2 %   (1.0 )%   2.4 %

Pharmacy sales as a % of total sales

    67.9 %   67.6 %   68.1 %

Third party sales as a % of total pharmacy sales

    97.0 %   96.6 %   96.5 %

Front-end sales (decline) growth

    (0.4 )%   0.8 %   0.7 %

Same store front-end sales (decline) growth

    (0.2 )%   1.4 %   1.1 %

Front-end sales as a % of total sales

    32.1 %   32.4 %   31.9 %

Adjusted EBITDA(*)

  $ 1,324,959   $ 1,128,379   $ 942,902  

Store data:

                   

Total stores (beginning of period)

    4,623     4,667     4,714  

New stores

             

Store acquisitions

    1          

Closed stores

    (37 )   (44 )   (47 )

Total stores (end of period)

    4,587     4,623     4,667  

Relocated stores

    11     13     15  

Remodeled and expanded stores

    409     516     279  

(*)
See Adjusted EBITDA and Other Non-GAAP Measures for additional details

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        Fiscal 2014 compared to Fiscal 2013:    The 0.5% increase in revenue was due primarily to an increase in pharmacy same store sales, partially offset by a decrease in front end sales. The increase in pharmacy same stores sales was driven primarily by brand drug inflation, partially offset by a decrease in same store prescription count, negative impact from generic introductions and continued reimbursement rate pressures. We expect lower reimbursement rates to continue to have a negative impact on our revenues. Same store sales trends for fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2013 are described in the following paragraphs. We include in same store sales all stores that have been open at least one year. Stores in liquidation are considered closed. Relocation stores are not included in same store sales until one year has lapsed.

        Pharmacy same store sales increased 1.2%. Pharmacy same store sales were positively impacted by brand drug inflation. The increases were partially offset by a decrease of 0.3% in same store prescription count and the continued impact of generic drug introductions, which have a substantially lower selling price than their brand counterparts but higher gross profit. Pharmacy same store sales were also negatively impacted by continued reimbursement rate pressures.

        Front end same store sales decreased 0.2%. The decrease in same store front end sales was impacted by consumer spending habits and the heavy promotional environment, partially offset by the positive impact of our wellness + loyalty program, incremental sales from our Wellness format stores, and other management initiatives to increase front end sales. Active wellness + members, defined as those who have used their cards at least twice during the last twenty-six weeks, was nearly 25 million as of March 1, 2014. We have completed over 1,200 Wellness store remodels as of March 1, 2014.

        Fiscal 2013 compared to Fiscal 2012:    The 2.8% decrease in revenue was due primarily to one less week in fiscal 2013 and a decrease in same store sales. The decrease in same stores sales was driven primarily by generic introductions and continued reimbursement rate pressures, partially offset by increased same store prescription count, the positive impact of our wellness + loyalty program, and other management initiatives to increase sales. The increase in same store prescription count was driven in part by the Walgreens / Express Scripts dispute which was settled in September 2012, our immunization program and our wellness + loyalty program.

        Pharmacy same store sales decreased 1.0%. Pharmacy same store sales were negatively impacted by generic drug introductions and lower reimbursement rates. These decreases were partially offset by an increase of 3.4% in same store prescription count driven in part by incremental prescriptions gained from the Walgreens / Express Scripts dispute and by our immunization program and wellness + loyalty program.

        Front end same store sales increased 1.4%. The increase in front end same store sales reflects the positive impact of our wellness + loyalty program, incremental sales from our Wellness format stores, and other management initiatives to increase front end sales.

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  Year Ended  
 
  March 1, 2014
(52 Weeks)
  March 2, 2013
(52 Weeks)
  March 3, 2012
(53 Weeks)
 
 
  (Dollars in thousands)
 

Costs of goods sold

  $ 18,202,679   $ 18,073,987   $ 19,327,887  

Gross profit

    7,323,734     7,318,276     6,793,335  

Gross margin

    28.7 %   28.8 %   26.0 %

FIFO gross profit

    7,427,876     7,170,394     6,982,057  

FIFO gross margin

    29.1 %   28.2 %   26.7 %

Selling, general and administrative expenses

  $ 6,561,162   $ 6,600,765   $ 6,531,411  

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues

    25.7 %   26.0 %   25.0 %

Lease termination and impairment charges

    41,304     70,859     100,053  

Interest expense

    424,591     515,421     529,255  

Loss on debt retirements, net

    62,443     140,502     33,576  

Gain on sale of assets, net

    (15,984 )   (16,776 )   (8,703 )

        Gross profit increased by $5.5 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013. Pharmacy gross profit was higher due to the continued benefit of generic drug introductions, purchasing efficiencies on generic drugs, favorable reimbursement rate adjustments from a decision by California to exclude certain drugs from the retroactive California Department of Healthcare Services (MediCal) reimbursement rate adjustments as well as from certain commercial third party payors and inflation on brand drugs, partially offset by a decrease in same store prescription count and continued reimbursement pressures. Front-end gross profit was slightly higher due to higher vendor promotional funding, partially offset by lower sales and higher promotional markdowns. Gross profit was negatively impacted by a LIFO charge in the current year compared to a LIFO credit in the prior year. Overall gross margin was 28.7% for fiscal 2014 compared to 28.8% in fiscal 2013.

        Gross margin was slightly lower due primarily to a LIFO charge this year compared to a LIFO credit last year as well as continued reimbursement pressures and increased promotional markdowns, partially offset by the continued benefit of generic introductions, inflation on brand drugs, purchasing efficiencies on generic drugs and increased vendor promotional funding.

        Gross profit increased by $524.9 million in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012. The overall increase in gross profit was due to a LIFO credit resulting from significant generic deflation during the year, compared to a LIFO charge in the prior year and an overall increase in pharmacy gross profit, partially offset by a slightly lower front end gross profit. Pharmacy gross profit was higher due to increased prescription volume driven, in part, from the Walgreens/ Express Scripts dispute, higher immunizations and our wellness + loyalty program. Front-end gross profit was slightly lower due to higher tier discounts from our wellness + customer loyalty program and other markdowns, partially offset by increased sales.

        We use the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method of inventory valuation, which is determined annually when inflation rates and inventory levels are finalized. Therefore, LIFO costs for interim period financial statements are estimated. The LIFO charge for fiscal 2014 was $104.1 million compared to a LIFO credit of $147.9 million in fiscal 2013 and a LIFO charge of $188.7 million in fiscal 2012. The LIFO charge for fiscal 2014 was primarily the result of higher inflation on brand pharmacy products,

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partially offset by deflation on generic pharmacy products, which contributed to overall inflation in fiscal 2014. The inflation in fiscal 2014 compares to overall deflation in fiscal 2013, which was due to significant generic pharmacy product deflation, partially offset by brand pharmacy product inflation.

        During fiscal 2013, we experienced significant price decreases on high volume generic introductions. During the first few months after new generic drugs are introduced, supplier prices tend to decrease as multiple suppliers enter the market place. This resulted in significant deflation on generic pharmacy products which more than offset brand pharmacy product inflation, causing overall deflation in fiscal 2013, and consequently, resulted in a LIFO credit of $147.9 million.

        During fiscal 2012, we experienced significant brand pharmacy product inflation, partially offset by generic pharmacy product deflation, which contributed to overall inflation during fiscal 2012. The overall inflation in fiscal 2012 resulted in a LIFO charge of $188.7 million.

        SG&A expenses decreased by $39.6 million in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 due primarily to a lower reversal of certain tax indemnification assets, lower litigation costs and legal and professional fees, advertising, and depreciation and amortization. These amounts are partially offset by increased salary and benefit costs as well as the prior year $18.1 million favorable payment card interchange fee litigation settlement. Both the current and prior year reversals of $30.5 million and $91.3 million, respectively, of tax indemnification assets resulting from our settlement with the IRS associated with a pre-acquisition Brooks Eckerd tax audit, are offset by an income tax benefit.

        SG&A expenses increased by $69.4 million in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 due primarily to the reversal of $91.3 million of tax indemnification asset resulting from our settlement with the IRS and certain states associated with pre-acquisition Brooks Eckerd tax issues, which are offset by an income tax benefit as noted below (in "Income Taxes"), litigation charges relating to the settlement of certain labor related actions and increased associate bonus expense. These amounts are partially offset by lower operating costs associated with one less week during the 2013 fiscal year, lower depreciation and amortization, lower self insurance expense due primarily to the impact of the discount rate change on the prior year expense and the favorable settlement related to payment card interchange fee litigation. SG&A expenses as a percentage of revenue was 26.0% in fiscal 2013 compared to 25.0% in fiscal 2012. The increase in SG&A as a percentage of revenues relative to the prior year is due in part to the impact of generic introductions and reimbursement rate pressures which resulted in a lower revenue base to measure our SG&A expenses against.

Impairment Charges:

        We evaluate long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset group has a carrying value that may not be recoverable. The individual operating store is the lowest level for which cash flows are identifiable. As such, we evaluate individual stores for recoverability of assets. To determine if a store needs to be tested for recoverability, we consider items such as decreases in market prices, changes in the manner in which the store is being used or physical condition, changes in legal factors or business climate, an accumulation of losses significantly in excess of budget, a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a projection of continuing losses, or an expectation that the store will be closed or sold.

        We monitor new and recently relocated stores against operational projections and other strategic factors such as regional economics, new competitive entries and other local market considerations to determine if an impairment evaluation is required. For other stores, we perform a recoverability analysis if they have experienced current-period and historical cash flow losses.

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        In performing the recoverability test, we compare the expected future cash flows of a store to the carrying amount of its assets. Significant judgment is used to estimate future cash flows. Major assumptions that contribute to our future cash flow projections include expected sales, gross profit, and distribution expenses; expected costs such as payroll, occupancy costs and advertising expenses; and estimates for other significant selling, and general and administrative expenses. Many long-term macro-economic and industry factors are considered, both quantitatively and qualitatively, in our future cash flow assumptions. In addition to current and expected economic conditions such as inflation, interest and unemployment rates that affect customer shopping patterns, we consider that we operate in a highly competitive industry which includes the actions of other national and regional drugstore chains, independently owned drugstores, supermarkets, mass merchandisers, dollar stores and internet pharmacies. Many of our competitors are spending significant capital and promotional dollars in certain geographies to gain market share. We have assumed certain sales growth from our loyalty program and other initiatives to grow sales. Recent Pharmacy Benefit Management consolidation and efforts of third party public and private payors have reduced pharmacy reimbursement rates in recent years. We expect this rate compression, which currently affects 97% of our pharmacy business, to continue to affect us in the foreseeable future. We operate in a highly regulated industry and must make assumptions related to Federal and State efforts and proposals to affect the pricing and regulations related to prescription drugs, as well as, expected revenues and costs related to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (health care reform).

        Additionally, we take into consideration that certain operating stores are executing specific improvement plans which are monitored quarterly to recoup recent capital investments, such as an acquisition of an independent pharmacy, which we have made to respond to specific competitive or local market conditions, or have specific programs tailored towards a specific geography or market.

        We recorded impairment charges of $13.1 million in fiscal 2014, $24.9 million in fiscal 2013 and $52.0 million in fiscal 2012. Our methodology for recording impairment charges has not changed materially, and has been consistently applied in the periods presented.

        At March 1, 2014, approximately $1.9 billion of our long-lived assets, including intangible assets, were associated with 4,587 active operating stores.

        If an operating store's estimated future undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to cover its carrying value, its carrying value is reduced to fair value which is its estimated future discounted cash flows. The discount rate is commensurate with the risks associated with the recovery of a similar asset.

        An impairment charge is recorded in the period that the store does not meet its original return on investment and/or has an operating loss for the last two years and its projected cash flows do not exceed its current asset carrying value. The amount of the impairment charge is the entire difference between the current carrying asset value and the estimated fair value of the assets using discounted future cash flows. Most stores are fully impaired in the period that the impairment charge is originally recorded.

        We recorded impairment charges for active stores of $11.7 million in fiscal 2014, $24.0 million in fiscal 2013 and $43.4 million in fiscal 2012.

