As filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on September 21, 2017.

 

Registration No. 333-          

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

 

FORM S-1

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

UNDER

THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Nevada   2080   20-3937596
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
  (I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive

Portland, Oregon 97222

(971) 888-4264

(Address, including zip code and telephone number, including area code, of registrant’s principal place of business)

 

 

 

Grover T. Wickersham

Chief Executive Officer

Eastside Distilling, Inc.

2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive

Portland, Oregon 97222

(971) 888-4264

(Name, address, including zip code and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 

 

 

Copies to:

 

Andrew W. Shawber

Summit Law Group, PLLC

315 Fifth Ave South, Suite 1000

Seattle, Washington 98104

Tel No.: (206) 676-7000

 

 

 

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: At such time or times after the effective date of this registration statement as the selling stockholders shall determine.

 

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), check the following box. [X]

 

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [  ]

 

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [  ]

 

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer [  ]   Accelerated filer [  ] Non-accelerated filer [  ]
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company [X]   Emerging growth company [X]

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act. [  ]

 

Title of Each Class of
Securities to be Registered
  Amount to be
Registered(1)
    Proposed
Maximum Offering
Price Per
Security(2)
    Proposed
Maximum
Aggregate
Offering
Price
    Amount of
Registration
Fee(2)
 
Common Stock, $0.0001 par value per share     2,462,436     $ 3.70     $

9,111,014

    $

1,055.97

 

 

(1) Pursuant to Rule 416, the securities being registered hereunder include such indeterminate number of additional securities as may be issuable to prevent dilution resulting from stock splits, stock dividends or similar transactions.
   
(2) Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(c) under the Securities Act, based upon the average of the high and low sales price of the common stock on September 20, 2017, as reported on the NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

The Registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment that specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until the registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 

 
 

 

The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. The selling stockholders may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

Preliminary Prospectus

 

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED SEPTEMBER 21, 2017

 

 

Up to 2,462,436 Shares of Common Stock

 

This prospectus relates to the possible resale, from time to time, by the selling stockholders identified in this prospectus of up to an aggregate of 2,462,436 shares of our common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Shares”), which includes (i) 266,679 shares of common stock sold to 30 investors in a private placement of units in December 2016; (i) 266,679 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants to purchase common stock sold in the private placement noted in clause (i) (the “2016 Warrants”); (iii) 479,338 shares of common stock issued to 23 investors who exercised warrants in connection with a temporary exercise price reduction in December 2016; (iv) 400,016 shares of common stock sold to 43 investors in a private placement of units between April and June 2017; (v) 400,016 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants to purchase common stock sold in the private placement noted in clause (iv) (the “2017 Warrants”); (vi) 192,887 shares of common stock acquired throughout 2017 in various transactions, including upon conversion of series A convertible preferred stock and convertible notes; and (vii) 456,821 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of other outstanding warrants (together with the 2016 Warrants and the 2017 Warrants, the “Selling Stockholder Warrants”). We are not selling any shares of common stock under this prospectus and will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of Shares by the selling stockholders. However, we may receive up to an additional $7,993,736 in cash proceeds if all of the Selling Stockholder Warrants are exercised in cash.

 

The selling stockholders may offer the Shares from time to time as each selling stockholder may determine through public or private transactions or through other means described in the section entitled “Plan of Distribution” or a supplement to this prospectus. Each selling stockholder may also sell Shares under Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, if available, rather than under this prospectus.

 

We are registering the offer and sale of the Shares pursuant to certain registration rights granted to the selling stockholders pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement dated December 30, 2016 by and among us and the selling stockholders (the “Registration Rights Agreement”). The registration of these shares of common stock does not necessarily mean that any of the shares will be offered or sold by the selling stockholders. The timing and amount of any sale is within the sole discretion of each selling stockholder.

 

We have agreed to pay certain expenses in connection with the registration of the Shares. The selling stockholders will pay all underwriting discounts and selling commissions, if any, in connection with the sale of the Shares. To our knowledge, as of the date of this prospectus, no underwriter or other person has been engaged to facilitate the sale of the Shares in this offering.

 

As of August 10, 2017, our common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “ESDI.” On September 20, 2017, the reported closing sale price of our common stock was $3.70 per share.

 

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in Section 2(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 and will be subject to reduced public company reporting requirements. See “Prospectus Summary – Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company.”

 

INVESTING IN OUR SECURITIES INVOLVES A HIGH DEGREE OF RISKS. SEE “RISK FACTORS” ON PAGE 10 OF THIS PROSPECTUS TO READ ABOUT FACTORS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING OUR SECURITIES.

 

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

The date of this prospectus is September 21, 2017

 

 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  Page
About this Prospectus 1
Prospectus Summary 2
Risk Factors 10
Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 20
Use of Proceeds 21
Dividend Policy 21
Market for Registrant’s Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters 22
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 23
Business 34
Management 45
Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions 60

Principal Stockholders

62
Selling Stockholders 64
Description of Capital Stock 66
Plan of Distribution 70 
Legal Matters 72
Experts 72
Where You Can Find More Information 72
Index to the Consolidated Financial Statements F-2

 

 
 

 

ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS

 

This prospectus forms a part of a registration statement we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and relates to the resale or other disposition from time to time of the common stock by the selling stockholders or their successors, donees, pledgees, assignees and permitted transferees.

 

We have not, and the selling stockholders have not, authorized anyone to provide you with information other than that contained in this prospectus and any applicable prospectus supplement or amendment. We have not, and the selling stockholders have not, authorized any person to provide you with different information. This prospectus is not an offer to sell, nor is it an offer to buy, these securities in any jurisdiction where the offer is not permitted. The information contained in this prospectus and any applicable prospectus supplement or amendment is accurate only as of its date. Our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects may have changed since that date.

 

The distribution of this prospectus and the issuance of the common stock in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law. Persons outside the United States who come into possession of this prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the issuance of the common stock and the distribution of this prospectus outside the United States. This prospectus does not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, the common stock offered by this prospectus by any person in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful for such person to make such an offer or solicitation.

 

It is important for you to read and consider all of the information contained in this prospectus in making your investment decision. To understand the offering fully and for a more complete description of the offering you should read this entire document carefully, including particularly the “Risk Factors” section beginning on page 10.

 

As used in this prospectus, unless the context requires otherwise, the terms “we”, “us”, “our”, or “the Company” refer to Eastside Distilling, Inc. and its subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. References to “selling stockholders” refer to those stockholders listed herein under “Selling Stockholders” and their successors, donees, pledgees, assignees and permitted transferees.

 

As permitted by the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the Commission, the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part, includes additional information not contained in this prospectus. You may read the registration statement and the other reports we file with the Commission at the Commission’s web site or at the Commission’s offices described below under the heading “Where You Can Find More Information.”

 

Trademarks, service marks or trade names of any other companies appearing in this prospectus are the property of their respective owners. Use or display by us of trademarks, service marks or trade names owned by others is not intended to and does not imply a relationship between us, and/or endorsement or sponsorship by, the owners of the trademarks, service marks or trade names.

 

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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

 

This summary highlights information contained in other parts of this prospectus. Because it is only a summary, it does not contain all of the information that you should consider before investing in shares of our common stock and it is qualified in its entirety by, and should be read in conjunction with, the more detailed information appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. You should read the entire prospectus carefully, including the Sections titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our financial statements and the related notes, before deciding to buy shares of our common stock. All share-related and per-share information in this prospectus has been adjusted to give effect to the 1-for-20 and the 1-for-3 reverse stock splits of our common stock effected on October 18, 2016 and June 15, 2017, respectively. All references in this prospectus to “Eastside,” “Eastside Distilling,” “the Company” “we” “us” and “our” refer to Eastside Distilling, Inc. and our consolidated subsidiary.

 

Overview

 

We are an Oregon-based producer and marketer of craft spirits, founded in 2008. Our products span several alcoholic beverage categories, including bourbon, American whiskey, vodka, and rum. Unlike many, if not most, distillers, we operate several retail tasting rooms in Oregon to market our brands directly to consumers. Our growth strategy is to build on our local base in the Pacific Northwest and expand selectively to other markets by using major spirits distributors, such as Southern Glazer Wines and Spirits, and regional distributors that focus on craft brands. As a small business in the large, international spirits marketplace populated with massive conglomerates, we are innovative in exploiting new trends with our products, for example, our Coffee Rum with cold brew coffee and low sugar and our gluten-free potato vodka. In December 2016 we retained Sandstrom Partners (an internationally known spirit branding firm that branded St Germain and Bulleit Bourbon) to guide our marketing strategy and branding. Sandstrom Partners subsequently became an investor in our Company. We seek to be both a leader in creating spirits that offer better value than comparable spirits, for example our value-priced Portland Potato Vodka, and an innovator in creating imaginative spirits that offer a unique taste experience, for example our cold-brewed Coffee Rum, Oregon oak aged whiskeys, Marionberry Whiskey and Peppermint Bark holiday liqueur. On May 1, 2017, we acquired 90% of the ownership of Big Bottom Distillery (“BBD”) for its excellent, award winning range of super premium gins and whiskeys, including The Ninety One Gin, Navy Strength Gin, Oregon Gin, Delta Rye and initial production of American Single Malt Whiskey. BBD’s super premium spirits will expand our tasting room offerings and give us a presence at the “high end” of the market. In addition, through MotherLode, our wholly-owned subsidiary acquired in March 2017, we also provide contract bottling and packaging services for existing and emerging spirits producers, some of whom contract with us to blend or distill spirits. As a publicly-traded craft spirit producers, we have access to the public capital markets to support our long-term growth initiatives, including strategic acquisitions.

 

Market Opportunity

 

Large and Growing Global and Domestic Markets

 

The global spirits market generated total revenues of $316 billion in 2013, representing a compound average growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% between 2009 and 2013, according to MarketLine. The performance of the market is forecasted to accelerate with an anticipated CAGR of 4.2% for the five year period 2013-2018, which is expected to increase revenues generated by this market to a value of approximately $388 billion by the end of 2018.

 

The U.S. spirits market had total revenues of $24.1 billion in 2015, representing a 25% increase since 2010, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS). The domestic market share of spirits compared to beer and wine was at a record 35.4% in 2015 according to DISCUS, representing more than a 2% gain over beer and wine in terms of market share since 2010.

 

Key Growth Trends that We Target

 

Craft – The market share of “craft” distillers (defined as any producer that bottles less than 100,000 cases annually) has doubled over the last two years, and is projected to reach 8% by 2020, according to BNP Paribas.

 

Women –The United States Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (the “TTB”), Park Street Imports, LLC (“Park Street”) and the US Census Bureau estimate that 37% of all U.S. whiskey drinkers are women.

 

 

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Millennials – Generally, millennials (individuals born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s) value “authenticity” and are inspired by travel, like to try new products and seek new experiences, according to a survey by BeverageDaily.com. Millennials tend to drink a broader range of spirit types (vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey, gin) than prior generations and Millennials consume more expensive spirits than their predecessors. These individuals are often attracted to vintage spirits and cocktails with nostalgic followings, such as throwbacks to the 1950’s like rye whiskey, bourbon, and the Manhattan cocktail. According to Barclays Research, millennials increasingly prefer spirits over beer and wine, and flavored spirits in particular. In addition, according to DISCUS, millennials are more willing than prior generations to purchase premium spirits.

 

Flavored – According to DISCUS, flavored spirits sales continue to grow faster than the overall spirits market, and flavored whiskey, which is especially appealing to younger drinkers and women, is the fastest growing flavored spirit category.

 

International – The demand for U.S.-produced spirits abroad is increasing significantly. U.S. spirit exports nearly doubled over the past decade to $1.56 billion in 2015, and whiskey exports were up approximately 5.4% in 2015 compared to 2014. The largest export markets for U.S. spirits include the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, and Japan.

 

Our Strategy

 

Our objective is to build Eastside Distilling into a profitable spirits company, with a distinctive portfolio of premium and high-end spirits brands that have national, and even international, consumer appeal and following. To help achieve this, we expect to:

 

  Target Industry Growth Trends . Demand for U.S.-produced premium and high-end craft spirits, particularly whiskeys, has significantly increased amongst millennials and women. We capitalize on these trends by developing products that appeal to changing demographics, as typified by our Master Distiller, Melissa Heim, whom we believe is the first female distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River.  
       
  Target Industry Growth Trends . Demand for U.S.-produced premium and high-end craft spirits, particularly whiskeys, has been increasing among millennials and women. We endeavor to capitalize on these trends by developing products that appeal to changing demographics, as typified by our Master Distiller, Melissa Heim, whom we believe is the first female commercial master distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River.  
       
  Be Experimental. We are not afraid to take chances with innovative product offerings that we believe the larger and more bureaucratic companies that populate the industry cannot easily launch. We want to produce and deliver quality products that offer consumers “something different,” such as value or uniqueness, and we want to convey that message with new packaging developed by our spirits branding firm, Sandstrom Partners.  
       
  Be Local. Be true to our Oregon and Pacific Northwest “roots” by shunning artificial additives, using locally sourced ingredients such as our high-quality water and Oregon oak, and relying on skilled local artisans. During 2016, we experienced a 45% increase in wholesale sales in Oregon and were the third largest spirits producer in that state. In addition, we recently extended our Pacific Northwest focus with our first shipments to Alaska during the first quarter of 2017.  
       
  Expand Geographically and Online. We are building brand awareness and driving sales in multiple geographic markets, with the use of social media (Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube). We are partnering with retailers that market heavily online and investing resources into e-commerce and digital marketing.  
       
  Provide Value. We target the high-growth premium ($12-20 per bottle) and high-end ($20-30 per bottle) market segments with premium quality at attractive pricing. In the super premium category (above $50 per bottle), we intend to have limited production offerings that we believe also deliver exceptional value.  
       
  Use Sales Networks of Major U.S. Spirits Distributors. We have established and will continue to build relationships with the major wine and spirit wholesalers to distribute our products into the largest spirits markets in the United States.  
       
  Increase Production. We expect our production of cases to increase each year for the next three years. We believe our increased production capacity will make us more attractive to distribution partners and will also facilitate additional revenues, cost savings and profits.  
       
  Leverage Access to Public Capital Markets. The public capital markets facilitate funding access for our long-term growth initiatives, including potential strategic acquisitions.  
 

 

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  Key Relationships : We have distribution agreements with several of the largest wine and spirits distributors in the United States, such as Southern Glazer. We have also engaged Park Street Imports, a provider of back-office administrative and logistical services for alcohol and beverage distributors. We believe these relationships will accomplish our goal of having our premium spirits sold and distributed nationwide.  
       
  Experienced Master Distiller: Our master distiller, Melissa “Mel” Heim, whom we believe is the first female distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River, is an important factor in distinguishing our brands. We believe that Ms. Heim’s highly regarded “palate” is important to us in maintaining a high quality artisanal character to our products as well as adding to our consumer appeal.  

 

Our Strengths

 

We believe the following competitive strengths will help enable the implementation of our growth strategies:

 

  Award Winning Diverse Product Line : We have a diverse product line currently offering over a dozen premium craft spirits, many of which have won awards for taste and/or product design. According to a study by the American Craft Spirits Association, the U.S. craft spirits volume of cases sold experienced a compound annual growth rate of 27.4% between 2010 and 2015, and saw an increase in market share from 0.8% to 2.2% during that period. Our sales of premium brands have increased over 1,000% since 2010. We believe our diverse , recognized product line in this growing market will enable us to establish a presence in new geographic markets and enable us to procure additional distributors for our products.  
       
  Key Relationships : We have distribution arrangements with several of the largest wine and spirits distributors in the United States, such as Southern Glazer. We have also engaged Park Street, a provider of back-office administrative and logistical services for alcohol and beverage distributors. We believe these relationships will help accomplish our goal of having our premium spirits sold and distributed nationwide.  
       
  Experienced Master Distiller. Our master distiller, Melissa “Mel” Heim, whom we believe is the first female commercial master distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River, is an important factor in distinguishing our brands. We believe that Ms. Heim’s highly regarded “palate” is important to us maintaining a high quality artisanal character to our products as well as adding to our consumer appeal.  

 

Our Product Approach

 

Our approach to or craft spirits involves five important aspects:

 

  Commitment to Quality : We create and deliver high-quality, innovative products targeted at growing markets.  
       
  Authentic Yet Scalable : We believe our approach to production allows us to produce our products at scale while keeping flavor profiles consistent.  
       
  Unique Talent and Experience : Every spirit reflects the creativity of our entire team  
       
  Extensive Spirit Portfolio : Many craft distillers have only one to three products; we have over a dozen which we believe affords us the opportunity to target a broader range of consumers with our brands.  
       
  Generate Customer Loyalty : These factors attract loyal and enthusiastic customers and major distributors for our products.  

 

Our Brands

 

We develop, produce and market the premium brands listed below

 

Burnside Bourbon . We develop, market and produce two premium, barrel–aged bourbons: Burnside Bourbon and Oregon Oak Burnside Bourbon. Our Burnside Bourbon is aged in oak barrels, is 96 proof and won a Gold Medal in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards in 2014, and another from Beverage Tasting Institute. Our Oregon Oak Burnside Bourbon is produced in limited quantities and aged for an additional 90 days in heavily charred Oregon oak barrels, and we consider it an “ultra-premium” brand. Our Burnside Bourbon brands accounted for approximately 40%, 35% and 41% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Case volume of our Burnside Bourbon increased by 163% from 2014 to 2016, compared to a 12% increase for the bourbon industry in general during the same period.

 

 

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Barrel Hitch American Whiskey . We develop, market and produce two premium whiskeys: Barrel Hitch American Whiskey and Barrel Hitch Oregon Oaked Whiskey. Our Barrel Hitch American Whiskey is 80 proof and won a triple-Gold Medal and best of show in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards in 2015. Our Oregon Oak version is produced in limited quantities and aged for an additional 90 days in heavily charred Oregon oak barrels, and we consider it an “ultra-premium” brand. Our whiskey brands were introduced in July 2015 and accounted for approximately 17% and 7% of our revenues for years 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Premium Vodka. We develop, market and produce a premium potato vodka under the brand name Portland Potato Vodka which is distilled from potatoes rather than grain and as such is gluten-free. Our Portland Potato Vodka was awarded a silver medal from the American Wine Society and a gold medal from the Beverage Tasting Institute, which also gave it a “Best Buy” rating. Our Portland Potato Vodka accounted for approximately 13%, 14% and 18% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Case volume of our Portland Potato Vodka increased by 185% from 2014 to 2016, compared to a 4% increase for the vodka industry in general during the same period.

 

Distinctive Specialty Whiskeys . We develop, market and produce two distinctive specialty whiskeys: Cherry Bomb Whiskey and Marionberry Whiskey. Our Cherry Bomb Whiskey combines handcrafted small batch whiskey with a blast of real Oregon cherries. Our Cherry Bomb Whiskey won a gold medal from the American Wine Society and was also awarded a gold medal for taste and a silver medal for package design in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards. Our Marionberry whiskey combines Oregon marionberries (a hybrid blackberry) with premium aged whiskey and was awarded two silver medals in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards for taste and package design. Our specialty whiskeys accounted for approximately 13%, 15%, and 14% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively.

 

Below Deck Rums . We develop, market and produce four rums under the Below Deck brand name: Below Deck Silver Rum, Below Deck Spiced Rum, Below Deck Coffee Rum and Below Deck Ginger Rum. Below Deck’s Silver Rum is our original rum. Below Deck Spiced Rum is double-distilled from molasses and infused with exotic spices and won a triple gold medal for taste and a bronze medal for package design in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards. Our Below Deck Coffee Rum is double-distilled and infused with coffee flavors from Arabica bean and won a silver medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Below Deck Ginger Rum is infused with natural ginger. Our Below Deck Rums accounted for approximately 10%, 12% and 15% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Seasonal/Limited Edition Spirits . In addition to our premium bourbons, whiskeys, rum and vodka, we create seasonal and limited-edition handmade products such as Advocaat (eggnog) Liqueur, Peppermint Bark Liqueur, Bier Schnapps and Holiday Spiced Liqueur. Our Seasonal/Limited Edition Spirits accounted for approximately 6%, 11% and 12% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

BBD Spirits . We also acquired several other brands as a result of our acquisition of BBD in May 2017. The extensive BBD product portfolio includes several craft spirits that we believe are highly complementary to our product line, including The Ninety One Gin, Navy Strength Gin (114 proof) and Delta Rye (111 proof) rye whiskey, among others. Inspired by the craft spirits movement in Oregon, Big Bottom Distilling’s small-batch, hand-crafted spirits provide consumers with unique takes on traditional spirits.

 

MotherLode Acquisition

 

On March 8, 2017, we acquired MotherLode LLC (“MotherLode”), a Portland, Oregon based provider of bottling services and production support to craft distilleries. Since its founding in 2014, the mission of MotherLode has been to enable craft distillers to increase their production and extend their product lines, reducing cost and increasing efficiency, thereby freeing them to focus on their craft. The typical MotherLode customer is a distillery of small batch, hand-crafted spirits, or a premium craft spirit sold as a private label.

 

We recently relocated much of our own operations to MotherLode’s facility and plan to expand our manufacturing resources. Plans are in place for a pneumatic bottling line, which we anticipate could result in a five-time increase in bottling rate and provide us with an opportunity for large-volume spirit handling capability.

 

In addition to bottling services for distillers and other producers of spirits, MotherLode bottles “private label” craft spirits for customers who have on-premise or off-premise licenses, including retail and liquor stores, bars, restaurants, events, and businesses that want to take advantage of the benefits that come from having their brand clearly printed on a label. MotherLode’s craft spirits can also be private labeled for corporate gifts, wedding, birthdays and other personal events.

 

 

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Finally, MotherLode intends to begin canning wine and Ready to Drink (“RTD”) alcoholic drinks for its Pacific Northwest customers. The custom built canning line is designed to produce Ball Corporation’s popular “slim can” in 187ml, 200ml and 250ml sizes, with 250ml being equal to approximately 8.45 ounces. The new line will be able to can wine and RTD beverages containing up to 20% alcohol by volume.

 

Other Sources of Revenue

 

Special Events

 

We also generate revenues from participating in special events (such as farmer’s markets, trade shows, hosting private tastings, etc.). We offer tastings as well as sell merchandise and bottle sales and have generated as much as $75,000 in revenues from these special events in a single month, during the winter holiday season (November/December). In addition to the revenues these events generate, we value the immediate customer feedback during these activities which is instrumental in creating better products and testing new flavors.

 

Retail Stores and Kiosks

 

We have three retail stores in shopping centers in the Portland, Oregon area that provide us with additional revenues for sales of our products. In December 2014, we opened a 1,200 square foot retail store in Clackamas Town Center (Happy Valley Town Center) and in January 2015, entered into a lease for 3,100 square feet of retail space in the Washington Square Center in Portland. We also had two additional holiday season retail locations within high-traffic shopping malls in the Portland metro region during 2015. For the 2016 holiday season, we replaced the Washington Square Mall storefront with a kiosk location. We intend to maintain these retail stores and kiosks to build local brand awareness and direct-to-consumer retail sales. Some of these stores will contain in-store tastings, which we believe will lead to additional product purchases.

 

Risk Factors

 

Our business is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including those highlighted in the section entitled “Risk Factors” beginning on page 10 of this prospectus. These risks include, among others, the following:

 

  If our brands do not achieve more widespread consumer acceptance, our growth may be limited.  
       
  We have incurred significant operating losses every quarter since our inception and anticipate that we will continue to incur significant operating losses in the future.  
       
  We may require additional capital, which we may not be able to obtain on acceptable terms. Our inability to raise such capital, as needed, on beneficial terms or at all could restrict our future growth and severely limit our operations.  
       
  We depend on a limited number of suppliers. Failure to obtain satisfactory performance from our suppliers or loss of our existing suppliers could cause us to lose sales, incur additional costs and lose credibility in the marketplace.  
       
  We depend on our independent wholesale distributors to distribute our products. The failure or inability of even a few of our distributors to adequately distribute our products within their territories could harm our sales and result in a decline in our results of operations.  
       
  We rely on a few key distributors, and the loss of any one key distributor would substantially reduce our revenues.  
       
  The sales of our products could decrease significantly if we cannot secure and maintain listings in the control states.  
       
  We must maintain a relatively large inventory of our products to support customer delivery requirements, and if this inventory is lost due to theft, fire or other damage or becomes obsolete, our results of operations would be negatively impacted.  

 

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  If we are unable to identify and successfully acquire additional brands that are complementary to our existing portfolio, our growth will be limited, and, even if additional brands are acquired, we may not realize planned benefits due to integration difficulties or other operating issues.  
       
  Our failure to protect our trademarks and trade secrets could compromise our competitive position and decrease the value of our brand portfolio.  
       
  A failure of one or more of our key information technology systems, networks, processes, associated sites or service providers could have a material adverse impact on our business.  
       
  Our failure to attract or retain key executive or employee talent could adversely affect our business.  
       
  Management turnover may create uncertainties and could harm our business.  
       
  If we fail to manage growth effectively or prepare for product scalability, it could have an adverse effect on our employee efficiency, product quality, working capital levels and results of operations.  
       
  Demand for our products may be adversely affected by many factors, including changes in consumer preferences and trends.  
       
  We face substantial competition in our industry and many factors may prevent us from competing successfully.  
       
  Adverse public opinion about alcohol could reduce demand for our products.  

 

Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company

 

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, or the JOBS Act, and therefore we have elected to comply with certain reduced disclosure and regulatory requirements for this prospectus and future filings, including only presenting two years of audited financial statements and related financial information, not having our internal control over financial reporting audited by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation and not holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and any golden parachute payments. We may take advantage of these reduced requirements until we are no longer an “emerging growth company.” Under Section 107(b) of the JOBS Act, “emerging growth companies” may take advantage of an extended transition period to comply with new or revised accounting standards applicable to public companies. We have irrevocably elected not to avail ourselves of this extended transition period and, as a result, we will adopt new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for other public companies.

 

Corporate and Other Information

 

We were incorporated in Nevada in February 2004 under the name Eurocan Holdings, Ltd. In December 2014, we changed our corporate name to Eastside Distilling, Inc. to reflect our then recent acquisition of Eastside Distilling, LLC. Our principal executive offices are located at 2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive, Portland, OR 97222, and our telephone number is (971) 888-4264. Our corporate website address is www.eastsidedistilling.com. Information contained on or accessible through our website is not a part of this prospectus, and the inclusion of our website address in this prospectus is an inactive textual reference only.

 

Share decrease and reverse stock split

 

On June 14, 2017, we filed a certificate of change with the Nevada Secretary of State pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes 78.209 to (i) decrease our authorized common stock from 45,000,000 to 15,000,000 shares and (ii) effectuate a 1-for-3 reverse stock split of our outstanding common stock. The certificate of change was filed with an effective date of June 15, 2017. Pursuant to the Nevada Revised Statutes, our Board of Directors was authorized to effectuate the reverse stock split without stockholder approval where such split is accomplished with a concurrent proportional decrease in the Company’s authorized common stock. Prior to the reverse split, 9,939,649 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding. After the reverse split, 3,313,217 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding (excluding adjustment for settlement of fractional shares which were rounded up to the nearest whole share). All share and per share amounts in this prospectus are shown on a post-reverse stock split basis.

 

 

  7
 

 

 

 

The Offering

 

  Common stock offered by the selling stockholders 2,462,436 shares of our common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Shares”), which includes:  

 

  (i) 266,679 shares of common stock sold to 30 investors in a private placement of units in December 2016;  
       
  (ii) 266,679 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants to purchase common stock sold in the private placement noted in clause (i) (the “2016 Warrants”);  
       
  (iii) 479,338 shares of common stock issued to 23 investors who exercised warrants in connection with a temporary exercise price reduction in December 2016;  
       
  (iv) 400,016 shares of common stock sold to 43 investors in a private placement of units between April and June 2017;  
       
  (v) 400,016 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants to purchase common stock sold in the private placement noted in clause (iv) (the “2017 Warrants”);  
       
  (vi) 192,887 shares of common stock acquired throughout 2017 in various transactions, including upon conversion of series A convertible preferred stock and convertible notes; and  
       
  (vii) 456,821 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of other outstanding warrants (together with the 2016 Warrants and the 2017 Warrants, the “Selling Stockholder Warrants”).  

 

  Offering prices Shares of common stock offered by this prospectus may be offered and sold at prevailing market prices or such other prices as the selling stockholders may determine.  
       
  Use of proceeds We are not selling any of the shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus and will receive no proceeds from the sale of the shares by the selling stockholders. All of the proceeds from the sale of common stock offered hereby will go to the selling stockholders at the time they sell their shares. However, we may receive up to an additional $7,993,736 in cash proceeds if all of the Selling Stockholder Warrants are exercised in cash.  
       
  Common stock outstanding 4,824,399 shares as of September 20, 2017  
       
  Dividend policy Dividends on our common stock may be declared and paid when and as determined by our board of directors. We have not paid and do not expect to pay dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future.  
       
  Risk factors See “Risk Factors” beginning on page 10 for a discussion of factors you should carefully consider before deciding to invest in our common stock.  
       
  NASDAQ Capital Market Our common stock is currently listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “ESDI.”  

 

The number of shares of our common stock outstanding excludes:

 

  397,676 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options outstanding as of September 20, 2017, at a weighted average exercise price of $6.40 per share; and 61,057 shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2016 Equity Incentive Plan;  
       
  2,593,077 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding privately-issued common stock warrants as of September 20, 2017 at a weighted-average exercise price of $5.99 per share, which includes the shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the Selling Stockholder Warrants.  

 

 

  8
 

 

 

Summary Consolidated Financial Information

 

You should read this summary consolidated financial information below together with our consolidated financial statements and related notes, “Selected Financial Data” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. The summary consolidated financial information included in this section are not intended to replace our financial statements and related notes.

 

The summary consolidated statements of operations information for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2016 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. The summary consolidated balance sheet data at December 31, 2015 and 2016 are derived from our audited condensed consolidated financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. The unaudited consolidated statements of operations information for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2017, and the unaudited consolidated balance sheet information at June 30, 2017, are derived from our unaudited consolidated financial statements that are included elsewhere in the prospectus. In our opinion, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a basis consistent with our audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, consisting of only normal and recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of such financial data. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in the future and results of interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full year.

 

Summary Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

 

    Years Ended     Six Months Ended  
    December 31,     June 30,  
    2015     2016     2016     2017  
                         
Sales   $ 2,326,664     $ 3,042,527     $ 1,249,346     $ 1,713,191  
Less excise taxes, customer programs and incentives     624,046       934,221       300,802       495,680  
Net sales     1,702,618       2,108,306       948,544       1,217,511  
Gross profit     832,228       827,962       424,159       499,973  
Selling, general and administrative expenses     4,373,746       5,125,923       1,767,079       1,574,868  
Loss from operations     (3,541,518 )     (4,297,961 )     (1,921,155 )     (2,051,867 )
Other income (expense), net     (59,548 )     (901,658 )     (401,264 )     (143,562 )
Net loss     (3,601,066 )     (5,199,619 )     (2,324,179 )     (2,190,944 )
Dividends on convertible preferred stock     -       (51,674 )     17,759       5,037  
Net loss attributable to common stockholders     (3,601,066 )     (5,251,293 )     (2,341,938 )     (2,194,506 )
Basic and diluted net per common share     (4.72 )     (4.21 )     (2.71 )     (0.75 )

 

Summary Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:

 

    At December 31,        
    2015     2016     At June 30, 2017  
                   
Total current assets   $ 1,130,853     $ 2,400,772     $ 3,422,355  
Total assets     1,291,858       2,547,988       4,509,512  
Total current liabilities     2,337,629       987,399       565,894  
Total liabilities     2,355,471       1,415,155       2,452,502  
Accumulated deficit     (7,561,751 )     (12,813,044 )     (15,007,550 )
Stockholders’ equity (deficit)     (1,063,613 )     1,132,833       2,057,010  

 

 

  9
 

 

RISK FACTORS

 

Investing in our common stock involves a number of risks. You should not invest unless you are able to bear the complete loss of your investment. In addition to the risks and investment considerations discussed elsewhere in this prospectus, the following factors should be carefully considered by anyone purchasing the securities offered by this prospectus. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial also may impair our business operations. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business could be harmed. In such case, the trading price of our common stock and warrants could decline, and investors could lose all or a part of the money paid to buy our common stock.

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS

 

If our brands do not achieve more widespread consumer acceptance, our growth may be limited.

 

Although our brands have achieved acceptance in the Pacific Northwest, most of our brands are relatively new and have not achieved extensive national brand recognition. Also, brands we may develop and/or acquire in the future are unlikely to establish widespread brand recognition. Accordingly, if consumers do not accept our brands, we will not be able to penetrate our markets and our growth may be limited.

 

We have incurred significant operating losses every quarter since our inception and anticipate that we will continue to incur significant operating losses in the future.

 

We believe that we will continue to incur net losses for the foreseeable future as we expect to make continued significant investment in product development and sales and marketing and to incur significant administrative expenses as we seek to grow our brands. We also anticipate that our cash needs will exceed our income from sales for the foreseeable future. Some of our products may never achieve widespread market acceptance and may not generate sales and profits to justify our investment therein. Also, we may find that our expansion plans are more costly than we anticipate and that they do not ultimately result in commensurate increases in our sales, which would further increase our losses. We expect we will continue to experience losses and negative cash flow, some of which could be significant. Results of operations will depend upon numerous factors, some of which are beyond our control, including market acceptance of our products, new product introductions and competition. We also incur substantial operating expenses at the corporate level, including costs directly related to being a reporting company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). For the year ended December 31, 2016 and the six months ended June 30, 2017, we reported a net loss of $5.2 million and $2.2 million, respectively. As of June 30, 2017, we had an accumulated deficit since inception of $15.0 million.

 

We may require additional capital, which we may not be able to obtain on acceptable terms. Our inability to raise such capital, as needed, on beneficial terms or at all could restrict our future growth and severely limit our operations.

 

We have limited capital compared to other companies in our industry. This may limit our operations and growth, including our ability to continue to develop new and existing brands, service our debt obligations, maintain adequate inventory levels, fund potential acquisitions of new brands, penetrate new markets, attract new customers and enter into new distribution relationships. If we do not generate sufficient cash from operations to finance additional capital needs, we will need to raise additional funds through private or public equity and/or debt financing. We cannot assure you that, if and when needed, additional financing will be available to us on acceptable terms or at all. If additional capital is needed and either unavailable or cost prohibitive, our operations and growth may be limited as we may need to change our business strategy to slow the rate of, or eliminate, our expansion or reduce or curtail our operations. Also, any additional financing we undertake could impose covenants upon us that restrict our operating flexibility, and, if we issue equity securities to raise capital our existing stockholders may experience dilution and the new securities may have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of our common stock.

 

  10
 

 

We depend on a limited number of suppliers. Failure to obtain satisfactory performance from our suppliers or loss of our existing suppliers could cause us to lose sales, incur additional costs and lose credibility in the marketplace.

 

We depend on a limited number of third-party suppliers for the sourcing of the raw materials for all of our products, including our distillate products and other ingredients. These suppliers consist of third-party producers in the U.S. We do not have long-term written agreements with any of our suppliers. The termination of our relationships or an adverse change in the terms of these arrangements could have a negative impact on our business. If our suppliers increase their prices, we may not be able to secure alternative suppliers, and may not be able to raise the prices of our products to cover all or even a portion of the increased costs. Also, our suppliers’ failure to perform satisfactorily or handle increased orders, delays in shipments of products from suppliers or the loss of our existing suppliers, especially our key suppliers, could cause us to fail to meet orders for our products, lose sales, incur additional costs and/or expose us to product quality issues. In turn, this could cause us to lose credibility in the marketplace and damage our relationships with distributors, ultimately leading to a decline in our business and results of operations. If we are not able to renegotiate these contracts on acceptable terms or find suitable alternatives, our business could be negatively impacted.

