Salton Inc. (SFP)

Salton, Inc. engages in the design, sourcing, marketing, and distribution of small appliances, home decor, and personal care products. Its small appliances and electronic products include a range of kitchen and home appliances, such as heating appliances, motor driven appliances, beverage makers, cookware, and floor care products, which are offered under the Russell Hobbs, Toastmaster, Juiceman, Breadman, Melitta, Farberware, Westinghouse, Foreman, Haden, and Salton brands. The company’s decor products consist of tabletop products, picture frames, time products, and lighting products that are marketed under various brands, including Ingraham, Westclox, and Timex, as well as Stiffel. Its personal care and wellness products include a range of hair care, beauty, and oral health care items. The company markets its products in North America, South Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, South America, and the Middle East through an internal sales force and a network of independent commissioned sales representatives to mass merchandisers, department stores, specialty stores, and mail order catalogs. It also sells its products directly to consumers through infomercials, via Internet, and its own retail outlets. The company was founded in 1947 and is based in Lake Forest, Illinois.

For the thirteen weeks ended 30 September 2006, Salton, Inc.'s revenues decreased 7% to $138.3M. Net loss from continuing operations totaled $10M vs. an income of $113K. Revenues reflect the sale of the tabletop assets, inventory shortages, vendor & customer uncertainty, an increase in prices and post holiday overstocks at retailers. Net loss also reflects higher restructuring expenses and the presence of income tax expenses.