        We review key performance results for active stores on a quarterly basis and approve certain stores for closure. Impairment for closed stores, if any (many stores are closed on lease expiration), are recorded in the quarter the closure decision is made and approved. Closure decisions are made on an individual store or regional basis considering all of the macro-economic, industry and other factors discussed above, in addition to, the operating store's individual operating results. We currently have no plans to close a significant number of active stores in future periods. In the next fiscal year, we currently expect to close approximately 40 stores, primarily as a result of lease expirations. We recorded

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impairment charges for closed facilities of $1.3 million in fiscal 2014, $0.9 million in fiscal 2013 and $8.6 million in fiscal 2012.

        Included in the impairment charges noted above were charges of $0.8 million in fiscal 2014, $0.6 million in fiscal 2013 and $5.9 million in fiscal 2012 for existing owned surplus property. Assets to be disposed of are evaluated quarterly to determine if an additional impairment charge is required. Fair value estimates are provided by independent brokers who operate in the local markets where the assets are located.

        The following table summarizes the impairment charges and number of locations, segregated by closed facilities and active stores that have been recorded in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012:

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1, 2014   March 2, 2013   March 3, 2012  
 
  Number   Charge   Number   Charge   Number   Charge  

Closed facilities:

                                     

Actual and approved store closings

    31   $ 531     29   $ 325     55   $ 2,283  

Actual and approved relocations

                    2     499  

Existing surplus properties

    7     798     5     594     12     5,863  
                           

Total impairment charges-closed facilities

    38     1,329     34     919     69     8,645  

Active stores:

                                     

Additional current period charges for stores previously impaired in prior periods(1)

    378     4,162     469     5,835     591     9,822  

Charges for new, relocated and remodeled stores that did not meet their asset recoverability test in the current period(2)

    1     4,028     14     9,190     19     18,926  

Charges for the remaining stores that did not meet their asset recoverability test in the current period(3)

    17     3,558     47     8,948     53     14,605  
                           

Total impairment charges-active stores

    396     11,748     530     23,973     663     43,353  

Total impairment charges-all locations

    434   $ 13,077     564   $ 24,892     732   $ 51,998  
                           
                           

Total number of active stores

    4,587           4,623           4,667        

Stores impaired in prior periods with no current charge

    709           588           428        

Stores with a current period charge

    396           530           663        
                                 

Total cumulative active stores with impairment charges

    1,105           1,118           1,091        
                                 
                                 

(1)
These charges are related to stores that were impaired for the first time in prior periods. Most active stores, requiring an impairment charge, are fully impaired in the first period that they do not meet their asset recoverability test. However, in each prior period presented, a minority of stores were partially impaired since their fair value supported a reduced net book value. Accordingly, these stores may be further impaired in the current and future periods as a result of changes in their actual or projected cash flows, or changes to their fair value estimates. Also, we make ongoing capital additions to certain stores to improve their operating results or to meet geographical competition, which if later are deemed to be unrecoverable, will be impaired in future periods. Of this total, 375, 464 and 583 stores for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively have been fully impaired.

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(2)
These charges are related to new stores (open at least 3 years) and relocated stores (relocated in the last 2 years) and significant strategic remodels (remodeled in the last year) that did not meet their recoverability test during the current period. These stores have not met our original return on investment projections and have a historical loss of at least 2 years. Their future cash flow projections do not recover their current carrying value. Of this total, 1, 14 and 19 stores for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively have been fully impaired.

(3)
These charges are related to the remaining active stores that did not meet the recoverability test during the current period. These stores have a historical loss of at least 2 years. Their future cash flow projections do not recover their current carrying value. Of this total, 14, 43 and 43 stores for fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively have been fully impaired.

        The primary drivers of our impairment charges are each store's current and historical operating performance and the assumptions that we make about each store's operating performance in future periods. Projected cash flows are updated based on the next year's operating budget which includes the qualitative factors noted above. We are unable to predict with any degree of certainty which individual stores will fall short or exceed future operating plans. Accordingly, we are unable to describe future trends that would affect our impairment charges, including the likely stores and their related asset values that may fail their recoverability test in future periods.

        To the extent that actual future cash flows differ from our projections materially, because of the reasons discussed above, certain stores that are either not impaired or partially impaired in the current period may be further impaired in future periods. A 100 basis point decrease in our future sales assumptions as of March 1, 2014 would have resulted in an additional fiscal 2014 impairment charge of $0.8 million. A 100 basis point increase in our future sales assumptions as of March 1, 2014 would have reduced the fiscal 2014 impairment charge by $0.7 million. Changes in our discount rate of 50 basis points would not have a material impact on the total impairment recorded in fiscal 2014.

        Lease Termination Charges:    Charges to close a store, which principally consist of continuing lease obligations, are recorded at the time the store is closed and all inventory is liquidated, pursuant to the guidance set forth in ASC 420, "Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations." We calculate our liability for closed stores on a store-by-store basis. The calculation includes the discounted effect of future minimum lease payments and related ancillary costs, from the date of closure to the end of the remaining lease term, net of estimated cost recoveries that may be achieved through subletting properties or through favorable lease terminations. We evaluate these assumptions each quarter and adjust the liability accordingly. As part of our ongoing business activities, we assess stores and distribution centers for potential closure and relocation. Decisions to close or relocate stores or distribution centers in future periods would result in lease termination charges for lease exit costs and liquidation of inventory, as well as impairment of assets at these locations.

        In fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recorded lease termination charges of $28.2 million, $46.0 million and $48.1 million, respectively. These charges related to changes in future assumptions, interest accretion and provisions for 15 stores in fiscal 2014, 14 stores in fiscal 2013 and 23 stores in fiscal 2012. Of the approximate 40 store closures for fiscal 2015, we anticipate 15 will require a store lease closing provision.

        In fiscal 2014, 2013, and 2012, interest expense was $424.6 million, $515.4 million and $529.3 million, respectively. The reduction in interest expense in fiscal 2014 compared to fiscal 2013 is primarily the result of refinancing during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 and the first and second quarters of fiscal 2014. The reduction in interest expense in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012 is primarily due to one less week in fiscal 2013.

        The annual weighted average interest rates on our indebtedness in fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were 6.4%, 7.1% and 7.4%, respectively.

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        Income tax expense of $0.8 million, income tax benefit of $110.6 million and income tax benefit of $23.7 million, has been recorded for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Net income for fiscal 2014 included income tax expense of $0.8 million primarily attributable to an increase in the deferred tax valuation allowance to offset the windfall tax benefits recorded in APIC pursuant to the tax law ordering approach offset by adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits due to the lapse of statute of limitations.

        ASC 740, "Income Taxes" requires a company to evaluate its deferred tax assets on a regular basis to determine if a valuation allowance against the net deferred tax assets is required. We take into account all available positive and negative evidence with regard to the recognition of a deferred tax asset including our past earnings history, expected future earnings, the character and jurisdiction of such earnings, unsettled circumstances that, if unfavorably resolved, would adversely affect recognition of a deferred tax asset, carryback and carryforward periods and tax planning strategies that could potentially enhance the likelihood of realization of a deferred tax asset. A cumulative loss in recent years is significant negative evidence in considering whether deferred tax assets are realizable. Based on the negative evidence, ASC 740 precludes relying on projections of future taxable income to support the recognition of deferred tax assets. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the existence of sufficient taxable income generated in the carryforward periods.

        Net Income for fiscal 2013 included income tax benefit of $110.6 million primarily comprised of adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits for the appellate settlements of the Brooks Eckerd IRS Audit for the fiscal years 2004 - 2007 and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Audit for fiscal years 2005 - 2007 as well as for the lapse of statute of limitations. The appellate settlements as well as the majority of the lapse of statute of limitations is offset by a reversal of the related tax indemnification asset which was recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses as these audits were related to pre-acquisition periods. The fiscal 2012 income tax benefit of $23.7 million was primarily comprised of adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits due to the lapse of statute of limitations. Additionally, the income tax expense for 2014 and benefit for 2013 and 2012 was recorded net of adjustments to maintain a full valuation allowance against our net deferred tax assets. We monitor all available evidence related to our ability to utilize our remaining net deferred tax asset. We maintained a full valuation allowance of $2,060.8 million and $2,224.0 million against remaining net deferred tax assets as a result of a cumulative loss at fiscal year end 2014 and 2013, respectively.

        On March 1, 2014, 971.3 million shares of common stock, which includes unvested restricted shares, were outstanding and an additional 80.8 million shares of common stock were issuable related to outstanding stock options and convertible notes.

        On March 1, 2014, our 80.8 million shares of potentially issuable common stock consisted of the following (shares in thousands):

Strike price
  Outstanding
Stock
Options(a)
  Convertible
Notes
  Total  

$0.99 and under

    3,419         3,419  

$1.00 to $1.99

    43,373         43,373  

$2.00 to $2.99

    4,768     24,800     29,568  

$3.00 to $3.99

    383         383  

$4.00 to $4.99

    1,549         1,549  

$5.00 to $5.99

    663         663  

$6.00 and over

    1,811         1,811  
               

Total issuable shares

    55,966     24,800     80,766  
               
               

(a)
The exercise of these options would provide cash of $92.5 million.

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Liquidity and Capital Resources

General

        We have two primary sources of liquidity: (i) cash provided by operating activities and (ii) borrowings under the revolving credit facility of our senior secured credit facility. Our principal uses of cash are to provide working capital for operations, to service our obligations to pay interest and principal on debt and to fund capital expenditures. Total liquidity as of March 1, 2014 was $1,317.6 million, which consisted of revolver borrowing capacity of $1,315.1 million and invested cash of $2.5 million.

Credit Facility

        Our senior secured credit facility consists of a $1.795 billion revolving credit facility and a $1.152 billion Tranche 7 Term Loan. Borrowings under the revolving credit facility bear interest at a rate per annum between LIBOR plus 2.25% and LIBOR plus 2.75%, if we choose to make LIBOR borrowings, or between Citibank's base rate plus 1.25% and Citibank's base rate plus 1.75% in each case based upon the amount of revolver availability as defined in the senior secured credit facility. We are required to pay fees between 0.375% and 0.50% per annum on the daily unused amount of the revolver, depending on the amount of revolver availability. Amounts drawn under the revolver become due and payable on February 21, 2018.

        Our ability to borrow under the revolver is based upon a specified borrowing base consisting of accounts receivable, inventory and prescription files. At March 1, 2014, we had $400.0 million of borrowings outstanding under the revolver and had letters of credit outstanding against the revolver of $79.9 million, which resulted in additional borrowing capacity of $1,315.1 million.

        On March 14, 2014, we amended and restated our credit agreement governing our senior secured credit facility, pursuant to which we prepaid our outstanding Tranche 6 Term Loan with the proceeds of a new $1.152 billion Tranche 7 Term Loan. The $1.152 billion Tranche 7 Term Loan matures on February 21, 2020 and currently bears interest at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR plus 2.75% with a LIBOR floor of 0.75%, if we choose to make LIBOR borrowings, or at Citibank's base rate plus 1.75%. We must make mandatory prepayments of the Tranche 7 Term Loan with the proceeds of certain asset dispositions and casualty events (subject to certain limitations), and with the proceeds of certain issuances of debt (subject to certain exceptions). If at any time there is a shortfall in our borrowing base under our senior secured credit facility, prepayment of the Tranche 7 Term Loan may also be required.

        The senior secured credit facility restricts us and the subsidiary guarantors from accumulating cash on hand in excess of $200.0 million at any time when revolving loans are outstanding (not including cash located in our store deposit accounts, cash necessary to cover our current liabilities and certain other exceptions) and from accumulating cash on hand with revolver borrowings in excess of $100.0 million over three consecutive business days. The senior secured credit facility also states that if at any time (other than following the exercise of remedies or acceleration of any senior obligations or second priority debt and receipt of a triggering notice by the senior collateral agent from a representative of the senior obligations or the second priority debt) either (a) an event of default exists under our senior secured credit facility or (b) the sum of revolver availability under our senior secured credit facility and certain amounts held on deposit with the senior collateral agent in a concentration account is less than $100.0 million for three consecutive business days (a "cash sweep period"), the funds in our deposit accounts will be swept to a concentration account with the senior collateral agent and will be applied first to repay outstanding revolving loans under the senior secured credit facility, and then held as collateral for the senior obligations until such cash sweep period is rescinded pursuant to the terms of our senior secured credit facility.