 

We depend on our independent wholesale distributors to distribute our products. The failure or inability of even a few of our distributors to adequately distribute our products within their territories could harm our sales and result in a decline in our results of operations.

 

We are required by law to use state-licensed distributors or, in 18 states known as “control states,” state-owned agencies performing this function, to sell our products to retail outlets, including liquor stores, bars, restaurants and national chains in the U.S. We have established relationships for our brands with a limited number of wholesale distributors; however, failure to maintain those relationships could significantly and adversely affect our business, sales and growth. We currently distribute our products in 22 states – Oregon, Washington, California, Florida, Nevada, Texas, Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Minnesota, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Idaho and Maryland. Over the past decade there has been increasing consolidation, both intrastate and interstate, among distributors. As a result, many states now have only two or three significant distributors. Also, there are several distributors that now control distribution for several states. If we fail to maintain good relations with a distributor, our products could in some instances be frozen out of one or more markets entirely. The ultimate success of our products also depends in large part on our distributors’ ability and desire to distribute our products to our desired U.S. target markets, as we rely significantly on them for product placement and retail store penetration. In addition, all of our distributors also distribute competitive brands and product lines. We cannot assure you that our U.S. alcohol distributors will continue to purchase our products, commit sufficient time and resources to promote and market our brands and product lines or that they can or will sell them to our desired or targeted markets. If they do not, our sales will be harmed, resulting in a decline in our results of operations.

 

We rely on a few key distributors, and the loss of any one key distributor would substantially reduce our revenues.

 

We currently derive a significant amount of our revenues from a few major distributors. A significant decrease in business from or loss of any of our major distributors could harm our financial condition by causing a significant decline in revenues attributable to such distributors. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, sales to one distributor (Oregon Liquor Control Commission) accounted for 32% and 32% of revenues, respectively. While we believe our relationships with our major distributors are good, we do not have long-term contracts with any of them and purchases generally occur on an order-by-order basis. If we experience a significant decrease in sales to any of our major distributors, and are unable to replace such sales volume with orders from other customers, our sales may decrease which would have a material adverse financial effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

  11
 

 

The sales of our products could decrease significantly if we cannot secure and maintain listings in the control states.

 

In the control states, the state liquor commissions act in place of distributors and decide which products are to be purchased and offered for sale in their respective states. Products selected for listing in control states must generally reach certain volumes and/or profit levels to maintain their listings. Products in control states are selected for purchase and sale through listing procedures which are generally made available to new products only at periodically scheduled listing interviews. Products not selected for listings can only be purchased by consumers in the applicable control state through special orders, if at all. If, in the future, we are unable to maintain our current listings in the control states, or secure and maintain listings in those states for any additional products we may develop or acquire, sales of our products could decrease significantly which would have a material adverse financial effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

We must maintain a relatively large inventory of our products to support customer delivery requirements, and if this inventory is lost due to theft, fire or other damage or becomes obsolete, our results of operations would be negatively impacted.

 

We must maintain relatively large inventories of our products to meet customer delivery requirements. We are always at risk of loss of that inventory due to theft, fire or other damage, and any such loss, whether insured against or not, could cause us to fail to meet our orders and harm our sales and operating results. Also, our inventory may become obsolete as we introduce new products, cease to produce old products or modify the design of our products’ packaging, which would increase our operating losses and negatively impact our results of operations.

 

If we are unable to identify and successfully acquire additional brands that are complementary to our existing portfolio, our growth will be limited, and, even if additional brands are acquired, we may not realize anticipated benefits due to integration difficulties or other operating issues.

 

A component of our growth strategy may be the acquisition of additional brands that are complementary to our existing portfolio through acquisitions of such brands or their corporate owners, directly or through mergers, joint ventures, long-term exclusive distribution arrangements and/or other strategic relationships. For example, in May 2017, we acquired 90% of the ownership of BBD for its excellent, award winning range of super premium gins and whiskeys, and we acquired MotherLode in March 2017, which provides contract bottling and packaging services for existing and emerging spirits producers, some of whom contract with us to blend or distill spirits. If we are unable to identify suitable brand candidates and successfully execute our acquisition strategy, our growth will be limited. Also, even if we are successful in acquiring additional brands, we may not be able to achieve or maintain profitability levels that justify our investment in, or realize operating and economic efficiencies or other planned benefits with respect to, those additional brands. The addition of new products or businesses entails numerous risks with respect to integration and other operating issues, any of which could have a detrimental effect on our results of operations and/or the value of our equity. These risks include:

 

  difficulties in assimilating acquired operations or products;
     
  unanticipated costs that could materially adversely affect our results of operations;
     
  unanticipated costs that could materially adversely affect our results of operations;
     
  negative effects on reported results of operations from acquisition-related charges and amortization of acquired intangibles;
     
  diversion of management’s attention from other business concerns;
     
  adverse effects on existing business relationships with suppliers, distributors and retail customers;
     
  risks of entering new markets or markets in which we have limited prior experience; and
     
  the potential inability to retain and motivate key employees of acquired businesses.

 

  12
 

 

Our ability to grow through the acquisition of additional brands will also be dependent upon the availability of capital to complete the necessary acquisition arrangements. We intend to finance our brand acquisitions through a combination of our available cash resources, third party financing and, in appropriate circumstances, the further issuance of equity and/or debt securities. Acquiring additional brands could have a significant effect on our financial position, and could cause substantial fluctuations in our quarterly and yearly operating results. Also, acquisitions could result in the recording of significant goodwill and intangible assets on our financial statements, the amortization or impairment of which would reduce reported earnings in subsequent years.

 

Our failure to protect our trademarks and trade secrets could compromise our competitive position and decrease the value of our brand portfolio.

 

Our business and prospects depend in part on our ability to develop favorable consumer recognition of our brands and trademarks. Although we apply for registration of our brands and trademarks, they could be imitated in ways that we cannot prevent. Also, we rely on trade secrets and proprietary know-how, concepts and formulas. Our methods of protecting this information may not be adequate. Moreover, we may face claims of misappropriation or infringement of third parties’ rights that could interfere with our use of this information. Defending these claims may be costly and, if unsuccessful, may prevent us from continuing to use this proprietary information in the future and result in a judgment or monetary damages being levied against us. We do not maintain non-competition agreements with all of our key personnel or with some of our key suppliers. If competitors independently develop or otherwise obtain access to our trade secrets, proprietary know-how or recipes, the appeal, and thus the value, of our brand portfolio could be reduced, negatively impacting our sales and growth potential.

 

A failure of one or more of our key information technology systems, networks, processes, associated sites or service providers could have a material adverse impact on our business.

 

We rely on information technology (IT) systems, networks, and services, including internet sites, data hosting and processing facilities and tools, hardware (including laptops and mobile devices), software and technical applications and platforms, some of which are managed, hosted, provided and/or used by third-parties or their vendors, to assist us in the management of our business. The various uses of these IT systems, networks and services include, but are not limited to: hosting our internal network and communication systems; ordering and managing materials from suppliers; supply/demand planning; production; shipping product to customers; hosting our branded websites and marketing products to consumers; collecting and storing customer, consumer, employee, investor, and other data; processing transactions; summarizing and reporting results of operations; hosting, processing, and sharing confidential and proprietary research, business plans, and financial information; complying with regulatory, legal or tax requirements; providing data security; and handling other processes necessary to manage our business.

 

Increased IT security threats and more sophisticated cyber-crime pose a potential risk to the security of our IT systems, networks, and services, as well as the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of our data. If the IT systems, networks, or service providers we rely upon fail to function properly, or if we suffer a loss or disclosure of business or other sensitive information, due to any number of causes, ranging from catastrophic events to power outages to security breaches, and our business continuity plans do not effectively address these failures on a timely basis, we may suffer interruptions in our ability to manage operations and reputational, competitive and/or business harm, which may adversely affect our business operations and/or financial condition. In addition, such events could result in unauthorized disclosure of material confidential information, and we may suffer financial and reputational damage because of lost or misappropriated confidential information belonging to us or to our partners, our employees, customers, suppliers or consumers. In any of these events, we could also be required to spend significant financial and other resources to remedy the damage caused by a security breach or to repair or replace networks and IT systems.

 

Our failure to attract or retain key executive or employee talent could adversely affect our business.

 

Our success depends upon the efforts and abilities of our senior management team, other key employees, and a high-quality employee base, as well as our ability to attract, motivate, reward, and retain them. In particular, we rely on the skills and expertise of our Master Distiller, Melissa Heim, whom we believe is the first female commercial master distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River, and her knowledge of our business and industry would be difficult to replace. If Ms. Heim or one of our executive officers or significant employees terminates her or his employment, we may not be able to replace their expertise, fully integrate new personnel or replicate the prior working relationships, and the loss of their services might significantly delay or prevent the achievement of our business objectives. Qualified individuals with the breadth of skills and experience in our industry that we require are in high demand, and we may incur significant costs to attract them. We do not maintain and do not intend to obtain key man insurance on the life of any executive or employee. Difficulties in hiring or retaining key executive or employee talent, or the unexpected loss of experienced employees could have an adverse impact our business performance. In addition, we could experience business disruption and/or increased costs related to organizational changes, reductions in workforce, or other cost-cutting measures.

 

  13
 

 

Management turnover may create uncertainties and could harm our business.

 

We have recently experienced significant changes in our executive leadership. Specifically, Stephen Earles resigned as Chief Executive Officer in November 2016 and resigned as President and from our Board of Directors in January 2017. Changes to strategic or operating goals, which can often times occur with the appointment of new executives, can create uncertainty, may negatively impact our ability to execute quickly and effectively, and may ultimately be unsuccessful. In addition, executive leadership transition periods are often difficult as the new executives gain detailed knowledge of our operations, and friction can result from changes in strategy and management style. Management turnover inherently causes some loss of institutional knowledge, which can negatively affect strategy and execution. Until we integrate new personnel, and unless they are able to succeed in their positions, we may be unable to successfully manage and grow our business, and our financial condition and profitability may suffer.

 

Further, to the extent we experience additional management turnover, competition for top management is high and it may take months to find a candidate that meets our requirements. If we are unable to attract and retain qualified management personnel, our business could suffer.

 

If we fail to manage growth effectively or prepare for product scalability, it could have an adverse effect on our employee efficiency, product quality, working capital levels and results of operations.

 

Any significant growth in the market for our products or our entry into new markets may require an expansion of our employee base for managerial, operational, financial, and other purposes. During any period of growth, we may face problems related to our operational and financial systems and controls, including quality control and delivery and service capacities. We would also need to continue to expand, train and manage our employee base. Continued future growth will impose significant added responsibilities upon the members of management to identify, recruit, maintain, integrate, and motivate new employees.

 

Aside from increased difficulties in the management of human resources, we may also encounter working capital issues, as we will need increased liquidity to finance the marketing of the products we sell, and the hiring of additional employees. For effective growth management, we will be required to continue improving our operations, management, and financial systems and controls. Our failure to manage growth effectively may lead to operational and financial inefficiencies that will have a negative effect on our profitability. We cannot assure investors that we will be able to timely and effectively meet that demand and maintain the quality standards required by our existing and potential customers.

 

RISKS RELATED TO OUR INDUSTRY

 

Demand for our products may be adversely affected by many factors, including changes in consumer preferences and trends.

 

Consumer preferences may shift due to a variety of factors including changes in demographic and social trends, public health initiatives, product innovations, changes in vacation or leisure, dining and beverage consumption patterns and a downturn in economic conditions, which may reduce consumers’ willingness to purchase distilled spirits or cause a shift in consumer preferences toward beer, wine or non-alcoholic beverages. Our success depends in part on fulfilling available opportunities to meet consumer needs and anticipating changes in consumer preferences with successful new products and product innovations.

 

  14
 

 

A limited or general decline in consumption in one or more of our product categories could occur in the future due to a variety of factors, including:

 

● a general decline in economic or geopolitical conditions;

 

concern about the health consequences of consuming beverage alcohol products and about drinking and driving;

 

● a general decline in the consumption of beverage alcohol products in on-premise establishments, such as may result from smoking bans and stricter laws relating to driving while under the influence of alcohol;

 

● consumer dietary preferences favoring lighter, lower calorie beverages such as diet soft drinks, sports drinks and water products;

 

● increased federal, state, provincial and foreign excise or other taxes on beverage alcohol products and possible restrictions on beverage alcohol advertising and marketing;

 

● increased regulation placing restrictions on the purchase or consumption of beverage alcohol products or increasing prices due to the imposition of duties or excise tax;

 

● inflation; and

 

● wars, pandemics, weather and natural or man-made disasters.

 

In addition, our continued success depends, in part, on our ability to develop new products to meet consumer needs and anticipate changes in consumer preferences. The launch and ongoing success of new products are inherently uncertain especially with regard to their appeal to consumers. The launch of a new product can give rise to a variety of costs and an unsuccessful launch, among other things, can affect consumer perception of existing brands and our reputation. Unsuccessful implementation or short-lived popularity of our product innovations may result in inventory write-offs and other costs.

 

We face substantial competition in our industry and many factors may prevent us from competing successfully.

 

We compete on the basis of product taste and quality, brand image, price, service and ability to innovate in response to consumer preferences. The global spirits industry is highly competitive and is dominated by several large, well-funded international companies. Many of our current and potential competitors have longer operating histories and have substantially greater financial, sales, marketing and other resources than we do, as well as larger installed customer bases, greater name recognition and broader product offerings. Some of these competitors can devote greater resources to the development, promotion, sale and support of their products. As a result, it is possible that our competitors may either respond to industry conditions or consumer trends more rapidly or effectively or resort to price competition to sustain market share, which could adversely affect our sales and profitability.

 

In addition, the legalization of marijuana in any of the jurisdictions in which we sell our products may result in a reduction in sales. Studies have shown that sales of alcohol may decrease modestly in jurisdictions where marijuana has been legalized (Colorado, Washington and Oregon). As a result, marijuana sales may adversely affect our sales and profitability.

 

Adverse public opinion about alcohol could reduce demand for our products.

 

Anti-alcohol groups have, in the past, advocated successfully for more stringent labeling requirements, higher taxes and other regulations designed to discourage alcohol consumption. In addition, recent developments in the industry may compel us to identify the source and location of our distillate products, and notify the consumer of whether the product was distilled by us. More restrictive regulations, negative publicity regarding alcohol consumption and/or changes in consumer perceptions of the relative healthfulness or safety of beverage alcohol could decrease sales and consumption of alcohol and thus the demand for our products. This could, in turn, significantly decrease both our revenues and our revenue growth, causing a decline in our results of operations.

 

  15
 

 

Class action or other litigation relating to alcohol abuse or the misuse of alcohol could adversely affect our business.

 

Our industry faces the possibility of class action or similar litigation alleging that the continued excessive use or abuse of beverage alcohol has caused death or serious health problems, or related to the labelling of our products. It is also possible that governments could assert that the use of alcohol has significantly increased government funded health care costs. Litigation or assertions of this type have adversely affected companies in the tobacco industry, and it is possible that we, as well as our suppliers, could be named in litigation of this type.

 

Also, lawsuits have been brought in a number of states alleging that beverage alcohol manufacturers and marketers have improperly targeted underage consumers in their advertising. Plaintiffs in these cases allege that the defendants’ advertisements, marketing and promotions violate the consumer protection or deceptive trade practices statutes in each of these states and seek repayment of the family funds expended by the underage consumers. While we have not been named in these lawsuits, we could be named in similar lawsuits in the future. Any class action or other litigation asserted against us could be expensive and time-consuming to defend against, depleting our cash and diverting our personnel resources and, if the plaintiffs in such actions were to prevail, our business could be harmed significantly.

 

Regulatory decisions and legal, regulatory and tax changes could limit our business activities, increase our operating costs and reduce our margins.

 

Our business is subject to extensive government regulation. This may include regulations regarding production, distribution, marketing, advertising and labeling of beverage alcohol products. We are required to comply with these regulations and to maintain various permits and licenses. We are also required to conduct business only with holders of licenses to import, warehouse, transport, distribute and sell beverage alcohol products. We cannot assure you that these and other governmental regulations applicable to our industry will not change or become more stringent. Moreover, because these laws and regulations are subject to interpretation, we may not be able to predict when and to what extent liability may arise. Additionally, due to increasing public concern over alcohol-related societal problems, including driving while intoxicated, underage drinking, alcoholism and health consequences from the abuse of alcohol, various levels of government may seek to impose additional restrictions or limits on advertising or other marketing activities promoting beverage alcohol products. Failure to comply with any of the current or future regulations and requirements relating to our industry and products could result in monetary penalties, suspension or even revocation of our licenses and permits. Costs of compliance with changes in regulations could be significant and could harm our business, as we could find it necessary to raise our prices in order to maintain profit margins, which could lower the demand for our products and reduce our sales and profit potential.

 

Also, the distribution of beverage alcohol products is subject to extensive taxation (at both the federal and state government levels), and beverage alcohol products themselves are the subject of national import and excise duties in most countries around the world. An increase in taxation or in import or excise duties could also significantly harm our sales revenue and margins, both through the reduction of overall consumption and by encouraging consumers to switch to lower-taxed categories of beverage alcohol.

 

We could face product liability or other related liabilities that increase our costs of operations and harm our reputation.

 

Although we maintain liability insurance and will attempt to limit contractually our liability for damages arising from our products, these measures may not be sufficient for us to successfully avoid or limit liability. Our product liability insurance coverage is limited to $1 million per occurrence and $4 million in the aggregate and our general liability umbrella policy is capped at $2 million. Further, any contractual indemnification and insurance coverage we have from parties supplying our products is limited, as a practical matter, to the creditworthiness of the indemnifying party and the insured limits of any insurance provided by these suppliers. In any event, extensive product liability claims could be costly to defend and/or costly to resolve and could harm our reputation.

 

  16
 

 

Contamination of our products and/or counterfeit or confusingly similar products could harm the image and integrity of, or decrease customer support for, our brands and decrease our sales.

 

The success of our brands depends upon the positive image that consumers have of them. Contamination, whether arising accidentally or through deliberate third-party action, or other events that harm the integrity or consumer support for our brands, could affect the demand for our products. Contaminants in raw materials purchased from third parties and used in the production of our products or defects in the distillation and fermentation processes could lead to low beverage quality as well as illness among, or injury to, consumers of our products and could result in reduced sales of the affected brand or all of our brands. Also, to the extent that third parties sell products that are either counterfeit versions of our brands or brands that look like our brands, consumers of our brands could confuse our products with products that they consider inferior. This could cause them to refrain from purchasing our brands in the future and in turn could impair our brand equity and adversely affect our sales and operations.

 

RISKS RELATED TO THIS OFFERING AND OUR SECURITIES

 

We are an “emerging growth company” and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common stock less attractive to investors.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the Jumpstart our Business Startups Act of 2012, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies, including, but not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements, and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. Investors may find our common stock less attractive because we rely on these exemptions; which may result in a less active trading market for our common stock, making the market prices more volatile.

 

Our common stock is thinly traded, and investors may be unable to sell some or all of their shares at the price they would like, or at all, and sales of large blocks of shares may depress the price of our common stock.

 

Our common stock has historically been sporadically or “thinly-traded,” meaning that the number of persons interested in purchasing shares of our common stock at prevailing prices at any given time may be relatively small or nonexistent. As a consequence, there may be periods of several days or more when trading activity in shares of our common stock is minimal or non-existent, as compared to a seasoned issuer that has a large and steady volume of trading activity that will generally support continuous sales without an adverse effect on share price. This could lead to wide fluctuations in our share price. Investors may be unable to sell their common stock at or above their purchase price, which may result in substantial losses. Also, as a consequence of this lack of liquidity, the trading of relatively small quantities of shares by our stockholders may disproportionately influence the price of shares of our common stock in either direction. The price of shares of our common stock could, for example, decline precipitously in the event a large number of share of our common shares are sold on the market without commensurate demand, as compared to a seasoned issuer that could better absorb those sales without adverse impact on its share price.

 

If the selling stockholders sell a large number of shares all at once or in blocks, the market price of our shares would most likely decline.

 

The selling stockholders are offering up to 2,462,436 shares of our common stock through this prospectus. Should the selling stockholders decide to sell our shares at a price below the current market price at which they are quoted, such sales will cause that market price to decline. Moreover, we believe that the offer or sale of a large number of shares at any price may cause the market price to fall. A steep decline in the price of our common stock would adversely affect our ability to raise additional equity capital, and even if we were successful in raising such capital, the terms of such raise may be substantially dilutive to current stockholders.

 

  17
 

 

None of the proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock by the selling stockholders in this offering will be available to fund our operations or to pay dividends.

 

We will not receive any proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock by the selling stockholders in this offering. The selling stockholders will receive all proceeds from the sale of such shares. Consequently, none of the proceeds from such sale will be available to fund our operations, capital expenditures or acquisition opportunities or to pay dividends. See “Use of Proceeds” beginning on page 21.

 

Our failure to meet the continued listing requirements of the NASDAQ Capital Market could result in a delisting of our common stock.

 

As of August 10, 2017, our shares of common stock began trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market. If we fail to satisfy the continued listing requirements of the NASDAQ Capital Market, such as the corporate governance requirements or the minimum closing bid price requirement, NASDAQ may take steps to delist our common stock. Such a delisting would likely have a negative effect on the price of our common stock, and would impair your ability to sell or purchase our common stock when you wish to do so. In the event of a delisting, we would take actions to restore our compliance with NASDAQ’s listing requirements, but we can provide no assurance that any such action taken by us would allow our common stock to become listed again, stabilize the market price or improve the liquidity of our common stock, prevent our common stock from dropping below the NASDAQ minimum bid price requirement or prevent future non-compliance with NASDAQ’s listing requirements.

 

While our publicly traded warrants are outstanding, it may be more difficult to raise additional equity capital.

 

As described below under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Recent Developments,” we currently have outstanding publicly traded warrants to purchase 1,380,000 shares of common stock (the “Public Warrants”). During the term that our Public Warrants are outstanding, the holders of such Public Warrants will be given the opportunity to profit from a rise in the market price of our common stock. We may find it more difficult to raise additional equity capital while the Public Warrants are outstanding.

 

Our common stock is considered to be a “penny stock” and, as such, the market for our common stock may be further limited by certain SEC rules applicable to penny stocks.

 

As long as the price of our common stock remains below $5 per share or we have net tangible assets of $2,000,000 or less, our shares of common stock are likely to be subject to certain “penny stock” rules promulgated by the SEC. Those rules impose certain sales practice requirements on brokers who sell penny stock to persons other than established customers and accredited investors (generally institutions with assets in excess of $5,000,000 or individuals with net worth in excess of $1,000,000). For transactions covered by the penny stock rules, the broker must make a special suitability determination for the purchaser and receive the purchaser’s written consent to the transaction prior to the sale. Furthermore, the penny stock rules generally require, among other things, that brokers engaged in secondary trading of penny stocks provide customers with written disclosure documents, monthly statements of the market value of penny stocks, disclosure of the bid and asked prices and disclosure of the compensation to the brokerage firm and disclosure of the sales person working for the brokerage firm. These rules and regulations make it more difficult for brokers to sell our shares of our common stock and limit the liquidity of our securities.

 

A decline in the price of our common stock could affect our ability to raise working capital and adversely impact our ability to continue operations.

 

A prolonged decline in the price of our common stock could result in a reduction in the liquidity of our common stock and a reduction in our ability to raise capital. A decline in the price of our common stock could be especially detrimental to our liquidity and our operations. Such reductions may force us to reallocate funds from other planned uses and may have a significant negative effect on our business plans and operations, including our ability to develop new services and continue our current operations. If our common stock price declines, we can offer no assurance that we will be able to raise additional capital or generate funds from operations sufficient to meet our obligations. If we are unable to raise sufficient capital in the future, we may not be able to have the resources to continue our normal operations.

 

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We do not expect to pay dividends for the foreseeable future.

 

For the foreseeable future, it is anticipated that earnings, if any, that may be generated from our operations will be used to finance our operations and that cash dividends will not be paid to holders of common stock.

 

Our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer owns a significant number of shares of our outstanding common stock, and as long as he does, he may be able to control the outcome of stockholder voting.

 

Grover Wickersham, our chairman and chief executive officer, is the beneficial owner of approximately 13% of the outstanding shares of our common stock as of September 20, 2017. Accordingly, he may be able to control us and direct our affairs and business, including any determination with respect to a change in control, future issuances of common stock or other securities, declaration of dividends on the common stock and the election of directors.

 

We have the ability to issue additional shares of our common stock and shares of preferred stock without asking for stockholder approval, which could cause your investment to be diluted.

 

Our Articles of Incorporation authorizes the Board of Directors to issue up to 15,000,000 shares of common stock and up to 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock. The power of the Board of Directors to issue shares of common stock, preferred stock or warrants or options to purchase shares of common stock or preferred stock is generally not subject to stockholder approval. Accordingly, any additional issuance of our common stock, or preferred stock that may be convertible into common stock, may have the effect of diluting your investment, and the new securities may have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of our common stock.

 

By issuing preferred stock, we may be able to delay, defer, or prevent a change of control.

 

Our Articles of Incorporation permits us to issue, without approval from our stockholders, a total of 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock. Our Board of Directors may determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions granted to, or imposed upon, the shares of preferred stock and to fix the number of shares constituting any series and the designation of such series. It is possible that our Board of Directors, in determining the rights, preferences and privileges to be granted when the preferred stock is issued, may include provisions that have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control, discouraging bids for our common stock at a premium over the market price, or that adversely affect the market price of and the voting and other rights of the holders of our common stock.

 

We face risks related to compliance with corporate governance laws and financial reporting standard.

 

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as well as related rules and regulations implemented by the SEC and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, require changes in the corporate governance practices and financial reporting standards for public companies. These laws, rules and regulations, including compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 relating to internal control over financial reporting (“Section 404”), will materially increase the Company’s legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more time-consuming, burdensome and expensive. Although we currently believe our internal control over financial reporting is effective, the effectiveness of our internal controls in future periods is subject to the risk that our controls may become inadequate or may not operate effectively. Any failure to comply with the requirements of Section 404, our ability to remediate any material weaknesses that we may identify during our compliance program, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm our operating results, cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations or result in material misstatements in our financial statements. Any such failure could also adversely affect the results of the periodic management evaluations of our internal controls and, in the case of a failure to remediate any material weaknesses that we may identify, would adversely affect the annual auditor attestation reports regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting that are required under Section 404. Inadequate internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock and we could be subject to regulatory sanctions or investigations by the SEC or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources.

 

Substantial sales of our stock may impact the market price of our common stock.

 

Future sales of substantial amounts of our common stock, including shares that we may issue upon exercise of options and warrants, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock. Further, if we raise additional funds through the issuance of common stock or securities convertible into or exercisable for common stock, the percentage ownership of our stockholders will be reduced and the price of our common stock may fall.

 

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SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This prospectus contains forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are contained principally in the sections entitled “Summary,” “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Business.” These statements relate to future events or to our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about:

 

  Estimates of our expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing;
     
  Our financial performance;
     
  Developments and projections relating to our competitors and our industry; and
     
  Our ability to develop, market and sell our products at commercially reasonable values.

 

These statements are only current predictions and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements. We discuss many of these risks in this prospectus in greater detail under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this prospectus. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. New risk factors and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all risks and uncertainties.

 

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Except as required by law, after the date of this prospectus, we are under no duty to update or revise any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

We obtained the industry, market and competitive position data in this prospectus from our own internal estimates and research as well as from industry and general publications and research surveys and studies conducted by third parties. While we believe that each of these studies and publications is reliable, we have not independently verified market and industry data from third-party sources. While we believe our internal company research is reliable and the market definitions we use are appropriate, neither such research nor these definitions have been verified by any independent source.

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS

 

The selling stockholders will receive all of the proceeds from the sale of shares of common stock under this prospectus. We will not receive any proceeds from these sales. However, we may receive proceeds from the cash exercise of the Selling Stockholder Warrants, which, if exercised for cash with respect to all 1,123,516 shares, would result in gross proceeds to us of approximately $7,993,736 . We intend to use any net proceeds from any exercise of the Selling Stockholder Warrants for operating costs, working capital, and general corporate purposes. The amount and timing of our actual use of proceeds may vary significantly depending upon numerous factors, including the actual amount of proceeds we receive and the timing of when we receive such proceeds. There is no guarantee that the Selling Stockholder Warrants will be exercised in full or at all. The selling stockholders will pay any underwriting discounts and agent’s commissions and expenses they incur for brokerage, accounting, tax or legal services or any other expenses they incur in disposing of the shares. We will bear all other costs, fees and expenses incurred in effecting the registration of the shares covered by this prospectus.

 

DIVIDEND POLICY

 

We have never declared or paid any cash dividends on our capital stock. We currently intend to retain all available funds and any future earnings to support our operations and finance the growth and development of our business. We do not intend to pay cash dividends on our common stock for the foreseeable future. Any future determination related to our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon, among other factors, our results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, business prospects and other factors our board of directors may deem relevant.

 

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MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

Market and Other Information

 

Until August 10, 2017, our common stock was traded on the OTC Markets (QB Marketplace Tier) under the symbol “ESDI.” On August 10, 2017, our common stock became listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “ESDI.”

 

Very limited trading of our common stock has occurred during the past two years; therefore, only limited historical price information is available. The table below sets forth the high and low closing bid prices of our common stock for the last two fiscal years and through September 20, 2017, as reported by OTC Markets Group Inc. and the NASDAQ Capital Market, as applicable, and represents inter-dealer quotations, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not be reflective of actual transactions. We effected a 1-for-20 reverse stock split on October 18, 2016 and a 1-for-3 reverse stock split on June 15, 2017. All quotations noted in the table prior to those dates have been adjusted to reflect the impact of the reverse stock splits.

 

We consider our stock to be “thinly traded” and any reported sale prices may not be a true market-based valuation of our stock. Some of the bid quotations from the OTC Bulletin Board set forth below may reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down, or commission, and may not represent actual transactions.

 

    High     Low  
             
Year Ending December 31, 2017                
First Quarter   $ 7.50     $ 4.35  
Second Quarter     6.75       4.00  
Third Quarter on OTC Markets (through August 9, 2017)     6.77       5.01  
Third Quarter on NASDAQ (through September 20, 2017)     4.10       3.40  
                 
Year Ended December 31, 2016                
First Quarter   $ 18.00     $ 8.97  
Second Quarter     9.84       2.79  
Third Quarter     6.30       4.80  
Fourth Quarter     7.35       4.50  
                 
Year Ended December 31, 2015                
First Quarter   $ 126.00     $ 105.00  
Second Quarter     124.20       92.40  
Third Quarter     133.80       17.94  
Fourth Quarter     29.40       9.60  

 

Our shares of common stock and Public Warrants are issued in registered form. The registrar and transfer agent for our shares of common stock and the warrant agent for our Public Warrants is Pacific Stock Transfer Company, 6725 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119; telephone: (702) 361-3033; facsimile: (800) 785-7782).

 

As of September 20, 2017, there were 4,824,399 shares of our common stock outstanding, which were held by approximately 134 record stockholders. On September 20, 2017, the last reported sale price of our common stock on the NASDAQ Capital Market was $3.70 per share. The number of record holders was determined from the records of our transfer agent and does not include beneficial owners of shares of common stock whose shares are held in the names of various security brokers, dealers and registered clearing agencies.

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with the section entitled “Selected Consolidated Financial Data” and our financial statements and related notes appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this prospectus, including information with respect to our plans and strategy for our business and related financing, includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. As a result of many factors, including those factors set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of this prospectus, our actual results could differ materially from the results described in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements contained in the following discussion and analysis.

 

Corporate Overview

 

We are an Oregon-based producer and marketer of craft spirits, founded in 2008. Our products span several alcoholic beverage categories, including bourbon, American whiskey, vodka and rum. Unlike many, if not most, distillers, we operate several retail tasting rooms in Oregon to market our brands directly to consumers. Our growth strategy is to build on our local base in the Pacific Northwest and expand selectively to other markets by using major spirits distributors, such as Southern Glazer Wines and Spirits, or regional distributors that focus on craft brands. As a small company in the large, international spirits marketplace filled with massive conglomerates, we are innovative in exploiting new trends with our products, for example, our coffee rum with cold-brew coffee and low sugar, and our gluten-free potato vodka. In December 2016 we retained Sandstrom Partners (an internationally known spirit branding firm that branded St Germain and Bulleit Bourbon) to guide our marketing strategy and branding. Sandstrom Partners subsequently became an investor in us. We seek to be a leader in creating spirits that offer better value than comparable spirits, for example our value priced Burnside Bourbon and Portland Potato Vodka, and an innovator in creating imaginative spirits that offer a unique taste experience, for example our coffee rum, Oregon oak aged whiskeys, Marionberry Whiskey and Peppermint Bark holiday liqueur. In May 2017, we acquired Big Bottom Distillery (“BBD”) for its excellent, award winning range of super premium gins and whiskeys, including Navy Proof Gin, Oregon Gin, Delta Rye and initial production of American Single Malt whiskey. BBD’s super premium spirits will expand our tasting room offerings and give us a presence at the “high end” of the market. In addition, through MotherLode, our wholly-owned subsidiary acquired in March 2017, we also provide contract bottling and packaging services for existing and would be spirits producers, some of whom contract with us to blend or distill spirits. As a publicly-traded craft spirit producers, we have access to the public capital markets to support our long-term growth initiatives, including strategic acquisitions.

 

We were incorporated in Nevada in February 2004 under the name Eurocan Holdings, Ltd. Until October 2014, Eurocan Holdings operated solely as an online marketing and media solutions firm specializing in digital interactive media, which business was conducted through Eurocan’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Michael Williams Web Design Inc. (“MWW”).

 

Our sales during the first quarter of 2017 increased 33% over the prior year, primarily due to three factors: 1) increased wholesale sales traction within the Pacific Northwest; 2) the acquisition of MotherLode and the expansion of our private label business; and 3) the addition of a new retail location in February 2017. The Oregon market continues to experience strong year-over-year growth. During the first quarter of 2017, Oregon represented approximately 79% of sales, compared to 2016 where Oregon represented approximately 58% of sales. National distribution sales were flat quarter-over-quarter, but we anticipate making strong sales progress in new markets and for such markets to represent a larger percentage of our overall sales.

 

We have also invested heavily in our infrastructure (facilities, people, and marketing programs) in order to support our planned expansion and believe we are well positioned to experience further improved performance throughout the balance of 2017.

 

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Components of our Statements of Operations

 

Sales, Excise Taxes and Cost of Sales

 

Our sales consist primarily of sales of our 14 branded products to wine and spirits wholesale distributors. We also sell directly to consumers at our retail locations and kiosks, all of which are currently located in the Portland, Oregon area, in our tasting rooms, at our facilities, and through online sales. In addition, we periodically hold special events, such as tastings and private functions, where we may also sell merchandise and bottle sales directly to consumers. Sales to distributors will continue to account for a majority of our sales for the foreseeable future.

 

We are required to pay excise taxes imposed by the United States Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (the “TTB”) as well as excise taxes of the individual states into which we sell our products, the amount of which varies from state to state. Net sales is calculated by reducing total sales by excise taxes, and customer programs and incentives expenses.

 

Cost of sales consists of the costs of ingredients used in the production of spirits, manufacturing labor and overhead, warehousing rent, packaging and in-bound freight charges.

 

Expenses

 

Advertising, promotion and selling expenses

 

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in advertising, promotional and selling expenses in the accompanying statements of operations. Customer programs and incentives, which include customer promotional discount programs, customer incentives and other payments, are a common practice in the alcohol beverage industry. We make these payments to customers and incur these costs to promote sales of products and to maintain competitive pricing. Amounts paid in connection with customer programs and incentives are recorded as reductions to net sales or as advertising, promotional and selling expenses in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 605-50, Revenue Recognition- Customer Payments and Incentives , based on the nature of the expenditure.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses consist primarily of salaries and related costs, including stock-based compensation, for personnel in executive, finance and administrative functions. General and administrative expenses also include direct and allocated facility-related costs as well as professional fees for legal, consulting, accounting, and audit services. We expect that our general and administrative expenses will increase in future periods as we continue our efforts to expand our operations.

