Entire case study relating to Great Lakes Industrial Supply Inc

Chuck Kolias, Chief Financial Officer of Great Lakes Industrial Supply, Inc. was preparing for a meeting with his company’s bank later in the week. At that meeting, Mr. Kolias intended to present a request that the bank grant Great Lakes Industrial Supply a five-year loan to finance anticipated growth in the company and the expansion of the company’s warehouse facilities.

1Based on Mr. Kolias' prediction of 20% sales growth in 2017 and 2018 and relying on other assumptions provided in the Great Lakes case, prepare complete pro forma forecast of Great Lakes' 2017 and 2018 income statements and year-end balance sheets. Assume that any new financing, if needed, will be in the form of bank debt. Assume that all debt (any exisitng or new debt) carries an interest rate of 10%.

2How much does Great Lakes have to borrow in 2017? How much in 2018?

3Assess the financial health of Great Lakes Indusrial Supply, Inc. in past and forecasted periods. Specifically, calculate the financial ratios defined in the worksheet financial ratios and interpret the results.
Will Great Lakes Industrial Supply be in a stronger or weaker financial condition two years from now?

4Suppose that the proposed terms of the bank credit included a covenant (a contractual obligation that binds the borrower to specific actions or outcomes as a condition for extending a loan) that read as follows: "The company must maintain net working capital (defined for purposes of this loan as accounts receivable plus inventories minus accounts payable) of at least $4 million. For purposes of this covenant, net working capital will be measured at the end of each fiscal year." Is Great Lakes likely to be able to satisfy this covenant in both 2017 and 2018?

5What would be the impact on Great Lakes' external funding needs and interest coverage (calculated as EBIT / Interest expense) as of the end of 2017 and 2018 if:
a. Inventory were not reduced by the end of 2017?
b. Great Lakes experienced higher growth in its revenues than was originally anticipated in 2017 and 2018?
c. Days receivables were reduced to 45 days?
d. Accrued Expenses were to grow less than expected in 2017 and 2018?

6As a lender, would you be willing to loan Great Lakes Indusrial Supply, Inc. the funds needed to expand it warehouse facilities and finance its growth? Why or why not?