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        The senior secured credit facility allows us to have outstanding, at any time, up to $1.5 billion in secured second priority debt and unsecured debt in addition to borrowings under the senior secured credit facility and existing indebtedness, provided that not in excess of $750.0 million of such secured second priority debt and unsecured debt shall mature or require scheduled payments of principal prior to May 21, 2020. The senior secured credit facility allows us to incur an unlimited amount of unsecured debt with a maturity beyond May 21, 2020; however, certain of our other outstanding indebtedness limits the amount of unsecured debt that can be incurred if certain interest coverage levels are not met at the time of incurrence of said debt or other exemptions are not available. The senior secured credit facility also contains certain restrictions on the amount of secured first priority debt we are able to incur. The senior secured facility also allows, so long as the senior secured credit facility is not in default and we maintain availability on the revolving credit facility of more than $100.0 million, for the voluntary repurchase of any debt and the mandatory repurchase of our 8.5% convertible notes due 2015.

        Our senior secured credit facility contains covenants which place restrictions on the incurrence of debt beyond the restrictions described above, the payment of dividends, sale of assets, mergers and acquisitions and the granting of liens. Our credit facility also has one financial covenant, which is the maintenance of a fixed charge coverage ratio. The covenant requires that, if availability on the revolving credit facility is less than $150.0 million, we maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.00 to 1.00. As of March 1, 2014, availability under the revolving credit facility was in excess of $150.0 million and our fixed charge coverage ratio was greater than 1.00 to 1.00.

        The senior secured credit facility provides for customary events of default including nonpayment, misrepresentation, breach of covenants and bankruptcy. It is also an event of default if we fail to make any required payment on debt having a principal amount in excess of $50.0 million or any event occurs that enables, or which with the giving of notice or the lapse of time would enable, the holder of such debt to accelerate the maturity or require the repurchase of such debt. The mandatory repurchase of the 8.5% convertible notes due 2015 is excluded from this event of default.

        On February 21, 2013, we entered into a second priority secured term loan facility, which includes a $470.0 million second priority secured term loan (the "Tranche 1 Term Loan"). The Tranche 1 Term Loan matures on August 21, 2020 and currently bears interest at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR plus 4.75% with a LIBOR floor of 1.00%, if we choose to make LIBOR borrowings, or at Citibank's base rate plus 3.75%.

        On June 21, 2013, we entered into a new second priority secured term loan facility, which includes a $500.0 million second priority secured term loan (the "Tranche 2 Term Loan"). The Tranche 2 Term Loan matures on June 21, 2021 and currently bears interest at a rate per annum equal to LIBOR plus 3.875% with a LIBOR floor of 1.00%, if we choose to make LIBOR borrowings, or at Citibank's base rate plus 2.875%.

        The second priority secured term loan facilities and the indentures that govern our secured and guaranteed unsecured notes contain restrictions on the amount of additional secured and unsecured debt that can be incurred by us. As of March 1, 2014, the amount of additional secured debt that could be incurred under the most restrictive covenant of the second priority secured term loan facilities and these indentures was approximately $1.4 billion (which amount does not include the ability to enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions). However, we currently cannot incur any additional secured debt assuming a fully drawn revolver and the outstanding letters of credit. The ability to issue additional unsecured debt under these indentures is generally governed by an interest coverage ratio test. As of March 1, 2014, we had the ability to issue additional unsecured debt under the second lien credit facilities and other indentures.

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Other 2014 Transactions

        In June 2013, $419.2 million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 7.5% senior secured notes due 2017 were tendered and repurchased by us. In July 2013, we redeemed the remaining 7.5% notes for $85.2 million which included the call premium and interest to the redemption date. The tender offer for, and redemption of, the 7.5% notes were funded using the proceeds from the Tranche 2 Term Loan, borrowings under our revolving credit facility and available cash.

        On July 2, 2013, we issued $810.0 million of our 6.75% senior notes due 2021. Our obligations under the notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsubordinated basis, by all of our subsidiaries that guarantee our obligations under our senior secured credit facility, our second priority secured term loan facilities and our outstanding 8.00% senior secured notes due 2020, 10.25% senior secured notes due 2019 and 9.25% senior notes due 2020. We used the net proceeds of the 6.75% notes, borrowings under our revolving credit facility and available cash to repurchase and repay all of our outstanding $810.0 million aggregate principal of 9.5% senior notes due 2017.

        In July 2013, $739.6 million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 9.5% notes were tendered and repurchased by us. In August 2013, we redeemed the remaining 9.5% notes for $73.4 million, which included call premium and interest to the redemption date.

        In connection with these refinancing transactions, we recorded a loss on debt retirement, including tender and call premium and interest, unamortized debt issue costs and unamortized discount of $62.2 million during the second quarter of fiscal 2014.

        On September 26, 2013, we agreed to exchange eight shares of 7% Series G Convertible Preferred Stock (the "Series G preferred stock") and 1,876,013 shares of 6% Series H Convertible Preferred Stock (the "Series H preferred stock", collectively the "Preferred Stock") of the Company (the "Exchange"), held by Green Equity Investors III, L.P. ("LGP") for 40,000,000 shares of our common stock, par value $1.00 per share with a market value of $190.4 million at the $4.76 per share closing price on the Settlement Date (as hereinafter defined), pursuant to an individually negotiated exchange transaction. The Exchange settled on September 30, 2013 (the "Settlement Date"). The Preferred Stock, including additional shares representing earned but unpaid dividends as of the Settlement Date, was redeemable by us for cash at 105% of the Preferred Stock's $100 per share liquidation preference or $199.9 million. We agreed to the Exchange as we were prohibited under several of our debt instruments from using cash to effect the redemption of the Preferred Stock. Following the Settlement Date, no shares of the Series G preferred stock or Series H preferred stock remained outstanding and the restated certificate of incorporation was amended to eliminate all references to the Series G preferred stock and Series H preferred stock. In accordance with the then terms of the Exchange, John M. Baumer, a member of our board of directors and a limited partner of Leonard Green & Partners, L.P., an affiliate of the LGP, resigned from our board of directors.

        The Series G preferred stock had a liquidation preference of $100 per share and paid quarterly dividends in additional shares at 7% of liquidation preference and could be redeemed at our election. The Series H preferred stock paid quarterly dividends in additional shares at 6% of liquidation preference and could be redeemed at our election. The Series G preferred stock and Series H preferred stock were convertible into common stock, at the holder's option, at a conversion rate of $5.50 per share.

        As of the Settlement Date, LGP held 1,904,161 shares of Series G preferred stock and Series H preferred stock, which included 28,140 shares of earned and unpaid dividends. The Series G preferred stock and Series H preferred stock would have converted into 34,621,117 shares of common stock at the contracted conversion rate of $5.50 per share. Accordingly, income attributable to common stockholders was reduced by $25.6 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, the value of the additional

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5,378,883 shares of common stock issued upon conversion at the $4.76 per share closing price on the Settlement Date.

        As of March 2, 2013, Rite Aid Lease Management Company, a 100 percent owned subsidiary, had 213,000 shares of its Cumulative Preferred Stock, Class A, par value $100 per share ("RALMCO Cumulative Preferred Stock"), outstanding. The carrying amount of the RALMCO Cumulative Preferred Stock as of November 29, 2013 was $20.8 million and was recorded in Other Noncurrent Liabilities. On November 29, 2013, we repurchased all of the outstanding RALMCO Cumulative Preferred Stock for $21.0 million. In connection with this transaction, we recorded a loss on debt retirement of $0.3 million.

2013 Transactions

        In February 2013, we used a portion of the proceeds from the Tranche 6 Term Loan, the proceeds from our Tranche 1 Second Lien Term Loan, borrowings under our revolving credit facility and available cash to repurchase and repay all of our outstanding $410.0 million aggregate principal of 9.750% senior secured notes, $470.0 million aggregate principal of 10.375% senior secured notes and $180.3 million aggregate principal amount of 6.875% senior debentures. In February 2013, $257.3 million aggregate principal amount of the 9.750% notes, $402.0 million aggregate principal amount of the 10.375% notes and $119.1 million aggregate principal amount of the 6.875% debentures, respectively, were tendered and repurchased by us. We redeemed the remaining 9.750% notes and 10.375% notes for $171.4 million and $72.9 million, respectively, which included the call premium and interest through the redemption date. Additionally, we discharged the remaining 6.875% debentures for $63.4 million, which included interest through maturity. These 9.750% notes, 10.375% notes and 6.875% debentures were satisfied and discharged as of February 21, 2013.

        In February 2013, we also used available cash to redeem our $6.0 million aggregate principal amount of 9.25% senior notes at par for $6.1 million, which included interest through the redemption date.

        In connection with the above transactions, we recorded a loss on debt retirement of $122.7 million during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013 due to the incurrence of tender and call premiums and interest to maturity of $62.9 million, unamortized original issuance discount of $24.3 million and unamortized debt issue costs of $35.5 million.

        In February 2012, we issued $481.0 million of our 9.25% senior notes due March 2020 and in May 2012, we issued an additional $421.0 million of our 9.25% senior notes due 2020. The proceeds of the notes, together with available cash, were used to repurchase and repay the 8.625% senior notes and the 9.375% senior notes, respectively. These notes are unsecured, unsubordinated obligations of Rite Aid Corporation and rank equally in right of payment with all other unsubordinated indebtedness. Our obligations under the notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured unsubordinated basis, by all of our subsidiaries that guarantee our obligations under our senior secured credit facility, our second priority secured term loan facility and our outstanding 8.00% senior secured notes due 2020, 7.5% senior secured notes due 2017, 10.25% senior secured notes due 2019 and 9.5% senior notes due 2017.

        In May 2012, $296.3 million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 9.375% notes were tendered and repurchased by us. We redeemed the remaining 9.375% notes in June 2012 for $108.7 million, which included the call premium and interest through the redemption date. The refinancing resulted in an aggregate loss on debt retirement of $17.8 million.

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2012 Transactions

        In February 2012, $404.8 million aggregate principal amount of the outstanding 8.625% notes were tendered and repurchased by us. We redeemed the remaining 8.625% notes in March 2012 for $55.6 million, which included the call premium and interest through the redemption date. The refinancing resulted in an aggregate loss on debt retirement of $16.1 million recorded in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012.

        During August 2011, we repurchased $41.0 million of our 8.625% notes, $5.0 million of our 9.375% notes and $4.5 million of our 6.875% debentures. These repurchases resulted in a gain for the period of $5.0 million.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

        As of March 1, 2014, we had no material off balance sheet arrangements, other than operating leases as included in the table below.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

        The following table details the maturities of our indebtedness and lease financing obligations as of March 1, 2014, as well as other contractual cash obligations and commitments.

 
  Payment due by period  
 
  Less Than
1 Year
  1 to 3 Years   3 to 5 Years   After 5 Years   Total  
 
  (Dollars in thousands)
 

Contractual Cash Obligations

                               

Long term debt(1)

  $ 355,894   $ 755,735   $ 1,086,962   $ 5,839,689   $ 8,038,280  

Capital lease obligations(2)

    40,030     40,558     25,866     33,656     140,110  

Operating leases(3)

    996,495     1,845,868     1,524,181     3,405,091     7,771,635  

Open purchase orders

    401,817                 401,817  

Other, primarily self insurance and retirement plan obligations(4)

    102,411     142,427     48,156     115,198     408,192  

Minimum purchase commitments(5)

    164,844     364,854     333,950     162,040     1,025,688  
                       

Total contractual cash obligations

  $ 2,061,491   $ 3,149,442   $ 3,019,115   $ 9,555,674   $ 17,785,722  
                       
                       

Commitments

                               

Lease guarantees(6)

  $ 24,339   $ 45,235   $ 32,352   $ 16,183   $ 118,109  

Outstanding letters of credit

    68,774     11,100             79,874  
                       

Total commitments

  $ 2,154,604   $ 3,205,777   $ 3,051,467   $ 9,571,857   $ 17,983,705  
                       
                       

(1)
Includes principal and interest payments for all outstanding debt instruments. Interest was calculated on variable rate instruments using rates as of March 1, 2014.