 

Other Expense

 

Other expense varies from period to period and can include such items as amortization of a beneficial conversion feature on convertible notes payable, amortization of debt issuance costs and interest expense.

 

Results of Operations

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Compared to the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016

 

Our sales for the six months ended June 30, 2017 increased to $1,713,191, or approximately 37%, from $1,249,346 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The following table compares our sales in the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016:

 

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    Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2017           2016        
Wholesale   $ 928,756       54 %   $ 814,584       65 %
Private Label     191,683       11 %     -       -  
Retail / Special Events     592,752       35 %     434,762       35 %
Total   $ 1,713,191       100 %   $ 1,249,346       100 %

 

The increase in sales in the six months ended June 30, 2017 is primarily attributable to three factors: increased wholesale sales traction within the Pacific Northwest; the acquisitions of MotherLode and BBD, and the related expansion of our private label business; and the addition of three retail locations.

 

Excise taxes, customer programs and incentives for the six months ended June 30, 2017 increased to $495,680, or approximately 65%, from $300,802 for the comparable 2016 period. The increase is attributable to the increase in liquor sales due to our increased distribution and sales traction during the period.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, cost of sales increased to $717,538, or approximately 37%, from $524,385 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase is primarily attributable to the costs associated with our increased liquor sales in the period as well as certain one-time adjustments related to the recent acquisitions. We believe the cost of sales we reported in both 2017 and 2016 are not typical of our expected future results because the product costs in both periods are based on smaller production lots, and do not reflect the economies of scale that we expect to achieve as we continue to scale our operations.

 

Gross profit is calculated by subtracting the cost of products sold from net sales. Cost of sales consists of the costs of ingredients utilized in the production of spirits, manufacturing labor and overhead, warehousing rent, packaging, and in-bound freight charges. Ingredients account for the largest portion of the cost of sales, followed by packaging and production costs. Gross margin is gross profits stated as a percentage of net sales.

 

The following table compares our gross profit and gross margin in the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016:

 

    Six Months Ended June 30,  
    2017     2016  
             
Gross profit   $ 499,973     $ 424,159  
Gross margin     41 %     45 %

 

Our gross margin of 41% of net sales in the six months ended June 30, 2017 decreased from our gross margin of 45% for the six months ended June 30, 2016 primarily due to higher taxes on our retail and special events sales; low introductory pricing on the new 1.75 Liter Portland Potato Vodka and the temporary price reduction on the 750mL Portland Potato Vodka to support the more aggressive marketing effort of this brand; and purchase accounting for the BBD acquisition resulted in a (one-time) stepped-up inventory value at the acquisition date and thus a higher cost of goods sold as that inventory was sold.

 

Advertising, promotional and selling expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2017 increased to $935,997, or approximately 62%, from $578,235 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. This increase is primarily due to our efforts to expand our product sales both regionally in the Pacific Northwest as well as target national markets.

 

General and administrative expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2017 decreased to $1,574,868, or approximately 11%, from $1,767,079 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. This decrease is primarily due to decreased management headcount and tighter expense controls, offset by $372,534 higher stock-based compensation expense in 2017.

 

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In the six months ended June 30, 2107, we had a $40,975 loss on disposal of property and equipment, primarily related to the write-off of construction-in-process on our MLK facility due to the early lease termination agreement we were able to execute in February 2017, and the write-off of leasehold improvements on our MotherLode facility as it is being renovated to accommodate new and expanded production capabilities.

 

Total other expense, net was $139,077 for the six months ended June 30, 2017, compared to $403,024 for the six months ended June 30, 2016, a decrease of 66%. This decrease was primarily due to lower interest expense that started with the conversion of outstanding debt with beneficial conversion features and debt issuance costs into common stock in December 2016 and continued into 2017.

 

Net loss attributable to common shareholders during the six months ended June 30, 2017 was $2,194,506 as compared to a loss of $2,341,938 for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The reduction in our net loss was primarily attributable to our decreased general and administrative expenses and interest expense during 2017, which amounts were offset by higher advertising, promotional and selling expenses and a lower gross margin.

 

Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2015

 

Our sales for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased to $3,042,527, or approximately 31%, from $2,326,664 for the year ended December 31, 2015, as follows:

 

    2016     % Sales     2015     % Sales  
Wholesale   $ 1,858,472       61 %   $ 982,469       42 %
Retail / Special Events     1,184,055       39 %     1,344,195       58 %
Total   $ 3,042,527       100 %   $ 2,326,664       100 %

 

The increase in sales in the year ended 2016 is primarily attributable to our increased national distribution, as well as further wholesale sales traction within the Pacific Northwest. Retail/special events sales declined during the year primarily due to the fact that one of our three stores was closed during part of the year (March through November 2016).

 

Excise taxes, customer programs, and incentives for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased to $934,221, or approximately 50%, from $624,046 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase is attributable to the increase in liquor sales, due to our increased distribution and sales traction during the year. In addition, customer programs and incentives increased due to our increased national distribution.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016, cost of sales increased to $1,280,344, or approximately 47%, from $870,390 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The increase is primarily attributable to the costs associated with our increased liquor sales in the year. We believe that the cost of sales we reported for both 2016 and 2015, however, are not typical of our expected future results, because the product costs in both years are based on smaller production lots, and do not reflect the economies of scale that we anticipate as we move into our new production facility in mid-2017 and continue to scale our operations.

 

Gross profit is calculated by subtracting the cost of sales from net sales. Cost of sales consists of the costs of ingredients utilized in the production of spirits, manufacturing labor and overhead, warehousing rent, packaging, and in-bound freight charges. Ingredients account for the largest portion of the cost of sales, followed by packaging and production costs. Gross margin is gross profits stated as a percentage of net sales.

 

The following table compares our gross profit and gross margin in the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015:

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
    2016     2015  
             
Gross profit   $ 827,962     $ 832,228  
Gross margin     39 %     49 %

 

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Our gross margin of 39% of net sales in the year ended December 31, 2016 declined from our gross margin of 49% for the year ended December 31, 2015, primarily due to higher customer programs and incentives from the national product expansion, higher raw material costs experienced during the year and to a lesser extent product mix.

 

Advertising, promotional and selling expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased to $1,244,152, or approximately 35%, from $923,310 for the year ended December 31, 2015. This increase is primarily due to our efforts to expand our product sales nationally. Advertising expense was approximately $297,000 and $389,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Amounts paid to customers in connection with customer programs and incentives totaled $136,786 and $3,184 in 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased to $3,881,771, or approximately 13%, from $3,450,436 for the year ended December 31, 2015. This increase is primarily due to increased legal, accounting, and professional costs related to our various financing efforts in 2016, and higher stock-based compensation expense in 2016.

 

Other expense was $901,658 for the year ended December 31, 2016, compared to $59,548 for the year ended December 31, 2015, an increase of 1414%. This increase was primarily due to an increase in interest expense and amortization of debt discounts of $512,479 pertaining to our 2016 debt financings.

 

Net loss available to common stockholders during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $5,251,293 as compared to a loss of $3,601,066 for the year ended December 31, 2015. Our net loss was primarily attributable to our increased selling, general and administrative expenses relating to increased national sales distribution expenses, as well as increased legal, accounting and professional costs during 2016.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our primary capital requirements are for the financing of inventories, and cash used in operating activities. Funds for our cash and liquidity needs have historically not been generated from operations but rather from short-term credit in the form of extended payment terms from suppliers as well as from convertible debt and equity financings.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred a net loss of approximately $2.2 and $2.3 million, respectively, and have an accumulated deficit of approximately $15.0 million as of June 30, 2017. We have been dependent on raising capital from debt and equity financings to meet our needs for cash flow used in operating activities. For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we raised approximately $3.1 million from financing activities to meet cash flows used in operating activities.

 

At June 30, 2017, we had approximately $1.3 million of cash on hand with a positive working capital of $2.9 million. Our ability to meet our ongoing operating cash needs is dependent on generating positive operating cash flow, primarily through increased sales, improved profit growth and controlling expenses. Management has taken actions to improve profitability, reduce headcount, reduce rent and increase sales. In addition, through August 14, 2017, we have raised an additional $5.4 million in cash gross proceeds through equity offerings (see “Recent Developments” below). Management believes that cash on hand and proceeds generated from the most recent equity financing, along with revenue that the Company expects to generate as a result of its two recent acquisitions will be sufficient to meet our cash needs for the foreseeable future.

 

The Company’s cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

    2017     2016  
Net cash flows provided by (used in):                
Operating activities   $ (2,751,955 )   $ (1,559,774 )
Investing activities     (147,991 )     (7,052 )
Financing activities     3,109,125       2,439,105  

 

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Operating Activities

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, the net loss plus non-cash adjustments used was approximately $1.3 million compared to using $1.7 million in 2016. The decrease in cash usage can be primarily attributed to the smaller net loss incurred in 2017 as compared to 2016, and non-cash adjustments in the aggregate were about $285,000 lower in 2017. In addition, there was an increase of $0.5 million in inventory and a $0.6 million reduction in accrued liabilities in 2017. In 2016, there was a $0.1 million increase in inventory, a $0.1 million increase in trade receivables, a $0.1 million decrease in prepaid expenses and $0.3 million net increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

 

Investing Activities

 

Cash used in investing activities consists primarily of purchases of property and equipment. Capital expenditures of $152,532 and $7,052 were incurred in the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 respectively.

 

Financing Activities

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, our operating losses and working capital needs were funded by $1.6 million in proceeds from the sale of common stock, warrant exercises of $0.2 million, and $1.4 million in proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes. Net cash flows provided by financing activities during the six months ended June 30, 2016 primarily consisted of $2.0 million in proceeds from the sale of common stock and $0.5 million in proceeds from issuing preferred stock.

 

Recent Developments

 

Underwritten Unit Offering and NASDAQ Uplisting

 

On August 10, 2017, we entered into an underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with Roth Capital Partners, LLC, as representative, joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner (the “Representative”), and Aegis Capital Corp., as joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner, and with the other underwriters (the “Underwriters”) named therein, relating to a firm commitment underwritten public offering of 1,200,000 units (the “Units”), each Unit consisting of one share of our common stock and warrants to purchase one share of common stock (the “Public Warrants”). The public offering closed on August 15, 2017. The Units were sold at a price equal to $4.50 per Unit. Each Public Warrant is exercisable to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $5.40 per share (120% of the public offering price of the Units). The Public Warrants will be exercisable at any time from the date of issuance through August 10, 2022, unless earlier redeemed. Beginning 90 days after the date of the Underwriting Agreement, the Public Warrants will be redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to $0.15 per Public Warrant upon 30 days’ prior written notice, at any time after the date on which the closing price of the common stock has equaled or exceeded $7.65 per share (170% of the public offering price of the Units) for at least five consecutive trading days. We also granted the Underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 180,000 shares of common stock at a price of $4.49 per share, less the underwriting discounts and commissions, and 180,000 Public Warrants at a price of $0.01 per Public Warrant, to cover over-allotments, if any.

 

On August 24, 2017, we completed the closing of the exercise of the Underwriters’ over-allotment option to purchase an additional 180,000 shares of common stock (the “Over-allotment Shares”) at the offering price of $4.49 per share, resulting in additional gross proceeds to us of approximately $808,200. After giving effect to the exercise of the over-allotment option, we raised a total of $6,210,000 in gross proceeds, before deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other estimated offering expenses, through the issuance of a total of 1,380,000 shares of Common Stock and 1,380,000 Public Warrants in the public offering.

 

The offering was conducted pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333- 215848) and a related prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which became effective on August 9, 2017. Shares of our common stock and the Public Warrants began trading on August 10, 2017 under the symbols “ESDI” and “ESDIW,” respectively, on the NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

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Pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement, we paid the Underwriters a commission equal to 7.0% of the gross proceeds of the offering and issued to Roth Capital Partners a warrant (the “Underwriters’ Warrant”) to purchase an aggregate of 120,000 Units, with an exercise price of $5.40 per Unit, which is equal to 120% of the public offering price per Unit. The Underwriters’ Warrant will be exercisable at any time, and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the four-year period commencing on August 10, 2018.

 

The Underwriting Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and agreements by us, and customary conditions to closing, indemnification obligations of the Company and the Underwriters, including for liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, other obligations of the parties, and termination provisions.

 

In connection with the offering, we also entered into a warrant agent agreement (the “Warrant Agreement”) dated August 10, 2017 with Pacific Stock Transfer Company (“Pacific Stock”) for Pacific Stock to act as warrant agent for the Public Warrants.

 

Prior Common Stock Issuances

 

On several dates between March 31, 2017 and June 4, 2017, we issued an aggregate of 400,000 units at $3.90 per unit, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one three-year common stock purchase warrant exercisable at $7.50 per share (subject to adjustment), for total proceeds of $1,560,000 in cash. The financing closed in several phases: (1) on March 31, 2017, on which date we issued 192,308 shares of our common stock for $750,000 in cash proceeds and also issued warrants to purchase 192,308 shares of common stock, (2) on several dates between April 3, 2017 and May 4, 2017, during which period we issued 85,602 shares of our common stock for $333,815 in cash proceeds and also issued warrants to purchase 85,602 shares of common stock, and (3) on several dates between May 5, 2017 and June 4, 2017, during which period we issued 122,109 shares of our common stock for $476,185 in cash proceeds and also issued warrants to purchase 122,109 shares of common stock. These shares are subject to the Registration Rights Agreement described below in “Selling Stockholders.” The warrants issued in connection with the transactions described above are referred to herein as the “2017 Warrants.”

 

On several dates between April 21, 2017 and June 30, 2017, we issued an aggregate of $1,400,000 convertible promissory notes to accredited investors. The notes have a maturity date of three years from the date of issuance, and bear interest at the rate of five percent (5%) and six percent (6%) per annum. The notes have an automatic conversion feature upon the closing (or first in a series of closings) of the next equity financing in which we sell shares of our equity securities for an aggregate consideration of at least $4,000,000 at a purchase price of at least $7.50. The outstanding principal and unpaid accrued interest on the notes shall be automatically converted into equity securities at a price equal to 80% of the price paid per share by the investors in the next equity financing or $6.00, whichever is lower, provided, however, that in no event shall the conversion price be less than $6.00. The notes have a voluntary conversion feature where the investor may convert, in whole or in part, at any time at the conversion rate of $6.00.

 

In May 2017, we completed the acquisition of a majority stake in BBD. We issued 28,096 shares of common stock to the owners of BBD as consideration for 90% of the BBD LLC units. Based on the closing share price of our common stock of $4.80 on May 1, 2017, the value of the transaction was $134,858. with issuance costs of $14,400.

 

In March 2017, we issued 19,795 shares of common stock to four third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered.

 

In March 2017, we issued 575 shares of common stock to employees for stock-based compensation of $2,517.

 

On March 8, 2017, we completed the acquisition of MotherLode. We issued 86,667 shares of common stock to the owners of MotherLode as consideration for the acquisition. Based on the closing share price of our common stock of $4.35 on March 8, 2017, the value of the transaction was $377,000.

 

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In March 2017, we issued 22,436 shares of common stock upon conversion of 8% convertible promissory notes with an aggregate principal amount converted of $87,500.

 

In March 2017, we issued 83,334 shares of common stock upon conversion of 250 shares of preferred stock.

 

From January 15, 2017 through February 16, 2017, we received warrant exercises and common stock subscriptions for 40,834 shares for aggregate cash proceeds of $159,250.

 

From January 4, 2017 to January 22, 2017, we sold 15,000 shares of common stock to accredited investors at a price of $3.90 per share for aggregate cash proceeds of $58,500.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon its consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make significant estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. These items are monitored and analyzed by management for changes in facts and circumstances, and material changes in these estimates could occur in the future. The more judgmental estimates are summarized below. Changes in estimates are recorded in the period in which they become known. We base our estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from the Company’s estimates if past experience or other assumptions do not turn out to be substantially accurate.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Net sales includes product sales, less excise taxes, customer programs and incentives. we record revenue when all four of the following criteria are met: (i) there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery of the products and/or services has occurred; (iii) the selling price is fixed or determinable; and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured.

 

We recognize sales when merchandise is shipped from a warehouse directly to wholesale customers (except in the case of a consignment sale). For consignment sales, which include sales to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC), we recognize sales upon the consignee’s shipment to the customer. Postage and handling charges billed to customers are also recognized as sales upon shipment of the related merchandise. Shipping terms are generally FOB shipping point, and title passes to the customer at the time and place of shipment or purchase by customers at a retail location. For consignment sales, title passes to the consignee concurrent with the consignee’s shipment to the customer. The customer has no cancellation privileges after shipment or upon purchase at retail locations, other than customary rights of return. We exclude sales tax collected and remitted to various states from sales and cost of sales. Sales from items sold through our retail location are recognized at the time of sale.

 

Sales received from online merchants who sell discounted gift certificates for our merchandise and tastings is deferred until the customer has redeemed the discounted gift certificate or the gift certificate has expired, whichever occurs earlier.

 

Customer Programs and Incentives

 

Customer programs and incentives, which include customer promotional discount programs, customer incentives and other payments, are a common practice in the alcohol beverage industry. We make these payments to customers and incur these costs to promote sales of products and to maintain competitive pricing. Amounts paid in connection with customer programs and incentives are recorded as reductions to net revenue or as advertising, promotional and selling expenses in accordance with ASC Topic 605-50, Revenue Recognition- Customer Payments and Incentives , based on the nature of the expenditure. Amounts paid to customers totaled $79,837 and $19,241 for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2017, respectively.

 

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Shipping and Fulfillment Costs

 

Freight costs incurred related to shipment of merchandise from our distribution facilities to customers are recorded in cost of sales.

 

Concentrations

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of trade receivables. At June 30, 2017, four customers represented 83% of trade receivables, and at December 31, 2016, three customers represented 91% of trade receivables. Sales to two customers accounted for approximately 46% of consolidated net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2017. Sales to one customer, the OLCC, accounted for approximately 35% of net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2016.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories primarily consist of bulk and bottled liquor and merchandise and are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using an average costing methodology, which approximates cost under the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. A portion of inventory is held by the OLCC on consignment until it is sold to a third party. Eastside regularly monitors inventory quantities on hand and records write-downs for excess and obsolete inventories based primarily on the Company’s estimated forecast of product demand and production requirements. Such write-downs establish a new cost basis of accounting for the related inventory. We have recorded no write-downs of inventory for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.

 

Advertising

 

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was $935,997 and $578,235 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

Excise Taxes

 

The Company is responsible for compliance with Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulations, which includes making timely and accurate excise tax payments. The Company is subject to periodic compliance audits by the TTB. Individual states also impose excise taxes on alcohol beverages in varying amounts. The Company calculates its excise tax expense based upon units produced and on its understanding of the applicable excise tax laws. Excise taxes totaled $415,843 and $281,561 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company recognizes as compensation expense all stock-based awards issued to employees in accordance with the fair value recognition provisions of Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation . The compensation cost is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the related stock-based awards and is recognized over the service period of stock-based awards, which is generally the same as the vesting period. The fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model, which estimates the fair value of each award on the date of grant based on a variety of assumptions including expected stock price volatility, expected terms of the awards, risk-free interest rate, and dividend rates, if applicable. Stock-based awards issued to nonemployees are recorded at fair value on the measurement date and are subject to periodic market adjustments as the underlying stock-based awards vest. Stock-based compensation was $374,687 and $140,370 in 2016 and 2015, respectively, and $619,042 and $246,508 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We have no significant off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standard Boards (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-09, Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting ” (“ASU 2016-09”). ASU 2016-09, which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We have adopted ASU 2016-09 as of March 31, 2017.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (“ ASU 2016-02”) . Under the new guidance, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date:

 

  A lease liability, which is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and
     
  A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term.

 

Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Certain targeted improvements were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The new lease guidance simplified the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Lessees will no longer be provided with a source of off-balance sheet financing. Public business entities should apply the amendments in ASU 2016-02 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years (i.e., January 1, 2019, for a calendar year entity). Early application is permitted for all public business entities upon issuance. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ ASU 2014-09”) . ASU 2014-09 will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance. Under this update, an entity is required to recognize revenue upon transfer of promised goods or services to customers, in an amount that reflects the expected consideration received in exchange for those goods or services. As such, an entity will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under the current guidance. ASU 2014-09 is to be applied retrospectively either to each prior reporting period presented in the financial statements, or only to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. The Company will elect to apply the impact (if any) of applying ASU 2014-09 to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date . ASU 2015-14 defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year, making it effective for the year beginning December 31, 2017, with early adoption permitted as of January 1, 2017. The Company currently expects to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018. The Company does not expect adoption of ASU 2014-09 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

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In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (“ ASU 2014-15”) . The new guidance explicitly requires that management assess an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and may require additional detailed disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. We have adopted ASU 2014-15 as of December 31, 2016.

 

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330), Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (“ ASU 2015-11”) . ASU 2015-11 is part of the FASB’s initiative to simplify accounting standards. The guidance requires an entity to recognize inventory within scope of the standard at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonable predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. ASU 2015-11 will be effective prospectively for the year beginning January 1, 2017. We have adopted ASU 2015-11 as of March 31, 2017.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs, which requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. ASU 2015-03 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and early application is permitted. We have early adopted ASU 2015-03 as of

 

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BUSINESS

 

Overview

 

We are an Oregon-based producer and marketer of craft spirits, founded in 2008. Our products span several alcoholic beverage categories, including bourbon, gin, American whiskey, rye, vodka, and rum. Unlike many, if not most distillers, we operate several retail tasting rooms in Oregon to market our brands directly to consumers. Our growth strategy is to build on our local base in the Pacific Northwest and expand selectively to other markets by using major spirits distributors, such as Southern Glazer Wines and Spirits, or regional distributors that focus on craft brands.

 

As a small business in the large, international spirits marketplace populated with massive conglomerates, we rely heavily on creativity to create innovative products. In December 2016 we retained Sandstrom Partners, the internationally known sprits branding firm that branded St Germain and Bulleit Bourbon, to assist us in our mission, and it became an investor in our Company. We seek to be a leader in creating spirits that offer better value than comparable spirits, for example our value priced Burnside Bourbon and Portland Potato Vodka, and an innovator in creating imaginative spirits that offer a unique taste experience, for example our cold-brewed coffee rum, Oregon oak aged whiskeys, Marionberry Whiskey and Peppermint Bark holiday liqueur. On May 1, 2017, we acquired Big Bottom Distillery for its excellent, award winning range of super premium gins and whiskeys, including Navy Proof Gin, Oregon Gin, Delta Rye and initial production of American Single Malt whiskey. BBD’s super premium spirits will expand our tasting room offerings and give us a presence at the “high end” of the market. Also, through MotherLode, our wholly-owned subsidiary acquired on March 8, 2017, we also provide contract bottling and packaging services for existing and would be spirits producers, some of whom might also contract with us to blend or distill spirits.

 

We also intend to capitalize on our uniqueness as a publicly-traded craft spirit producer, with access to the public markets, to support our growth, including by making strategic acquisitions.

 

Recent Events

 

MotherLode Acquisition

 

On March 8, 2017, we acquired MotherLode LLC, a Portland, Oregon-based provider of bottling services and production support to craft distilleries. Since its founding in 2014, the mission of MotherLode has been to enable craft distillers to increase their production and extend their product lines, reducing cost and increasing efficiency, thereby freeing them to focus on their craft. The typical MotherLode customer is a distillery of small batch, hand-crafted spirits, or a premium craft spirit sold as a private label.

 

We recently relocated much of our own operations to MotherLode’s facility and plan to expand our manufacturing resources. Plans are in place for a pneumatic bottling line, which we anticipate could result in a five-time increase in bottling rate and provide us with an opportunity for large-volume spirit handling capability.

 

In addition to bottling services for distillers and other producers of spirits, MotherLode bottles “private label” craft spirits for customers who have on-premise or off-premise licenses, including retail and liquor stores, bars, restaurants, events, and businesses that want to take advantage of the benefits that come from having their brand clearly printed on a label. MotherLode’s craft spirits can also be private labeled for corporate gifts, wedding, birthdays and other personal events.

 

Finally, MotherLode intends to begin canning wine and Ready to Drink (“RTD”) alcoholic drinks for its Pacific Northwest customers. The custom built canning line is designed to produce Ball Corporation’s popular “slim can” in 187 ml, 200 ml and 250 ml sizes, with 250 ml being equal to approximately 8.45 ounces. The new line will be able to can wine and RTD beverages containing up to 20% alcohol by volume.

 

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Big Bottom Distilling Acquisition

 

On May 1, 2017 we acquired 90% of the ownership of Big Bottom Distilling (“BBD”), a Hillsboro, Oregon-based distiller and producer of super premium gins, whiskeys, brandies, rum, and vodka. The extensive BBD product portfolio includes several craft spirits that we believe are highly complementary to our product line, including The Ninety One Gin, Navy Strength Gin (114 proof), and Delta Rye (111 proof) rye whiskey, among others. Inspired by the craft spirits movement in Oregon, BBD’s small-batch, hand-crafted spirits provide consumers with unique takes on traditional spirits. The spirits portfolio created by Ted Pappas and lead distiller Travis Schoney, formerly of High West Distilling of Park City, Utah, has won awards for such specialty finished whiskeys as the Barlow Trail Port Cask Finished Whiskey. BBD craft spirits are primarily distributed in Oregon, California and Illinois. We intend to distribute BBD products using our own distribution base and sales team, on a selective basis, in the U.S. and Canada. We intend to collaborate with BBD on expanding the production of BBD’s super-premium American Single Malt Whiskey, made with malted Pacific Northwest barley, fermented and distilled entirely on premises ( i.e. , in bond).

 

Retention of Sandstrom Partners

 

In late 2016, with the goal of increasing our brand value and accelerating sales, we retained Sandstrom Partners, a Portland-based firm specializing in spirits branding, and tasked them with reviewing our current product portfolio, as well as our new ideas, and advising us on marketing, creation of brand awareness and product positioning, locally and nationally. We intend to use Sandstrom’s full range of brand development services, including research, strategy, brand identity, package design, environments, advertising as well as digital design and development. Sandstrom Partners is recognized as preeminent in spirits brand development and their work appears in most national and international design competitions. Some of Sandstrom Partners current and past spirit branding clients include St-Germain, Brown-Forman, Brown Forman/Chambord, Old Forester, Stillhouse Distilling, Aviation Gin, Diageo, Bulleit Bourbon, Miller Brewing, Pernod Ricard, Bacardi Oakheart. Sandstrom’s approach to spirits marketing typically involves telling a compelling story whose plot is transmitted in every consumer communication: from the name, to the package, point-of-sale, web, and advertising. We anticipate that Sandstrom will begin to impact our packaging design in the second half of 2017.

 

Market Opportunity

 

Large and Growing Global and Domestic Markets

 

The global spirits market generated total revenues of $316 billion in 2013, representing a compound average growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% between 2009 and 2013, according to MarketLine. The performance of the market is forecasted to accelerate with an anticipated CAGR of 4.2% for the five-year period 2013-2018, which is expected to increase revenues generated by this market to approximately $388 billion by the end of 2018.

 

The U.S. spirits market had total revenues of $24.1 billion in 2015, representing a 25% increase since 2010, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS). The domestic market share of spirits compared to beer and wine was at a record 35.4% in 2015 according to DISCUS, representing more than a 2% gain over beer and wine in terms of market share since 2010.

 

Key Growth Trends That We Target

 

Craft – The market share of “craft” distillers (defined as any producer that bottles less than 100,000 cases annually) has doubled over the last two years, and is projected to reach 8% by 2020, according to BNP Paribas.

 

Women – The United States Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”), Park Street Imports, LLC (“Park Street”) and the US Census Bureau estimate that 37% of all U.S. whiskey drinkers are women.

 

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Millennials – Generally, millennials (individuals born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s) value “authenticity” and are inspired by travel, like to try new products and seek new experiences, according to a survey by BeverageDaily.com. Millennials tend to drink a broader range of spirit types (vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey, gin) than prior generations and consume more expensive spirits than their predecessors. These individuals are often attracted to vintage spirits and cocktails with nostalgic followings, such as throwbacks to the 1950’s like rye whiskey, bourbon, and the Manhattan cocktail. According to Barclays Research, millennials increasingly prefer spirits over beer and wine, and flavored spirits in particular. In addition, according to DISCUS, millennials are more willing than prior generations to purchase premium spirits.

 

Flavored – According to DISCUS, flavored spirits sales continue to grow faster than the overall spirits market, and flavored whiskey, which is especially appealing to younger drinkers and women, is the fastest growing flavored spirit category.

 

International – The demand for U.S.-produced spirits abroad is increasing significantly. U.S. spirit exports nearly doubled over the past decade to $1.56 billion in 2015, and whiskey exports were up approximately 5.4% in 2015 compared to 2014. The largest export markets for U.S. spirits include the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, and Japan.

 

Our Strategy

 

Our objective is to build Eastside Distilling into a profitable spirits company, with a distinctive portfolio of premium and high-end spirits brands that have national, and even international, consumer appeal and following. To help achieve this, we expect to:

 

Target Industry Growth Trends . Demand for U.S.-produced premium and high-end craft spirits, particularly whiskeys, has been increasing among millennials and women. We endeavor to capitalize on these trends by developing products that appeal to changing demographics, as typified by our Master Distiller, Melissa Heim, whom we believe is the first female commercial master distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River.

 

Be Experimental . We are not afraid to take chances with innovative product offerings that we believe the larger and more bureaucratic companies that populate the industry cannot easily launch . We want to produce and deliver quality products that offer consumers “something different,” such as value or uniqueness, and we want to convey that message with new packaging developed by our spirits branding firm, Sandstrom Partners.

 

Be Local . Be true to our Oregon and Pacific Northwest “roots” by shunning artificial additives, using locally sourced ingredients such as our high-quality water and Oregon oak, and relying on skilled local artisans. During 2016, we experienced a 45% increase in wholesale sales and were the third largest spirits producer in that state. In addition, we recently extended our Pacific Northwest focus with our first shipments to Alaska during the first quarter of 2017.

 

Expand Geographically and Online. We are building brand awareness and driving sales in multiple geographic markets with the use of social media (Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube). We are partnering with retailers that market heavily online and investing resources into e-commerce and digital marketing.

 

Provide Value . We target the high-growth premium ($12-20 per bottle) and high-end ($20-30 per bottle) market segments with premium quality at attractive pricing. In the super premium category (above $50 per bottle), we intend to have limited production offerings that we believe also deliver exceptional value.

 

Use Sales Networks of Major U.S. Spirits Distributors . We have established and will continue to build relationships with the major wine and spirit wholesalers to distribute our products into the largest spirits markets in the United States.

 

Increase Production . We expect our production of cases to increase each year for the next three years. We believe our increased production capacity will make us more attractive to distribution partners and will also facilitate additional revenues, cost savings and profits.

 

Leverage Access to Public Company Markets. The public capital markets facilitate funding access for our long-term growth initiatives, including continuing to make strategic acquisitions.

 

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Our Strengths

 

We believe the following competitive strengths will help enable the implementation of our growth strategies:

 

Award Winning Diverse Product Line. We have a diverse product line currently offering of more than a dozen premium craft spirits, many of which have won awards for taste and/or product design. According to a study by the American Craft Spirits Association, the U.S. craft spirits volume of cases sold experienced a compound annual growth rate of 27.4% between 2010 and 2015, and saw an increase in market share from 0.8% to 2.2% during that period. Our sales of premium brands have increased over 1,000% since 2011. We believe our diverse, recognized product line in this growing market will enable us to establish a presence in new geographic markets and enable us to procure additional distributors for our products.

 

Key Relationships. We have distribution arrangements with several of the largest wine and spirits distributors in the United States, such as Southern Glazer. We have also engaged Park Street, a provider of back-office administrative and logistical services for alcohol and beverage distributors. We believe these relationships will help accomplish our goal of having our premium spirits sold and distributed nationwide.

 

Experienced Master Distiller. Our master distiller, Melissa “Mel” Heim, whom we believe is the first female commercial master distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River, is an important factor in distinguishing our brands. We believe that Ms. Heim’s highly regarded “palate” is important to us maintaining a high quality artisanal character to our products as well as adding to our consumer appeal.

 

Our Product Approach

 

Our approach to our craft spirits involves five important aspects:

 

Commitment to Quality. We create and deliver high-quality, innovative products targeted at growing markets.

 

Authentic yet Scalable. We believe our approach to production allows us to produce our products at scale while keeping flavor profiles consistent.

 

Unique Talent and Experience. Every spirit reflects the creativity of our entire team;

 

Extensive Spirit Portfolio. Many craft distillers have only one to three products; we have over a dozen, which we believe affords us the opportunity to target a broader range of consumers with our brands.

 

Generate Customer Loyalty. These factors attract loyal and enthusiastic customers and major distributors for our products.

 

Our Brands

 

We develop, produce and market the premium brands listed below.

 

Burnside Bourbon . We develop, market and produce two premium, barrel–aged bourbons: Burnside Bourbon and Oregon Oak Burnside Bourbon. Our Burnside Bourbon is aged in oak barrels, is 96 proof and won a Gold Medal in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards in 2014, and another from Beverage Tasting Institute. Our Oregon Oak Burnside Bourbon is produced in limited quantities and aged for an additional 90 days in heavily charred Oregon oak barrels and we consider it an “ultra-premium” brand. Our Burnside Bourbon brands accounted for approximately 40%, 35% and 41% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Case volume of our Burnside Bourbon increased by 163% from 2014 to 2016, compared to a 12% increase for the bourbon industry in general during the same period.

 

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Barrel Hitch American Whiskey . We develop, market and produce two premium whiskeys: Barrel Hitch American Whiskey and Barrel Hitch Oregon Oaked Whiskey. Our Barrel Hitch American Whiskey is 80 proof and won a triple-Gold Medal and best of show in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards in 2015. Our Oregon Oak version is produced in limited quantities and aged for an additional 90 days in heavily charred Oregon oak barrels, and we consider it an “ultra-premium” brand. Our whiskey brands were introduced in July 2015 and accounted for approximately 17% and 7% of our revenues for 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Premium Vodka . We develop, market and produce a premium potato vodka under the brand name Portland Potato Vodka which is distilled from potatoes rather than grain and as such is gluten-free. Our Portland Potato Vodka was awarded a silver medal from the American Wine Society and a gold medal from the Beverage Tasting Institute, which also gave it a “Best Buy” rating. Our Portland Potato Vodka accounted for approximately 13%, 14% and 18% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Case volume of our Portland Potato Vodka increased by 185% from 2014 to 2016, compared to a 4% increase for the vodka industry in general during the same period.

 

Distinctive Specialty Whiskeys . We develop, market and produce two distinctive specialty whiskeys: Cherry Bomb Whiskey and Marionberry Whiskey. Our Cherry Bomb Whiskey combines handcrafted small batch whiskey with a blast of real Oregon cherries. Our Cherry Bomb Whiskey won a gold medal from the American Wine Society and was also awarded a gold medal for taste and a silver medal for package design in the MircroLiquor Spirit Awards. Our Marionberry whiskey combines Oregon marionberries (a hybrid blackberry) with premium aged whiskey and was awarded two silver medals in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards for taste and package design. Our specialty whiskeys accounted for approximately 13%, 15% and 14% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Below Deck Rums . We develop, market and produce four rums under the Below Deck brand name: Below Deck Silver Rum, Below Deck Spiced Rum, Below Deck Coffee Rum and Below Deck Ginger Rum. Below Deck’s Silver Rum is our original rum. Below Deck Spiced Rum is double-distilled from molasses and infused with exotic spices and won a triple gold medal for taste and a bronze medal for package design in the MicroLiquor Spirit Awards. Our Below Deck Coffee Rum is double-distilled and infused with coffee flavors from Arabica bean and won a silver medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Below Deck Ginger Rum is infused with natural ginger. Our Below Deck Rums accounted for approximately 10%, 12% and 15% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Seasonal/Limited Edition Spirits . In addition to our premium bourbons, whiskeys, rum and vodka, we create seasonal and limited-edition handmade products such as Advocaat (eggnog) Liqueur, Peppermint Bark Liqueur, Bier Schnapps and Holiday Spiced Liqueur. Our Seasonal/Limited Edition Spirits accounted for approximately 6%, 11% and 12% of our revenues for years 2016, 2015 and 2014 respectively.