(2)
Represents the minimum lease payments on non-cancelable leases, including interest, but net of sublease income.

(3)
Represents the minimum lease payments on non-cancelable leases, including interest, but net of sublease income.

(4)
Includes the undiscounted payments for self-insured medical coverage, actuarially determined undiscounted payments for self-insured workers' compensation and general liability, and actuarially determined obligations for defined benefit pension and nonqualified executive retirement plans.

(5)
Represents commitments to purchase products and licensing fees from certain vendors.

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(6)
Represents lease guarantee obligations for 114 former stores related to certain business dispositions. The respective purchasers assume the obligations and are, therefore, primarily liable for these obligations.

        Obligations for income tax uncertainties pursuant to ASC 740, "Income Taxes" of approximately $0.9 million are not included in the table above as we are uncertain as to if or when such amounts may be settled.

Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Operating, Investing and Financing Activities

        Cash flow provided by operating activities was $702.0 million in fiscal 2014. Cash flow was positively impacted by net income and a decrease in inventory, partially offset by a reduction of accounts payable resulting from the inventory reduction and the timing of payments, cash used in other assets and liabilities, net, due primarily to lower vendor deferred income and pension liability and higher accounts receivable due primarily to increased pharmacy sales and the timing of payments. Included in cash used by other assets and liabilities, net is the $26.7 million excess tax benefit relating to stock option exercise and restricted stock vesting windfalls that was recorded as a component of income tax benefit and an increase of APIC.

        Cash flow provided by operating activities was $819.6 million in fiscal 2013. Cash flow was positively impacted by net income and a reduction of inventory resulting primarily from recent generic introductions, generic price reductions, management initiatives to reduce inventory levels and fewer open stores, and a reduction of accounts receivable due to the timing of payments from third party payors.

        Cash flow provided by operating activities was $266.5 million in fiscal 2012. Cash flow was positively impacted by the reduction in net loss, an increase in accounts payable due to the timing of purchases partially offset by an increase in inventory resulting primarily from price inflation and increased store inventory to support sales growth.

        Cash used in investing activities was $364.9 million in fiscal 2014. Cash used for the purchase of property, plant and equipment and prescriptions files was higher than in the prior year due to a higher investment in Wellness store remodels and prescription file buys, which was partially offset by proceeds from asset dispositions, sale-leaseback transactions, the sale of lease rights of $8.8 million relating to one specific store and insurance settlement proceeds of $15.1 million related to buildings and equipment that were destroyed during hurricane Sandy.

        Cash used in investing activities was $346.3 million in fiscal 2013. Cash was used for the purchase of property, plant and equipment and prescriptions files which was partially offset by proceeds from asset dispositions and sale-leaseback transactions.

        Cash used in investing activities was $221.2 million in fiscal 2012. Cash was used for the purchase of property, plant and equipment and prescription files which was partially offset by proceeds from asset dispositions and sale-leaseback transactions.

        Cash used in financing activities was $320.2 million in fiscal 2014, which reflects financing fees of $45.6 million paid for early debt retirement and deferred financing costs of $17.9 million paid in connection with the issuance of our $500.0 million Tranche 2 Term Loan and $810.0 million of our 6.75% senior notes due 2021 and the corresponding retirement of $500.0 million of our 7.5% senior secured notes due 2017 and $810.0 million of our 9.5% senior notes due 2017. We also made scheduled payments of $21.7 million and $8.7 million on our capital lease obligations and our Tranche 6 Term Loan and we used cash of $21.0 million to repurchase the RALMCO Cumulative Preferred Stock described above. Also included in cash used in financing activities was a cash inflow of $26.7 million relating to the excess tax benefit on stock option exercises and restricted stock vesting, which is completely offset by a cash outflow in cash provided by operating activities.

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        Cash used in financing activities was $506.1 million in fiscal 2013 and was primarily due to the issuance of our $1,161.0 million Tranche 6 Term Loan due 2020, $470.0 million Tranche 1 Term Loan due 2020 and $426.3 million of our 9.25% Senior Notes due 2020, along with borrowings under our revolving credit facility of $685.0 million. Proceeds from these issuances were used to repay our $1,036.3 million Tranche 2 Term Loan due 2014, $470.0 million of our 10.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2016, $410.0 million of our 9.750% Senior Secured Notes due 2016, our $330.9 million Tranche 5 Term Loan due 2018, $405.0 million of our 9.375% Senior Notes due 2015, $54.2 million of our 8.625% Senior Notes due 2015, $6.0 million of our 9.25% Senior Notes due 2013. We also made scheduled payments of $18.5 million and $9.0 million of our capital lease obligations and our Tranche 2 and Tranche 5 Term Loans, respectively. Additionally, we incurred financing fees for early debt retirement of $75.4 million and cash paid for deferred financing costs of $54.8 million in connection with the above transactions.

        Cash provided by financing activities was $25.8 million in fiscal 2012 and was primarily due to increased revolver borrowings coupled with the February 2012 issuance of $481.0 million of our 9.25% senior notes due March 15, 2020 and concurrent repurchase of $404.8 million of our 8.625% senior notes due March 2015. The remaining $54.2 million of the 8.625% senior notes due March 2015 were repurchased in March 2012.

Capital Expenditures

        During the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013, and March 3, 2012 capital expenditures were as follows:

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 weeks)
 

New store construction, store relocation and store remodel projects

  $ 218,454   $ 200,101   $ 93,958  

Technology enhancements, improvements to distribution centers and other corporate requirements

    115,416     115,745     121,046  

Purchase of prescription files from other retail pharmacies

    87,353     67,134     35,133  
               

Total capital expenditures

  $ 421,223   $ 382,980   $ 250,137  
               
               

        We have completed 1,215 Wellness store remodels as of March 1, 2014. We plan on making total capital expenditures of approximately $525.0 million during fiscal 2015, consisting of approximately 53% related to store relocations and remodels and new store construction, 30% related to infrastructure and maintenance requirements and 17% related to prescription file purchases. Management expects that these capital expenditures will be financed primarily with cash flow from operating activities.

Future Liquidity

        We are highly leveraged. Our high level of indebtedness could: (i) limit our ability to obtain additional financing; (ii) limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry; (iii) place us at a competitive disadvantage relative to our competitors with less debt; (iv) render us more vulnerable to general adverse economic and industry conditions; and (v) require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow to service our debt. Based upon our current levels of operations and the anticipated estimated working capital benefit of $150.0 million resulting from our new supply agreement with McKesson, we believe that cash flow from operations together with available borrowings under the revolving credit facility and other sources of liquidity will be adequate

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to meet our requirements for working capital, debt service and capital expenditures at least for the next twelve months. Based on our liquidity position, which we expect to remain strong throughout the year, we do not expect to be subject to the fixed charge covenant in our senior secured credit facility in the next twelve months. We will continue to assess our liquidity position and potential sources of supplemental liquidity in light of our operating performance, and other relevant circumstances. From time to time, we may seek deleveraging transactions, including entering into transactions to exchange debt for shares of common stock, issuance of equity (including preferred stock and convertible securities), repurchase outstanding indebtedness, or seek to refinance our outstanding debt or may otherwise seek transactions to reduce interest expense and extend debt maturities. Any of these transactions could impact our financial results.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

        Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to inventory shrink, impairment of long-lived assets, revenue recognition, self insurance liabilities, lease exit liabilities, income taxes and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience, current and anticipated business conditions, the condition of the financial markets and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under existing conditions. Variability reflected in the sensitivity analyses presented below is based on our recent historical experience. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates and sensitivity analyses.

        The following critical accounting policies require the use of significant judgments and estimates by management:

        Inventory shrink:    The carrying value of our inventory is reduced by a reserve for estimated shrink losses that occur between physical inventory dates. When estimating these losses, we consider historical loss results at specific locations, as well as overall loss trends as determined during physical inventory procedures. The estimated shrink rate is calculated by dividing historical shrink results for stores inventoried in the most recent six months by the sales for the same period. Shrink expense is recognized by applying the estimated shrink rate to sales since the last physical inventory. There have been no significant changes in the assumptions used to calculate our shrink rate over the last three years. Although possible, we do not expect a significant change to our shrink rate in future periods. A 10 basis point difference in our estimated shrink rate for the year ended March 1, 2014, would have affected pre-tax income by approximately $9.3 million.

        Impairment of long-lived assets:    We evaluate long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an asset group has a carrying value that may not be recoverable. The individual operating store is the lowest level for which cash flows are identifiable. As such, we evaluate individual stores for recoverability. To determine if a store needs to be tested for recoverability, we consider items such as decreases in market prices, changes in the manner in which the store is being used or physical condition, changes in legal factors or business climate, an accumulation of losses significantly in excess of budget, a current period operating or cash flow loss combined with a history of operating or cash flow losses or a projection of continuing losses, or an expectation that the store will be closed or sold.

        We monitor new and recently relocated stores against operational projections and other strategic factors such as regional economics, new competitive entries and other local market considerations to determine if an impairment evaluation is required. For other stores, we perform a recoverability analysis if they have experienced current-period and historical cash flow losses.

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        In performing the recoverability test, we compare the expected future cash flows of a store to the carrying amount of its assets. Significant judgment is used to estimate future cash flows. Major assumptions that contribute to our future cash flow projections include expected sales and gross profit; expected costs such as payroll, occupancy costs and advertising expenses; and estimates for other significant selling, general and administrative expenses.

        If an operating store's estimated future undiscounted cash flows are not sufficient to cover its carrying value, its carrying value is reduced to fair value which is its estimated future discounted cash flows. The discount rate is commensurate with the risks associated with the recovery of a similar asset.

        We regularly approve certain stores for closure. Impairment charges for closed stores, if any, are evaluated and recorded in the quarter the closure decision is approved.

        We also evaluate assets to be disposed of on a quarterly basis to determine if an additional impairment charge is required. Fair value estimates are provided by independent brokers who operate in the local markets where the assets are located.

        If our actual future cash flows differ from our projections materially, certain stores that are either not impaired or partially impaired in the current period may be further impaired in future periods. A 100 basis point decrease in our future sales assumptions as of March 1, 2014 would have resulted in an additional fiscal 2014 impairment charge of $0.8 million. A 100 basis point increase in our future sales assumptions as of March 1, 2014 would have reduced the fiscal 2014 impairment charge by $0.7 million. Changes in our discount rate of 50 basis points would not have a material impact on the total impairment recorded in fiscal 2014.

        Revenue recognition for our loyalty program:    We offer a chain wide customer loyalty program, "wellness+". Members participating in our wellness+ loyalty card program earn points on a calendar year basis for eligible front end merchandise purchases and qualifying prescriptions. One point is awarded for each dollar spent towards front end merchandise and 25 points are awarded for each qualifying prescription.

        Members reach specific wellness+ tiers based on the points accumulated during the calendar year, which entitle them to certain future discounts and other benefits upon reaching that tier. For example, any customer that reaches 1,000 points in a calendar year achieves the "Gold" tier, enabling the customer to receive a 20% discount on qualifying purchases of front end merchandise for the remaining portion of the calendar year and the next calendar year. There are also similar "Silver" and "Bronze" levels with lower thresholds and benefit levels.

        As wellness+ customers accumulate points, we defer the value of the points earned as deferred revenue based on the expected usage. The amount deferred is based on historic and projected customer activity (e.g., tier level, spending level). As customers receive discounted front end merchandise, we recognize an allocable portion of the deferred revenue. If the achieved combined Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels differ from the assumptions by 5.0% it would have affected pretax income by $1.2 million. If the assumed spending levels, which are the drivers of future discounts, differ by 5.0% it would have affected pretax income by $1.2 million.

        Self-insurance liabilities:    We expense claims for self-insured workers' compensation and general liability insurance coverage as incurred including an estimate for claims incurred but not paid. The expense for self-insured workers' compensation and general liability claims incurred but not paid is determined using several factors, including historical claims experience and development, severity of claims, medical costs and the time needed to settle claims. We discount the estimated expense for workers' compensation to present value as the time period from incurrence of the claim to final settlement can be several years. We base our estimates for such timing on previous settlement activity. The discount rate is based on the current market rates for Treasury bills that approximate the average time to settle the workers' compensation claims. These assumptions are updated on an annual basis. A

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25 basis point difference in the discount rate for the year ended March 1, 2014, would have affected pretax income by approximately $2.1 million.

        Lease termination charges:    We record reserves for closed stores based on future lease commitments, anticipated ancillary occupancy costs and anticipated future subleases of properties. The reserves are calculated at the individual location level and the assumptions are assessed at that level. The reserve for lease exit liabilities is discounted using a credit adjusted risk free interest rate. Reserve estimates and related assumptions are updated on a quarterly basis.

        A substantial amount of our closed stores were closed prior to our adoption of ASC 420, "Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations." Therefore, if interest rates change, reserves may be increased or decreased. In addition, changes in the real estate leasing markets can have an impact on the reserve. As of March 1, 2014, a 50 basis point variance in the credit adjusted risk free interest rate would have affected pretax income by approximately $1.8 million for fiscal 2014.

        Income taxes:    We currently have net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards that can be utilized to offset future income for federal and state tax purposes. These NOLs generate significant deferred tax assets which are currently offset by a valuation allowance. Realization is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income prior to the expiration of the loss carryforwards. Although realization is not assured, we believe that in the near term the amount of the net deferred tax asset considered realizable could be increased when cumulative income is achieved and when we are confident that we have demonstrated sustained profitability to indicate that the use of these carryforwards is more likely than not.

        We regularly review the deferred tax assets for recoverability considering the relative impact of negative and positive evidence including our historical profitability, projected taxable income, the expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences and tax planning strategies. The weight given to the potential effect of the negative and positive evidence is commensurate with the extent to which it can be objectively verified. In evaluating the objective evidence that historical results provide, we consider three years of cumulative pretax book income (loss).

        We establish a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets when we determine that it is more likely than not that some portion of our deferred tax assets will not be realized. There have been no significant changes in the assumptions used to calculate our valuation allowance over the last three years. However, if we determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, we would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.

        We recognize tax liabilities in accordance with ASC 740, "Income Taxes" and we adjust these liabilities when our judgment changes as a result of the evaluation of new information not previously available. Due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities.

        Litigation reserves:    We are involved in litigation on an on-going basis. We accrue our best estimate of the probable loss related to legal claims. Such estimates are based upon a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. These estimates are updated as the facts and circumstances of the cases develop and/or change. To the extent additional information arises or our strategies change, it is possible that our best estimate of the probable liability may also change. Changes to these reserves during the last three fiscal years were not material.

Adjusted EBITDA and Other Non-GAAP Measures

        In addition to net income determined in accordance with GAAP, we use certain non-GAAP measures, such as "Adjusted EBITDA", in assessing our operating performance. We believe the

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non-GAAP metrics serve as an appropriate measure to be used in evaluating the performance of our business. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) excluding the impact of income taxes (and any corresponding adjustments to tax indemnification asset), interest expense, depreciation and amortization, LIFO adjustments, charges or credits for facility closing and impairment, inventory write-downs related to store closings, stock-based compensation expense, debt retirements, sale of assets and investments, revenue deferrals related to customer loyalty program and other items. We reference this particular non-GAAP financial measure frequently in our decision-making because it provides supplemental information that facilitates internal comparisons to the historical operating performance of prior periods and external comparisons to competitors' historical operating performance. In addition, incentive compensation is based on Adjusted EBITDA and we base certain of our forward-looking estimates on Adjusted EBITDA to facilitate quantification of planned business activities and enhance subsequent follow-up with comparisons of actual to planned Adjusted EBITDA.

        The following is a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to our net income (loss) for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012:

 
  March 1,
2014
(52 weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 weeks)
 

Net income (loss)

  $ 249,414   $ 118,105   $ (368,571 )

Interest expense

    424,591     515,421     529,255  

Income tax expense (benefit)

    804     (110,600 )   (23,686 )

Adjustments to tax indemnification asset(1)

    30,516     91,314      

Depreciation and amortization expense

    403,741     414,111     440,582  

LIFO charge (credit)

    104,142     (147,882 )   188,722  

Lease termination and impairment charges

    41,304     70,859     100,053  

Stock-based compensation expense

    16,194     17,717     15,861  

Gain on sale of assets, net

    (15,984 )   (16,776 )   (8,703 )

Loss on debt retirements, net

    62,443     140,502     33,576  

Closed facility liquidation expense

    3,849     5,272     6,505  

Severance costs

        (72 )   256  

Customer loyalty card program revenue deferral

    2,679     26,564     30,856  

Other

    1,266     3,844     (1,804 )
               

Adjusted EBITDA

  $ 1,324,959   $ 1,128,379   $ 942,902  
               
               

(1)
Note: The income tax benefit from the IRS settlement described in Note 5 in the notes to our consolidated financial statements and the corresponding reduction of the tax indemnification asset had no net effect on Adjusted EBITDA.

        In addition to Adjusted EBITDA, we occasionally refer to several other Non-GAAP measures, on a less frequent basis, in order to describe certain components of our business and how we utilize them to describe our results. These measures include but are not limited to Adjusted EBITDA Gross Margin and Gross Profit (gross margin/gross profit excluding non-Adjusted EBITDA items), Adjusted EBITDA SG&A (SG&A expenses excluding non-Adjusted EBITDA items), FIFO Gross Margin and FIFO Gross Profit (gross margin/gross profit before LIFO charges) and Free Cash Flow (Adjusted EBITDA less cash paid for interest, rent on closed stores, capital expenditures, acquisition costs and the change in working capital).

        We include these non-GAAP financial measures in our earnings announcements and guidance in order to provide transparency to our investors and enable investors to better compare our operating performance with the operating performance of our competitors including with those of our

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competitors having different capital structures. Adjusted EBITDA or other non-GAAP measures should not be considered in isolation from, and are not intended to represent an alternative measure of, operating results or of cash flows from operating activities, as determined in accordance with GAAP. Our definition of these non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measurements reported by other companies.

Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

        Our future earnings, cash flow and fair values relevant to financial instruments are dependent upon prevalent market rates. Market risk is the risk of loss from adverse changes in market prices and interest rates. Our major market risk exposure is changing interest rates. Increases in interest rates would increase our interest expense. We enter into debt obligations to support capital expenditures, acquisitions, working capital needs and general corporate purposes. Our policy is to manage interest rates through the use of a combination of variable-rate credit facilities, fixed-rate long-term obligations and derivative transactions. We currently do not have any derivative transactions outstanding.

        The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. The table presents principal payments and the related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity dates as of March 1, 2014.

 
  2015   2016   2017   2018   2019   Thereafter   Total   Fair Value at
March 1,
2014
 
 
  (Dollars in thousands)
 

Long-term debt, including current portion, excluding capital lease obligations

                                                 

Fixed Rate

  $ 5,324   $ 64,188   $   $   $   $ 3,055,000   $ 3,124,512   $ 3,569,777  

Average Interest Rate

    0.95 %   8.50 %   0.00 %   0.00 %   0.00 %   8.15 %   8.15 %      

Variable Rate

  $ 11,610   $ 11,610   $ 11,610   $ 411,610   $ 11,610   $ 2,064,243   $ 2,522,293   $ 2,524,508  

Average Interest Rate

    4.00 %   4.00 %   4.00 %   2.46 %   4.00 %   4.61 %   4.25 %      

        Our ability to satisfy interest payment obligations on our outstanding debt will depend largely on our future performance, which, in turn, is subject to prevailing economic conditions and to financial, business and other factors beyond our control. If we do not have sufficient cash flow to service our interest payment obligations on our outstanding indebtedness and if we cannot borrow or obtain equity financing to satisfy those obligations, our business and results of operations could be materially adversely affected. We cannot be assured that any replacement borrowing or equity financing could be successfully completed.

        The interest rate on our variable rate borrowings, which include our revolving credit facility, our new Tranche 7 Term Loan and Tranche 1 Term Loan and our Tranche 2 Term Loan, are all based on LIBOR. However, the interest rate on our Tranche 7 Term Loan has a LIBOR floor of 75 basis points and our Tranche 1 Term Loan and Tranche 2 Term Loan have a LIBOR floor of 100 basis points. If the market rates of interest for LIBOR changed by 100 basis points as of March 1, 2014, our annual interest expense would change by approximately $9.4 million.

        A change in interest rates does not have an impact upon our future earnings and cash flow for fixed-rate debt instruments. As fixed-rate debt matures, however, and if additional debt is acquired to fund the debt repayment, future earnings and cash flow may be affected by changes in interest rates. This effect would be realized in the periods subsequent to the periods when the debt matures. Increases in interest rates would also impact our ability to refinance existing maturities on favorable terms.

Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

        Our consolidated financial statements and notes thereto are included elsewhere in this report and are incorporated by reference herein. See Item 15 of Part IV.

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Item 9.    Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

        Not applicable

Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures

(a)   Disclosure Controls and Procedures

        Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act")) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

(b)   Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

        Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we have conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in "Internal Control—Integrated Framework" (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, our management has concluded that, as of March 1, 2014, we did not have any material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and our internal control over financial reporting was effective.

        The attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, on our internal control over financial reporting is included after the next paragraph.

(c)   Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

        During the three months ended March 1, 2014, we implemented a new real estate management system which is utilized to manage our landlord payables, rent expense and sublease income. Other than the foregoing, there has not been any change in our internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during our fourth fiscal quarter ended March 1, 2014 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Rite Aid Corporation
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

        We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Rite Aid Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of March 1, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

        We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

        A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

        Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

        In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 1, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

        We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule as of and for the year ended March 1, 2014 of the Company and our report dated April 23, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedule.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
April 23, 2014

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Item 9B.    Other Information

        None


PART III

        We intend to file with the SEC a definitive proxy statement for our 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be held on June 19, 2014, pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after March 1, 2014. The information required by Part III (Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14) is incorporated by reference from that proxy statement.


PART IV

Item 15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedule

        (a)   The consolidated financial statements of the Company and report of the independent registered public accounting firm identified in the following index are included in this report from the individual pages filed as a part of this report:

1.     Financial Statements

        The following financial statements, report of the independent registered public accounting firm and supplementary data are included herein:

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    57  

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 1, 2014 and March 2, 2013

    58  

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

    59  

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

    60  

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Deficit for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

    61  

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

    62  

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

    63  

2.     Financial Statement Schedule

        All other schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not required or the required information is included in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto.