 

Brands Acquired as part of the Acquisition of Big Bottom Distilling . As a result of our acquisition of BBD in May 2017, we acquired the following additional brands:

 

Barlow Trail American Blended Whiskey is a proprietary blend of three well-aged whiskeys. It exhibits subtle floral notes with hints of salted caramel and vanilla along with just the right amount of oak and spice. This whiskey received the following awards: Gold Medal Winner at 2014 Great American Distiller’s Festival; Silver Medal Winner at 2015 Great American Spirits Festival and 2014 Washington Cup Spirits Competition.

 

Barlow Trail, Port Cask Finish is a proprietary American blended whiskey finished in 10-year tawny port barrels for about six months. It presents a bright, sweet berry and citrus nose. On the palate it showcases a fresh, ripe berry followed by a small hint of peppery spice that gives way to a very smooth, rich and malty quality from the port casks. The product has received the following awards: Gold Medal Winner at 2015 Great American Spirits Festival; First Place Winner at 2015 Best of the NW: SIP NW Spirits Competition “Best Whiskey”; Silver Medal Winner at 2015 American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) Awards.

 

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Delta Rye is a harmonious blend of spicy Indiana distilled straight rye whiskey with a slightly sweeter Canadian distilled three year old rye whiskey. This rye blend exhibits intense spice with hints of citrus and mint while it finishes with some vanilla and bold oak. Proofed at 111, the full flavors of these two rye whiskeys create a perfect balance for the most discerning palate.

 

The Ninety One Gin contains 16 botanicals that offer a complex bouquet of floral qualities complementing the juniper. A slightly sweet gin with non-traditional gin characteristics, the Ninety One Gin has received the following awards: Gold Medal at 2015 American Craft Spirits (ACSA) Awards; Gold Medal at 2015 Great American Spirits Festival; 92 Score by Wine Enthusiast in 2015; Bronze Medal at 2015 San Francisco World Spirits Competition; and Third Place at 2015 Best of the NW: SIP NW Spirits Competition “Best Gin.”

 

Big Bottom Navy Strength Gin is a 114 proof gin containing the same 16 botanicals as the Ninety One Gin. It presents a slightly heavier juniper bouquet than the Ninety One Gin with a delicate hint of lemongrass and citrus. This Navy Strength Gin offers a balanced spice throughout the palate followed by a mild head and crisp finish, and received a Bronze Medal at the 2015 Washington Cup Spirits Competition .

 

Starka is traditional aged vodka based on a recipe dating back to the 15th century in Eastern Europe. Aged for 12 months in Zinfandel casks that also contained bourbon. The result is a remarkable Starka offering a fresh old twist to the world of vodka.

 

Barrel Aged Gin undergoes a solera process with the use of 3 different woods in our whiskey barrels – Oregon oak, Hungarian oak and North American white oak, and received a Silver Medal at the 2016 Berlin International Spirits Competition .

 

Brandies. The 2015 Oregon Apple Brandy is a blend of 5 Oregon apple varietals giving it a more complex fruit quality. This brandy exhibits crisp red apples with autumn spices and the essence of vanilla. A special blend of in-house yeast strains gives way to darker fruit esters allowing for a creamy spiced caramelized apple finish. The 2015 Oregon Apple Brandy received a Gold Medal at the 2015 Great American Spirits Festival.

 

The 2015 Oregon Pear Brandy is made from a blend of Asian pears that were grown and hand harvested from the Willamette Valley, and received the following awards: Gold Medal at the 2015 Great American Spirits Festival and a Bronze Medal at the 2015 Washington Cup Spirits Competition.

 

Calhoun Brothers Aged Rum is a 4-year old rum, further aged in Big Bottom bourbon barrels creating a perfect balance of sweetness and complex spice. The initial aroma of caramelized sugar, bourbon and molasses is followed by warm spices of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and allspice resulting in a smooth, rich and full finish. Awards: Gold Medal Winner at 2015 Great American Spirits Festival.

 

Other Sources of Revenue

 

Special Events

 

We also generate revenues from participating in special events (such as farmer’s markets, trade shows, hosting private tastings, etc.). We offer tastings as well as sell merchandise and bottle sales and have generated as much as $75,000 in revenues from these special events in a single month during the winter holiday season. In addition to the revenues these events generate, we value the immediate customer feedback during these activities which is instrumental in creating better products and testing new flavors.

 

Retail Stores and Kiosks

 

We have three retail stores in shopping centers in the Portland, Oregon area that provide us with additional revenue from sales of our products. In December 2014, we opened a 1,200 square foot retail store in Clackamas Town Center (Happy Valley Town Center) and in January 2015, entered into a lease for 3,100 square feet of retail space in the Washington Square Center in Portland. We also had two additional holiday season retail locations within high-traffic shopping malls in the Portland metro region during 2015. For the 2016 holiday season, we replaced the Washington Square Mall storefront with a kiosk location. We intend to maintain these retail stores and kiosks to build local brand awareness and direct-to-consumer retail sales. Some of these stores will contain in-store tastings, which we believe will lead to additional product purchases.

 

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Production and Supply

 

There are several steps in the production and supply process for beverage alcohol products. First, all spirits products are produced through a multi-stage distillation process that converts basic ingredients, such as grain, sugar cane or agave, into alcohol, which is the “distillate.” Many of our products, including those produced by BBD, contain distillates sourced from other distillers. In fact, with the exception of our American malt whiskey, which is distilled by us, our bourbon and whiskey products typically originate with distilleries in Tennessee, Kentucky or Indiana and in some cases Canada. We currently source both full strength distillates and barrel strength distillates (barrel strength has a lower alcohol by volume (ABV) due to evaporation). The sourcing of spirits is commonplace in the spirits industry.

 

Next, the alcohol is processed and/or aged by us in various ways depending on the requirements of the specific brand. For our vodka, this processing is designed to remove all other chemicals, so that the resulting liquid will be odorless and colorless, and have a smooth quality with minimal harshness. Achieving a high level of purity involves a series of distillations and filtration processes. For our

 

spirits brands, rather than removing flavor, we utilize one or more of the following techniques to achieve various complex flavor profiles: infusion of fruit, addition of various flavoring substances, and, in the case of rums and whiskeys, aging of the brands in various types of casks for extended periods of time, and/or blending several rums or whiskeys to achieve a unique flavor profile for each brand.

 

After the distillation, purification and flavoring processes are completed, the resulting beverage alcohol products are bottled by us. This involves several important stages, including bottle and label design and procurement, filling of the bottles and packaging the bottles in various configurations for shipment.

 

We rely on a limited number of suppliers for the sourcing of our spirit distillates and other raw materials. We believe that we have consistent and reliable third party sources for spirit distillates.

 

Distribution Network

 

We believe that the distribution network that we have developed with our sales team and our independent distributors and brokers is one of our key strengths. We currently have distribution and brokerage relationships with third-party distributors in 22 U.S. states.

 

U.S. Distribution

 

Producers of beverage alcohol products in the U.S., such as us, must sell their products through a three-tier distribution system, specifically, producers of alcohol must first sell it to a network of distributors, or wholesalers, covering the U.S., in either “open” states or “control” states. In the 33 open states, the distributors are generally large, privately-held companies. In the 18 control states, the states themselves function as the distributor, and regulate producers such as us. The distributors and wholesalers in turn sell to individual retailers, such as liquor stores, restaurants, bars, supermarkets and other outlets licensed to sell beverage alcohol. In larger states, such as New York, more than one distributor may handle a brand in separate geographical areas. In control states, importers sell their products directly to state liquor authorities, which distribute the products and either operate retail outlets or license the retail sales function to private companies, while maintaining strict control over pricing and profit.

 

The U.S. spirits industry has consolidated dramatically over the last ten years due to merger and acquisition activity. There are currently eight major spirits companies, each of which own and operate their own importing businesses. All companies, including these large companies, are required by law to sell their products through wholesale distributors in the U.S. The major companies are exerting increasing influence over the regional distributors and as a result, it has become more difficult for smaller companies to get their products recognized by the distributors.

 

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Importation

 

We hold the federal importer and wholesaler license required by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau of the U.S. Treasury Department, and the requisite state licenses within the states we conduct business.

 

Our inventory is maintained in our warehouse and shipped nationally by our network of licensed and bonded carriers.

 

Wholesalers and Distributors

 

As noted above, in the U.S., we are required by law to use state-licensed distributors or, in the control states, state-owned agencies performing this function, to sell our brands to retail outlets. As a result, we depend on distributors for sales, for product placement and for retail store penetration. We have no distribution agreements or minimum sales requirements with any of our U.S. alcohol distributors, and they are under no obligation to place our products or market our brands. All of the distributors also distribute our competitors’ products and brands. As a result, we must foster and maintain our relationships with our distributors. Through our internal sales team, we have established relationships for our brands with wholesale distributors in the 22 states we sell our products, and our products are sold in the U.S. by seven wholesale distributors, as well as by various state beverage alcohol control agencies.

 

Significant Customers

 

Sales to one distributor, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission, accounted for approximately 32% our consolidated sales for each of fiscal years 2016 and 2015.

 

Sales Team

 

Our sales force has an average of over ten years of industry experience with premium beverage alcohol brands. Our sales personnel are engaged in the day-to-day management of our distributors, which includes setting quotas, coordinating promotional plans for our brands, maintaining adequate levels of stock, brand education and training and sales calls with distributor personnel. Our sales team also maintains relationships with key retail customers through independent sales calls. They also schedule promotional events, create local brand promotion plans, host in-store tastings, where permitted, and provide wait staff and bartender training and education for our brands.

 

In addition, we have also engaged Park Street Imports, a provider of back-office administrative and logistical services for alcohol and beverage distributors, which services include state compliance, logistics planning, order processing, distributor chargeback and bill-support management and certain accounting and reporting services.

 

Advertising, Marketing and Promotion

 

To build our brands, we must effectively communicate with three distinct audiences: our distributors, the retail trade and the end consumer. Advertising, marketing and promotional activities help to establish and reinforce the image of our brands in our efforts to build substantial brand value. We intend to stay true to our roots as a local Portland-based craft spirit company, while identifying and capitalizing on trends within the booming craft spirits industry.

 

As mentioned above, in late 2016 we retained Sandstrom Partners, a Portland-based firm specializing in spirits branding, to review our current product portfolio, as well as our new ideas, and advise us on marketing, creation of brand awareness and product positioning, locally and nationally.

 

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We use a range of marketing strategies and tactics to build brand equity and increase sales, including consumer and trade advertising, price promotions, point-of-sale materials, event sponsorship, in-store and on-premise promotions and public relations, as well as a variety of other traditional and non-traditional marketing techniques, including social media marketing, to support our brands.

 

Besides traditional advertising, we also employ other marketing methods to support our brands: public relations, event sponsorships and tastings. Our U.S. public relations efforts have helped gain editorial coverage for our brands, which increases brand awareness. Event sponsorship is an economical way for us to have influential consumers taste our brands. We actively contribute product to trend-setting events where our brand has exclusivity in the brand category. We also conduct hundreds of in-store and on-premise promotions each year.

 

Intellectual Property

 

Trademarks are an important aspect of our business. We sell our products under a number of trademarks, which we own or use under license. Our brands are protected by trademark registrations or are the subject of pending applications for trademark registration in the U.S where we distribute, or plan to distribute, our brands. The trademarks may be registered in the names of our subsidiaries. In the U.S., trademark registrations need to be renewed every ten years. We expect to register our trademarks in additional markets as we expand our distribution territories.

 

Seasonality

 

Our industry is subject to seasonality with peak retail sales generally occurring in the fourth calendar quarter, primarily due to seasonal holiday buying. Historically, this holiday demand typically resulted in higher sales for us in our second and/or third fiscal quarters.

 

Competition

 

The beverage alcohol industry is highly competitive. We believe that we compete on the basis of quality, price, brand recognition and distribution strength. Our premium brands compete with other alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages for consumer purchases, retail shelf space, restaurant presence and wholesaler attention. We compete with numerous multinational producers and distributors of beverage alcohol products. Many of our current and potential competitors have longer operating histories and have substantially greater financial, sales, marketing and other resources than we do, as well as larger installed customer bases, greater name recognition and broader product offerings. Some of these competitors can devote greater resources to the development, promotion, sale and support of their products. As a result, it is possible that our competitors may either respond to industry conditions or consumer trends more rapidly or effectively or resort to price competition to sustain market share, which could adversely affect our sales and profitability.

 

Over the past ten years, the U.S. wine and spirits industry has undergone dramatic consolidation and realignment of brands and brand ownership. The number of major importers in the U.S. has declined significantly. Today there are eight major importers: Diageo PLC, Pernod Ricard S.A., Bacardi Limited, Brown-Forman Corporation, Beam Suntory Inc., Davide Campari Milano-S.p.A., and Remy Cointreau S.A.

 

By focusing on the premium and super-premium segments of the market, which typically have higher margins, and having an established, experienced sales force, we believe we are able to gain relatively significant attention from our distributors for a company of our size. Also, the continued consolidation among the major companies is expected to create an opportunity for small to mid-size wine and spirits companies, such as ourselves, as the major companies contract their portfolios to focus on fewer brands.

 

Government Regulation

 

We are subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act, U.S. Customs Laws, Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and the Alcoholic Beverage Control laws of all fifty states.

 

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The U.S. Treasury Department’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau regulates the production, blending, bottling, sales and advertising and transportation of alcohol products. Also, each state regulates the advertising, promotion, transportation, sale and distribution of alcohol products within its jurisdiction. We are also required to conduct business in the U.S. only with holders of licenses to import, warehouse, transport, distribute and sell spirits.

 

We are subject to U.S. regulations on the advertising, marketing and sale of beverage alcohol products. In addition, recent developments in the industry may compel us to identify the source and location of our distillate products, and notify the consumer of whether the product was distilled by us and where the product was distilled. These regulations range from a complete prohibition of the marketing of alcohol in some states to restrictions on the advertising style, media and messages used.

 

Labeling of spirits is also regulated in many markets, varying from health warning labels to importer identification, alcohol strength and other consumer information. All beverage alcohol products sold in the U.S. must include warning statements related to risks of drinking beverage alcohol products.

 

In the U.S. control states, the state liquor commissions act in place of distributors and decide which products are to be purchased and offered for sale in their respective states. Products are selected for purchase and sale through listing procedures which are generally made available to new products only at periodically scheduled listing interviews. Consumers may purchase products not selected for listings only through special orders, if at all.

 

The distribution of alcohol-based beverages is also subject to extensive federal and state taxation in the U.S. and internationally. Most foreign countries impose excise duties on wines and distilled spirits, although the form of such taxation varies from a simple application on units of alcohol by volume to intricate systems based on the imported or wholesale value of the product. Several countries impose additional import duty on distilled spirits, often discriminating between categories in the rate of such tariffs. Once we begin distributing our products internationally, import and excise duties could have a significant effect on our sales, both through reducing the consumption of alcohol and through encouraging consumer switching into lower-taxed categories of alcohol.

 

We believe that we are in material compliance with applicable federal, state and other regulations. However, we operate in a highly regulated industry which may be subject to more stringent interpretations of existing regulations. Future compliance costs due to regulatory changes could be significant.

 

Employees

 

As of September 20, 2017, we had 24 full-time employees, 10 of whom were in sales and marketing, five of whom were in management and nine of whom are in administration and production.

 

Geographic Information

 

We operate in one business segment – premium beverage alcohol products. Our product categories are rum, whiskey, vodka and specialty liquors, with an intent to sell gin and private label tequila in the future. We currently sell our products in 22 states (Oregon, California, Washington, Florida, Nevada, Texas, Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Minnesota, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, Idaho, Vermont and Maryland) and are authorized to distribute our products in Ontario, Canada as well.

 

Facilities

 

Our corporate headquarters are currently located in Portland, Oregon, where we lease and occupy approximately 10,000 square feet of office and industrial space that was originally MotherLode’s facility. On February 17, 2017, the Company entered into a Commercial Sublease Agreement with MotherLode, LLC which we subsequently acquired. In June 2017, we consolidated our production operations into the MotherLode facility. We anticipate relocating to new corporate offices that will be sufficient to maintain its current operations. We also lease and occupy approximately 2,500 square feet of industrial space in Hillsboro, Oregon as part of our BBD operations.

 

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Legal Proceedings

 

We are not currently subject to any material legal proceedings; however we could be subject to legal proceedings and claims from time to time in the ordinary course of our business. Regardless of the outcome, litigation can, among other things, be time consuming and expensive to resolve, and divert management resources.

 

Corporate History

 

We were incorporated in Nevada in February 2004 under the name Eurocan Holdings, Ltd. Until the closing of the Eastside Distilling, LLC acquisition (described below), Eurocan operated solely as an online marketing and media solutions firm specializing in digital interactive media, which business was conducted through Eurocan’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Michael Williams Web Design Inc. of New York, New York (“MWW”).

 

The Acquisition of Eastside Distilling, LLC

 

In October 2014, Eurocan Holdings Ltd. consummated the acquisition (the “Acquisition”) of Eastside Distilling, LLC (“Eastside”) pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”) by and among the Eurocan, Eastside and Eastside Distilling, Inc., our wholly-owned subsidiary. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, Eastside merged with and into Eastside Distilling, Inc. The merger consideration for the Acquisition consisted of 533,334 shares of our common stock. In addition, certain of our stockholders cancelled an aggregate of 415,167 shares of our common stock held by them. As a result, upon consummation of the Merger Agreement on October 31, 2014, we had 666,667 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding, of which 533,334 shares were held by the former members of Eastside.

 

Following the Acquisition, we conduct the business of Eastside as our primary business.

 

Spin-Off of MWW

 

Following consummation of the Acquisition, our new management conducted an evaluation of the MWW business and an analysis of the business going forward. Management determined that due to MWW’s operating and net losses in each of the two fiscal years preceding the Acquisition, its working capital deficit as of the end of the latest fiscal year and as of the latest fiscal quarter preceding the Acquisition, and its accumulated deficit, it was not in our best interest to continue the operation of MWW going forward. Accordingly, in February 2015, we transferred all of the outstanding shares of MWW held by us, along with all assets and liabilities related to MWW, to Michael Williams in consideration of MWW’s and Mr. Williams’ full release of all claims and liabilities related to MWW and the MWW business. Mr. Williams was the sole officer, director and employee of MWW at the time of the transaction. The spinoff of MWW resulted in the impairment of goodwill related to the Acquisition of approximately $3.2 million in December 2014. Additionally, as a result of the spin-off, we recorded a net gain of approximately $52,890 on February 3, 2015. This gain is primarily the result of the transfer of net liabilities to Mr. Williams, which is reflected in our consolidated financial statements for the year ending on December 31, 2015.

 

MotherLode Acquisition Agreement

 

On March 8, 2017, we acquired all of the outstanding membership interests of MotherLode in exchange for 86,667 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “MotherLode Acquisition”). In connection with the MotherLode Acquisition, we entered into a three-year employment agreement with the founder of Motherlode, Allen Barteld, as described in the “Management” section below under the heading “Employment Agreements.”

 

Big Bottom Distilling Acquisition Agreement

 

On May 1, 2017, we acquired 90% of the ownership of Big Bottom Distilling (“BBD”), a Hillsboro, Oregon-based distiller and producer of super premium gins, whiskeys, brandies, rum, and vodka. Pursuant to the agreement governing the acquisition of BBD, we agreed to exchange 28,096 shares of our common stock for 90% of the outstanding limited liability company units of BBD. Following the acquisition of BBD, we will maintain the independence of BBD as a separate entity underneath our operational umbrella.

 

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MANAGEMENT

 

Executive Officers and Directors

 

The following is a brief description of the principal occupation and recent business experience of each of our executive officers and directors and their ages as of September 20, 2017:

 

Name   Age   Position
         
Grover T. Wickersham   68   Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
Trent D. Davis (1)(2)(3)   48   Director
Michael M. Fleming (1)(2)(3)   68   Director
Shelley A. Saunders (1)   56   Director
Jack Peterson   53   Director
Steven Shum   47   Chief Financial Officer
Melissa Heim   33   Executive Vice President Operations and Master Distiller
Jarrett Catalani   48   Executive Vice President Sales
Allen Barteld   51   President and Chief Executive Officer of MotherLode

 

 

(1) Member of the audit committee.
(2) Member of the compensation committee.
(3) Member of the nominating and corporate governance committee.

 

Our Board of Directors currently consists of three members. All directors hold office until their successors have been elected and qualified or until their earlier death, resignation, disqualification, or removal. Board vacancies and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors may be filled by a majority vote of the directors then in office, even if less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. Our board may establish the authorized number of directors from time to time by resolution.

 

Our executive officers are each appointed by the board and serve at the board’s discretion.

 

There are no family relationships among our officers or directors.

 

Executive Officers

 

Grover T. Wickersham was appointed to our Board of Directors and as our chairman in July 2016, and as our chief executive officer in November 2016. Mr. Wickersham currently serves on the boards of directors of S&W Seed Company (NASDAQ: SANW), an agricultural products company; Verseon Corporation, a London AIM-listed pharmaceutical development company; and SenesTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: SNES), an animal health company that has developed proprietary technology for managing animal pest populations through fertility control. Mr. Wickersham has been a director and portfolio advisor of Glenbrook Capital Management, the general partner of a partnership that invests primarily in the securities of public companies, from 1996 to the present. From 1996 until its voluntary liquidation and dissolution in 2016, Mr. Wickersham served as the chairman of the board of trustees of The Purisima Funds, a trust that operated two series of mutual funds advised by Fisher Investments of Woodside, California. Between 1976 and 1981, Mr. Wickersham served as a staff attorney, and then as a branch chief, of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. He holds a B.A. from the University of California at Berkeley, an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and a J.D. from University of California, Hastings College of Law. We believe that Mr. Wickersham is qualified to serve as a member of our Board of Directors because of his experience and knowledge of corporate finance and legal matters, his experience and knowledge of operational matters gained as a past and present director of other public and private companies, and his knowledge of our company.

 

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Steven Shum has served as our chief financial officer since October 2015. Prior to joining us, Mr. Shum served as an officer and director of XZERES Corp, a publicly-traded global renewable energy company, from October 2008 until April 2015 in various officer roles, including chief operating officer from September 2014 until April 2015, chief financial officer, principal accounting officer and secretary from April 2010 until September 2014 (under former name, Cascade Wind Corp) and chief executive officer and president from October 2008 to August 2010. Mr. Shum also serves as the managing principal of Core Fund Management, LP and the Fund Manager of Core Fund, LP. He was a founder of Revere Data LLC (now part of Factset Research Systems, Inc.) and served as its executive vice president for four years, heading up the product development efforts and contributing to operations, business development, and sales. He spent six years as an investment research analyst and portfolio manager of D.N.B. Capital Management, Inc. His previous employers include Red Chip Review and Laughlin Group of Companies. He earned a B.S. in Finance and a B.S. in General Management from Portland State University in 1992.

 

Jarrett Catalani has served as our Senior Vice President Sales since July 2017. Mr. Catalani brings 27 years of experience in the alcoholic beverage industry. Prior to joining us, from May 2016 to September 2016, Mr. Catalani served as Senior Vice President Sales for Fishbowl Spirits, a premium spirits company, owned by singer songwriter Kenny Chesney. From October 2010 to April 2016, Mr. Catalani worked at ROUST (Russian Standard Vodka), in various officer roles, including Western Divisional Vice President from October 2010 until November 2012, and Senior Vice President of Sales from November 2012 until April 2016. From 2003 to 2010, Mr. Catalani worked in various roles at DIAGEO, his last position being Reserve Brand Director, California. Mr. Catalani’s other employers include Pilsner Urquell USA, Pete’s Brewing Company, Jim Taylor Corporation and Wilhelmi Beverage. Mr. Catalani holds a B.S. in Business Management from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale.

 

Melissa Heim has served as our master distiller since June 2012. In November 2016, she was appointed our Executive Vice President Operations. We believe Ms. Heim is the first female commercial master distiller and blender west of the Mississippi River. Prior to joining our company, she apprenticed at and then served as head distiller at Rogue Distillery and Public House in Portland’s Pearl District, holding the position of head distiller from 2008 to 2010. Also, Ms. Heim co-founded and served as president of the Clear Boots Society, an organization that supports women’s leadership in the spirits industry. Ms. Heim studied Liberal Arts with emphasis on English at the University of Oregon.

 

Allen Barteld has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of MotherLode, our wholly-owned subsidiary acquired in March 2017, since June 2014. Prior to forming MotherLode in 2013, Mr. Barteld served as CEO of LawWerx, a software company, from 2009 to 2012. Mr. Barteld earned a Juris Doctor and Masters of Business Administration from Willamette University in 1997.

 

Non-Employee Directors

 

Trent D. Davis was appointed to our Board of Directors in August 2016. Mr. Davis is currently President and chief operating officer of Whitestone Investment Network, Inc., which specializes in providing executive advisory services to small entrepreneurial companies, as well as restructuring, recapitalizing, and making strategic investments in small to midsize companies. Mr. Davis is also currently Lead Director, Chairman of the Nominating and Governance and Special Investments Committees and is a Member of the Audit and Compensation Committees of Dataram Corporation (NASDAQ: DRAM), which develops, manufactures, and markets memory products primarily used in enterprise servers and workstations worldwide. Previously, from December 2014 to July 2015, Mr. Davis was Chairman of the Board for Majesco Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: COOL), which is an innovative developer, marketer, publisher, and distributor of interactive entertainment for consumers around the world. From November 2013 until July 2014, Mr. Davis served as the President and a Director of Paulson Capital Corp. (NASDAQ: PLCC) until he successfully completed the reverse merger of Paulson with VBI Vaccines, (NASDAQ: VBIV). He went on to serve as a Member of its Board of Directors and Audit Committee until May 2016. Mr. Davis was also the Chief Executive Officer of Paulson Investment Company. Inc., a subsidiary of Paulson Capital Corp, from July 2005 until October 2014, where he supervised all operations and over 200 investment representatives overseeing $1.5 billion in client assets. Prior to that, commencing in 1996, Mr. Davis served as Senior Vice President of Syndicate and National Sales of Paulson Investment Company, Inc. He has extensive experience in capital markets and brokerage operations and is credited with overseeing the syndication of approximately $600 million for over 50 client companies in both public and private transactions. In 2003, Mr. Davis served as a Chairman of the Board of the National Investment Banking Association. Mr. Davis holds a B.S. in Business and Economics from Linfield College and an M.B.A. from the University of Portland and held the following FINRA Licenses: Series 7, 24, 63, 66, and 79. We believe Mr. Davis is qualified to serve on the Board because of his deep knowledge of finance and public company issues, capital market, advisory and entrepreneurial experiences, and extensive expertise in operational and executive management.

 

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Michael (Mick) M. Fleming was appointed to our Board of Directors in August 2016. Mr. Fleming is currently an attorney with the law firm Ryan, Swanson & Cleveland, PLLC specializing in real estate, dispute resolution, securities and environmental matters, a position he has held since 2013. Mr. Fleming previously was an attorney with the law firm of Lane Powell PC from 2000 to 2013. Mr. Fleming is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Jones Soda Co. (OTC: JSDA), a premium beverage company. Mr. Fleming has served on the Board of Directors of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Puget Sound since 2002 and was Chairman of the Board of Directors for 2008/2009. He has also been the President and owner of Kidcentre, Inc., a company in the business of providing child care services in downtown Seattle, Washington, since 1988. Since 1985, he has also been the President and owner of Fleming Investment Co., an investment company. Mr. Fleming holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Washington and a law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. We believe Mr. Fleming is qualified to serve on our Board of Directors because of his experience serving on public company boards, as president and owner of two businesses as well as his legal expertise in matters of business and securities law.

 

Jack Peterson was appointed as a director to fill an existing vacancy on the board of directors effective August 23, 2017. Since May 2007, Mr. Peterson has been the President of Sandstrom Partners, a brand development company that focuses on the creation and revitalization of thought leading brands such as Bulleit Bourbon, St-Germain, Stillhouse Whiskey, Miller Brewing, Pernod Ricard and Aviation Gin. In addition to Eastside, clients of the firm include Bacardi, Pernod Ricard, Brown Foreman and Diageo. From March 1996 to April 2007, Mr. Peterson was President of Borders, Perrin, Norrander, a full-service advertising agency in Portland, OR. Previously, Mr. Peterson served as account director and account executive at several advertising agencies including Hal Riney & Partners in San Francisco. Mr. Peterson holds a B.A. from the University of Minnesota. Because of his professional experience in brand development and establishing brand equity, and his contacts within the spirits industry, we believe Mr. Peterson will be a valuable member of our board of directors.

 

Shelly A. Saunders was appointed as a director to fill an existing vacancy on the board of directors in connection with our August 2017 public offering and will serve on the audit committee. Since March 2015, Ms. Saunders is a consultant for Resources Global Professionals, a consulting firm serving global corporations. From June 2013 to January 2015, Ms. Saunders served as Vice President Finance and Country CFO for Campari Canada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano. From July 2009 to May 2013, Ms. Saunders served as Vice President Finance for Campari America/SKYY Spirits, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Davide Campari-Milano. Prior to joining Campari America, Ms. Saunders was a consultant for Resources Global Professionals, a Director Finance for Mervyns, and a Vice President Finance and Treasurer for Organic, Inc., among other positions. Ms. Saunders received a B.A. in Economics from Stanford University and an MBA from University of California, Berkeley. Because of her prior service as a finance professional for one of the largest global spirits companies and her extensive experience and knowledge of, and contacts within, the spirits industry, we believe Ms. Saunders will be a valuable member of our board of directors and is well qualified to serve on our board and our audit committee.

 

Board Composition

 

Our Board of Directors currently consists of five members, three of which were last elected at our annual meeting in December 2016, and two of which were appointed in August 2017 to fill existing vacancies on the board. All directors hold office until their successors have been elected and qualified or until their earlier death, resignation, disqualification, or removal. Board vacancies and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors may be filled by a majority vote of the directors then in office, even if less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. Our board may establish the authorized number of directors from time to time by resolution.

 

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Director Independence

 

Generally, under the listing requirements and rules of NASDAQ, independent directors must comprise a majority of a listed company’s Board of Directors within one year of the closing of this offering. Our Board of Directors has undertaken a review of its composition, the composition of its committees and the independence of each director. Our Board of Directors has determined that each of Messrs. Davis and Fleming and Ms. Saunders are independent within the meaning of NASDAQ listing standards. Accordingly, a majority of our directors is independent, as required under applicable NASDAQ rules. In making this determination, the Board of Directors considered the current and prior relationships that each non-employee director has with our company and all other facts and circumstances our Board of Directors deemed relevant in determining their independence, including the beneficial ownership of our capital stock by each non-employee director and all transactions set forth herein under the heading “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.”

 

Board Committees

 

Our Board of Directors has established the following three standing committees: an audit committee, a compensation committee and a corporate governance and nominating committee, all of which are comprised solely of independent board members. The Board of Directors determined that establishing standing audit, compensation, and nominating and corporate governance committees is an important element of sound corporate governance.

 

Audit Committee

 

Our audit committee oversees the engagement of our independent public accounts, reviews our audited financial statements, meets with our independent public accounts to review internal controls and reviews our financial plans. Our audit committee currently consists of Michael M. Fleming, who is the chair of the committee, Trent D. Davis and Shelly A. Saunders. Each of Messrs. Davis and Fleming and Ms. Saunders has been determined by our Board of Directors to be independent in accordance with NASDAQ and SEC standards. Our Board of Directors has also designated each of Mr. Fleming and Ms. Saunders as an “audit committee financial expert” as the term is defined under SEC regulations and has determined that each of Mr. Fleming and Ms. Saunders possesses the requisite “financial sophistication” under applicable NASDAQ rules. The audit committee operates under a written charter which is available on our website. Both our independent registered accounting firm and internal financial personnel will regularly meet with our audit committee and have unrestricted access to the audit committee. Each member of the audit committee is able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including our consolidated balance sheets, consolidated statements of operations and consolidated statements of cash flows. Further, no member of the audit committee has participated in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements, or those of any of our current subsidiaries, at any time during the past three years.

 

Compensation Committee

 

Our compensation committee reviews and recommends policies, practices and procedures relating to compensation for our directors, officers and other employees and advising and consulting with our officers regarding managerial personnel and development. Our compensation committee currently consists of Trent Davis, who is the chair of the committee and Michael Fleming, each of whom has been determined by our Board of Directors to be independent in accordance with NASDAQ standards. Each member of our compensation committee is also a non-employee director, as defined pursuant to Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, and an outside director, as defined pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The compensation committee operates under a written charter which is available on the Company’s website. The compensation committee has not yet established processes and procedures for the consideration and determination of executive and director compensation, except as set forth in the compensation committee charter.

 

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

 

Our nominating and corporate governance committee evaluates the composition, size and governance of our Board of Directors and its committees, evaluating and recommending candidates for election to our Board of Directors, establishing a policy for considering stockholder nominees and reviewing our corporate governance principles and providing recommendations to the Board of Directors. Our nominating and corporate governance committee currently consists of Michael Fleming, who is the chair of the committee, and Trent Davis, each of whom has been determined by our Board of Directors to be independent in accordance with NASDAQ standards. The nominating and corporate governance committee operates under a written charter which is available on the Company’s website.

 

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Risk Oversight

 

One of the key functions of our Board of Directors is informed oversight of our risk management process. Our Board of Directors will not have a standing risk management committee, but rather intends to administer this oversight function directly through our Board of Directors as a whole, as well as through our other various standing committees. In particular, our Board of Directors is responsible for monitoring and assessing strategic risk exposure, and discusses with management our major risk exposures, their potential impact on us and the steps we take to manage them. While our Board is ultimately responsible for risk oversight, our Board committees assist the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities in certain areas of risk. In particular, our audit committee focuses on financial, accounting and investment risks. Our nominating and corporate governance committee focuses on the management of risks associated with Board organization, membership, structure and corporate governance. In addition, our compensation committee assists the Board of Directors in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities with respect to the management of risks arising from our compensation policies and programs and related to succession planning for our executive officers.

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

 

None of the members of the compensation committee is or has ever been one of our officers or employees. None of our executive officers serves, or in the past has served, as a member of the compensation committee or on the Board of Directors of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our Board of Directors or compensation committee.

 

Code of Conduct and Ethics

 

We have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to all of our employees, officers and directors. We will provide to any person without charge, upon request, a copy of our code of business conduct and ethics. Requests may be directed to our principal executive offices at 2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive, Portland, OR 97222. Also, a copy of our code of business conduct and ethics is available on our website. We will disclose, on our website, any amendment to, or a waiver from, a provision of our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions and that relates to any element of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics enumerated in applicable rules of the SEC.

 

Director Compensation

 

On October 13, 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors approved the grant of non-qualified stock options under the 2016 Plan (as defined below) to purchase up to 11,667 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $5.40 per share (each on a post-reverse split basis) to each of our non-employee directors as of that date, Messrs. Davis, Fleming, Hirson and Wickersham. All directors will be reimbursed for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with attending Board of Director and any committee meetings, provided that we have the resources to pay these expenses. Currently, directors receive no other compensation for their services on our Board. The following table sets forth information regarding compensation earned by or paid to our non-employee directors during the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Name   Option
Awards
($)(1)
    Total
($)
 
Trent D. Davis   $ 31,500     $ 31,500  
Michael M. Fleming   $ 31,500     $ 31,500  
Lawrence Hirson   $ 31,500     $ 31,500  
Grover T. Wickersham (2)   $ 31,500     $ 31,500  

 

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  (1) Represents a grant of non-qualified stock options under the 2016 Plan to purchase up to 11,667 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $5.40 per share to each of our non-employee directors as of October 13, 2016.
     
  (2) The option awards to Mr. Wickersham were made prior to his employment with us as chief executive officer in November 2016.

 

We expect to implement a formal policy pursuant to which our non-employee directors will be eligible to receive compensation for service on our Board of Directors and committees of our Board of Directors in the near future.

 

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The following table sets forth the compensation earned during the past two fiscal years by (i) the two persons who served as our chief executive officer during 2016 and (ii) the two most highly compensated executive officers other than the chief executive officer who were serving as executive officers at the end of 2016 and whose total compensation for 2016 exceeded $100,000. The persons described in clauses (i) and (ii) above are collectively referred to herein as our “named executive officers.”

 

                      All Other        
    Year     Salary     Options     Compensation     Total  
                               
Grover T. Wickersham (1)     2016       -     $ 31,500 (2)     -     $ 31,500  
Chief Executive Officer and     2015       -       -       -       -  
Chairman of the Board                                        
                                         
Steven Earles (3)     2016     $ 180,673 (4)           $ 30,000 (5)     210,673  
Former President and     2015       152,083 (4)     -       -       152,083  
Chief Executive Officer                                        
                                         
Steven Shum (6)     2016       183,942 (7)     63,600 (8)     -       247,542  
Chief Financial Officer     2015       48,750 (7)     198,050 (9)     -       246,800  

 

 

  (1) Mr. Wickersham was appointed Chief Executive Officer in November 2016 and Chairman of the Board in July 2016.
     
  (2) Amounts reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the 11,667 shares of common stock underlying the stock option on the date of grant ($5.40 per share) without regards to forfeitures, computed in accordance with ASC Topic 718 – Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”). This amount does not reflect the actual economic value realized by the named executive officer. The options issued to Mr. Wickersham vest monthly over a six-month period.
     
  (3) Mr. Earles served as our Chief Executive Officer from October 31, 2014 through November 22, 2016 and as our President through January 19, 2017.
     
  (4) $119,519 and $65,481 for 2015 and 2016, respectively, was converted into series A convertible preferred stock.
     
  (5) Amounts reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of 5,406 restricted stock units on the date of grant ($5.55 per share) without regards to forfeitures.
     
  (6) Mr. Shum has served as our Chief Financial Officer since October 1, 2015.
     
  (7) $48,750 and $48,250 for 2015 and 2016, respectively, was converted into series A convertible preferred stock.
     
  (8) Amounts reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the 20,000 shares of common stock underlying the stock option on the date of grant ($4.80 per share) without regards to forfeitures, computed in accordance with ASC 718. This amount does not reflect the actual economic value realized by the named executive officer. The options issued to Mr. Shum vest quarterly over a three-year period.
     
  (9) Amounts reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of the 14,167 shares of common stock underlying the stock option on the date of grant ($27.00 per share) without regards to forfeitures, computed in accordance with ASC 718. This amount does not reflect the actual economic value realized by the named executive officer. The options issued to Mr. Shum vest over a two-year period with 25% vesting in the first year following date of grant, with no options vesting during the first six months and 1/24th per month vesting during the second six months, and 75% vesting in the second year following date of grant (3/48th/month).

 

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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table sets forth information concerning the number of shares of common stock underlying restricted stock awards and stock options granted to our named executive officers in the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

                Estimated     Estimated     All Other     All Other           Grant  
                Future     Future     Stock     Option     Exercise     Date Fair  
                Payouts     Payouts     Awards:     Awards:     or Base     Value  
                Under     Under     Number of     Number of     Price of     of Stock  
                Non-Equity     Equity     Shares of     Securities     Option     and  
    Grant     Approval     Incentive     Incentive     Stock or     Underlying     Awards     Option  
Name   Date     Date     Plan Awards     Plan Awards     Units (#)     Options (#)     ($/Sh)     Awards (1)  
                                                 
Grover T. Wickersham     10/13/2016       10/13/2016                         11,667 (2)   $ 5.40     $ 63,000  
                                                                 
Steven Earles     11/4/2016       11/4/2016                   5,406 (3)           $ 5.55     $ 30,000  
                                                                 
Steven Shum     9/20/2016       9/20/2016                         20,000 (4)   $ 4.80     $ 96,000  

 

  (1) Represents the grant date fair value of each equity award calculated in accordance with FASB Statement No. 123R – Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation .
  (2) Options vest monthly over a six-month period.
  (3) Restricted stock units (“RSUs”) vest in four equal installments with 25% vesting on the grant date and 25% vesting on each of January 1, 2017, April 1, 2017 and July 1, 2017.
  (4) Options vest quarterly over a three-year period.

 

Employment Agreements

 

We have agreements with certain of our named executive officers, which include provisions regarding post-termination compensation. We do not have a formal severance policy or plan applicable to our executive officers as a group. The following summaries of the employment agreements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the text of the employment agreements, as amended, which were filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

 

Employment Agreement with Steven Earles

 

On February 6, 2015, we entered into an employment agreement with Steven Earles to serve as president, chief executive officer, chief financial officer and chairman of our Board of Directors. The agreement had an initial term that was set to end on February 5, 2018 and provided for an annual base salary during the term of the agreement of $104,000 per year. Mr. Earles is eligible to receive an annual bonus of at the discretion of the Board of Directors. On August 12, 2015, we amended Mr. Earles’ employment agreement to increase his annual base salary to $245,000. On October 5, 2015, Mr. Earles resigned as our chief financial officer.

 

The agreement also contains the following material provisions: (i) reimbursement for all reasonable travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with his employment; (ii) two weeks paid vacation leave; (iii) medical, dental and life insurance benefits; (iv) 36-month non-compete/non-solicitation terms; and (v) a severance payment equal to six months of base salary upon termination without cause (as defined in the agreement).

 

Effective November 4, 2016, we entered into a Second Amendment to Employment Agreement (the “Earles Amendment”) with Mr. Earles. Under the Earles Amendment, Mr. Earles’ base salary was decreased to $120,000 per annum. In addition, Mr. Earles agreed to waive prior accrued and unpaid salary totaling approximately $182,000. He was granted a restricted stock units award pursuant to our 2016 Equity Incentive Plan equal to the quotient obtained by dividing $30,000 by the closing price of our common stock on the effective date of the Earles Amendment, which our Board deemed to be the fair market value of such shares as of the date of the Earles Amendment. The shares of common stock subject to the restricted stock units vest in four equal quarterly installments on each of November 4, 2016, January 1, 2017, April 1, 2017 and July 1, 2017. We also agreed to indemnify Mr. Earles to the fullest extent allowed by our Articles of Incorporation, as amended (the “Articles”), our Amended and Restated Bylaws (the “Bylaws”), and applicable law, and notwithstanding Section 7.14 of our Bylaws, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the rights granted pursuant to the Earles Amendment will apply to acts and actions occurring since October 31, 2014.

 

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Mr. Earles resigned as our president and director effective January 19, 2017. Mr. Earles had previously resigned as our chief executive officer on November 22, 2016.

 

Employment Agreement with Steven Shum

 

On October 5, 2015, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Shum. The agreement has an initial term ending on October 5, 2018 and provides for an annual base salary during the term of the agreement of $195,000 per year. Mr. Shum is eligible to receive an annual bonus of at the discretion of the Board of Directors. In addition, Mr. Shum received an option to purchase 14,167 shares of our common stock. This option has a five-year term and vests as described above.

 

The agreement also contains the following material provisions: (i) reimbursement for all reasonable travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with his employment; (ii) two weeks paid vacation leave; (iii) medical, dental and life insurance benefits; (iv) 36-month non-compete/non-solicitation terms; and (v) a severance payment equal to six months of base salary upon termination without cause (as defined in the agreement).

 

Effective November 4, 2016, we entered into a First Amendment to Employment Agreement (the “Shum Amendment”) with Mr. Shum. Under the Shum Amendment, Mr. Shum’s base salary was decreased to $135,000 per annum. In addition, Mr. Shum is entitled to quarterly bonuses based on individual and company performance at the discretion of our Board of Directors as well as quarterly bonuses based on the achievement by us of certain quarterly EBITDA targets. We agreed to pay Mr. Shum $4,250 for accrued and unpaid salary, which will be paid on the earlier of a qualified equity financing or six months from the effective date of the Shum Amendment. We also agreed to indemnify Mr. Shum to the fullest extent allowed by the Articles, the Bylaws and applicable law, and notwithstanding Section 7.14 of our Bylaws, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the rights granted pursuant to the Shum Amendment shall apply to acts and actions occurring since October 31, 2014.

 

Employment Agreement with Melissa Heim

 

On February 27, 2015, we entered into an employment agreement with Ms. Heim. The agreement has an initial term ending on February 27, 2020 and provides for an annual base salary during the term of the agreement of $40,000 per year. Ms. Heim is eligible to receive an annual bonus of at the discretion of the Board of Directors. In addition, Ms. Heim received an option to purchase 417 shares of our common stock. This option has a five-year term and vests as described above.

 

The agreement also contains the following material provisions: (i) reimbursement for all reasonable travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with his employment; (ii) ten business days paid vacation leave; (iii) medical, dental and life insurance benefits; and (iv) 36-month non-compete/non-solicitation terms.

 

We have increased Ms. Heim’s annual base salary during the course of her employment, and she now earns an annual base salary of $85,000.

 

Employment Agreement with Jarrett Catalani

 

Under the terms of Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement, Mr. Catalani will be employed as our Senior Vice President – Sales for a three-year term. Mr. Catalani will initially be paid an annual base salary of $150,000, subject to review from time to time by the compensation committee. Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement further provides that Mr. Catalani is eligible to participate in our annual bonus plan with an initial target annual bonus of $100,000, the actual payment of which will be determined based upon a combination of our results and individual performance against applicable performance goals fixed by the compensation committee.

 

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In addition to salary and bonuses as summarized above, Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement provides that Mr. Catalani is eligible to participate in employee benefits plans as we may institute from time to time at the discretion of the compensation committee. Initially, at the next meeting of the compensation committee, upon recommendation of management, he will be granted 10,000 options under the 2016 Plan, which options will vest quarterly over a three-year period, at an exercise price equal to the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant.

 

In the event Mr. Catalani’s employment is terminated “without cause” (as defined in Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement) after his failure to take corrective action during any applicable cure period, he will receive, in addition to any compensation otherwise due to him, payment of his then base salary and continuation of his benefits for six months following the termination. If his employment is terminated voluntarily, due to death or disability or is terminated for “cause” (as defined in Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement), all vesting of equity grants and awards will immediately cease and only routine compensation provided in Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement will be due.

 

Any amounts payable under Mr. Catalani’s employment agreement are subject to any policy (whether currently in existence or later adopted) established by us providing for clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to Mr. Catalani. We will make any determination for such clawback or recovery in our sole discretion and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation.

 

Finally, Mr. Catalani is subject to intellectual property assignment, confidentiality and non-solicitation restrictions.

 

Employment Agreement with Allen Barteld

 

In connection with our acquisition of MotherLode, on March 8, 2017, we entered into a three-year employment agreement with Mr. Barteld. Under the terms of Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement, Mr. Barteld will be employed as the President and Chief Executive Officer of MotherLode, and will continue to serve as its manager, for a three-year term. Mr. Barteld was initially paid an annual base salary of $85,000, subject to review from time to time by the compensation committee. Upon the earlier of December 31, 2017 or the closing of a registered public offering of our common stock that results in net proceeds to us of at least $3,000,000, Mr. Barteld’s base salary was to be increased to $120,000 per year, subject to review from time to time by the compensation committee. In connection with our August 2017 follow-on public offering which resulted in net proceeds to us of approximately $5,000,000, Mr. Barteld’s salary was increased to $120,000 per year, subject to review from time to time by the compensation committee. Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement further provides that Mr. Barteld is eligible to participate in our annual bonus plan, the actual payment of which will be determined based upon a combination of our results and individual performance against applicable performance goals fixed by the compensation committee.

 

In addition to salary and bonuses as summarized above, Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement provides that Mr. Barteld is eligible to participate in employee benefits plans as we may institute from time to time at the discretion of the compensation committee. Initially, at the next meeting of the compensation committee, upon recommendation of management, he will be granted 83,334 options under the 2016 Plan, which options will vest quarterly over a five-year period, at an exercise price equal to the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant.

 

In the event Mr. Barteld’s employment is terminated “without cause” (as defined in Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement) after his failure to take corrective action during any applicable cure period, or if he resigns for “good reason” (as defined in Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement), then he will receive, in addition to any compensation otherwise due to him, payment of his then base salary and continuation of his benefits for six months following the termination. Mr. Barteld may not resign for good reason without first providing us with written notice of the acts or omissions constituting the grounds for good reason within 90 days of the initial existence of such grounds, and a reasonable cure period of at least 30 days. If his employment is terminated voluntarily, due to death or disability or is terminated for “cause” (as defined in Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement), all vesting of equity grants and awards will immediately cease and only routine compensation provided in Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement will be due.

 

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Any amounts payable under Mr. Barteld’s employment agreement are subject to any policy (whether currently in existence or later adopted) established by us providing for clawback or recovery of amounts that were paid to Mr. Barteld. We will make any determination for such clawback or recovery in our sole discretion and in accordance with any applicable law or regulation.

 

Finally, Mr. Barteld is subject to confidentiality, non-compete and non-solicitation restrictions.

 

Potential Payments upon Termination

 

Under the terms of the employment agreements for Messrs. Shum, Catalani and Barteld, they are each entitled to a severance payment of six month’s salary at the then-applicable base salary rate in the event that we terminate their employment without “cause.” Mr. Barteld is entitled to a severance payment of six month’s salary at the then-applicable base salary rate if he resigns for “good reason.”

 

The following table sets forth quantitative information with respect to potential payments to be made to Messrs. Shum, Catalani and Barteld upon termination without cause or for good reason, as applicable, as provided in their respective employment agreements discussed in the “Employment Agreements” section above.

 

    Potential Payment upon Termination  
Name   Without Cause (1)  
       
Steven Shum   $ 67,500 (2)
Allen Barteld     60,000 (3)
Jarrett Catalani    

75,000

(4)

 

(1) Employee entitled to six months’ severance at the then applicable base salary rate.
(2) Based on Mr. Shum’s current annual base salary of $135,000.
(3) Based on Mr. Barteld’s current annual base salary of $120,000.
(4)

Based on Mr. Catalani’s current annual base salary of $150,000.

 

Employee Benefit Plans

 

We believe that our ability to grant equity-based awards is a valuable and necessary compensation tool that aligns the long-term financial interests of our employees, consultants and directors with the financial interests of our stockholders. In addition, we believe that our ability to grant options and other equity-based awards helps us to attract, retain and motivate employees, consultants and directors and encourages them to devote their best efforts to our business and financial success. We adopted a 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2015 Plan”), under which an aggregate of 50,000 shares are issuable pursuant to awards and grants under the 2015 Plan. Thereafter, in September 2016, our Board of Directors approved the adoption of the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”), which replaces the 2015 Plan. Our stockholders approved the adoption of the 2016 Plan in December 2016. The principal features of our 2016 Plan are summarized below. This summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the actual text of the 2016 Plan, which is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

 

Purpose of the 2016 Plan

 

The purpose of the 2016 Plan is to attract, retain and motivate directors, executive officers and other employees and certain consultants. The 2016 Plan enables us to grant equity awards to our directors, officers, employees and independent contractors providing services to us, at such levels determined by our Board of Directors, or a committee designated by the Board of Directors, to be necessary to attract, retain and motivate the individuals who will be critical to our success in achieving its business objectives, and thereby creating greater value for all our stockholders.

 

It is intended that the 2016 Plan qualify as an incentive stock option plan meeting the requirements of Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”).

 

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Authorized Shares

 

The maximum number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under the 2016 Plan is currently 500,000 (on a post-reverse split basis), provided that , the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under the 2016 Plan will automatically increase on January 1 of each year for a period of up to 10 years, commencing on January 1, 2017, in an amount equal to 8% of the number of outstanding shares of our capital stock, calculated on an as-converted basis, on December 31 of the preceding calendar year, or a lesser number of shares determined by our Board of Directors. After taking into account the automatic increase described in the foregoing sentence, effective January 1, 2017, the aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the 2016 Plan was 307,139. The Board of Directors originally authorized the issuance of 166,667 shares of common stock for issuance under the 2016 Plan. However, in May 2017 and June 2017, the Board of Directors approved amendments to the 2016 Plan to increase the number of shares of common stock reserved thereunder to a new total of 389,709 and 500,000 shares, respectively (and each on a post-reverse split basis), contingent upon stockholder adoption and approval of this amendment at the next annual meeting of stockholders.

 

Shares subject to stock awards granted under the 2016 Plan that expire or terminate without being exercised in full, or that are paid out in cash rather than in shares, do not reduce the number of shares available for issuance under the 2016 Plan. Additionally, shares issued pursuant to stock awards under the 2016 Plan that we repurchase or that are forfeited, as well as shares used to pay the exercise price of a stock award or to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to a stock award, become available for future grant under the 2016 Plan.

 

Eligibility for Awards and Plan Administration

 

Employees, independent contractors and directors of us and our affiliates are eligible to receive awards under the 2016 Plan, along with such other individuals designated by the Board of Directors (or a duly authorized committee of our Board of Directors) who are reasonably expected to become employees, independent contractors or directors after the receipt of awards under the 2016 Plan.

 

Our Board of Directors, or a duly authorized committee of our Board of Directors, will administer the 2016 Plan. Our Board of Directors may also delegate to one or more of our officers the authority to (1) designate employees (other than officers) to receive specified stock awards and (2) determine the number of shares subject to such stock awards. Under the 2016 Plan, our Board of Directors has the authority to determine the terms of awards, including recipients, the exercise, purchase or strike price of stock awards, if any, the number of shares subject to each stock award, the fair market value of a share of our common stock, the vesting schedule applicable to the awards, together with any vesting acceleration, the form of consideration, if any, payable upon exercise or settlement of the award and the terms of the award agreements. The Board of Directors may also amend outstanding awards under the 2016 Plan for the purpose of modifying the time or manner of vesting or the term of any outstanding award, with the consent of any adversely affected participant.

 

Stock Options

 

Incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options are granted pursuant to stock option agreements adopted by the plan administrator. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for stock options, within the terms and conditions of the 2016 Plan, provided that the exercise price of a stock option generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the 2016 Plan vest at the rate specified in the stock option agreement as determined by the plan administrator.

 

Restricted Stock Unit Awards

 

Restricted stock unit awards (“RSUs”) are awards of hypothetical common stock units having a value equal to the fair market value of an identical number of shares of common stock, and granted pursuant to restricted stock unit award agreements adopted by the plan administrator. A restricted stock unit award may be settled by cash, delivery of stock, a combination of cash and stock as deemed appropriate by the plan administrator or in any other form of consideration set forth in the restricted stock unit award agreement. Additionally, dividend equivalents may be credited in respect of shares covered by a restricted stock unit award. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable award agreement, restricted stock units that have not vested will be forfeited upon the participant’s cessation of continuous service for any reason.

 

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Restricted Stock Awards

 

Restricted stock awards are awards of actual shares of common stock, and are granted pursuant to restricted stock award agreements adopted by the plan administrator. The plan administrator determines the terms and conditions of restricted stock awards, including vesting and forfeiture terms. If a participant’s service relationship with us ceases for any reason, we may receive through a forfeiture condition or a repurchase right any or all of the shares of common stock held by the participant that have not vested as of the date the participant terminates service with us.

 

Stock Appreciation Rights

 

Stock appreciation rights are awards to receive, upon exercise, an amount payable in cash or shares equal to the number of shares subject to the stock appreciation right multiplied by the excess of the fair market value of a share of common stock on the date the award is exercised over the exercise price for the stock appreciation right. Stock appreciation rights are granted pursuant to stock appreciation grant agreements adopted by the plan administrator. The plan administrator determines the purchase price or strike price for a stock appreciation right, which generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. A stock appreciation right granted under the 2016 Plan may, but need not, vest and become exercisable in periodic installments as specified in the stock appreciation right agreement as determined by the plan administrator.

 

Performance Awards

 

The 2016 Plan provides that the plan administrator shall have the authority, at the time of grant of any awards contemplated by the 2016 Plan (subject to certain exceptions) to designate such award as a “performance-based compensation” award in order to qualify such award as performance-based compensation that is not subject to the $1,000,000 limitation on the income tax deductibility imposed by Section 162(m) of the Code. Our Board of Directors (or a committee thereof) may structure awards so that the stock or cash will be issued or paid only following the achievement of certain pre-established performance goals during a designated performance period. Unless the Board of Directors determines to submit the performance-based compensation award portions of the 2016 Plan and the definition of “performance goal” and “performance criteria” to our stockholders at the first stockholder meeting that occurs in the fifth year following the year in which the 2016 Plan was last approved by stockholders (or any earlier meeting designated by the Board of Directors), in accordance with the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code, and such stockholder approval is obtained, then no further performance compensation awards shall be made under the 2016 Plan after the date of such annual meeting, but the 2016 Plan may continue in effect for awards to participants not in accordance with Section 162(m) of the Code.

 

Changes to Capital Structure

 

In the event there is a specified type of change in our capital structure, such as any stock or extraordinary cash dividend, stock split, reverse stock split, recapitalization, reorganization merger, consolidation, combination, exchange or other relevant change in capitalization, appropriate adjustments will be made to the exercise price of options and stock appreciation rights, the maximum number of shares subject to all awards and the maximum number of shares with respect to which any one person may be granted awards during any period stated in the 2016 Plan. Any adjustments will be made to ensure that any adjustments will not constitute a modification of any stock options within the meaning of Section 424(h)(3) and Section 409A of the Code, will not adversely affect applicable exemptions under the Exchange Act and rules promulgated thereunder, and will not cause us to be denied a tax deduction on account of Section 162(m) of the Code.

 

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Change in Control

 

The 2016 Plan provides that in the event of a change in control, unless otherwise provided in an applicable award agreement, all options and stock appreciation rights shall become immediately exercisable with respect to 100% of the shares subject to such options or stock appreciation rights, and the restricted period shall expire immediately with respect to 100% of the shares of restricted stock or restricted stock units. In addition, the plan administrator may in its discretion and upon advance notice, cancel any outstanding awards and pay to the holders thereof, in cash or stock or a combination thereof, the value of such awards based upon the price per share of common stock received in the event. Under the 2016 Plan, a change in control is defined to include (1) a sale, transfer, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets to any person or entity that is not our subsidiary; (2) individuals who constitute our incumbent Board of Directors ceasing to constitute at least a majority of our Board of Directors; (3) a complete liquidation or dissolution of us; (4) the acquisition by any person or company of more than 50% of the combined voting power of our then outstanding stock; or (5) a merger, consolidation or similar transaction in which our stockholders immediately prior to the transaction do not own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the surviving entity (or the parent of the surviving entity).

 

Transferability

 

A participant may not transfer stock awards under the 2016 Plan other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution or as otherwise provided under the 2016 Plan.

 

Plan Amendment or Termination

 

Our Board of Directors has the authority to amend, suspend or terminate the 2016 Plan, provided that such action does not materially impair the existing rights of any participant without such participant’s written consent. Certain material amendments also require the approval of our stockholders. The 2016 will automatically terminate upon the tenth anniversary of the date our Board of Directors adopted the 2016 Plan. No stock awards may be granted under the 2016 Plan while it is suspended or after it is terminated, but awards granted before the termination date of the 2016 Plan may extend beyond such date.

 

Certain Federal Tax Consequences

 

The following summary of the federal income tax consequences of transactions under the 2016 Plan is based upon federal income tax laws in effect on the date of this prospectus. This summary does not purport to be complete, and does not discuss state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences.

 

Non-qualified Stock Options . The grant of a Non-Qualified Stock Option under the 2016 Plan will not result in any federal income tax consequences to the participant or to us. Upon exercise of a Non-qualified Stock Option, the participant generally must recognize ordinary compensation income equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares of common stock at the time of exercise over the option exercise price. If a participant exercises a Non-Qualified Stock Option and receives shares that are subject to the insider trading provisions of Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act and sale of the shares could subject the participant to liability under Section 16(b), then the participant will not recognize income upon the exercise of the option until the six-month period during which section 16(b) applies has lapsed or the stock is sold, if a sale occurs earlier. The participant will have to pay taxes (including income taxes and, if the participant is an employee, Social Security, unemployment and Medicare taxes) at the time a Non-Qualified Stock Option is exercised even though the shares received upon exercise might not be sold until a later taxable year.

 

Incentive Stock Options . The grant of an Incentive Stock Option under the 2016 Plan will not result in any federal income tax consequences to the participant or to us. A participant recognizes no federal taxable income upon exercising an Incentive Stock Option (subject to the alternative minimum tax rules discussed below), and we receive no deduction at the time of exercise. In the event of a disposition of stock acquired upon exercise of an Incentive Stock Option, the tax consequences depend upon how long the participant has held the shares. If the participant does not dispose of the shares within two years after the Incentive Stock Option was granted, nor within one year after the Incentive Stock Option was exercised, the participant will recognize a long-term capital gain (or loss) equal to the difference between the sale price of the shares and the exercise price. We are not entitled to any deduction under these circumstances.

 

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If the participant fails to satisfy either of the foregoing holding periods (referred to as a “disqualifying disposition”), he or she will recognize ordinary compensation income in the year of the disposition. The amount of ordinary compensation income generally is the lesser of (i) the difference between the amount realized on the disposition and the exercise price or (ii) the difference between the fair market value of the stock at the time of exercise and the exercise price. Such amount is not subject to withholding for federal income and employment tax purposes, even if the participant is our employee. Any gain in excess of the amount taxed as ordinary income will generally be treated as a short-term capital gain. Generally, common stock acquired through the exercise of an Incentive Stock Option will not be considered to have been disposed of if transferred by reason of death, through certain tax-free reorganizations, or if pledged or liened.

 

The “spread” under an Incentive Stock Option — i.e. , the difference between the fair market value of the shares at exercise and the exercise price—is classified as an item of adjustment in the year of exercise for purposes of the alternative minimum tax. If a participant’s alternative minimum tax liability exceeds such participant’s regular income tax liability, the participant will owe the alternative minimum tax liability.

 

Restricted Stock . Restricted Stock is generally taxable to the participant as ordinary compensation income on the date that the restrictions lapse (i.e. the date that the stock vests), in an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of the shares on such date over the amount paid for such stock (if any). If the participant is an employee, this income is subject to withholding for federal income and employment tax purposes. We are entitled to an income tax deduction in the amount of the ordinary income recognized by the participant, subject to possible limitations imposed by the Code, including Section 162(m) thereof. Any gain or loss on the participant’s subsequent disposition of the shares will be treated as long-term or short-term capital gain or loss treatment depending on the sales price and how long the stock has been held since the restrictions lapsed. We do not receive a tax deduction for any subsequent gain.

 

Participants receiving Restricted Stock Awards may make an election under Section 83(b) of the Code (“Section 83(b) Election”) to recognize as ordinary compensation income in the year that such Restricted Stock is granted, the amount equal to the excess of the fair market value on the date of the issuance of the stock over the amount paid for such stock. If such an election is made, the recipient recognizes no further amounts of compensation income upon the lapse of any restrictions and any gain or loss on subsequent disposition will be long-term or short-term capital gain or loss to the recipient. The Section 83(b) Election must be made within 30 days from the time the Restricted Stock is issued.

 

Other Awards . Other Stock-Based Awards (such as Restricted Stock Units) are generally treated as ordinary compensation income as and when Common Stock or cash are paid to the participant upon vesting or settlement of such awards. If the participant is an employee, this income is subject to withholding for income and employment tax purposes. We are generally entitled to an income tax deduction equal to the amount of ordinary income recognized by the recipient, subject to possible limitations imposed by the Code, including Section 162(m) thereof.

 

Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code . Under Code Section 162(m), no deduction is allowed in any taxable year for compensation in excess of $1 million paid to our “covered employees.” A “covered employee” is our chief executive officer and our three other most highly compensated officers other than the chief financial officer. An exception to this rule applies to “qualified performance based compensation,” which generally includes stock options and stock appreciation rights granted under a stockholder approved plan, and other forms of equity incentives, the vesting or payment of which is contingent upon the satisfaction of certain stockholder approved performance goals. We intend that the 2016 Plan allow for the grant of Options and Stock Appreciation Rights that may be treated as “qualified performance based compensation” that is exempt from the limitations of Code Section 162(m), and for the grant of other performance-based awards that may be treated as “qualified performance based compensation,” but it makes no assurance that either such type of award will be so treated.

 

Limitation on Liability and Indemnification Matters

 

We are a Nevada corporation, and accordingly, we are subject to the corporate laws under the Nevada Revised Statutes. Articles 5 and 6 of our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“Articles”), Article VII of our Amended and Restated Bylaws (“Bylaws”) and the Nevada Revised Business Statutes, contain indemnification and personal liability limitation provisions.

 

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Limitation of Personal Liability of Directors and Officers

 

Our Articles provide that our directors and officers will not be personally liable to us or to our stockholders for damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director or officer; provided, however , that the limitation on personal liability will not eliminate or limit the liability of a director or officer for (i) acts or omissions that involve intentional misconduct, fraud or a knowing violation of law or (ii) the unlawful payment of distributions.

 

Indemnification

 

Pursuant to our Articles and Bylaws, we will indemnify and hold harmless, to the fullest extent permitted by the Nevada Revised Statutes or any other applicable laws, any person serving or who served as a director, officer, employee or agent of us, or who is or was serving at our request as a director, officer, employee, trustee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise who is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any action, suit or proceedings, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, including an action by or in the right of the corporation, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of our corporation, and with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful. With respect to actions brought by or in the right of the corporation, we are required to indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of our corporation to procure a judgment in our favor by reason of the fact that he is or was an serving as our agent against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of our corporation, except that no indemnification will be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which the agent will have been adjudged to be liable to us by a court of competent jurisdiction, as described in greater detail in our Bylaws. The payment of expenses includes the requirement that we pay expenses in defending an action or proceeding in advance of final disposition of such action or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by the indemnified party to repay such payment if it is ultimately determined that such person is not entitled to indemnification. Such indemnification is not exclusive of any other right to indemnification provided by law or otherwise.

 

Our Bylaws also provide that we may enter into indemnification agreements with our officers and directors. Our Articles provide that we may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director or officer of our corporation as a director of officer of another corporation, or as its representative in a partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against such person and incurred in any such capacity or arising out of such status, whether or not we would have the power to indemnify such person.

 

The limitation of liability and indemnification provisions in our Articles and Bylaws may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against directors for breach of their fiduciary duties. They may also reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation against directors and officers, even though an action, if successful, might benefit us and our stockholders. A stockholder’s investment may be harmed to the extent we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against directors and officers pursuant to these indemnification provisions. There is no pending litigation or proceeding naming any of our directors or officers as to which indemnification is being sought, nor are we aware of any pending or threatened litigation that may result in claims for indemnification by any director or officer.

 

Disclosure of Commission Position of Indemnification for Securities Act Liabilities

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors, officers and controlling persons pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, we have been advised that, in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act, and is, therefore, unenforceable.

 

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

The following is a description of transactions since January 1, 2015 as to which the amount involved exceeds the lesser of $120,000 or one percent of the average of our total assets at year-end for the last two completed fiscal years and in which any related person has or will have a direct or indirect material interest, other than equity and other compensation, termination and other arrangements which are described above under the headings “Director Compensation” and “Executive Compensation.”

 

On August 23, 2017, our board of directors (the “Board”) appointed Jack Peterson to the Board to fill an existing vacancy on the Board effective immediately. Mr. Peterson is also the President of Sandstrom Partners. In late 2016, with the goal of increasing its brand value and accelerating sales, the Company retained Sandstrom and tasked them with reviewing the Company’s current product portfolio, as well as its new ideas, and advising it with respect to marketing, creation of brand awareness and product positioning, locally and nationally. The Company is using Sandstrom’s full range of brand development services, including research, strategy, brand identity, package design, environments, advertising as well as digital design and development. The Company anticipates that its product packaging design will change in the second half of 2017 as a result of Sandstrom’s efforts. The Company has paid $80,000 in cash and 33,334 shares of stock valued at $145,000 (at the time of issuance) to Sandstrom Partners in 2017 to date for services rendered by Sandstrom under its agreement with the Company.

 

On August 10, 2017, Mr. Wickersham and his affiliates purchased 55,555 units at $4.50 per unit, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one Public Warrant, for total proceeds of approximately $250,000 in cash.

 

On June 2, 2017, Mr. Wickersham purchased 15,189 units at $3.90 per unit, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one three-year common stock purchase warrant exercisable at $7.50 per share (subject to adjustment), for total proceeds of $59,237 in cash.

 

On April 4, 2016, Mr. Earles purchased 185 units in an offering of units consisting of shares of our series A convertible preferred stock and warrants to purchase common stock (our “Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering”) in consideration of $185,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. Each unit consisted of one share of series A convertible preferred stock and one warrant to purchase 223 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. Steven Shum, our chief financial officer, purchased 97 Units in the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering in consideration of $97,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. Martin Kunkel, our former chief marketing officer, director and secretary, purchased 58 Units in the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering in consideration of $58,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. Carrie Earles, our chief branding officer and wife of Steven Earles, purchased 83 Units in the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering in consideration of $83,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. These issuances were unanimously approved by our Board of Directors, including all disinterested directors. Effective November 4, 2016, we entered into an agreement with Mr. Earles, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to which Mr. Earles agreed to convert 185 shares of the Company’s series A convertible preferred stock into 41,111 shares of the Company’s Common Stock and to cancel his warrant to purchase 41,107 shares of the Company’s Common Stock.

 

On June 9, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by the Grover T. Wickersham Employees’ Profit Sharing Plan (“PSP”) for which Mr. Wickersham serves as trustee, the PSP purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 83,334 units, each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one common stock purchase warrant (collectively with the common stock, the “Common Stock Units”) at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $250,000.

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by Grover T. Wickersham, Mr. Wickersham directly purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 38,334 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit for a total purchase price of $115,000. On December 30, Mr. Wickersham assigned 24,680 of his warrants to a related and un-related party. He also voluntarily canceled 8,334 additional warrants.

 

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On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by an education trust established for the benefit of an unrelated minor for which Mr. Wickersham serves as trustee (“Education Trust”), the Education Trust purchased in a private placement 16,667 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $50,000.

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by the Lindsay Anne Wickersham 1999 Irrevocable Trust for which Mr. Wickersham serves as trustee (the “Irrevocable Trust”), the Irrevocable Trust purchased in a private placement 66,667 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $200,000.

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement, Mr. Fleming directly purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 8,334 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, each Common Stock Unit consisting of one share of common stock and a warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share, for a total purchase price of $25,000.

 

On June 30, 2016, the PSP purchased from us a promissory note bearing interest at the rate of 8% per annum (a “Promissory Note”) for aggregate consideration of $50,000, along with a warrant to acquire 8,334 shares of common stock at a price of $6.00 per share. On July 7, 2016, the PSP purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $120,000, along with a warrant to acquire 20,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. On December 30, 2016, the PSP exercised 43,590 warrants at a price of $3.90 per share.

 

On June 30, 2016, the Grover T. and Jill Z. Wickersham 2000 Charitable Remainder Trust (the “Wickersham Trust”) purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $50,000, along with a warrant to acquire 8,334 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. On November 21, 2016, the Wickersham Trust purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $75,000, along with a warrant to acquire 12,500 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. On December 31, 2016, the Wickersham Trust exercised its 20,834 warrants along with an additional 11,218 warrants assigned from Mr. Wickersham all at a price of $3.90 in exchange for eliminating the outstanding note principal.