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3.     Exhibits

Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  3.1   Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, dated January 22, 2014   Filed herewith

 

3.8

 

Amended and Restated By-Laws

 

Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K, filed on January 27, 2010

 

4.1

 

Indenture, dated as of October 26, 2009, among Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee, related to the Company's 10.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2019

 

Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed on October 29, 2009

 

4.2

 

Indenture, dated as of August 16, 2010, among Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee, related to the Company's 8.00% Senior Secured Notes due 2020

 

Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed on August 19, 2010

 

4.3

 

Indenture, dated as of February 27, 2012, among Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee, related to the Company's 9.25% Senior Notes due 2020

 

Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed on February 27, 2012

 

4.4

 

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 15, 2012, among Rite Aid Corporation, the subsidiaries named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. to the Indenture, dated as of February 27, 2012, among Rite Aid Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., related to the Company's 9.25% Senior Notes due 2020

 

Exhibit 4.23 to the Registration Statement on Form S-4, File No. 181651, filed on May 24, 2012

 

4.5

 

Indenture, dated as of August 1, 1993, between Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as trustee, related to the Company's 7.70% Notes due 2027

 

Exhibit 4A to Registration Statement on Form S-3, File No. 033-63794, filed on June 3, 1993

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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  4.6   Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 3, 2000, between Rite Aid Corporation and U.S. Bank Trust National Association (as successor trustee to Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York) to the Indenture dated as of August 1, 1993, between Rite Aid Corporation and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, relating to the Company's 7.70% Notes due 2027   Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K filed on February 7, 2000

 

4.7

 

Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 21, 2013, between Rite Aid Corporation and U.S. Bank Trust National Association to the Indenture dated as of August 1, 1993, between Rite Aid Corporation and Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, relating to the Company's 6.875% Senior Debentures due 2013

 

Exhibit 4.3 to Form 8-K, filed on February 21, 2013

 

4.8

 

Indenture, dated as of December 21, 1998, between Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, and Harris Trust and Savings Bank, as trustee, related to the Company's 6.875% Notes due 2028

 

Exhibit 4.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4, File No. 333-74751, filed on March 19, 1999

 

4.9

 

Supplemental Indenture, dated as of February 3, 2000, between Rite Aid Corporation and Harris Trust and Savings Bank to the Indenture, dated December 21, 1998, between Rite Aid Corporation and Harris Trust and Savings Bank, related to the Company's 6.875% Notes due 2028

 

Exhibit 4.4 to Form 8-K, filed on February 7, 2000

 

4.10

 

Indenture, dated as of May 29, 2008, between Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as trustee, related to the Company's Senior Debt Securities

 

Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed on June 2, 2008

 

4.11

 

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 29, 2008, among Rite Aid Corporation and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A. to the Indenture, dated as of May 29, 2008, between Rite Aid Corporation and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., related to the Company's 8.5% Convertible Notes due 2015

 

Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K, filed on June 2, 2008

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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  4.12   Indenture, dated as of July 2, 2013, among Rite Aid Corporation, as issuer, the subsidiary guarantors named therein and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., related to the Company's 6.75% Senior Notes due 2021   Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K, filed on July 2, 2013

 

10.1

 

1999 Stock Option Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-K, filed on May 21, 2001

 

10.2

 

2000 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Included in Proxy Statement dated October 24, 2000

 

10.3

 

2001 Stock Option Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-K, filed on May 21, 2001

 

10.4

 

2004 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-K, filed on April 28, 2005

 

10.5

 

2006 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10 to Form 8-K, filed on January 22, 2007

 

10.6

 

2010 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, filed on June 25, 2010

 

10.7

 

Amendment No. 1, dated September 21, 2010, to the 2010 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 7, 2010

 

10.8

 

Amendment No. 2, dated January 16, 2013, to the 2010 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.8 to Form 10-K, filed on April 23, 2013

 

10.9

 

2012 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, filed on June 25, 2012

 

10.10

 

Amendment No. 1, dated January 16, 2013, to the 2012 Omnibus Equity Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.10 to Form 10-K, filed on April 23, 2013

 

10.11

 

Form of Award Agreement*

 

Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, filed on May 15, 2012

 

10.12

 

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.6 to Form 10-K, filed on April 28, 2010

 

10.13

 

Executive Incentive Plan for Officers of Rite Aid Corporation*

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, filed on February 24, 2012

 

10.14

 

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and John T. Standley, dated as of January 21, 2010*

 

Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-K, filed on April 28, 2010

 

10.15

 

Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Frank G. Vitrano, dated as of September 24, 2008*

 

Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 8, 2008

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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  10.16   Letter Agreement, dated July 27, 2010, to the Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Frank G. Vitrano, dated as of September 24, 2008*   Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 7, 2010

 

10.17

 

Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Marc A. Strassler, dated as of March 9, 2009*

 

Exhibit 10.8 to Form 10-K, filed on April 17, 2009

 

10.18

 

Letter Agreement, dated July 27, 2010, to the Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Marc A. Strassler, dated as of March 9, 2009*

 

Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 7, 2010

 

10.19

 

Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Douglas E. Donley, dated as of August 1, 2000*

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q, filed on December 22, 2005

 

10.20

 

Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Douglas E. Donley, dated as of December 18, 2008*

 

Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q, filed on January 7, 2009

 

10.21

 

Rite Aid Corporation Special Executive Retirement Plan*

 

Exhibit 10.15 to Form 10-K, filed on April 26, 2004

 

10.22

 

Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Ken Martindale, dated as of December 3, 2008*

 

Exhibit 10.7 to Form 10-Q, filed on January 7, 2009

 

10.23

 

Letter Agreement, dated July 27, 2010, to the Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Ken Martindale, dated as of December 3, 2008*

 

Exhibit 10.6 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 7, 2010

 

10.24

 

Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Robert I. Thompson, dated as of February 3, 2008*

 

Exhibit 10.5 to Form 10-Q, filed on January 6, 2010

 

10.25

 

Amendment No. 1 to Employment Agreement by and between Rite Aid Corporation and Robert I. Thompson, dated as of September 23, 2009*

 

Exhibit 10.6 to Form 10-Q, filed on January 6, 2010

 

10.26

 

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of July 11, 2011, between Rite Aid Corporation and Robert K. Thompson*

 

Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 5, 2011

 

10.27

 

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of June 23, 2011, between Rite Aid Corporation and Enio A. Montini, Jr.*

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q, filed on October 5, 2011

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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  10.28   Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 27, 2001, as amended and restated as of March 14, 2014, among Rite Aid Corporation, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Citicorp North America,  Inc., as administrative agent and collateral agent.   Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, filed on March 19, 2014

 

10.29

 

Credit Agreement, dated as of June 21,2013, among Rite Aid Corporation, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Citicorp North America, Inc., as administrative agent and collateral agent

 

Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K, filed on June 21, 2013

 

10.30

 

Credit Agreement, dated as of February 21, 2013, among Rite Aid Corporation, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Citicorp North America, Inc., as administrative agent and collateral agent

 

Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, filed on February 21, 2013

 

10.31

 

Amended and Restated Collateral Trust and Intercreditor Agreement, including the related definitions annex, dated as of June 5, 2009, among Rite Aid Corporation, each subsidiary named therein or which becomes a party thereto, Wilmington Trust Company, as collateral trustee, Citicorp North America, Inc., as senior collateral processing agent, The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as trustee under the 2017 7.5% Note Indenture (as defined therein) and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee under the 2016 10.375% Note Indenture (as defined therein), and each other Second Priority Representative and Senior Representative which becomes a party thereto

 

Exhibit 10.3 to Form 8-K, filed on June 11, 2009

 

10.32

 

Amended and Restated Senior Subsidiary Guarantee Agreement, dated as of June 5, 2009 among the subsidiary guarantors party thereto and Citicorp North America, Inc., as senior collateral agent

 

Exhibit 10.4 to Form 8-K, filed on June 11, 2009

 

10.33

 

Amended and Restated Senior Subsidiary Security Agreement, dated as of June 5, 2009, by the subsidiary guarantors party thereto in favor of the Citicorp North America, Inc., as senior collateral agent

 

Exhibit 10.5 to Form 8-K, filed on June 11, 2009

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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  10.34   Amended and Restated Senior Indemnity, Subrogation and Contribution Agreement, dated as of May 28, 2003, and supplemented as of September 27, 2004, among Rite Aid Corporation, the Subsidiary Guarantors, and Citicorp North America, Inc. and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as collateral processing co-agents   Exhibit 4.27 to Form 10-K, filed on April 29, 2008

 

10.35

 

Second Priority Subsidiary Guarantee Agreement, dated as of June 27, 2001, as amended and restated as of May 28, 2003, and as supplemented as of January 5, 2005, among the Subsidiary Guarantors and Wilmington Trust Company, as collateral agent

 

Exhibit 4.36 to Form 10-K, filed on April 17, 2009

 

10.36

 

Second Priority Subsidiary Security Agreement, dated as of June 27, 2001, as amended and restated as of May 28, 2003, as supplemented as of January 5, 2005, and as amended in the Reaffirmation Agreement and Amendment dates as of January 11, 2005, by the Subsidiary Guarantors in favor of Wilmington Trust Company, as collateral trustee

 

Exhibit 4.37 to Form 10-K, filed on April 17, 2009

 

10.37

 

Amended and Restated Second Priority Indemnity, Subrogation and Contribution Agreement, dated as of May 28, 2003, and as supplemented as of January 5, 2005, among the Subsidiary Guarantors and Wilmington Trust Company, as collateral agent

 

Exhibit 4.33 to Form 10-K, filed on April 29, 2008

 

10.38

 

Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of February 18, 2009, by and among Citicorp North America, Inc. and Citicorp North America, Inc., and acknowledged and agreed to by Rite Aid Funding II

 

Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, filed on February 20, 2009

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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  10.39   Senior Lien Intercreditor Agreement dated as of June 12, 2009, among Rite Aid Corporation, the subsidiary guarantors named therein, Citicorp North America, Inc., as senior collateral agent for the Senior Secured Parties (as defined therein), Citicorp North America, Inc., as senior representative for the Senior Loan Secured Parties (as defined therein), The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Senior Representative (as defined therein) for the Initial Additional Senior Debt Parties (as defined therein), and each additional Senior Representative from time to time party thereto   Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K, filed on June 16, 2009

 

11

 

Statement regarding computation of earnings per share (See Note 2 to the condensed consolidated financial statements)

 

Filed herewith

 

12

 

Statement regarding computation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges

 

Filed herewith

 

21

 

Subsidiaries of the Registrant

 

Filed herewith

 

23

 

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

Filed herewith

 

31.1

 

Certification of CEO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended

 

Filed herewith

 

31.2

 

Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended

 

Filed herewith

 

32

 

Certification of CEO and CFO pursuant to 18 United States Code, Section 1350, as enacted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

Filed herewith

55


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Exhibit
Numbers
  Description   Incorporation By Reference To
  101.   The following materials are formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 1, 2014 and March 2, 2013, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013, and March 3, 2012, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013, and March 3, 2012, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Deficit for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012, (v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow for the fiscal years ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012 and (vi) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged in detail.    

*
Constitutes a compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed with this Form 10-K.

**
Confidential portions of these Exhibits were redacted and filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to requests for confidential treatment.

        In reviewing the agreements included as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K please remember they are included to provide you with information regarding their terms and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about Rite Aid Corporation, its subsidiaries or the other parties to the agreements. The agreements may contain representations and warranties by each of the parties to the applicable agreement. These representations and warranties have been made solely for the benefit of the other parties to the applicable agreement and:

        Accordingly, these representations and warranties may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time. Additional information about Rite Aid Corporation may be found elsewhere in this report and the Company's other public filings, which are available without charge through the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.

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Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Rite Aid Corporation
Camp Hill, Pennsylvania

        We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Rite Aid Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of March 1, 2014 and March 2, 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), stockholders' deficit, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 1, 2014. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 15(a)(2). These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

        We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the 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, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Rite Aid Corporation and subsidiaries as of March 1, 2014 and March 2, 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended March 1, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, 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.