 

On September 19, 2016, an entity for which Lawrence Hirson, a former director, serves as manager purchased $150,000 of promissory notes and received 3-year warrants to purchase 25,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, our former chief executive officer paid expenses on our behalf on his personal credit card. These related party advances did not bear interest and were payable on demand. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the balance due to our former chief executive officer was approximately $0 and $27,075, respectively, and is included in accounts payable on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We also had a note payable due our former chief executive officer in the amount of $12,500 at December 31, 2015, that was repaid during fiscal year 2016.

 

During the three months ended March 31, 2016, our former chief executive officer paid expenses on our behalf on his personal credit card. These related party advances did not bear interest and are payable on demand. At March 31, 2016, the balance due to our former chief executive officer was approximately $95,000, and is included in accounts payable on the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

 

See “Principal Stockholders” for a current summary of the securities owned by our officers and directors.

 

We believe that the foregoing transactions were in our best interests. Consistent with Section 78.140 of the Nevada Revised Statutes, it is our current policy that all transactions between us and our officers, directors and their affiliates will be entered into only if such transactions are approved by a majority of the disinterested directors, are approved by vote of the stockholders, or are fair to us as a corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified by the board. We will continue to conduct an appropriate review of all related party transactions and potential conflicts of interest on an ongoing basis.

 

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Executive Employment Arrangements

 

We have entered into employment agreements with certain of our executive officers. For more information regarding these agreements, see the section of the prospectus captioned “Executive Compensation – Employment Agreements.”

 

Policies and Procedures for Transactions with Related Persons

 

We intend to adopt a policy that our executive officers, directors, nominees for election as a director, beneficial owners of more than 5% of any class of our common stock and any members of the immediate family of any of the foregoing persons are not permitted to enter into a related person transaction with us without the prior consent of our audit committee. Any request for us to enter into a transaction with an executive officer, director, nominee for election as a director, beneficial owner of more than 5% of any class of our voting securities or any member of the immediate family of any of the foregoing persons, in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000 and such person would have a direct or indirect interest, must first be presented to our audit committee for review, consideration and approval. In approving or rejecting any such proposal, our audit committee is to consider the material facts of the transaction, including, but not limited to, whether the transaction is on terms no less favorable than terms generally available to an unaffiliated third party under the same or similar circumstances and the extent of the related person’s interest in the transaction. All of the transactions described above were entered into prior to the adoption of such policy, but after presentation, consideration and approval by our Board of Directors.

 

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

 

The following table presents information concerning the beneficial ownership of the shares of our common stock as of September 20, 2017, by:

 

  each person we know to be the beneficial owner of 5% of more of our outstanding shares of common stock;
     
  our executive officers named in the Summary Compensation Table and our directors; and
     
  all of our executive officers and directors as a group.

 

Except as otherwise indicated below, the address of each beneficial owner listed in the table is c/o Eastside Distilling, Inc., 2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive, Portland, OR 97222.

 

We have determined beneficial ownership in accordance with the rules of the SEC. Except as indicated by the footnotes below, we believe, based on the information furnished to us, that the persons and entities named in the table below have sole voting and investment power with respect to all shares of common stock that they beneficially own, subject to applicable community property laws.

 

Applicable percentage ownership is based on 4,824,399 shares of common stock outstanding on September 20, 2017. In computing the number of shares of common stock beneficially owned by a person and the percentage ownership of that person, we deemed as outstanding shares of common stock subject to options held by that person that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of September 20, 2017 (November 20, 2017). In accordance with Rule 13d-3(a) promulgated under the Exchange Act, we did not deem these exercisable shares outstanding, however, for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. The applicable footnotes are an integral part of the table and should be carefully read in order to understand the actual ownership of our securities.

 

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          Number of Shares              
          Subject to Options,              
    Number of     Warrants and RSUs     Total Shares  
    Shares     Issuable by     Beneficially Owned  
Name of Beneficial Owners   Beneficially Held     November 20, 2017     Number     Percent  
5% Stockholders                        
Glenbrook Capital, L.P. (1)     526,916       188,931       715,847       14.28 %
                                 
Directors and Executive Officers                                
Grover T. Wickersham     408,031 (2)     252,475 (3)     660,506       13.01  
Trent D. Davis     11, 630       12,038       23 ,668       *  
Michael M. Fleming     14 ,963       16,372 (4)     31, 335       *  
Melissa Heim     8,524       5,695       14,219       *  
Shelly A. Saunders     -       625       625       *  
Jack Peterson     42,734 (5)     42,625 (6)     85,359       1.75  
Steven Shum     17,000       19,340       36,340       *  
Allen Barteld     86,667       8,333       95,000       1.97  
                                 
All executive officers, directors as a group (8 persons)     589,549       357,503 (7)     947,052       18.92  

 

 

 

* Represents beneficial ownership of less than one percent of the outstanding common stock.

 

  (1) Glenbrook Capital, L.P. (“Glenbrook”) is a Nevada limited partnership, the general partner of which is Glenbrook Capital Management, a Nevada corporation (“GCM”). Glenbrook is overseen by its executive officers and a board of directors consisting of four directors. Grover T. Wickersham, the corporation’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, is the owner of GCM. However, he does not direct the voting or disposition of the shares owned by Glenbrook. GCM disclaims beneficial ownership of the securities owned by Glenbrook Limited Partnership except to the extent of its pecuniary interest in the limited partnership.
     
  (2) The shares of common stock include (i) 97,114 shares held directly; (ii) 178,531 shares owned by his company’s employee profit sharing plan, for which he serves as trustee; (iii) 42,440 shares owned by a charitable remainder trust, for which he serves as co-trustee and a beneficiary; and (iv) 87,745 shares owned by his minor daughter’s irrevocable trust, for which he serves as trustee.
     
  (3) Includes (i) 205,808 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of currently-exercisable warrants and (ii) 46,667 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable on or before November 20, 2017.
     
  (4) Includes (i) 9,334 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of currently-exercisable warrants and (ii) 7,038 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable on or before November 20, 2017.
     
  (5) Includes (i) 9,400 shares of common stock held directly or indirectly by Mr. Peterson and (ii) 33,334 shares of common stock owned by Sandstrom Partners, of which Mr. Peterson is the current CEO.
     
  (6) Includes (i) 42,000 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of currently-exercisable warrants held by Sandstrom Partners, of which Mr. Peterson is the current CEO and (ii) 625 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable on or before November 20, 2017.
     
  (7) Includes (i) 186,808 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of currently-exercisable warrants and (ii) 95,361 shares issuable upon exercise of stock options exercisable on or before November 20, 2017.

 

  63
 

 

SELLING STOCKHOLDERS

 

This prospectus relates to the possible resale, from time to time, by the selling stockholders identified in this prospectus of up to an aggregate of 2,462,436 shares of our common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (the “Shares”), which includes (i) 266,679 shares of common stock sold to 30 investors in a private placement of units in December 2016; (i) 266,679 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants to purchase common stock sold in the private placement noted in clause (i) (the “2016 Warrants”); (iii) 479,338 shares of common stock issued to 23 investors who exercised warrants in connection with a temporary exercise price reduction in December 2016; (iv) 400,016 shares of common stock sold to 43 investors in a private placement of units between April and June 2017; (v) 400,016 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants to purchase common stock sold in the private placement noted in clause (iv) (the “2017 Warrants”); (vi) 192,887 shares of common stock acquired throughout 2017 in various transactions, including upon conversion of series A convertible preferred stock and convertible notes; and (vii) 456,821 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of other outstanding warrants (together with the 2016 Warrants and the 2017 Warrants, the “Selling Stockholder Warrants”).

 

We have entered into a registration rights agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”) with the investors who participated in our common units offering that closed between December 2016 and May 2017, who constitute the selling stockholders. Under the terms of those agreements, we have agreed to register the resale of the 1,333,333 shares of common stock and the 1,333,333 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrant component of the units that we sold to those investors. Although not contractually obligated to do so, we may register up to an additional 1,003,978 shares of common stock on behalf of certain holders of common stock who purchased our securities prior to the common units offering.

 

The table below presents information regarding the selling stockholders and the common stock that they may sell or otherwise dispose of from time to time under this prospectus. The table is based on information supplied to us by the selling stockholders and reflects holdings as of September 20, 2017. Percentages of beneficial ownership are based upon 4,824,399 shares of common stock outstanding as of September 20, 2017. Beneficial ownership is determined under Section 13(d) of the Exchange Act and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities and including any securities that grant the selling stockholders the right to acquire common stock within 60 days of September 20, 2017 (November 20, 2017). Unless otherwise noted, each person or group identified possesses sole voting and investment power with respect to the common stock, subject to community property laws where applicable.

 

The selling stockholders or their successors, donees, pledgees, assignees and permitted transferees that receive the common stock and their corresponding registration in accordance with the Registration Rights Agreement (each also a selling stockholder for purposes of this prospectus), may sell up to all of the common stock shown in the table below under the heading “Total Shares Offered By Selling Stockholder in the Offering Covered by this Prospectus” pursuant to this prospectus in one or more transactions from time to time as described below under “Plan of Distribution.”

 

We do not know when or in what amounts, if any, the selling stockholders may sell or otherwise dispose of the common stock covered hereby. We currently have no agreements, arrangements or understandings with the selling stockholders regarding the sale of any of the common stock by them other than the Registration Rights Agreement described above. The selling stockholders might not sell any or all of the common stock covered by this prospectus or may sell or dispose of some or all of the common stock other than pursuant to this prospectus. Because the selling stockholders may not sell or otherwise dispose of some or all of the common stock covered by this prospectus and because there are currently no agreements, arrangements or understandings with respect to the sale or other disposition of any of the common stock, we cannot estimate the number of the common stock that will be held by the selling stockholders after completion of the offering.

 

Each selling stockholder has indicated to us that neither it nor any of its affiliates has held any position or office or had any other material relationship with us in the past three years except as described in the footnotes to the table.

 

  64
 

 

The common stock being offered under this prospectus may be offered for sale from time to time during the period the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part remains effective, by or for the accounts of the selling stockholders named below.

 

Information about the selling stockholders may change from time to time. Any changed information with respect to which we are given notice will be included in prospectus supplements.

 

    Beneficial Ownership Prior to Offering                 Beneficial Ownership After Offering  
Name of Selling Stockholder   Number of Shares of Common Stock and Shares of Common Stock Issuable Upon Exercise of Selling Stockholder Warrants     Percent     Number of Shares of Common Stock Offered     Number of Shares of Common Stock Offered Upon Exercise of Selling Stockholder Warrants     Number of Shares of Common Stock and Shares of Common Stock Issuable Upon Exercise of Selling Stockholder Warrants     Percent  
                                     
Alain Moor     5,134       0.11 %     2,567       2,567       -       0.00 %
Anabel Cristina Sanchez     160,000       3.27 %     80,000       80,000       -       0.00 %
Brent Roberts     6,668       0.14 %     3,334       3,334       -       0.00 %
Brian McCubbing Superannuation Fund     40,000       0.83 %     20,000       20,000       -       0.00 %
Carlos Rojas     13,334       0.28 %     6,667       6,667       -       0.00 %
Charles N Robbins MD and Cathy Robbins     13,334       0.28 %     6,667       6,667       -       0.00 %
Christopher Hayes     13,334       0.28 %     6,667       6,667       -       0.00 %
Clifford Rosen     13,334       0.28 %     6,667       6,667       -       0.00 %
Darrell Brookstein and Helen BrookStein, and their Successors, Co-Trustees of the Brookstein Family Trust amended and restated by Declaration of Trust dated May 31, 2007     21,334       0.44 %     9,167       9,167       3,000       0.06 %
David Grigsby     25,642       0.53 %     12,821       12,821       -       0.00 %
David Oakley     33,334       0.69 %     16,667       16,667       -       0.00 %
Dennis J. Eakin     6,668       0.14 %     3,334       3,334       -       0.00 %
Devinder Randhawa     33,334       0.69 %     16,667       16,667       -       0.00 %
DFO Investment A/C     26,668       0.55 %     13,334       13,334       -       0.00 %
Donald & Co Ltd     150,000       3.07 %     75,000       75,000       -       0.00 %
Douglas Yano     6,668       0.14 %     3,334       3,334       -       0.00 %
Dreamcaster Investments Pty Ltd     1,668       0.03 %     834       834       -       0.00 %
Dylan Smith     5,128       0.11 %     2,564       2,564       -       0.00 %
Edward W. Bessler     8,002       0.17 %     4,001       4,001       -       0.00 %
Eric Stewart     4,668       0.10 %     2,334       2,334       -       0.00 %
Everard Diedrick     2,668       0.06 %     1,334       1,334       -       0.00 %
Garth Groman     10,334       0.21 %     5,167       5,167       -       0.00 %
Glenbrook Capital     715,847       14.31 %     269,872       128,205       317,770       6.35 %
Grover T. Wickersham (1)     148,380       2.95 %     15,189       23,843       109,348       2.14 %
Grover T. Wickersham TTE, GTW PC Employee Profit Sharing Plan (2)     260,496       5.32 %     43,590       59,743       157,163       3.21 %
GTW & JW TTEE FBO 2000 Charitable Trust (2)     42,440       0.88 %     32,051       -       10,389       0.22 %
Lindsay Anne Wickersham 1999 Irrevocable Trust (2)     162,523       3.32 %     -       66,667       95,856       1.96 %
Haresh C. Jambusaria     5,334       0.11 %     2,667       2,667       -       0.00 %
Hugh Hanly     6,668       0.14 %     3,334       3,334       -       0.00 %
J.T. Waller     10,000       0.21 %     5,000       5,000       -       0.00 %
James G. Johnson Family Trust dtd 3-23-13     5,000       0.10 %     2,500       2,500       -       0.00 %
Jeff & Kimberly Phillips Living Trust 1/31/06     134,128       2.76 %     8,334       41,668       84,126       1.73 %
Joseph Xavier Thavundayil     1,334       0.03 %     667       667       -       0.00 %
Keith R. Ritter Joan E. Ritter JTWROS     5,000       0.10 %     2,500       2,500       -       0.00 %
Mark Buck     10,268       0.21 %     5,134       5,134       -       0.00 %
Mark Mizel     1,540       0.03 %     770       770       -       0.00 %
Martin Nance     5,334       0.11 %     2,667       2,667       -       0.00 %
Max Carmen     10,002       0.21 %     5,001       5,001       -       0.00 %
Nicholas C. Hodge     5,000       0.10 %     2,500       2,500       -       0.00 %
Peter Brask     3,334       0.07 %     1,667       1,667       -       0.00 %
Philip Andrew Gilliland Karen Lisette Gilliland, JTWROS     2,668       0.06 %     1,334       1,334       -       0.00 %
R.A. Jennings     26,668       0.55 %     13,334       13,334       -       0.00 %
Randal K. Bessler     5,334       0.11 %     2,667       2,667       -       0.00 %
Rex J. Rhew     29,606       0.61 %     14,803       14,803       -       0.00 %
Richard S. Bebb     2,568       0.05 %     1,284       1,284       -       0.00 %
Robert Bishop     41,668       0.86 %     20,834       20,834       -       0.00 %
Robert Sean King     10,770       0.22 %     5,385       5,385       -       0.00 %
Rolf A. Züger     13,334       0.28 %     6,667       6,667       -       0.00 %
Ron Kalfon     120,000       2.47 %     43,334       43,334       33,332       0.69 %
Ronald E. Cloud     13,336       0.28 %     6,668       6,668       -       0.00 %
Seager Rex Harbour     25,642       0.53 %     12,821       12,821       -       0.00 %
SGW Trust     668       0.01 %     334       334       -       0.00 %
Shu Hoashi     4,668       0.10 %     2,334       2,334       -       0.00 %
Skybiz Inc     13,334       0.28 %     6,667       6,667       -       0.00 %
Ted Storlie     2,000       0.04 %     1,000       1,000       -       0.00 %
Terry Grandy     5,334       0.11 %     2,667       2,667       -       0.00 %
Tesfamicael Tseghai     3,334       0.07 %     1,667       1,667       -       0.00 %
Thomas Laughlan Travers     21,593       0.45 %     8,463       8,463       4,667       0.10 %
Van Simmons     16,668       0.35 %     8,334       8,334       -       0.00 %
William B. Buck and  June L. Buck, JTWROS     3,334       0.07 %     1,667       1,667       -       0.00 %
William R. Zalla     33,336       0.69 %     16,668       16,668       -       0.00 %
William Sabarese     4,668       0.10 %     2,334       2,334       -       0.00 %
Yvonne Qu     334       0.01 %     167       167       -       0.00 %
Simon Wharmby     16,668       0.35 %     8,334       -       8,334       0.17 %
Lucy Kai Yee Lu     58,334       1.21 %     58,334       -       -       0.00 %
The Paxton Lee Shoen 1998 Education Trust     33,335       0.69 %     8,334       8,334       16,667       0.35 %
John M. Fuller, Jr. 2014 Separate Property Trust     41,668       0.87 %     33,334       -       8,334       0.17 %
Jutland Capital Management Ltd.     53,667       1.11 %     7,693       17,307       28,667       0.59 %
The Harvey Family Superannuation Fund (C/O Mark Harvey)     38,562       0.80 %     38,562       -       -       0.00 %
GDBA Investments, LLC     32,052       0.67 %     32,052       -       -       0.00 %
Betty Ann Samson & Gerald S. Samson     20,834       0.43 %     20,834       -       -       0.00 %
The Nicholson Family Partnership, a California L.P.     25,000       0.52 %     25,000       -       -       0.00 %
James Surface     29,180       0.61 %     11,555       -       17,625       0.37 %
Hans Powers     12,165       0.25 %     4,052       -       8,113       0.17 %
Bryan Sayler     4,606       0.10 %     2,222       -       2,384       0.05 %
Flavious J. Smith, Jr. Melanie A. Smith     19,444       0.40 %     11,110       -       8,334       0.17 %
Kathleen S. Powers Douglas M. Powers JTWROS     3,235       0.07 %     1,111       -       2,124       0.04 %
Kathleen S. Powers     9,876       0.21 %     3,333       -       6,543       0.14 %
Jacob Wang     11,820       0.25 %     4,444       -       7,376       0.15 %
Richard B. Goud, Jr.     5,354       0.11 %     1,164       -       4,190       0.09 %
James Sadler     556       0.01 %     223       -       333       0.01 %
Jamie Surface     2,222       0.05 %     889       -       1,333       0.03 %
Julie Surface     556       0.01 %     223       -       333       0.01 %
Kevin Surface     1,112       0.02 %     445       -       667       0.01 %
Darryl Yea     6,667       0.14 %     6,667       -       -       0.00 %
Tay Swee Nee     8,334       0.17 %     8,334       -       -       0.00 %
WATB ISA, LLC     200,002       4.06 %     -       108,334       91,668       1.86 %
Mark T. Brown     33,334       0.69 %     -       33,334       -       0.00 %
Robert J. Doyle     16,667       0.35 %     -       16,667       -       0.00 %
Ann & Stephen McCoid     16,668       0.35 %     -       8,334       8,334       0.17 %
Craig D’Ooge     8,334       0.17 %     -       8,334       -       0.00 %
Marc Rappel     16,668       0.35 %     -       8,334       8,334       0.17 %
Michael M. Fleming (3)     31,335       0.63 %     -       8,334       23,001       0.46 %
Scott LeFevre     33,334       0.69 %     -       16,667       16,667       0.35 %
Simon King     10,000       0.21 %     -       5,000       5,000       0.10 %
Maria Hanson     10,000       0.21 %     -       5,000       5,000       0.10 %
Kate White and Brad Holbrook     16,668       0.35 %     -       8,334       8,334       0.17 %
Joseph Alexander     27,777       0.58 %     -       11,110       16,667       0.35 %
Robert B. Ford     25,000       0.52 %     -       25,000       -       0.00 %
Rowena McBeath     83,334       1.73 %     83,334       -       -       0.00 %
KFK Children’s Trust     83,334       1.73 %     83,334       -       -       0.00 %
Totals     3,576,248       73.28 %     1,338,920       1,123,516       1,113,812       22.71 %

 

 

(1) Mr. Wickersham is our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
(2) Mr. Wickersham is our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and the Trustee of this entity.
(3) Mr. Fleming is a director of the Company and serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee.

 

  65
 

 

DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

 

General

 

We are a corporation and have authorized capital stock which consists of (i) 15,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of which 4,824,399 is outstanding as of September 20, 2017 and (ii) 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share, of which no shares are issued and outstanding as of September 20, 2017.

 

Registration Rights

 

We have entered into a registration rights agreement (the “Registration Rights Agreement”) with the investors who participated in our common units offering that closed between December 2016 and May 2017. Under the terms of those agreements, we have agreed to register the resale of the 1,333,333 shares of common stock and the 1,333,333 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrant component of the units that we sold to those investors. Although not contractually obligated to do so, we may register up to an additional 1,003,978 shares of common stock on behalf of certain holders of common stock who purchased our securities prior to the common units offering.

 

Common Stock

 

On October 6, 2016, we filed a certificate of change with the Nevada Secretary of State pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes (“NRS”) 78.209 to (i) decrease our authorized common stock from 900,000,000 to 45,000,000 shares and (ii) effectuate a 1-for-20 reverse stock split of our common stock. The certificate of change was filed with an effective date of October 18, 2016. On June 14, 2017, we filed a certificate of change with the Nevada Secretary of State pursuant to Nevada Revised Statutes 78.209 to (i) decrease our authorized common stock from 45,000,000 to 15,000,000 shares and (ii) effectuate a 1-for-3 reverse stock split of our outstanding common stock. The certificate of change was filed with an effective date of June 15, 2017. Pursuant to the Nevada Revised Statutes, our Board of Directors is authorized to effectuate a reverse stock split without stockholder approval where such split is accomplished with a concurrent proportional decrease in the Company’s authorized common stock.

 

Holders of our common stock are entitled to one vote per share on all matters subject to stockholder vote. If the Board of Directors were to declare a dividend out of funds legally available therefor, all of the outstanding shares of common stock would be entitled to receive such dividend ratably. We have never declared dividends, and we do not intend to declare dividends in the foreseeable future. If our business was liquidated or dissolved, holders of shares of common stock would be entitled to share ratably in assets remaining after satisfaction of our liabilities, subject to any preference rights of holders of outstanding preferred stock. The holders of shares of common stock have no preemptive, conversion, subscription or cumulative voting rights.

 

Preferred Stock

 

Our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation permits us to issue up to 100,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share. The preferred stock may be issued in any number of series, as determined by the Board of Directors, the board may by resolution fix the designation and number of shares of any such series of preferred stock and may determine, alter or revoke the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions pertaining to any wholly unissued series and the Board may increase or decrease the number of shares of any such series (but not below the number of shares of that series then outstanding.). Although we previously issued Series A Convertible Preferred Stock, as of August 15, 2017, there are no shares of Series A Preferred Stock outstanding.

 

Public Warrants

 

In our August 2017 public offering, we sold 1,200,000 units, which included 1,200,000 warrants to purchase 1,200,000 shares of common stock, and an additional 180,000 warrants to purchase 180,000 shares of common stock pursuant to the exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option. These warrants (the “Public Warrants”) are traded on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “ESDIW.” The principal terms of the Public Warrants are as follows:

 

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General. Each Public Warrant is exercisable to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $5.40 per share, subject to adjustment under certain circumstances described in the Warrant Agreement between us and Pacific Stock Transfer Company dated August 10, 2017 (the “Warrant Agreement”). A holder of Public Warrants will not be deemed a holder of the underlying stock for any purpose until the Public Warrant is exercised.

 

Form . The Public Warrants will be issued in electronic book-entry form to the purchasers in this offering. Holders should review the Warrant Agreement and form of warrant attached as Exhibit A thereto, which are filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part, for a complete description of the terms and conditions applicable to the Public Warrants.

 

Exercisability . The Public Warrants will be exercisable at any time from the date of issuance through August 10, 2022, unless earlier redeemed. The Public Warrants will be exercisable, at the option of each holder, in whole or in part by delivering to us a duly executed exercise notice and, provided that a registration statement registering the issuance of the shares of common stock underlying the Public Warrants under the Securities Act is effective and available for the issuance of such shares, or an exemption from registration under applicable federal and state securities laws is available for the issuance of such shares, by payment in full for the number of whole shares of common stock purchased upon such exercise. No fractional shares of common stock will be issued in connection with the exercise of a warrant. In lieu of fractional shares, we will pay the holder an amount in cash equal to the fractional amount multiplied by the exercise price or round up to the next whole share, in our discretion.

 

Transferability. Subject to applicable laws, the Public Warrants may be offered for sale, sold, transferred or assigned without our consent.

 

Redemption. Beginning November 8, 2017, the Public Warrants will be redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to $ 0.15 per Public Warrant upon 30 days’ prior notice (which may be made via publication of a press release), at any time after the date on which the closing price of our common stock has equaled or exceeded $7.65 for at least five consecutive trading days , provided we have a current and effective registration statement available covering the exercise of the Public Warrants. Notice of redemption may be made via publication of a press release or any other lawful means. If notice of redemption is made via publication of a press release, no other form of notice or publication will be required. If we call the Public Warrants for redemption, the holders of the Public Warrants will then have to decide whether to sell Public Warrants, exercise them before the close of business on the business day preceding the specified redemption date or hold them for redemption.

 

Rights as a Stockholder. Except as otherwise provided in the Public Warrants or by virtue of such holder’s ownership of shares of our common stock, the holder of a Public Warrant does not have the rights or privileges of a holder of our common stock, including any voting rights, until the holder exercises the Public Warrant.

 

Selling Stockholder Warrants

 

The warrants to purchase common stock issued in offerings that closed between June and September 2016 enable the holder to purchase the shares of common stock underlying such warrants at $6.00 per whole share, during a three-year term. For a brief period of time in December 2016, the exercise price was reduced to $3.90 per share, which offer expired on December 31, 2016. Although the original provisions of such warrants provided that the exercise price must be paid in cash, the Board of Directors subsequently provided that the consideration for exercise of outstanding warrants could be forgiveness of outstanding indebtedness in lieu of a cash payment.

 

The warrants to purchase common stock issued in the units offering that closed in December 2016 enable the holder to purchase the shares of common stock underlying the investor warrants at $7.50 per whole share, during a three-year term.

 

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The warrants to purchase common stock issued in the units offering that closed in April 2017 enable the holder to purchase the shares of common stock underlying the investor warrants at $7.50 per whole share, during a three-year term.

 

Terms that apply to all of the warrants described in this “Selling Stockholder Warrants” section (the “Selling Stockholder Warrants”) include: The exercise price of the Selling Stockholder Warrants is subject to adjustment to reflect any subdivision or combination of our common stock, any stock dividends or similar rearrangements of the common stock, or any reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger or sale of us. The Selling Stockholder Warrants are transferable by the registered holder thereof in person or in writing, but only in the manner and subject to the limitations provided in the applicable Selling Stockholder Warrant. Holders of Selling Stockholder Warrants are not entitled to vote, receive dividends, or exercise any of the rights of a stockholder of our company for any purpose until the Selling Stockholder Warrants have been duly exercised and payment of the purchase price has been made.

 

Placement Agent Warrants

 

We also issued warrants to purchase common stock to certain financial advisors to acquire 2,994 shares of common stock. These warrants were issued on terms identical to the Selling Stockholder Warrants, except that these warrants have an exercise price of $6.00 per share and a five-year term.

 

Underwriters’ Warrants

 

In connection with our August 2017 public offering, we issued to the underwriters warrants initially exercisable for up to 120,000 units, each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one Public Warrant (the “Underwriters’ Warrants”). The Underwriters’ Warrants are exercisable at a per unit price of $5.40. The Underwriters’ Warrants will be exercisable at any time, and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the four-year period commencing August 10, 2018. The Underwriters’ Warrants, together with the shares of common stock and the Public Warrants issuable upon exercise of the Underwriters’ Warrants, were deemed compensation by FINRA and are therefore subject to a 180-day lock-up pursuant to Rule 5110(g)(1) of FINRA. The underwriters (or permitted assignees under Rule 5110(g)(1)) will not sell, transfer, assign, pledge or hypothecate the Underwriters’ Warrants or the securities underlying the Underwriters’ Warrants, nor will they engage in any hedging, short sale, derivative, put, or call transaction that would result in the effective economic disposition of the Underwriters’ Warrants or the underlying securities for a period of 180 days from August 10, 2017. In addition, the Underwriters’ Warrants provide for the registration of the resale of the underlying shares of common stock in certain cases. Any piggyback registration rights provided will not be greater than seven years from August 10, 2017, in compliance with FINRA Rule 5110(f)(2)(G)(v). The exercise price and number of shares and Public Warrants issuable upon exercise of the Underwriters’ Warrants may be adjusted in certain circumstances, including in the event of a stock dividend, extraordinary cash dividend or our recapitalization, reorganization, merger or consolidation. However, the Underwriters’ Warrant exercise price and the number of underlying shares and Public Warrants will not be adjusted for issuance of common stock at a price below the Underwriters’ Warrant exercise price.

 

Options

 

As of September 20, 2017, options to purchase an aggregate of 397,676 shares of our common stock issued pursuant to our Plan at a weighted-average exercise price of $6.40 per share were outstanding.

 

Nevada Anti-Takeover Laws

 

Business Combinations

 

The “business combination” provisions of Sections 78.411 to 78.444, inclusive, of the NRS, prohibit a Nevada corporation with at least 200 stockholders from engaging in various “combination” transactions with any interested stockholder: for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the transaction is approved by the Board of Directors prior to the date the interested stockholder obtained such status; or after the expiration of the three-year period, unless:

 

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●       the transaction is approved by the Board of Directors or a majority of the voting power held by disinterested stockholders, or

 

●       if the consideration to be paid by the interested stockholder is at least equal to the highest of: (a) the highest price per share paid by the interested stockholder within the three years immediately preceding the date of the announcement of the combination or in the transaction in which it became an interested stockholder, whichever is higher, (b) the market value per share of common stock on the date of announcement of the combination and the date the interested stockholder acquired the shares, whichever is higher, or (c) for holders of preferred stock, the highest liquidation value of the preferred stock, if it is higher.

 

A “combination” is defined to include mergers or consolidations or any sale, lease exchange, mortgage, pledge, transfer or other disposition, in one transaction or a series of transactions, with an “interested stockholder” having: (a) an aggregate market value equal to five per cent or more of the aggregate market value of the assets of the corporation, (b) an aggregate market value equal to five per cent or more of the aggregate market value of all outstanding shares of the corporation, or (c) ten per cent or more of the earning power or net income of the corporation.

 

In general, an “interested stockholder” is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns (or within three years, did own) ten per cent or more of a corporation’s voting stock. The statute could prohibit or delay mergers or other takeover or change in control attempts and, accordingly, may discourage attempts to acquire our company even though such a transaction may offer our stockholders the opportunity to sell their stock at a price above the prevailing market price.

 

Control Share Acquisitions

 

The “control share” provisions of Sections 78.378 to 78.3793, inclusive, of the NRS, which apply only to Nevada corporations with at least 200 registered stockholders, including at least 100 stockholders of record who are Nevada residents, and which conduct business directly or indirectly in Nevada, prohibit an acquirer, under certain circumstances, from voting its shares of a target corporation’s stock after crossing certain ownership threshold percentages, unless the acquirer obtains approval of the target corporation’s disinterested stockholders. The statute specifies three thresholds: one-fifth or more but less than one-third, one-third but less than a majority, and a majority or more, of the outstanding voting power. Once an acquirer crosses one of the above thresholds, those shares in an offer or acquisition and acquired within 90 days thereof become “control shares” and such control shares are deprived of the right to vote until disinterested stockholders restore the right. These provisions also provide that if control shares are accorded full voting rights and the acquiring person has acquired a majority or more of all voting power, all other stockholders who do not vote in favor of authorizing voting rights to the control shares are entitled to demand payment for the fair value of their shares in accordance with statutory procedures established for dissenters’ rights.

 

Limitations of Liability and Indemnification

 

See “Executive Compensation – Limitation on Liability and Indemnification Matters.”

 

Listing of our Common Stock; Listing

 

Until August 10, 2017, our common stock was quoted on the OTC Markets (QB Marketplace Tier) under the symbol “ESDI.” In connection with our public offering in August 2017, our common stock and Public Warrants were approved for listing and, on August 10, 2017 began trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbols “ESDI” and “ESDIW,” respectively.

 

Transfer Agent, Registrar and Warrant Agent

 

The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock and Public Warrants is Pacific Stock Transfer Company, 6725 Via Austi Parkway, Suite 300, Las Vegas, NV 89119, telephone: (702) 361-3033.

 

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PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

 

We are registering the shares of common stock previously issued to the selling stockholders to permit the resale of these shares of common stock by the holders thereof from time to time after the date of this prospectus. We will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale by the selling stockholders of the shares of common stock. However, we may receive proceeds from the cash exercise of the Selling Stockholder Warrants, which, if exercised for cash with respect to all 1,123,516 shares of common stock, would result in gross proceeds to us of approximately $7,993,736. We will bear all fees and expenses incident to our obligation to register the shares of common stock.

 

The selling stockholders or their successors, donees, pledgees, assignees and permitted transferees selling shares received from a selling stockholder as a gift, partnership distribution or other non-sale related transfer after the date of this prospectus, may sell all or a portion of the shares of common stock beneficially owned by them and offered hereby from time to time directly or through one or more underwriters, broker-dealers or agents. If the shares of common stock are sold through underwriters or broker-dealers, the selling stockholders will be responsible for underwriting discounts or commissions or agent’s commissions. The shares of common stock may be sold in one or more transactions at fixed prices, at prevailing market prices at the time of the sale, at varying prices determined at the time of sale, or at negotiated prices. The selling stockholders will act independently of us in making decisions with respect to the timing, manner and size of each sale. These sales may be affected in transactions, which may involve crosses or block transactions,

 

●       on any national securities exchange or quotation service on which the securities may be listed or quoted at the time of sale;

 

●       in the over-the-counter market;

 

●       in transactions otherwise than on these exchanges or systems or in the over-the-counter market;

 

●       through the writing of options, whether such options are listed on an options exchange or otherwise;

 

●       ordinary brokerage transactions and transactions in which the broker-dealer solicits purchasers;

 

●       block trades in which the broker-dealer will attempt to sell the shares as agent but may position and resell a portion of the block as principal to facilitate the transaction;

 

●       purchases by a broker-dealer as principal and resale by the broker-dealer for its account;

 

●       an exchange distribution in accordance with the rules of the applicable exchange;

 

●       privately negotiated transactions;

 

●       short sales;

 

●       through the distribution of the common stock by any selling stockholders to its partners, members or stockholders;

 

●       through one or more underwritten offerings on a firm commitment or best efforts basis;

 

●       sales pursuant to Rule 144;

 

●       broker-dealers may agree with the selling stockholders to sell a specified number of such shares at a stipulated price per share;

 

●       a combination of any such methods of sale; and

 

●       any other method permitted pursuant to applicable law.

 

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The selling stockholders may also transfer the common stock by gift. The selling stockholders may engage brokers and dealers, and any brokers or dealers may arrange for other brokers or dealers to participate in effecting sales of the common stock. These brokers, dealers or underwriters may act as principals, or as an agent of a selling stockholder. Broker-dealers may agree with a selling stockholder to sell a specified number of the common stock at a stipulated price per security. If the broker-dealer is unable to sell the common stock acting as agent for a selling stockholder, it may purchase as principal any unsold common stock at the stipulated price. Broker-dealers who acquire common stock as principals may thereafter resell the common stock from time to time in transactions in any stock exchange or automated interdealer quotation system on which the common stock are then listed, at prices and on terms then prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to the then-current market price or in negotiated transactions. Broker-dealers may use block transactions and sales to and through broker-dealers, including transactions of the nature described above.

 

The selling stockholders may also sell the common stock in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act, rather than pursuant to this prospectus, regardless of whether the common stock are covered by this prospectus.

 

If the selling stockholders effect such transactions by selling shares of common stock to or through underwriters, broker-dealers or agents, such underwriters, broker-dealers or agents may receive commissions in the form of discounts, concessions or commissions from the selling stockholders or commissions from purchasers of the shares of common stock for whom they may act as agent or to whom they may sell as principal (which discounts, concessions or commissions as to particular underwriters, broker-dealers or agents may be in excess of those customary in the types of transactions involved). In connection with sales of the shares of common stock or otherwise, the selling stockholders may enter into hedging transactions with broker-dealers, which may in turn engage in short sales of the shares of common stock in the course of hedging in positions they assume. The selling stockholders may also sell shares of common stock short and deliver shares of common stock covered by this prospectus to close out short positions and to return borrowed shares in connection with such short sales. The selling stockholders may also loan or pledge shares of common stock to broker-dealers that in turn may sell such shares.

 

The selling stockholders may pledge or grant a security interest in some or all of the shares of common stock owned by them and, if they default in the performance of their secured obligations, the pledgees or secured parties may offer and sell the shares of common stock from time to time pursuant to this prospectus or any amendment to this prospectus under Rule 424(b)(3) or other applicable provision of the Securities Act amending, if necessary, the list of selling stockholders to include the pledgee, transferee or other successors in interest as selling stockholders under this prospectus. The selling stockholders also may transfer and donate the shares of common stock in other circumstances in which case the transferees, donees, pledgees or other successors in interest will be the selling beneficial owners for purposes of this prospectus.

 

In addition, a selling stockholder may, from time to time, sell the common stock short, and, in those instances, this prospectus may be delivered in connection with the short sales and the common stock offered under this prospectus may be used to cover short sales.

 

The selling stockholders and any broker-dealer participating in the distribution of the shares of common stock may be deemed to be “underwriters” within the meaning of the Securities Act, and any commission paid, or any discounts or concessions allowed to, any such broker-dealer may be deemed to be underwriting commissions or discounts under the Securities Act. At the time a particular offering of the shares of common stock is made, a prospectus supplement, if required, will be distributed which will set forth the aggregate amount of shares of common stock being offered and the terms of the offering, including the name or names of any broker-dealers or agents, any discounts, commissions and other terms constituting compensation from the selling stockholders and any discounts, commissions or concessions allowed or re-allowed or paid to broker-dealers. The selling stockholders may indemnify any broker-dealer that participates in transactions involving the sale of the shares of common stock against certain liabilities, including liabilities arising under the Securities Act.

 

Under the securities laws of some states, the shares of common stock may be sold in such states only through registered or licensed brokers or dealers. In addition, in some states the shares of common stock may not be sold unless such shares have been registered or qualified for sale in such state or an exemption from registration or qualification is available and is complied with.

 

There can be no assurance that any selling stockholder will sell any or all of the shares of common stock registered pursuant to the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part.

 

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The selling stockholders and any other person participating in such distribution will be subject to applicable provisions of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, including, without limitation, Regulation M of the Exchange Act, which may limit the timing of purchases and sales of any of the shares of common stock by the selling stockholders and any other participating person. Regulation M may also restrict the ability of any person engaged in the distribution of the shares of common stock to engage in market-making activities with respect to the shares of common stock. All of the foregoing may affect the marketability of the shares of common stock and the ability of any person or entity to engage in market-making activities with respect to the shares of common stock.

 

The shares of common stock offered hereby were originally issued to the selling stockholders pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. We agreed to register the shares of common stock under the Securities Act, and to keep the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part effective until the earlier of the date on which the selling stockholders have sold all of the securities or one year after the shares were acquired by the selling stockholder. We will pay all expenses of the registration of the shares of common stock pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, estimated to be $40,000 in total, including, without limitation, Commission filing fees and expenses of compliance with state securities or “Blue Sky” laws; provided, however, that a selling stockholder will pay all underwriting discounts and selling commissions, if any. We will indemnify the selling stockholders against liabilities, including some liabilities under the Securities Act, in accordance with the Registration Rights Agreement, or the selling stockholders will be entitled to contribution. We may be indemnified by the selling stockholders against civil liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, that may arise from any written information furnished to us by the selling stockholder specifically for use in this prospectus, in accordance with Registration Rights Agreement, or we may be entitled to contribution.

 

Once sold under the registration statement, of which this prospectus forms a part, the shares of common stock will be freely tradable in the hands of persons other than our affiliates.

 

LEGAL MATTERS

 

The validity of the shares of common stock being offered hereby will be passed upon for us by Sklar Williams PLLC, Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

EXPERTS

 

Our consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2016 and 2015, and for the years then ended, have been audited by BPM LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report that is incorporated by reference here. Such financial statements have been incorporated by reference in reliance on the report of such firm, given on the authority of said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.

 

WHERE YOU CAN FIND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act, with respect to the shares of common stock being offered by this prospectus. This prospectus does not contain all the information in the registration statement and its exhibits. For further information with respect to us and the securities offered by this prospectus, we refer you to the registration statement and its exhibits. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of any contract or any other document referred to are not necessarily complete, and in each instance, we refer you to the copy of the contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement. Each of these statements is qualified in all respects by this reference.

 

You can read our SEC filings, including the registration statement, over the Internet at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You may also read and copy any document we file with the SEC at its public reference facilities at 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of these documents at prescribed rates by writing to the Public Reference Section of the SEC at 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at (800) SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of the public reference facilities. You may also request a copy of these filings, at no cost, by writing us at 2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive, Portland, OR 97222, or by telephoning us at (971) 888-4264.

 

We are subject to the information reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and we file reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. These reports, proxy statements and other information are available for inspection and copying at the public reference room and website of the SEC referred to above. We also maintain a website at www.eastsidedistilling.com, at which you may access these materials free of charge as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. The information contained in, or that can be accessed through, our website is not incorporated by reference in, and is not part of, this prospectus.

 

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EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC.

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

  Page
   
Audited Financial Statements for the Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015  
Report of Independent Registered Pubic Accounting Firm F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 F-4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 F-5
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-7
   
Unaudited Financial Statements for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 and 2016  
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 F-26
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 F-27
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 F-28
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-29

 

F- 1
 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

 

To the Board of Directors and

Stockholders of Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiary

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiary (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity (deficit), and cash flows for the two years in the period ended December 31, 2016. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements 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. The company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiary as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the two years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

/s/ BPM LLP  
   
San Francisco, California  
March 31, 2017 – except for Note 11 “Reverse stock splits” for which the date is June 15, 2017  

 

F- 2
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Consolidated Balance Sheets

December 31, 2016 and 2015

 

    December 31,  
    2016     2015  
Assets                
Current assets:                
Cash   $ 1,088,066     $ 141,317  
Trade receivables, net     344,955       142,206  
Inventories     780,037       683,824  
Prepaid expenses and current assets     187,714       163,506  
Total current assets     2,400,772       1,130,853  
Property and equipment - net     99,216       112,005  
Deposits     48,000       49,000  
Total Assets   $ 2,547,988     $ 1,291,858  
                 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ (Deficit) Equity                
Current liabilities:                
Accounts payable   $ 457,034     $ 1,300,532  
Accrued liabilities     523,702       563,814  
Deferred revenue     2,126       727  
Current portion of notes payable     4,537       4,098  
Related party note payable     -       12,500  
Convertible notes payable - net of debt discount     -       455,958  
Total current liabilities     987,399       2,337,629  
Note payable - less current portion and debt discount     427,756       17,842  
Total liabilities     1,415,155       2,355,471  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 9)                
                 
Stockholders’ (deficit) equity:                
Series A convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 3,000 shares authorized; 300 and 0 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively (liquidation value of $750,000 at December 31, 2016)     245,838       -  
Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 15,000,000 shares authorized; 2,542,504 and 769,917 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively     254       77  
Additional paid-in capital     13,699,785       6,498,061  
Accumulated deficit     (12,813,044 )     (7,561,751 )
Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)     1,132,833       (1,063,613 )
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit)   $ 2,547,988     $ 1,291,858  

 

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

 

F- 3
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Consolidated Statements of Operations

Years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

 

    Years Ended December 31,  
    2016     2015  
Sales   $ 3,042,527     $ 2,326,664  
Less excise taxes, customer programs and incentives     934,221       624,046  
Net sales     2,108,306       1,702,618  
Cost of sales     1,280,344       870,390  
Gross profit     827,962       832,228  
Operating expenses:                
Advertising, promotion and selling expenses     1,244,152       923,310  
General and administrative expenses     3,881,771       3,450,436  
Loss from operations     (4,297,961 )     (3,541,518 )
Other income (expense), net                
Interest expense     (862,468 )     (112,458 )
Gain on spin-off of subsidiary     -       52,890  
Other income (expense)     (39,190 )     20  
Total other expense, net     (901,658 )     (59,548 )
Loss before income taxes     (5,199,619 )     (3,601,066 )
Provision for income taxes     -       -  
Net loss   $ (5,199,619 )   $ (3,601,066 )
                 
Dividends on convertible preferred stock     (51,674 )     -  
                 
Net loss available to common stockholders   $ (5,251,293 )   $ (3,601,066 )
                 
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (4.21 )   $ (4.72 )
                 
Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     1,247,281       762,506  

 

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

 

F- 4
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Consolidated Statements of Stockholder’s (Deficit) Equity

Years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

 

   

Convertible

Series A

                      Total Stockholders’  
    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Paid-in     Accumulated     Equity  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     (Deficit)  
Balance, January 1, 2015     -     $ -       758,542     $ 76     $ 5,542,717     $ (3,960,685 )   $ 1,582,108  
Issuance of common stock in exchange for services, net of issuance costs     -       -       9,264       1       671,974       -       671,975  
Stock-based compensation     -       -       -       -       140,370       -       140,370  
Shares issued for payoff of trade debt, net     -       -       2,111       1       142,999       -       143,000  
Net loss     -       -       -       -       -       (3,601,066 )     (3,601,066 )
Balance, December 31, 2015     -       -       769,917       77       6,498,061       (7,561,751 )     (1,063,613 )
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance cost of $23,762, with detachable warrants     -       -       933,334       93       3,016,145       -       3,016,238  
Issuance of common stock from warrant exercise for cash     -       -       188,261       19       734,197       -       734,216  
Issuance of common stock for services rendered     -       -       38,395       4       284,274       -       284,278  
Issuance of Series A convertible Preferred stock, net of issuance cost of $69,528, with detachable warrants     972       756,835       -       -       145,637       -       902,472  
Stock-based compensation     -       -       21,167       2       374,685       -       374,687  
Issuance of common stock for note payable     -       -       410,137       41       1,348,961       -       1,349,002  
Issuance of detachable warrants on notes payable     -       -       -       -       506,622       -       506,622  
Cumulative dividend on Series A preferred     -       51,674       -       -       -       (51,674 )     -  
Issuance of common stock for Series A preferred dividend     -       (17,759 )     4,268       1       17,759       -       -  
Common shares issued for preferred conversion     (672 )     (544,912 )     177,000       18       544,894       -       -  
Beneficial conversion feature of convertible debt     -       -       -       -       228,550       -       228,550  
Adjustment of shares for reverse stock-split     -       -       26       -       -       -       -  
Net loss     -       -       -       -       -       (5,199,619 )     (5,199,619 )
Balance, December 31, 2016     300     $ 245,838       2,542,504     $ 254     $ 13,699,785     $ (12,813,044 )   $ 1,132,833  

 

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

 

F- 5
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

 

    Years Ended December 31,  
    2016     2015  
Cash Flows From Operating Activities                
Net loss   $ (5,199,619 )   $ (3,601,066 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities                
Depreciation and amortization     21,991       19,277  
Amortization of debt issuance costs     116,750       16,750  
Amortization of beneficial conversion feature     228,550       -  
Issuance of common stock in exchange for services     265,065       671,920  
Issuance of common stock for payoff of trade debt     19,212       142,987  
Stock-based compensation     374,687       140,370  
Cumulative dividend on preferred stock     39,200       -  
Gain on spin-off of subsidiary     -       (52,890 )
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Trade receivables     (202,749 )     (4,265 )
Inventories     (96,213 )     (306,804 )
Prepaid expenses and other assets     (23,208 )     155,391  
Accounts payable     (843,498 )     1,133,166  
Accrued liabilities     343,762       502,074  
Deferred revenue     1,399       (4,688 )
Net cash used in operating activities     (4,954,671 )     (1,187,778 )
Cash Flows From Investing Activities                
Purchases of property and equipment     (9,202 )     (50,076 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (9,202 )     (50,076 )
Cash Flows From Financing Activities                
Proceeds from preferred stock, net of issuance costs of $69,528, with detachable warrants     429,572       -  
Proceeds from common stock, with detachable warrants – related party     565,000       -  
Proceeds from common stock, net of issuance costs of $23,762, with detachable warrants     2,451,238       -  
Payments on convertible notes payable     (141,904 )     (4,892 )
Proceeds from notes payable with warrants issued – related party     295,000       -  
Proceeds from notes payable with warrants issued     1,405,000       -  
Proceeds from convertible notes payable, net of issuance costs     185,000       289,273  
Proceeds from (repayment of) related party note payable     (12,500 )     12,500  
Proceeds from warrant exercise – related party     50,000       -  
Proceeds from warrant exercise     684,216       -  
Net cash provided by financing activities     5,910,622       296,881  
Net (decrease) increase in cash     946,749       (940,973 )
Cash - beginning of year     141,317       1,082,290  
Cash - end of year   $ 1,088,066     $ 141,317  
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information                
Cash paid during the period for interest   $ 91,237     $ 4,593  
Income taxes   $ -     $ -  
Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Financing Activity                
Stock issued for payment of trade debt   $ 19,212     $ -  
Series A preferred issued in exchange for compensation – related party   $ 423,000     $ -  
Series A preferred issued in exchange of debt   $ 50,000     $ -  
Common stock issued in exchange of notes payable   $ 196,330     $ -  
Common stock issued in exchange for dividend   $ 17,759     $ -  
Stock-based compensation recorded as prepaid expenses and other long-term assets   $ -     $ 65,625  
Conversion of accounts payable to common stock   $ -     $ 142,987  
Exchange of warrant exercise used to repay notes payable – related party   $ 169,999     $ -  
Exchange of warrant exercise used to repay notes payable   $ 401,148     $ -  

 

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

 

F- 6
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015

 

1. Description of Business

 

We are a Portland, Oregon-based producer and marketer of craft spirits, founded in 2008. Our products span several alcoholic beverage categories, including bourbon, American whiskey, vodka and rum. As a small business in the large, international spirits marketplace dominated by massive conglomerates, we rely heavily on our creativity. Our mission is to be an innovator in creating spirits that offer better value than comparable spirits, for example our Burnside Bourbon and Portland Potato Vodka, and in creating imaginative spirits that offer an unusual taste experience, for example our cold-brewed coffee rum, Oregon oak aged whiskeys, Marionberry Whiskey and Peppermint Bark holiday liquor. Our strategy is to expand from our local base in the Pacific Northwest by using major spirits distributors, such as Southern Glazer Wines and Spirits, to address the demand for premium and high-end craft spirits. In late 2016, to aid us in this strategy, we retained Sandstrom Partners, a Portland-based firm specializing in spirits branding, and tasked them with reviewing our current product portfolio, as well as our new ideas, and advising us on marketing, creation of brand awareness and product positioning, locally and nationally. We also intend to capitalize on our uniqueness as a publicly-traded craft spirit producer, with access to the public markets, to support our growth, including by making strategic acquisitions.

 

We currently sell our products in 22 states (Oregon, California, Washington, Florida, Nevada, Texas, Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Minnesota, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, Idaho, Vermont and Maryland) as well as Ontario, Canada. The Company also generates revenue from tastings, tasting room tours, private parties, and merchandise sales from its facilities in Oregon. The Company is subject to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).

 

On October 31, 2014, Eurocan Holdings Ltd. (Eurocan) consummated the acquisition (the Acquisition) of Eastside Distilling, LLC (the LLC) pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the Agreement) by and among Eurocan, the LLC, and Eastside Distilling, Inc., Eurocan’s wholly-owned subsidiary. Pursuant to the Agreement, the LLC merged with and into Eastside Distilling, Inc. The merger consideration for the Acquisition consisted of 533,334 shares of Eurocan’s common stock. In addition, certain of Eurocan’s stockholders cancelled an aggregate of 415,167 shares of Eurocan’s common stock held by them. As a result, on October 31, 2014, Eurocan had 666,667 shares of common stock issued and outstanding, of which 533,334 shares were held by the former members of the LLC. Consequently, for accounting purposes, the transaction was accounted for as a reverse acquisition, with the LLC as the acquirer of Eurocan. These consolidated financial statements are presented as a continuation of the operations of the LLC with one adjustment to retroactively adjust the legal common stock of Eastside Distilling, Inc. to reflect the legal capital of Eurocan prior to the Acquisition.

 

Subsequent to the Acquisition, Eastside Distilling, Inc. merged with and into Eurocan, and Eurocan’s name was officially changed to Eastside Distilling, Inc. (Eastside). Prior to the Acquisition, Michael Williams Web Design, Inc. (MWWD) was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eurocan and constituted the majority of Eurocan’s operations. Pursuant to the Agreement and subsequent activity, MWWD became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eastside on October 31, 2014. MWWD’s operations were not significant. Eastside and MWWD are collectively referred to herein as “the Company”.

 

On February 3, 2015, the Company entered into a Separation and Share Transfer Agreement (Share Transfer) with MWWD under which substantially all assets and liabilities of MWWD were transferred to Michael Williams in consideration of MWWD’s and Mr. Williams’ full release of all claims and liabilities related to MWWD and the MWWD business. Following the Share Transfer, MWWD ceased to be a subsidiary. As a result of the Share Transfer, the Company recorded a gain of $52,890, which is included in other income (expense) in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2015. This gain is primarily the result of the transfer of net liabilities to Michael Williams. The results for the year ended December 31, 2015 referred to in these consolidated financial statements include both the results of Eastside and MWWD (through February 3, 2015).

 

F- 7
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

2. Liquidity

 

Historically, the Company has funded its cash and liquidity needs through convertible notes, extended credit terms, and equity raisings. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company incurred a net loss of approximately $5.3 and $3.6 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively, and has an accumulated deficit of approximately $12.8 million as of December 31, 2016. The Company has been dependent on raising capital from debt and equity financings to meet its needs for cash flow used in operating activities. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company raised approximately $5.9 million in cash flow from financing activities to meet cash flow used in operating activities.

 

At December 31, 2016, the Company has approximately $1.1 million of cash on hand with a positive working capital of $1.4 million. The Company’s ability to meet its ongoing operating cash needs is dependent on generating positive operating cash flow, primarily through increased sales, improved profit growth and controlling expenses. Management has taken actions to improve profitability, reduce headcount, reduce rent, reduce professional fees and increase sales. In addition, through March 31, 2017, the Company has raised an additional $967,750 in cash through equity offerings (see Note 14, Subsequent Events). Also in March 2017, the Company acquired a small distillery bottling and production support business (stock purchase transaction) that is expected to improve operating results (see Note 14, Subsequent Events). Management believes that cash on hand and the most recent equity raise and acquisition will be sufficient to meet their operating activities to meet their near-term cash needs over the next twelve months.

 

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements for Eastside Distilling, Inc. were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Eastside Distilling, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary MWWD (through February 3, 2015). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Segment Reporting

 

The Company determined its operating segment on the same basis that it uses to evaluate its performance internally. The Company has one business activity, marketing and distributing hand-crafted spirits, and operates as one segment. The Company’s chief operating decision makers, its chief executive officer and chief financial officer, review the Company’s operating results on an aggregate basis for purposes of allocating resources and evaluating financial performance.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Net revenue includes product sales, less excise taxes and customer programs and incentives. The Company records revenue when all four of the following criteria are met: (i) there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery of the products and/or services has occurred; (iii) the selling price is fixed or determinable; and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured.

 

F- 8
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

The Company recognizes sales when merchandise is shipped from a warehouse directly to wholesale customers (except in the case of a consignment sale). For consignment sales, which include sales to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC), the Company recognizes sales upon the consignee’s shipment to the customer. Postage and handling charges billed to customers are also recognized as sales upon shipment of the related merchandise. Shipping terms are generally FOB shipping point, and title passes to the customer at the time and place of shipment or purchase by customers at a retail location. For consignment sales, title passes to the consignee concurrent with the consignee’s shipment to the customer. The customer has no cancellation privileges after shipment or upon purchase at retail locations, other than customary rights of return. The Company excludes sales tax collected and remitted to various states from sales and cost of sales. Sales from items sold through the Company’s retail location are recognized at the time of sale.

 

Revenue received from online merchants who sell discounted gift certificates for the Company’s merchandise and tastings is deferred until the customer has redeemed the discounted gift certificate or the gift certificate has expired, whichever occurs earlier.

 

Customer Programs and Incentives

 

Customer programs and incentives, which include customer promotional discount programs, customer incentives and other payments, are a common practice in the alcohol beverage industry. The Company makes these payments to customers and incurs these costs to promote sales of products and to maintain competitive pricing. Amounts paid in connection with customer programs and incentives are recorded as reductions to net revenue or as advertising, promotional and selling expenses in accordance with ASC Topic 605-50, Revenue Recognition - Customer Payments and Incentives, based on the nature of the expenditure. Amounts paid to customers totaled $136,786 and $3,184 in years 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Advertising, Promotional and Selling Expenses

 

The following expenses are included in advertising, promotions and selling expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations: media advertising costs, special event costs, tasting room costs, sales and marketing expenses, salary and benefit expenses, travel and entertainment expenses for the sales, brand and sales support workforce and promotional activity expenses.

 

Cost of Sales

 

Cost of sales consists of the costs of ingredients utilized in the production of spirits, manufacturing labor and overhead, warehousing rent, packaging, and in-bound freight charges. Ingredients account for the largest portion of the cost of sales, followed by packaging and production costs.

 

Shipping and Fulfillment Costs

 

Freight costs incurred related to shipment of merchandise from the Company’s distribution facilities to customers are recorded in cost of sales.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are considered to be highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the time of the purchase. The Company had no cash equivalents at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

Concentrations

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of trade receivables. At December 31, 2016, three distributors represented 91% of trade receivables. At December 31, 2015, one distributor, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC), represented 67% of trade receivables. Sales to two distributors accounted for approximately 46% of consolidated net sales for the year ended December 31, 2016. Sales to one distributor, the OLCC, accounted for approximately 40% of consolidated net sales for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

F- 9
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

GAAP defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and requires certain disclosures about fair value measurements. GAAP permits an entity to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value and contains financial statement presentation and disclosure requirements for assets and liabilities for which the fair value option is elected. At December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, management has not elected to report any of the Company’s assets or liabilities at fair value under the “fair value option” provided by GAAP.

 

The hierarchy of fair value valuation techniques under GAAP provides for three levels: Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3, if applicable, generally would require significant management judgment. The three levels for categorizing assets and liabilities under GAAP’s fair value measurement requirements are as follows:

 

Level 1: Fair value of the asset or liability is determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
   
Level 2: Fair value of the asset or liability is determined using inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the applicable asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar (as opposed to identical) assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
   
Level 3: Fair value of the asset or liability is determined using unobservable inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement and reflect management’s own assumptions regarding the applicable asset or liability.

 

None of the Company’s assets or liabilities were measured at fair value at December 31, 2016 and 2015. However, GAAP requires the disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments that are not measured at fair value. Financial instruments consist principally of trade receivables, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, note payable, and convertible note payable. The estimated fair value of trade receivables, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities approximates their carrying value due to the short period of time to their maturities. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company’s note payable and convertible notes payable are at fixed rates and their carrying value approximates fair value.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories primarily consist of bulk and bottled liquor and merchandise and are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using an average costing methodology, which approximates cost under the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. A portion of inventory is held by certain independent distributors on consignment until it is sold to a third party. The Company regularly monitors inventory quantities on hand and records write-downs for excess and obsolete inventories based primarily on the Company’s estimated forecast of product demand and production requirements. Such write-downs establish a new cost basis of accounting for the related inventory. The Company has recorded no write-downs of inventory for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, ranging from three to seven years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed using the straight-line method over the life of the lease or the useful lives of the assets, whichever is shorter. The cost and related accumulated depreciation and amortization of property and equipment sold or otherwise disposed of are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is reported as current period income or expense. The costs of repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.

 

F- 10
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Long-lived Assets

 

The Company accounts for long-lived assets, including property and equipment, at amortized cost. Management reviews long-lived assets for probable impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. If there is an indication of impairment, management would prepare an estimate of future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If these estimated cash flows were less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss would be recognized to write down the asset to its estimated fair value.

 

Income Taxes

 

The provision for income taxes is based on income and expenses as reported for financial statement purposes using the “asset and liability method” for accounting for deferred taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to the period in which the deferred tax assets or liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company established valuation allowances against its net deferred tax assets.

 

Income tax positions that meet the “more-likely-than-not” recognition threshold are measured at the largest amount of income tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with income tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above would be reflected as a liability for unrecognized income tax benefits in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination. Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits would be classified as additional income taxes in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. There were no unrecognized income tax benefits, nor any interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits, accrued or expensed at and for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

The Company files federal income tax returns in the U.S. and various state income tax returns. The Company is no longer subject to examinations by the related tax authorities for the Company’s U.S. federal and state income tax returns for years prior to 2011.

 

Advertising

 

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was approximately $297,000 and $389,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Comprehensive Income

 

The Company does not have any reconciling other comprehensive income (expense) items for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015.

 

F- 11
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Excise Taxes

 

The Company is responsible for compliance with the TTB regulations, which includes making timely and accurate excise tax payments. The Company is subject to periodic compliance audits by the TTB. Individual states also impose excise taxes on alcohol beverages in varying amounts. The Company calculates its excise tax expense based upon units produced and on its understanding of the applicable excise tax laws. Excise taxes totaled $797,435 and $620,862 in years 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company recognizes as compensation expense all stock-based awards issued to employees. The compensation cost is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the related stock-based awards and is recognized over the service period of stock-based awards, which is generally the same as the vesting period. The fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model, which estimates the fair value of each award on the date of grant based on a variety of assumptions including expected stock price volatility, expected terms of the awards, risk-free interest rate, and dividend rates, if applicable. Stock-based awards issued to nonemployees are recorded at fair value on the measurement date and are subject to periodic market adjustments as the underlying stock-based awards vest. Stock-based compensation was $374,687 and $140,370 in fiscal years 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Accounts Receivable Factoring Program

 

We use an accounts receivable factoring program with certain customer accounts. Under this program, we have the option to sell those customer receivables in advance of payment for 75% of the amount due. When the customer remits payment, we then receive the remaining 25%. We are charged interest on the advanced 75% payment at a rate of 1.5% per month. Under the terms of the agreement with the factoring provider, any factored invoices have recourse should the customer fail to pay the invoice. Thus, we record factored amounts as a liability until the customer remits payment and we receive the remaining 25% of the non-factored amount. During the year ended December 31, 2016, we factored invoices totaling $542,083 and received total proceeds of $406,562. At December 31, 2016, we had factored invoices outstanding of $171,150, and we incurred fees associated with the factoring program of $48,601 during 2016. Comparatively, during the year ended December 31, 2015, we factored invoices totaling $99,258 and received total proceeds of $74,444. At December 31, 2015, we had $17,601 in factored invoices outstanding, and we incurred fees associated with the factoring program of $5,867 during 2015.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standard Boards (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-09, Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. ” ASU 2016-09, which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company does not plan to early adopt. We are currently evaluating the impact ASU 2015-11 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

F- 12
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the new guidance, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date:

 

  - A lease liability, which is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and
     
  - A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term.

 

Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Certain targeted improvements were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The new lease guidance simplified the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Lessees will no longer be provided with a source of off-balance sheet financing. Public business entities should apply the amendments in ASU 2016-02 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years (i.e., January 1, 2019, for a calendar year entity). Early application is permitted for all public business entities upon issuance. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). ASU 2014-09 will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance. Under this update, an entity is required to recognize revenue upon transfer of promised goods or services to customers, in an amount that reflects the expected consideration received in exchange for those goods or services. As such, an entity will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under the current guidance. ASU 2014-09 is to be applied retrospectively either to each prior reporting period presented in the financial statements, or only to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. The Company will elect to apply the impact (if any) of applying ASU 2014-09 to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date . ASU 2015-14 defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year, making it effective for the year beginning December 31, 2017, with early adoption permitted as of January 1, 2017. The Company currently expects to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018. The Company does not expect adoption of ASU 2014-09 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern . The new guidance explicitly requires that management assess an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and may require additional detailed disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. We have adopted as of December 31, 2016.

 

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330), Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory . ASU 2015-11 is part of the FASB’s initiative to simplify accounting standards. The guidance requires an entity to recognize inventory within scope of the standard at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonable predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. ASU 2015-11 will be effective prospectively for the year beginning January 1, 2017. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of ASU 2015-11 and has preliminarily concluded that it will not have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs, which requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. ASU 2015-03 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and early application is permitted. We have early adopted as of December 31, 2015.

 

F- 13
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the December 31, 2016 presentation with no changes to net loss or total stockholders’ equity (deficit) previously reported.

 

4. Inventories

 

Inventories consist of the following at December 31:

 

    2016     2015  
Raw materials   $ 439,739     $ 415,953  
Finished goods     340,298       248,713  
Other     -       19,158  
Total inventories   $ 780,037     $ 683,824  

 

5. Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment consists of the following at December 31:

 

    2016     2015  
Furniture and fixtures   $ 70,140     $ 64,288  
Leasehold improvements     8,607       8,607  
Vehicles     38,831       38,831  
Construction In Progress     34,603       31,253  
Total cost     152,181       142,979  
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization     (52,965 )     (30,974 )
Total property and equipment, net   $ 99,216     $ 112,005  

 

Depreciation and amortization expense totaled $21,991 and $19,277 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

6. Notes Payable

 

Notes payable consists of the following at December 31:

 

    2016     2015  
Notes payable bearing interest at 7.99%. The note is payable in monthly principal plus interest payments of $472 through December, 2020. The note is secured by a vehicle.   $ 16,642     $ 21,940  
Notes payable bearing interest at 8%. The notes have a 2-year maturity and are due at various dates between September 19, 2018 – October 19, 2018, and pay interest only on a monthly basis     547,500          
Total note payable     564,142       21,940  
Less current portion     (4,537 )     (4,098 )
Less debt discount for detachable warrant     (131,849 )        
Total notes payable, less current portion and debt discount   $ 427,756     $ 17,842  

 

F- 14
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Maturities on notes payable as of December 31, 2016, are as follows:

 

Year ending December 31:

 

2017   $ 4,537  
2018     554,915  
2019     4,690  
Thereafter     -  
    $ 564,142  

 

7. Convertible Notes Payable

 

There were no convertible notes payable outstanding at December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2015, convertible notes payable consisted of three separate notes:

 

    December 31, 2015  
Convertible note bearing interest at 5% per annum in the principal amount of $150,000. The original maturity date of June 13, 2015 was extended to April 1, 2016 during the period ended December 31, 2015 and was further extended to July 1, 2016. The note was convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a fixed conversion price of $8.00 per share. On July 1, 2016, the Company paid the outstanding amount under this Note, including interest in full.   $ 150,000  
         
Secured Convertible promissory note, bearing interest at 14% per annum in the principal amount of $275,000 (the “Note”), payable in six installments (“Amortization Payments”) as set forth in an Amortization Schedule beginning the 30 th day after issuance and each 30-days thereafter. The Note is convertible at a price per share equal to the lesser of (i) the Fixed Conversion Price (currently $3.00) or (ii) 65% of the lowest trading price of the Company’s common stock during the 5 trading days prior to conversion. The note was issued with an original issue discount, which is amortized over the life of the loan. The Note is secured by all of the Company’s assets pursuant to the terms and conditions of an Amended and Restated Pledge and Security Agreement.(1)     272,708  
         
Convertible note bearing interest at 0% per annum. The note was converted into Company’s preferred equity financing on April 4, 2016.     50,000  
Total convertible notes payable     472,708  
         
Less discount on convertible debt     16,750  
         
Total convertible notes payable – net of debt discount   $ 455,958  
         

 

  (1) On April 14, 2016, this note (the “Initial Note”) was transferred to MR Group I, LLC (“Investor”). In addition, on April 14, 2016, the Company issued and sold to Investor a convertible promissory note dated April 18, 2016, bearing interest at 14% per annum in the principal amount of $300,000 (the “Additional Note”, together with the Initial Note, the “Notes”). The Additional Note had a maturity date of January 18, 2017 and an original issue discount of $100,000. On May 13, 2016, the Company entered into Exchange Agreement (the “Exchange Agreement”) with the Investor pursuant to which the Company (i) issued Investor a 14% secured convertible promissory note dated May 13, 2016 in the aggregate principal amount of $219,200 with an August 31, 2016 maturity date (the “Note”) in exchange for a previously issued 14% secured convertible promissory note dated September 10, 2015 in the original principal amount of $275,000 (with current outstanding principal and interest of $197,208 and $21,992, respectively) with a May 10, 2016 maturity date held by Investor and (ii) issued Investor a 14% secured convertible promissory note dated May 13, 2016 in the aggregate principal amount of $302,647 with an April 30, 2017 maturity date (the “Second Note”, together with the Note, the “Exchange Notes”) in exchange for a previously issued 14% secured convertible promissory note dated April 18, 2016 in the original principal amount of $300,000 (with current outstanding principal and interest of $300,000 and $2,647, respectively) with a May 10, 2016 maturity date held by Investor. During the June period, $196,330 of the note was converted into common shares. On June 6, 2016, the Company paid the remaining outstanding amount under this Note ($100,000) in full, and on June 28, 2016, the Company paid the outstanding amount under the Second Note ($306,378) in full.

 

F- 15
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Amortization of the debt discount and beneficial conversion feature of the convertible notes totaled $359,688 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. Amortization of the debt discount was $16,750 for the year ended December 31, 2015 and was recorded as other expense in the consolidated statement of operations.

 

8. Income Taxes

 

The provision for income taxes results in effective tax rates which are different than the federal income tax statutory rate. The nature of the differences for the year ended December 31 were as follows:

 

    2016     2015  
Expected federal income tax benefit   $ (1,774,361 )   $ (1,200,378 )
State income taxes after credits     (344,435 )     (233,015 )
Change in valuation allowance     2,118,795       1,442,900  
Other     -       (9,507 )
Total provision for income taxes   $ -     $ -  

 

The components of the net deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31 consisted of the following:

 

    2016     2015  
Deferred tax assets:                
Net operating loss carryforwards   $ 3,557,909       1,582,317  
Stock-based compensation     213,181       61,050  
Total deferred tax assets     3,771,090       1,643,367  
                 
Deferred tax liabilities:                
Depreciation and amortization     (70,816 )     (61,888 )
Total deferred tax liabilities     (70,816 )     (61,888 )
Valuation allowance     (3,700,274 )     (1,581,479 )
Net deferred tax assets   $ -       -  

 

At December 31, 2016, the Company has a cumulative net operating loss carryforward (NOL) of approximately $3.6 million, to offset against future income for federal and state tax purposes. These federal and state NOLs can be carried forward for 20 and 15 years, respectively. The federal NOLs begin to expire in 2034, and the state NOLs begin to expire in 2029. The utilization of the net operating loss carryforwards may be subject to substantial annual limitation due to ownership change provisions of the Internal Revenue code of 1986 and similar state provisions. In general, if the Company experiences a greater than 50 percentage aggregate change in ownership of certain significant stockholders over a three-year period (a “Section 382 ownership change”), utilization of its pre-change NOL carryforwards are subject to an annual limitation under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code (and similar state laws). The annual limitation generally is determined by multiplying the value of the Company’s stock at the time of such ownership change (subject to certain adjustments) by the applicable long-term tax-exempt rate. Such limitations may result in expiration of a portion of the NOL carryforwards before utilization and may be substantial.

 

F- 16
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Due to the uncertainty of the realizability of the deferred tax assets, management has determined a full valuation allowance is appropriate.