        We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of March 1, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated April 23, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
April 23, 2014

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RITE AID CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  March 1,
2014
  March 2,
2013
 

ASSETS

             

Current assets:

             

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 146,406   $ 129,452  

Accounts receivable, net

    949,062     929,476  

Inventories, net

    2,993,948     3,154,742  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    195,709     195,377  
           

Total current assets

    4,285,125     4,409,047  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    1,957,329     1,895,650  

Other intangibles, net

    431,227     464,404  

Other assets

    271,190     309,618  
           

Total assets

  $ 6,944,871   $ 7,078,719  
           
           

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT

             

Current liabilities:

             

Current maturities of long-term debt and lease financing obligations

  $ 49,174   $ 37,311  

Accounts payable

    1,292,419     1,384,644  

Accrued salaries, wages and other current liabilities

    1,165,859     1,156,315  
           

Total current liabilities

    2,507,452     2,578,270  

Long-term debt, less current maturities

    5,632,798     5,904,370  

Lease financing obligations, less current maturities

    75,171     91,850  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    843,152     963,663  
           

Total liabilities

    9,058,573     9,538,153  

Commitments and contingencies

         

Stockholders' deficit:

             

Preferred stock—series G, par value $1 per share; liquidation value $100 per share; 0 and 2,000 shares authorized; shares issued 0 and ..007

        1  

Preferred stock—series H, par value $1 per share; liquidation value $100 per share; 0 and 2,000 shares authorized; shares issued 0 and 1,821

        182,097  

Common stock, par value $1 per share; 1,500,000 shares authorized; shares issued and outstanding 971,331 and 904,268

    971,331     904,268  

Additional paid-in capital

    4,468,149     4,280,831  

Accumulated deficit

    (7,515,848 )   (7,765,262 )

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (37,334 )   (61,369 )
           

Total stockholders' deficit

    (2,113,702 )   (2,459,434 )
           

Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit

  $ 6,944,871   $ 7,078,719  
           
           

   

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

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RITE AID CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 Weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 Weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 Weeks)
 

Revenues

  $ 25,526,413   $ 25,392,263   $ 26,121,222  

Costs and expenses:

                   

Cost of goods sold

    18,202,679     18,073,987     19,327,887  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    6,561,162     6,600,765     6,531,411  

Lease termination and impairment charges

    41,304     70,859     100,053  

Interest expense

    424,591     515,421     529,255  

Loss on debt retirements, net

    62,443     140,502     33,576  

Gain on sale of assets, net

    (15,984 )   (16,776 )   (8,703 )
               

    25,276,195     25,384,758     26,513,479  
               

Income (loss) before income taxes

    250,218     7,505     (392,257 )

Income tax expense (benefit)

    804     (110,600 )   (23,686 )
               

Net income (loss)

  $ 249,414   $ 118,105   $ (368,571 )
               
               

Computation of income (loss) attributable to common stockholders:

                   

Net income (loss)

  $ 249,414   $ 118,105   $ (368,571 )

Accretion of redeemable preferred stock

    (77 )   (102 )   (102 )

Cumulative preferred stock dividends

    (8,318 )   (10,528 )   (9,919 )

Conversion of Series G and H preferred stock

    (25,603 )        
               

Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders—basic

    215,416     107,475     (378,592 )

Add back-interest on convertible notes

    5,456          
               

Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders—diluted

  $ 220,872   $ 107,475   $ (378,592 )
               
               

Basic income (loss) per share

  $ 0.23   $ 0.12   $ (0.43 )
               
               

Diluted income (loss) per share

  $ 0.23   $ 0.12   $ (0.43 )
               
               

   

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

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RITE AID CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(In thousands)

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 Weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 Weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 Weeks)
 

Net income (loss)

  $ 249,414   $ 118,105   $ (368,571 )

Other comprehensive income (loss):

                   

Defined benefit pension plans:

                   

Amortization of prior service cost, net transition obligation and net actuarial losses included in net periodic pension cost              

    24,035     (8,735 )   (22,492 )
               

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

    24,035     (8,735 )   (22,492 )
               

Comprehensive income (loss)

  $ 273,449   $ 109,370   $ (391,063 )
               
               

   

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

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RITE AID CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
  Preferred
Stock—Series G
  Preferred
Stock—Series H
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
  Common Stock    
   
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
   
 
 
  Additional
Paid-In
Capital
  Accumulated
Deficit
   
 
 
  Shares   Amount   Shares   Amount   Shares   Amount   Total  

BALANCE FEBRUARY 26, 2011

      $ 1     1,616   $ 161,650     890,297   $ 890,297   $ 4,281,623   $ (7,514,796 ) $ (30,142 ) $ (2,211,367 )

Net loss

                                              (368,571 )         (368,571 )

Other comprehensive loss:

                                                             

Changes in Defined Benefit Plans

                                                    (22,492 )   (22,492 )
                                                             

Comprehensive loss

                                                          (391,063 )

Exchange of restricted shares for taxes

                            (970 )   (970 )   (132 )               (1,102 )

Issuance of restricted stock

                            9,195     9,195     (9,195 )                

Cancellation of restricted stock

                            (731 )   (731 )   731                  

Amortization of restricted stock balance

                                        5,406                 5,406  

Stock-based compensation expense

                                        10,456                 10,456  

Stock options exercised

                            896     896     18                 914  

Dividends on preferred stock

                99     9,919                 (9,919 )                
                                           

BALANCE MARCH 3, 2012

      $ 1     1,715   $ 171,569     898,687   $ 898,687   $ 4,278,988   $ (7,883,367 ) $ (52,634 ) $ (2,586,756 )
                                           
                                           

Net income

                                              118,105           118,105  

Other comprehensive loss:

                                                             

Changes in Defined Benefit Plans

                                                    (8,735 )   (8,735 )
                                                             

Comprehensive income

                                                          109,370  

Exchange of restricted shares for taxes

                            (1,060 )   (1,060 )   (348 )               (1,408 )

Issuance of restricted stock

                            5,450     5,450     (5,450 )                

Cancellation of restricted stock

                            (360 )   (360 )   360                  

Amortization of restricted stock balance

                                        6,126                 6,126  

Stock-based compensation expense

                                        11,588                 11,588  

Stock options exercised

                            1,551     1,551     95                 1,646  

Dividends on preferred stock

                106     10,528                 (10,528 )                
                                           

BALANCE MARCH 2, 2013

      $ 1     1,821   $ 182,097     904,268   $ 904,268   $ 4,280,831   $ (7,765,262 ) $ (61,369 ) $ (2,459,434 )
                                           
                                           

Net income

                                              249,414           249,414  

Other comprehensive income:

                                                             

Changes in Defined Benefit Plans

                                                    24,035     24,035  
                                                             

Comprehensive income

                                                          273,449  

Exchange of restricted shares for taxes

                            (1,341 )   (1,341 )   (2,452 )               (3,793 )

Issuance of restricted stock

                            2,743     2,743     (2,743 )                

Cancellation of restricted stock

                            (1,212 )   (1,212 )   1,212                  

Amortization of restricted stock balance

                                        6,146                 6,146  

Stock-based compensation expense

                                        10,048                 10,048  

Tax benefit from exercise of stock options and restricted stock vesting

                                        26,665                 26,665  

Stock options exercised

                            26,873     26,873     6,344                 33,217  

Dividends on preferred stock

                83     8,318                 (8,318 )                

Conversion of Series G and Series H preferred stock

          (1 )   (1,904 )   (190,415 )   40,000     40,000     150,416                  
                                           

BALANCE MARCH 1, 2014

      $       $     971,331   $ 971,331   $ 4,468,149   $ (7,515,848 ) $ (37,334 ) $ (2,113,702 )
                                           
                                           

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

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 Weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 Weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 Weeks)
 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

                   

Net income (loss)

  $ 249,414   $ 118,105   $ (368,571 )

Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by operating activities:

                   

Depreciation and amortization

    403,741     414,111     440,582  

Lease termination and impairment charges

    41,304     70,859     100,053  

Gain from lease termination

    (8,750 )        

LIFO charge (credit)

    104,142     (147,882 )   188,722  

Gain on sale of assets, net

    (15,984 )   (16,776 )   (8,703 )

Stock-based compensation expense

    16,194     17,717     15,861  

Loss on debt retirements, net

    62,443     140,502     33,576  

Excess tax benefit on stock options and restricted stock

    (26,665 )        

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                   

Accounts receivable

    (28,051 )   82,721     (48,781 )

Inventories

    56,557     130,100     (169,935 )

Accounts payable

    (100,774 )   (68 )   146,302  

Other assets and liabilities, net

    (51,525 )   10,199     (62,569 )
               

Net cash provided by operating activities

    702,046     819,588     266,537  
               

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

                   

Payments for property, plant and equipment

    (333,870 )   (315,846 )   (215,004 )

Intangible assets acquired

    (87,353 )   (67,134 )   (35,133 )

Proceeds from sale-leaseback transactions

    3,989     6,355     6,038  

Proceeds from dispositions of assets and investments

    28,416     30,320     22,930  

Proceeds from lease termination

    8,750          

Proceeds from insured loss

    15,144          
               

Net cash used in investing activities

    (364,924 )   (346,305 )   (221,169 )
               

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

                   

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

    1,310,000     2,057,263     822,285  

Net (repayments to) proceeds from revolver

    (265,000 )   529,000     108,000  

Principal payments on long-term debt

    (1,340,435 )   (2,920,209 )   (848,373 )

Change in zero balance cash accounts

    (95 )   (43,659 )   (32,838 )

Net proceeds from the issuance of common stock

    33,217     1,646     914  

Payments for the repurchase of preferred stock

    (21,034 )        

Financing fees paid for early debt redemption

    (45,636 )   (75,374 )   (11,778 )

Excess tax benefit on stock options and restricted stock

    26,665          

Deferred financing costs paid

    (17,850 )   (54,783 )   (12,409 )
               

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

    (320,168 )   (506,116 )   25,801  
               

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    16,954     (32,833 )   71,169  

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year

    129,452     162,285     91,116  
               

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year

  $ 146,406   $ 129,452   $ 162,285  
               
               

   

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

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

        The Company is a Delaware corporation and through its 100 percent owned subsidiaries, operates retail drugstores in the United States of America. It is one of the largest retail drugstore chains in the United States, with 4,587 stores in operation as of March 1, 2014. The Company's drugstores' primary business is pharmacy services. The Company also sells a full selection of health and beauty aids and personal care products, seasonal merchandise and a large private brand product line.

        The Company's operations consist solely of the retail drug segment. Revenues are as follows:

 
  Year Ended  
 
  March 1,
2014
(52 Weeks)
  March 2,
2013
(52 Weeks)
  March 3,
2012
(53 Weeks)
 

Pharmacy sales

  $ 17,239,436   $ 17,083,811   $ 17,725,645  

Front end sales

    8,168,922     8,200,022     8,293,643  

Other revenue

    118,055     108,430     101,934  
               

  $ 25,526,413   $ 25,392,263   $ 26,121,222  
               
               

        Sales of prescription drugs represented approximately 67.9%, 67.6% and 68.1% of the Company's total sales in fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company's principal classes of products in fiscal 2014 were the following:

Product Class
  Percentage
of Sales
 

Prescription drugs

    67.9 %

Over-the-counter medications and personal care

    9.8 %

Health and beauty aids

    5.1 %

General merchandise and other

    17.2 %

        The Company's fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to February 29 or March 1. The fiscal year ended March 1, 2014 included 52 weeks. The fiscal year ended March 2, 2013 included 52 weeks and the fiscal year ended March 3, 2012 included 53 weeks.

        The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all of its 100 percent owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and highly liquid investments, which are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which have original maturities of three months or less when purchased.

        Approximately 97.0% of prescription sales are made to customers who are covered by third-party payors, such as insurance companies, government agencies and employers. The Company recognizes receivables that represent the amount owed to the Company for sales made to customers or employees of those payors that have not yet been paid. The Company maintains a reserve for the amount of these receivables deemed to be uncollectible. This reserve is calculated based upon historical collection activity adjusted for current conditions.

        Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventory balances include the capitalization of certain costs related to purchasing, freight and handling costs associated with placing inventory in its location and condition for sale. The Company uses the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") cost flow assumption for substantially all of its inventories. The Company calculates its inflation index based on internal product mix and utilizes the link-chain LIFO method.

        Asset impairments are recorded when the carrying value of assets are not recoverable. For purposes of recognizing and measuring impairment of long-lived assets, the Company categorizes assets of operating stores as "Assets to Be Held and Used" and "Assets to Be Disposed Of." The Company evaluates assets at the store level because this is the lowest level of identifiable cash flows ascertainable to evaluate impairment. Assets being tested for recoverability at the store level include tangible long-lived assets and identifiable, finite-lived intangibles that arose in purchase business combinations. Corporate assets to be held and used are evaluated for impairment based on excess cash flows from the stores that support those assets.

        The Company reviews long-lived assets to be held and used for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If the sum of the undiscounted expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the asset, the Company recognizes an impairment loss. Impairment losses are measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. When fair values are not available, the Company estimates fair value using the expected future cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risks associated with the recovery of the asset.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. The Company provides for depreciation using the straight-line method over the following useful lives: buildings—30 to 45 years; equipment—3 to 15 years.

        Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset or the term of the lease. When determining the amortization period of a leasehold improvement, the Company considers whether discretionary exercise of a lease renewal option is reasonably assured. If it is determined that the exercise of such option is reasonably assured, the Company will amortize the leasehold improvement asset over the minimum lease term, plus the option period. This determination depends on the remaining life of the minimum lease term and any economic penalties that would be incurred if the lease option is not exercised.

        Capitalized lease assets are recorded at the lesser of the present value of minimum lease payments or fair market value and amortized over the estimated useful life of the related property or term of the lease.

        The Company capitalizes direct internal and external development costs associated with internal-use software. Neither preliminary evaluation costs nor costs associated with the software after implementation are capitalized. For fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company capitalized costs of approximately $6,547, $5,844 and $6,371, respectively.

        The Company has certain finite-lived intangible assets that are amortized over their useful lives. The value of favorable and unfavorable leases on stores acquired in business combinations are amortized over the terms of the leases on a straight-line basis. Prescription files acquired in business combinations are amortized over an estimated useful life of ten years on an accelerated basis, which approximates the anticipated prescription file retention and related cash flows. Purchased prescription files acquired in other than business combinations are amortized over their estimated useful lives of five years on a straight-line basis.

        Costs incurred to issue debt are deferred and amortized as a component of interest expense over the terms of the related debt agreements. Amortization expense of deferred financing costs was $15,259, $21,896 and $22,049 for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

        For front end sales, the Company recognizes revenue from the sale of merchandise at the time the merchandise is sold. The Company records revenue net of an allowance for estimated future returns. Return activity is immaterial to revenues and results of operations in all periods presented. For third party payor pharmacy sales, revenue is recognized at the time the prescription is filled, which is or approximates when the customer picks up the prescription and is recorded net of an allowance for

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

prescriptions that were filled but will not be picked up by the customer. For all periods presented, there is no material difference between the revenue recognized at the time the prescription is filled and that which would be recognized when the customer picks up the prescription. For cash prescriptions and patient third party payor co-payments, the Company recognizes revenue when the patient picks up the prescription and tenders the cash price or patient third party payor co-payment amount at the point of sale. Prescriptions are generally not returnable.

        The Company offers a chain wide loyalty card program titled wellness +. Members participating in the wellness + loyalty card program earn points on a calendar year basis for eligible front end merchandise purchases and qualifying prescriptions. One point is awarded for each dollar spent towards front end merchandise and 25 points are awarded for each qualifying prescription.

        Members reach specific wellness + tiers based on the points accumulated during the calendar year, which entitles such customers to certain future discounts and other benefits upon reaching that tier. For example, any customer that reaches 1,000 points in a calendar year achieves the "Gold" tier, enabling them to receive a 20% discount on qualifying purchases of front end merchandise for the remaining portion of the calendar year and also the next calendar year. There are also similar "Silver" and "Bronze" levels with lower thresholds and benefit levels.

        As wellness + customers accumulate points, the Company defers the value of the points earned as deferred revenue (included in other current and noncurrent liabilities, based on the expected usage). The amount deferred is based on historic and projected customer activity (e.g., tier level, spending level). As customers receive discounted front end merchandise, the Company recognizes an allocable portion of the deferred revenue. The Company deferred $103,562 as of March 1, 2014 of which $83,668 is included in other current liabilities and $19,894 is included in noncurrent liabilities. The Company deferred $100,883 as of March 2, 2013 of which $78,696 is included in other current liabilities and $22,187 is included in noncurrent liabilities.

        Cost of goods sold includes the following: the cost of inventory sold during the period, including related vendor rebates and allowances, LIFO credit or charges, costs incurred to return merchandise to vendors, inventory shrink, purchasing costs and warehousing costs, which include inbound freight costs from the vendor, distribution payroll and benefit costs, distribution center occupancy costs and depreciation expense and delivery expenses to the stores.

        Rebates and allowances received from vendors relate to either buying and merchandising or promoting the product. Buying and merchandising related rebates and allowances are recorded as a reduction of cost of goods sold as product is sold. Buying and merchandising rebates and allowances include all types of vendor programs such as cash discounts from timely payment of invoices, purchase discounts or rebates, volume purchase allowances, price reduction allowances and slotting allowances. Certain product promotion related rebates and allowances, primarily related to advertising, are

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

recorded as a reduction in selling, general and administrative expenses when the advertising commitment has been satisfied.

        The Company records rent expense on operating leases on a straight-line basis over the minimum lease term. The Company begins to record rent expense at the time that the Company has the right to use the property. From time to time, the Company receives incentive payments from landlords that subsidize lease improvement construction. These leasehold incentives are deferred and recognized on a straight-line basis over the minimum lease term.

        Selling, general and administrative expenses include store and corporate administrative payroll and benefit costs, occupancy costs which include retail store and corporate rent costs, facility and leasehold improvement depreciation and utility costs, advertising, repair and maintenance, insurance, equipment depreciation and professional fees.

        Routine repairs and maintenance are charged to operations as incurred. Improvements and major repairs, which extend the useful life of an asset, are capitalized and depreciated.

        Advertising costs, net of specific vendor advertising allowances, are expensed in the period the advertisement first takes place. Advertising expenses, net of vendor advertising allowances, for fiscal 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $322,843, $335,779 and $369,405, respectively.

        The Company is self-insured for certain general liability and workers' compensation claims. For claims that are self-insured, stop-loss insurance coverage is maintained for workers' compensation occurrences exceeding $1,000 and general liability occurrences exceeding $2,000. The Company utilizes actuarial studies as the basis for developing reported claims and estimating claims incurred but not reported relating to the Company's self-insurance. Workers' compensation claims are discounted to present value using a risk-free interest rate.

        The Company has several defined benefit plans, under which participants earn a retirement benefit based upon a formula set forth in the plan. The Company records expense related to these plans using actuarially determined amounts that are calculated under the provisions of ASC 715, "Compensation—Retirement Benefits." Key assumptions used in the actuarial valuations include the discount rate, the expected rate of return on plan assets and the rate of increase in future compensation levels.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        The Company has several stock option plans, which are described in detail in Note 13. The Company accounts for stock-based compensation under ASC 718, "Compensation—Stock Compensation." The Company recognizes option expense over the requisite service period of the award, net of an estimate for the impact of award forfeitures.

        Costs incurred prior to the opening of a new or relocated store, associated with a remodeled store or related to the opening of a distribution facility are charged against earnings when incurred.

        The Company is involved in litigation on an ongoing basis. The Company accrues its best estimate of the probable loss related to legal claims. Such estimates are developed in consultation with in-house counsel, and are based upon a combination of litigation and settlement strategies.

        When a store or distribution center is closed, the Company records an expense for unrecoverable costs and accrues a liability equal to the present value at current credit adjusted risk-free interest rates of the remaining lease obligations and anticipated ancillary occupancy costs, net of estimated sublease income. Other store or distribution center closing and liquidation costs are expensed when incurred.

        Deferred income taxes are determined based on the difference between the financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities. Deferred income tax expense (benefit) represents the change during the reporting period in the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities, net of the effect of acquisitions and dispositions. Deferred tax assets include tax loss and credit carryforwards and are reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Changes in valuation allowances from period to period are included in the tax provision in the period of change.

        The Company has net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards that can be utilized to offset future income for federal and state tax purposes. These NOLs generate a significant deferred tax asset. The Company regularly reviews the deferred tax assets for recoverability considering historical profitability, projected taxable income, the expected timing of the reversals of existing temporary differences and tax planning strategies.

        The Company recognizes tax liabilities in accordance with ASC 740, "Income Taxes" and the Company adjusts these liabilities with changes in judgment as a result of the evaluation of new information not previously available. Due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from the current estimate of the tax liabilities.

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

        Sales taxes collected from customers and remitted to various governmental agencies are presented on a net basis (excluded from revenues) in the Company's statement of operations.

        The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

        The Company's pharmacy sales were primarily to customers covered by health plan contracts, which typically contract with a third party payor that agrees to pay for all or a portion of a customer's eligible prescription purchases. During fiscal 2014, the top five third party payors accounted for approximately 65.8% of the Company's pharmacy sales. The largest third party payor, Express Scripts, represented 31.6% and 35.3% of pharmacy sales during fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively. The largest third party payor during fiscal 2012, Medco Health Solutions, represented 22.9% of pharmacy sales. Third party payors are entities such as an insurance company, governmental agency, health maintenance organization or other managed care provider, and typically represent several health care contracts and customers.

        During fiscal 2014, state sponsored Medicaid agencies and related managed care Medicaid payors accounted for approximately 13.7% of the Company's pharmacy sales, the largest of which was approximately 1.1% of the Company's pharmacy sales. During fiscal 2014, approximately 30.6% of the Company's pharmacy sales were to customers covered by Medicare Part D. Any significant loss of third-party payor business could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business and results of operations.

        During fiscal 2014, the Company purchased brand pharmaceuticals and some generic pharmaceuticals, which amounted to approximately 88.2% of the dollar volume of its prescription drugs, from a single wholesaler, McKesson Corporation ("McKesson"), under a contract that the Company amended and restated in February 2014 and now runs through March 31, 2019. Under the amended and restated contract, with limited exceptions, the Company is required to purchase all of its branded pharmaceutical products and almost all of its generic (non-brand name) pharmaceutical products from McKesson. If the Company's relationship with McKesson was disrupted, it could temporarily have difficulty filling prescriptions for brand-named and generic drugs until it executed a replacement wholesaler agreement or developed and implemented self-distribution processes.

        The Company may enter into interest rate swap agreements to hedge the exposure to increasing rates with respect to its variable rate debt, when the Company deems it prudent to do so. Upon

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)

inception of interest rate swap agreements, or modifications thereto, the Company performs a comprehensive review of the interest rate swap agreements based on the criteria as provided by ASC 815, "Derivatives and Hedging." As of March 1, 2014 and March 2, 2013, the Company had no interest rate swap arrangements or other derivatives.

        In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-11, Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit when a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. ASU No. 2013-11 requires an entity to present unrecognized tax benefits as a reduction to deferred tax assets when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss or a tax credit carryforward exists, with limited exceptions. ASU No. 2013-11 is effective for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2013, and for interim periods within those fiscal years. This pronouncement will have no effect on the financial statements as the Company has historically presented uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASU No. 2013-11.

        In May 2013, the FASB issued a proposed Accounting Standards Update, Leases (Topic 842): a revision of the 2010 proposed Accounting Standards Update, Leases (Topic 840), that would require an entity to recognize assets and liabilities arising under lease contracts on the balance sheet. The proposed standard, as currently drafted, will have a material impact on the company's reported results of operations and financial position.

        In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220), Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The guidance was issued in response to ASU No. 2011-05 and required disclosure of the effect of significant reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income on the respective line items of net income, if the amounts reclassified are required under U.S. GAAP to be reclassified in their entirety to net income in the same reporting period. For other amounts not required to be reclassified to net income in their entirety in the same reporting period, or when a portion of the amount is reclassified to a balance sheet account instead of directly to income or expense, a cross reference to the related footnote disclosures for additional information should be provided. The new requirements were effective prospectively for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2012, and for interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material effect on the Company's financial statements. The Company has adopted the guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and modified the disclosures surrounding comprehensive income in Note 14, Reclassifications from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss.

2. Income (Loss) Per Share

        Basic income (loss) per share is computed by dividing income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted income (loss) per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the

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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

For the Years Ended March 1, 2014, March 2, 2013 and March 3, 2012

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

2. Income (Loss) Per Share (Continued)

issuance of common stock that then shared in the income of the Company subject to anti-dilution limitations.