 

9. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Operating Leases

 

The Company leases its warehouse, kiosks, and tasting room space under operating lease agreements which expire through October 2020. Monthly lease payments range from $1,300 to $24,000 over the terms of the leases. For operating leases which contain fixed escalations in rental payments, the Company records the total rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The difference between the expense computed on a straight-line basis and actual payments for rent represents deferred rent which is included within accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Retail spaces under lease are subject to monthly percentage rent adjustments when gross sales exceed certain minimums.

 

At December 31, 2016, future minimum lease payments required under the operating leases are approximately as follows:

 

For year ending December 31st:

 

2017   $ 297,000  
2018     272,000  
2019     278,000  
2020     240,000  
Total   $ 1,087,000  

 

Total rent expense was approximately $416,000 and $384,000 for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

 

Legal Matters

 

We are not currently subject to any material legal proceedings, however we could be subject to legal proceedings and claims from time to time in the ordinary course of our business. Regardless of the outcome, litigation can, among other things, be time consuming and expensive to resolve, and divert management resources.

 

10. Net Loss per Common Share

 

Basic loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, without considering any dilutive items. Diluted net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss by the sum of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and the potential number of any dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. Potentially dilutive securities consist of the incremental common stock issuable upon exercise of stock options and convertible notes. Potentially dilutive securities are excluded from the computation if their effective is anti-dilutive. There were no dilutive common shares at December 31, 2016 and 2015. The numerators and denominators used in computing basic and diluted net loss per common share in 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

 

F- 17
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

    December 31,  
    2016     2015  
Net loss available to common stockholders (numerator)   $ (5,251,293 )   $ (3,601,066 )
Weighted average shares (denominator)     1,247,281       762,506  
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (4.21 )   $ (4.72 )

 

11. Issuance of Common Stock, Warrants and Convertible Preferred Stock

 

Reverse Stock Splits

 

All shares related and per share information in these financial statements has been adjusted to give effect to the 1-for-20 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock effected on October 18, 2016 and the 1-for-3 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock effected on June 15, 2017.

 

Issuance of Common Stock

 

In the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company issued 21,167 shares of common stock to employees for stock-based compensation of $153,996. Additionally, the Company had $220,691 of stock-based compensation expense related to stock options granted to employees and vested during the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

In the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company issued 38,395 shares of common stock to eight third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered and trade debt totaling $284,277.

 

In December, 2016, the Company issued 266,667 shares of its common stock for $1,040,000, including 266,667 warrants for common stock.

 

In December, 2016, the Company issued 188,261 shares of its common stock for warrant exercises totaling $734,216.

 

In December 2016, the Company issued 295,513 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 8% convertible promissory notes with an aggregate principal amount converted of $1,152,499.

 

In December 2016, the Company issued 177,000 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 672 shares of preferred stock.

 

In July 2016, the Company issued 4,268 shares of its common stock in consideration of $17,759 in accrued and unpaid dividends due at June 30, 2016 for its outstanding Series A Preferred.

 

From June 4, 2016 to June 22, 2016, the Company issued 666,667 shares of its common stock for $2,000,000, including 666,667 warrants for common stock, net of issuance costs of $23,762.

 

From April 20, 2016 to June 3, 2016, the Company issued 114,625 shares of its common stock upon conversion of a 14% convertible promissory note. The aggregate principal amount of this note that was converted was $196,503.

 

In December 2015, the Company entered into management consulting agreements under which it agreed to issue 834 shares of common stock to third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered of $10,500. These shares were issued effective February 18, 2016.

 

F- 18
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

In November 2015, the Company entered into management consulting agreements under which it agreed to issue 1,500 shares of common stock to third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered of $17,100. These shares were issued in February 2016.

 

In October 2015, the Company entered into a consulting agreement under which it agreed to issue 1,667 shares of common stock to a consultant for services of $45,000. These shares have not been issued.

 

In August 2015, the Company issued 750 shares of common stock to employees valued at $42,750.

 

In August 2015, the Company issued 2,250 shares of common stock to two third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered of $128,250.

 

In July 2015, the Company issued 3,750 shares of common stock to two third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered of $479,250.

 

In April 2015, the Company issued 625 shares of common stock to a third-party consultant in exchange for services rendered of $65,625.

 

All shares were fully vested upon issuance.

 

Issuance of Convertible Preferred Stock

 

The Company has authorized the issuance of 3,000 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock as of December 31, 2016.

 

From April 4, 2016 to June 17, 2016, the Company sold 972 shares of its series A convertible preferred stock (“Series A Preferred”) for an aggregate purchase price of $972,000, of which (i) 499 Units were purchased for $499,000 in cash (ii) 423 Units were purchased by certain of our officers in consideration of $423,000 accrued and unpaid salary and (iii) 50 Units were purchased in consideration of cancellation of $50,000 of outstanding indebtedness net of issuance costs of $69,528.

 

Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred has a stated value of $1,000, which is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Common Stock”) at a fixed conversion price equal to $4.50 per share. The Series A Convertible Preferred accrue dividends at a rate of 8% per annum, cumulative. Dividends are payable quarterly in arrears at the Company’s option either in cash or “in kind” in shares of Common Stock; provided, however that dividends may only be paid in cash following the fiscal year in which the Company has net income (as shown in its audited financial statements contained in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for such year) of at least $500,000, to the extent permitted under applicable law out of funds legally available therefore. For ‘in-kind” dividends, holders will receive that number of shares of Common Stock equal to (i) the amount of the dividend payment due such stockholder divided by (ii) 90% of the average of the per share market values during the twenty (20) trading days immediately preceding a dividend date.

 

In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up, or sale of the Company, each holder of Series A Preferred shall be entitled to receive its pro rata portion of an aggregate payment equal to: (i) $1,000 multiplied by (ii) the total number of shares of Series A Preferred Stock issued under the Series A Certificate of Designation multiplied by (iii) 2.5.

 

For all matters submitted to a vote of the Company’s stockholders, the holders of the Series A Preferred as a class shall have an aggregate number of votes equal to the product of (x) the number of shares of Common Stock (rounded to the nearest whole number) into which the total shares of Series A Preferred Stock issued under the Series A Certificate of Designation on such date of determination are convertible multiplied by (y) 2.5 (the “Total Series A Votes”), with each holder of Series A Preferred entitled to vote its pro rata portion of the Total Series A Votes. Holders of Common Stock do not have cumulative voting rights. In addition, the holders of Series A Preferred shall vote separately a class to change any of the rights, preferences and privileges of the Series A Preferred.

 

F- 19
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

The following table provides various information about the Series A convertible preferred stock.

 

                            Number of shares              
    Shares     Shares
Issued and
    Net     Conversion     of common stock     Liquidation     Liquidation  
    Authorized     Outstanding     Proceeds     Price/Share     Equivalents     Preference     Value/Share  
Series A convertible preferred stock     3,000       50     $ 38,932     $ 4.50       11,112     $ 125,000     $ 2,500  

 

Beneficial conversion feature

 

The Company evaluated the convertible note and determined that a portion of the note should be allocated to additional paid-in capital as a beneficial conversion feature, since the conversion price on the note as of March 10, 2016 was set at a discount to the fair market value of the underlying stock. As a result, a discount of $228,550 was attributed to the beneficial conversion feature of the note, which amount was then amortized fully during the year ended December 31, 2016.

 

Warrants

 

During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company issued detachable warrants in connection to common stock, Series A preferred stock, and convertible notes payable to purchase 1,435,639 shares of common stock. The Company has determined the warrants are classified as equity on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2016. The estimated fair value of the warrants after relative fair value allocation at issuance was $2,010,502, based on the Black-Scholes option-pricing model using the weighted-average assumptions below:

 

Volatility     75 %
Risk-free interest rate     1.03 %
Expected term (in years)     3.0  
Expected dividend yield     -  
Fair value of common stock   $ 5.04  

 

A summary of activity in warrants is as follows:

 

    Warrants     Weighted
Average
Remaining
Life
    Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
    Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
                         
Outstanding at December 31, 2015               $     $  
                                 
Granted     1,435,639             $ 6.18     $ -  
Exercised     (483,773 )             3.90          
Forfeited and cancelled     (105,101 )             6.00       -  
                                 
Outstanding at December 31, 2016     846,765       2.77 years     $ 6.48     $ -  

 

F- 20
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

12. Stock-Based Compensation

 

On September 8, 2016, the Company adopted the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the 2016 Plan). The total number of shares available for the grant of either stock options or compensation stock under the Plan is 166,667 shares, subject to adjustment. The exercise price per share of each stock option shall not be less than 100 percent of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. At December 31, 2016, there were 142,500 options and 17,817 RSU’s issued under the Plan outstanding, with vesting schedules varying between immediate and three (3) years from the grant date.

 

On January 29, 2015, the Company adopted the 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the 2015 Plan). The total number of shares available for the grant of either stock options or compensation stock under the 2015 Plan is 50,000 shares, subject to adjustment. The exercise price per share of each stock option shall not be less than 20 percent of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. At December 31, 2016, there were 4,802 options issued under the Plan outstanding, which options vest at the rate of at least 25 percent in the first year, starting 6-months after the grant date, and 75% in year two.

 

The Company also issues, from time to time, options which are not registered under a formal option plan. At December 31, 2016, there were 16,667 options outstanding that were not issued under the Plan.

 

A summary of all stock option activity at and for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 is presented below:

 

    # of Options     Weighted-
Average
Exercise Price
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2014     16,667 (1)   $ 24.00  
Options granted     27,500 (2)     69.60  
Options exercised     -       -  
Options canceled     (7,500 )(2)     120.00  
Outstanding at December 31, 2015     36,667     $ 38.40  
Options granted     142,500 (3)     5.49  
Options exercised     -       -  
Options canceled     (5,417 )(3)     108.69  
Outstanding at December 31, 2016     173,750     $ 9.24  
                 
Exercisable at December 31, 2016     48,325     $ 14.31  

 

(1) Non-Plan options.

 

(2) 27,500 options granted under 2015 Stock Incentive Plan; 7,500 non-plan options, which were subsequently canceled under an agreement with the holder.

 

(3) 142,500 options granted under 2016 Equity Incentive Plan; 5,417 options were canceled under the 2015 Stock Incentive Plan.

 

The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding at December 31, 2016 was $60,900.

 

At December 31, 2016, there were 125,426 unvested options with an aggregate grant date fair value of $489,230. The unvested options will vest in accordance with the vesting schedule in each respective option agreement, which is generally over a period of 6 to 36 months. The aggregate intrinsic value of unvested options at December 31, 2016 was $60,900. During the year ended December 31, 2016, 34,523 options vested.

 

F- 21
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation model to measure the grant-date fair value of stock options. The grant-date fair value of stock options issued to employees is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Stock-based awards issued to nonemployees are recorded at fair value on the measurement date and are subject to periodic market adjustments as the underlying stock-based awards vest. To determine the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes valuation model, the calculation takes into consideration the effect of the following:

 

  Exercise price of the option
  Fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant
  Expected term of the option
  Expected volatility over the expected term of the option
  Risk-free interest rate for the expected term of the option

 

The calculation includes several assumptions that require management’s judgment. The expected term of the options is calculated using the simplified method described in GAAP. The simplified method defines the expected term as the average of the contractual term and the vesting period. Estimated volatility is derived from volatility calculated using historical closing prices of common shares of similar entities whose share prices are publicly available for the expected term of the options. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury constant maturities in effect at the time of grant for the expected term of the options.

 

The following weighted-average assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes valuation model for options granted during the year ended December 31, 2016:

 

Risk-free interest rate     1.17 %
Expected term (in years)     3.38  
Dividend yield     -  
Expected volatility     75 %

 

The weighted-average grant-date fair value per share of stock options granted during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $2.91. The aggregate grant date fair value of the 142,500 options granted during the year ended December 31, 2016 was $414,383.

 

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2016, total stock option expense related to stock options was $220,691. At December 31, 2016, the total compensation cost related to stock options not yet recognized is approximately $234,391, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.08 years.

 

13. Related Party Transactions

 

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Company’s chief executive officer paid expenses on behalf of the Company on his personal credit card. These related party advances do not bear interest and are payable on demand. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the balance due to the chief executive officer was approximately $0 and $27,075, respectively, and is included in accounts payable on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company also has a note payable due its chief executive officer in the amount of $12,500 at December 31, 2015, that was repaid during fiscal year 2016.

 

On April 4, 2016, the following officers purchased an aggregate of 423 Units, with each Unit consisting of 1 share of our Series A Preferred and a 3-year warrant to purchase 223 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share: (i) the Company’s president and chief executive officer, purchased 185 Units in consideration of $185,000 in accrued and unpaid salary; (ii) the Company’s chief financial officer purchased 97 Units in consideration of $97,000 in accrued and unpaid salary; (iii) the Company’s chief marketing officer and secretary purchased 58 Units in consideration of $58,000 in accrued and unpaid salary and (iv) the Company’s chief branding officer and wife of the Company’s chief executive officer purchased 83 Units in consideration of $83,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. On November 4, 2016, the Company entered into separate agreements with Steven Earles, Steven Shum, Carrie Earles and Martin Kunkel pursuant to which each of such individuals agreed to convert an aggregate of 423 shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock at the Conversion Price into an aggregate of 94,000 shares of Common Stock.

 

F- 22
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

Between June 2016 and December 2016, pursuant to subscription agreements, the following securities were purchased by Mr. Wickersham, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, or by entities he controls or with whom he has a material relationship:

 

  Mr. Wickersham, in his capacity as trustee of The Grover T. Wickersham Employees’ Profit Sharing Plan (“PSP”), purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 83,334 units, each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one common stock purchase warrant (collectively with the Common Stock, the “Common Stock Units”) at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $250,000. The exercise price of the warrants was temporarily reduced to $3.90 in December 2016, at which time 43,590 warrants were exercised.
     
  Mr. Wickersham directly purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 33,334 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit for a total purchase price of $100,000. In December 2016, Mr. Wickersham transferred and/or voluntarily cancelled 11,218 of his warrants.
     
  Mr. Wickersham, in his capacity as trustee of an education trust established for the benefit of an unrelated minor (“Education Trust”) purchased in a private placement 16,667 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Unit, for a total purchase price of $50,000. The exercise price of the warrants was temporarily reduced to $3.90 in December 2016, at which time 8,334 of the warrants were exercised.
     
  Mr. Wickersham, in his capacity as trustee of the Lindsay Anne Wickersham 1999 Irrevocable Trust (the “Irrevocable Trust”) purchased in a private placement 66,667 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $200,000.
     
  In June 2016, the PSP purchased from us a promissory note bearing interest at the rate of 8% per annum (a “Promissory Note”) for aggregate consideration of $50,000, along with a warrant to acquire 8,334 shares of common stock at a price of $6.00 per share. In July 2016, the PSP purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $120,000, along with a warrant to acquire 20,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share.

 

  In June 2016, the Grover T. and Jill Z. Wickersham 2000 Charitable Remainder Trust (the “CRUT”) purchased a Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $50,000, along with a warrant to acquire 8,334 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. In November 2016, the CRUT purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $75,000, along with a warrant to acquire 12,500 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. The exercise price of the warrants was temporarily reduced to $3.90 in December 2016, at which time the warrants were exercised.

 

In June 2016, pursuant to a Subscription Agreement, Michael M. Fleming, one of our directors, purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 8,334 Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Unit, each Unit consisting of one share of Common Stock and a warrant to purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share, for a total purchase price of $25,000.

 

On September 19, 2016, an entity for which Lawrence Hirson, a former director, serves as manager purchased $150,000 of promissory notes and received 3-year warrants to purchase 25,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share.

 

F- 23
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

14. Subsequent Events

 

From January 15, 2017 through February 16, 2017, the Company received additional warrant exercises and subscription documents totaling $217,750 for 55,834 shares issued.

 

On January 19, 2017, Eastside Distilling, Inc. (the “Company”) received a written letter of resignation from Steven Earles stating that he has resigned, effective immediately, from his position as President and a director of the Company. Mr. Earles did not sit on any committees of the Board of Directors. His resignation from all positions with the Company was not because of any disagreements with the Company on matters relating to its operations, policies and practices. In connection with his resignation, Mr. Earles has agreed to continue working with the Company in a consultant capacity for the foreseeable future. The vacancy on the Company’s Board of Directors resulting from Mr. Earles’ resignation will remain vacant until such time as a new director is identified and appointed. Similarly, the Company has not yet appointed a new President. Grover T. Wickersham continues to serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board and, until such time as a new President is appointed, he will assume the functions of that office.

 

On February 1, 2017, the Company filed an S-1 registration statement for the proposed sale common stock of up to $6.9 million.

 

On February 7, 2017 we entered into a Lease Termination Agreement with PJM BLDG. II LLC (the “Termination Agreement”), the landlord of our former headquarters and production facilities located at 1805 SE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, Oregon. The Termination Agreement provides that the original lease agreement dated August 15, 2014 (the “Lease”) will terminate on June 30, 2017 rather than October 30, 2020.

 

On February 17, 2017, the Company entered into a Commercial Sublease Agreement (the “Sublease”) dated February 1, 2017 with MotherLode, LLC, an Oregon limited liability company (“MotherLode”). Under the Sublease, the Company has agreed to sublease from MotherLode a total of 5,000 square feet of MotherLode’s facility located at 2150 SE Hanna Harvester Drive, Milwaukie, OR 97222 (the “Premises”) for $5,000 per month from February 1, 2017 through December 31, 2018. Under the Sublease, the Company is permitted to use the subleased Premises for its distillery operations, including, without limitation, blending, bottling and warehousing. The sublease facilities will be used as the new production facilities upon completion of the tenant improvements. Under the terms of the Sublease, the parties will enter into an addendum to the Sublease within 120 days of the effective date of the Sublease that will describe the tenant improvements to be constructed, any construction requirements and MotherLode’s approval of such tenant improvements. In the event the parties are unable to agree on tenant improvement issues within the stated period, the Company may terminate the Sublease.

 

On March 8, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of MotherLode LLC (“MotherLode”), a Portland, Oregon based provider of bottling services and production support to craft distilleries. Since its founding in 2014 by Allen Barteld, the mission of MotherLode has been to enable craft distillers to increase their production and extend their product lines, reducing cost and increasing efficiency, thereby freeing them to focus on their craft. The typical MotherLode customer is a distillery of small batch, hand-crafted spirits, or a premium craft spirit sold as a private label. We plan to relocate much of our own operations to MotherLode’s facility and jointly expand both companies manufacturing resources. Plans are in place for a pneumatic bottling line, allowing for a five times increase in bottling rate, and large volume spirit handling capability. The Company believes the MotherLode operations will be immediately accretive to earnings. In addition to bottling services for distillers and other producers of spirits, MotherLode bottles “private label” craft spirits for customers who have on-premise or off-premise licenses including retail and liquor stores, bars, restaurants, events, and businesses who want to take advantage of the benefits that come from having their brand clearly printed on a label. MotherLode’s premium craft spirits can also be private labeled for corporate gifts, wedding, birthdays and other personal events. We believe that MotherLode can help with new product development and the implementation of Eastside’s spirits branding initiatives in concert with our Portland-based spirits branding firm, Sandstrom Partners. We issued 86,667 shares of common stock to the owners of MotherLode as consideration for the acquisition. Based on the closing share price of our common stock of $4.35 on March 8, 2017, the value of the transaction was $377,000 which is approximately equal to the revenues of MotherLode in 2016. Additionally, Eastside entered into a three-year employment agreement with Allen Barteld and issued standard employee stock options, with vesting over five years. The terms of the acquisition and Mr. Barteld’s employment are more fully set forth in the Form 8-K filed on March 14, 2017.

 

F- 24
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Years Ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (continued)

 

On March 31, 2017, the Company issued 192,307 shares of its common stock for $750,000, including 192,307 warrants for common stock. This represented an initial closing of the Company’s private offering as filed in the Form 8-K on March 27, 2017.

 

15. Selected Quarterly Consolidated Financial Data (unaudited)

 

The following table sets for the selected unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations data for each of the four quarters of the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015. The unaudited quarterly information has been prepared on the same basis as the annual information presented elsewhere herein and, in the Company’s opinion, includes all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring entries) necessary for a fair statement of the information for the quarters presented. The operating results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results for any future period and should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements of the Company’s and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein.

 

    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,     June 30,     September 30,     December 31,  
    2016     2016     2016     2016  
Net sales   $ 463,474     $ 504,311     $ 607,847     $ 532,674  
Gross profit     207,305       236,095       236,993       147,569  
Net loss     (1,014,679 )     (1,309,500 )     (1,456,049 )     (1,419,391 )
Net loss available per common share, basic and diluted     (1.34 )     (1.38 )     (0.92 )     (0.57 )

 

    Three Months Ended  
    March 31,     June 30,     September 30,     December 31,  
    2015     2015     2015     2015  
Net sales   $ 325,070     $ 304,414     $ 352,081     $ 721,053  
Gross profit     107,208       146,763       184,557       393,700  
Net loss     (831,018 )     (688,060 )     (1,412,612 )     (669,376 )
Net loss available per common share basic and diluted     (1.10 )     (0.91 )     (1.85 )     (0.87 )

 

F- 25
 

 

EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY

Consolidated Balance Sheets

June 30, 2017 (unaudited) and December 31, 2016

 

    June 30, 2017     December 31, 2016  
    (unaudited)        
Assets                
Current assets:                
Cash   $ 1,297,245     $ 1,088,066  
Trade receivables     246,762       344,955  
Inventories     1,526,026       780,037  
Prepaid expenses and current assets     352,322       187,714  
Total current assets     3,422,355       2,400,772  
Property and equipment, net     250,251       99,216  
Intangible assets, net     385,950       -  
Goodwill     221,556       -  
Other assets     229,400       48,000  
Total Assets   $ 4,509,512     $ 2,547,988  
                 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                
Current liabilities:                
Accounts payable   $ 387,977     $ 457,034  
Accrued liabilities     136,448       523,702  
Deferred revenue     1,132       2,126  
Current portion of notes payable     40,337       4,537  
Total current liabilities     565,894       987,399  
Notes payable - less current portion and debt discount     1,886,608       427,756  
Total liabilities     2,452,502       1,415,155  
                 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)                
                 
Stockholders’ equity:                
Series A convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 3,000 shares authorized; 0 and 300 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively (liquidation values of $0 and $750,000, respectively)     -       245,838  
Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 15,000,000 shares authorized; 3,341,687 and 2,542,504 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively     334       254  
Additional paid-in capital     17,050,717       13,699,785  
Accumulated deficit     (15,007,550 )     (12,813,044 )
Total Eastside Distilling, Inc. Stockholders’ Equity     2,043,501       1,132,833  
Noncontrolling interests     13,509       -  
Total Stockholders’ Equity     2,057,010       1,132,833  
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 4,509,512     $ 2,547,988  

 

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

 

F- 26
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Operations

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016

(unaudited)

 

    Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
    June 30, 2017     June 30, 2016     June 30, 2017     June 30, 2016  
Sales   $ 883,522     $ 627,464     $ 1,713,191     $ 1,249,346  
Less excise taxes, customer programs and incentives     278,492       133,682       495,680       300,802  
Net sales     605,030       493,782       1,217,511       948,544  
Cost of sales     394,625       268,216       717,538       524,385  
Gross profit     210,405       225,566       499,973       424,159  
Operating expenses:                                
Advertising, promotional and selling expenses     549,865       411,503       935,997       578,235  
General and administrative expenses     848,472       891,597       1,574,868       1,767,079  
Loss on disposal of property and equipment     5,441       -       40,975       -  
Total operating expenses     1,403,778       1,303,100       2,551,840       2,345,314  
Loss from operations     (1,193,373 )     (1,077,534 )     (2,051,867 )     (1,921,155 )
Other income (expense), net                                
Interest expense     (95,753 )     (230,210 )     (143,562 )     (401,264 )
Other income (expense)     -       (1,756 )     4,485       (1,760 )
Total other expense, net     (95,753 )     (231,966 )     (139,077 )     (403,024 )
Loss before income taxes     (1,289,126 )     (1,309,500 )     (2,190,944 )     (2,324,179 )
Provision for income taxes     -       -       -       -  
Net loss   $ (1,289,126 )   $ (1,309,500 )   $ (2,190,944 )   $ (2,324,179 )
                                 
Dividends on convertible preferred stock     -       17,759       5,037       17,759  
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interests     (1,475 )     -       (1,475 )     -  
                                 
Net loss attributable to Eastside Distilling, Inc. common shareholders   $ (1,287,651 )   $ (1,327,259 )   $ (2,194,506 )   $ (2,341,938 )
                                 
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (0.40 )   $ (1.39 )   $ (0.75 )   $ (2.71 )
                                 
Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     3,253,246       951,692       2,935,551       863,965  

 

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

 

F- 27
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016

(unaudited)

 

    Six Months Ended  
    June 30, 2017     June 30, 2016  
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:                
Net loss   $ (2,190,944 )   $ (2,324,179 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:                
Depreciation and amortization     30,044       11,047  
Loss on disposal of property and equipment     40,975       -  
Amortization of debt issuance costs     52,657       116,750  
Amortization of beneficial conversion feature     -       228,550  
Issuance of common stock in exchange for services     339,720       89,100  
Stock-based compensation     279,322       157,408  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                
Trade receivables     104,417       (124,008 )
Inventories     (512,579 )     (94,702 )
Prepaid expenses and other assets     (201,008 )     97,875  
Accounts payable     (74,236 )     (155,881 )
Accrued liabilities     (619,329 )     435,799  
Deferred revenue     (994 )     2,467  
Net cash used in operating activities     (2,751,955 )     (1,559,774 )
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:                
Cash acquired in acquisition     4,541       -  
Purchases of property and equipment     (152,532 )     (7,052 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (147,991 )     (7,052 )
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:                
Stock issuance cost related to acquisitions     (19,980 )     -  
Stock issuance cost related to common shares issued for preferred conversion     (15,000 )     -  
Proceeds from common stock, net of issuance costs of $6,033, with detachable warrants     1,612,467       -  
Proceeds from warrant exercise     159,250       -  
Payments of principal on notes payable     (27,612 )     (408,975 )
Proceeds from convertible notes payable, net of issuance costs     1,400,000       185,000  
Proceeds from notes payable, warrants issued     -       200,000  
Proceeds from preferred stock, net of issuance costs of $35,920, with warrants     -       463,080  
Proceeds from common stock with detachable warrants     -       2,000,000  
Net cash provided by financing activities     3,109,125       2,439,105  
Net increase in cash     209,179       872,279  
Cash - beginning of period     1,088,066       141,317  
Cash - end of period   $ 1,297,245     $ 1,013,596  
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information                
Cash paid during the period for interest   $ 81,529     $ 219,976  
                 
Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Financing Activity                
Issuance of common stock for the acquisition of MotherLode Craft Distillery, LLC   $ 377,000     $ -  
Issuance of common stock for the acquisition of Big Bottom Distilling, LLC   $ 134,858     $ -  
Note payable issued in exchange of accounts payable   $ 60,000     $ -  
Common stock issued in exchange of notes payable   $ 87,500     $ -  
Issuance of common stock in exchange for services recorded as other assets   $ 145,000     $ -  
Dividends paid in common stock   $ -     $ 17,759  
Stock issued in lieu of accrued compensation   $ -     $ 423,000  
Stock issued to retire notes and accrued interest   $ -     $ 246,330  

 

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

 

F- 28
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

1. Description of Business

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. (“Eastside” or the “Company”) is an Oregon-based producer and marketer of craft spirits, founded in 2008. Our products span several alcoholic beverage categories, including bourbon, American whiskey, vodka, and rum. Unlike many, if not most, distillers, we operate several retail tasting rooms in Oregon to market our brands directly to consumers. Our growth strategy is to build on our local base in the Pacific Northwest and expand selectively to other markets by using major spirits distributors, such as Southern Glazer Wines and Spirits, and regional distributors that focus on craft brands. As a small business in the large, international spirits marketplace populated with massive conglomerates, we are innovative in exploiting new trends with our products, for example, our Coffee Rum with cold brew coffee and low sugar and our gluten-free potato vodka. In December 2016 we retained Sandstrom Partners (an internationally known spirit branding firm that branded St Germain and Bulleit Bourbon) to guide our marketing strategy and branding. Sandstrom Partners subsequently became an investor in our Company. We seek to be both a leader in creating spirits that offer better value than comparable spirits, for example our value-priced Portland Potato Vodka, and an innovator in creating imaginative spirits that offer a unique taste experience, for example our cold-brewed Coffee Rum, Oregon oak aged whiskeys, Marionberry Whiskey and Peppermint Bark holiday liqueur. On May 1, 2017, we acquired 90% of the ownership of Big Bottom Distillery (“BBD”) for its excellent, award winning range of super premium gins and whiskeys, including The Ninety One Gin, Navy Strength Gin, Oregon Gin, Delta Rye and initial production of American Single Malt Whiskey. BBD’s super premium spirits will expand our tasting room offerings and give us a presence at the “high end” of the market. In addition, through MotherLode Craft Distillery (“MotherLode”), our wholly-owned subsidiary acquired in March 2017, we also provide contract bottling and packaging services for existing and emerging spirits producers, some of whom contract with us to blend or distill spirits. As a publicly-traded craft spirit producer, we have access to the public capital markets to support our long-term growth initiatives, including strategic acquisitions.

 

We currently sell our products in 22 states (Oregon, California , Washington, Florida, New York, Illinois, Texas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming) as well as Washington D.C. and Ontario, Canada. The Company also generates revenue from tastings, tasting room tours, private parties, and merchandise sales from its facilities in Oregon. The Company is subject to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).

 

2. Liquidity

 

Historically, the Company has funded its cash and liquidity needs through the issuance of convertible notes, extended credit terms and the sale of equity. The Company has incurred a net loss of $2,190,944 and has an accumulated deficit of $15,007,550 for the six months ended June 30, 2017. The Company has been dependent on raising capital from debt and equity financings to fund its operating activities. For the six months ended June 30, 2017, the Company raised $3,109,125 in proceeds from financing activities to meet cash flow used in operating activities.

 

At June 30, 2017, the Company had $1,297,245 of cash on hand with a positive working capital of $2,856,461. The Company’s ability to meet its ongoing operating cash needs is dependent on generating positive operating cash flow, primarily through increased sales, improved profit growth and controlling expenses. Management has taken actions to improve profitability, by reducing headcount, rent, professional fees and increasing sales. Also in March and May 2017, the Company acquired two businesses, a contract bottling and packaging services company and a small distillery business (both stock purchase transactions), that are expected to improve operating results. In addition, through August 14, 2017, the Company has raised an additional $5,400,000 in cash gross proceeds through an equity offering (see Note 14, Subsequent Events). Management believes that cash on hand and proceeds generated from the most recent equity financing, along with revenue that the Company expects to generate as a result of its two recent acquisitions will be sufficient to meet the Company’s cash needs for the foreseeable future.

 

F- 29
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

3. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

 

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) for interim financial information and with instructions for Form 10-Q and, therefore, do not include all disclosures necessary for a complete presentation of financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows in conformity with GAAP. In our opinion, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all material adjustments, all of which are of a normal and recurring nature, necessary to present fairly our financial position as of June 30, 2017, our operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 and our cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire fiscal year ending December 31, 2017. The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Eastside Distilling, Inc.’s wholly-owned subsidiary MotherLode (beginning as of March 8, 2017), and majority-owned subsidiary BBD (beginning as of May 1, 2017). All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Segment Reporting

 

The Company determined its operating segment on the same basis that it uses to evaluate its performance internally. The Company has one business activity, producing, marketing and distributing hand-crafted spirits, and operates as one segment. The Company’s chief operating decision makers, its chief executive officer and chief financial officer, review the Company’s operating results on an aggregate basis for purposes of allocating resources and evaluating financial performance.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Net revenue includes product sales, less excise taxes and customer programs and incentives. The Company records revenue when all four of the following criteria are met: (i) there is persuasive evidence that an arrangement exists; (ii) delivery of the products and/or services has occurred; (iii) the selling price is fixed or determinable; and (iv) collectability is reasonably assured.

 

The Company recognizes sales when merchandise is shipped from a warehouse directly to wholesale customers (except in the case of a consignment sale). For consignment sales, which include sales to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC), the Company recognizes sales upon the consignee’s shipment to the customer. Postage and handling charges billed to customers are also recognized as sales upon shipment of the related merchandise. Shipping terms are generally FOB shipping point, and title passes to the customer at the time and place of shipment or purchase by customers at a retail location. For consignment sales, title passes to the consignee concurrent with the consignee’s shipment to the customer. The customer has no cancellation privileges after shipment or upon purchase at retail locations, other than customary rights of return. The Company excludes sales tax collected and remitted to various states from sales and cost of sales. Sales from items sold through the Company’s retail location are recognized at the time of sale.

 

F- 30
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Revenue received from online merchants who sell discounted gift certificates for the Company’s merchandise and tastings is deferred until the customer has redeemed the discounted gift certificate or the gift certificate has expired, whichever occurs earlier.

 

Customer Programs and Incentives

 

Customer programs and incentives, which include customer promotional discount programs, customer incentives and other payments, are a common practice in the alcohol beverage industry. The Company makes these payments to customers and incurs these costs to promote sales of products and to maintain competitive pricing. Amounts paid in connection with customer programs and incentives are recorded as reductions to net sales or as advertising, promotional and selling expenses in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 605-50, Revenue Recognition - Customer Payments and Incentives, based on the nature of the expenditure. Amounts paid to customers totaled $79,837 and $19,241 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

Advertising, Promotional and Selling Expenses

 

The following expenses are included in advertising, promotions and selling expenses in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations: media advertising costs, special event costs, tasting room costs, sales and marketing expenses, salary and benefit expenses, travel and entertainment expenses for the sales, brand and sales support workforce and promotional activity expenses. Advertising, promotional and selling costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising, promotional and selling expense was $935,997 and $578,235 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

Cost of Sales

 

Cost of sales consists of the costs of ingredients utilized in the production of spirits, manufacturing labor and overhead, warehousing rent, packaging, and in-bound freight charges. Ingredients account for the largest portion of the cost of sales, followed by packaging and production costs.

 

Shipping and Fulfillment Costs

 

Freight costs incurred related to shipment of merchandise from the Company’s distribution facilities to customers are recorded in cost of sales.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are considered to be highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less at the time of the purchase. The Company had no cash equivalents at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

 

Concentrations

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of trade receivables. At June 30, 2017, four customers represented 83% of trade receivables, and at December 31, 2016, three customers represented 91% of trade receivables. Sales to two customers accounted for approximately 46% of consolidated net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2017. Sales to one customer, the OLCC, accounted for approximately 35% of net sales for the six months ended June 30, 2016.

 

F- 31
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

GAAP defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and requires certain disclosures about fair value measurements. GAAP permits an entity to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value and contains financial statement presentation and disclosure requirements for assets and liabilities for which the fair value option is elected. At June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, management has not elected to report any of the Company’s assets or liabilities at fair value under the “fair value option” provided by GAAP.

 

The hierarchy of fair value valuation techniques under GAAP provides for three levels: Level 1 provides the most reliable measure of fair value, whereas Level 3, if applicable , generally would require significant management judgment. The three levels for categorizing assets and liabilities under GAAP’s fair value measurement requirements are as follows:

 

  Level 1: Fair value of the asset or liability is determined using unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
     
  Level 2: Fair value of the asset or liability is determined using inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the applicable asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar (as opposed to identical) assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
     
  Level 3: Fair value of the asset or liability is determined using unobservable inputs that are significant to the fair value measurement and reflect management’s own assumptions regarding the applicable asset or liability.

 

None of the Company’s assets or liabilities were measured at fair value at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016. However, GAAP requires the disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments that are not measured at fair value. Financial instruments consist principally of trade receivables, accounts payable, accrued liabilities, note payable, and convertible note payable. The estimated fair value of trade receivables, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities approximates their carrying value due to the short period of time to their maturities. At June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company’s note payable and convertible notes payable are at fixed rates and their carrying value approximates fair value.

 

Items Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

 

Certain assets and liabilities acquired in a business acquisition are valued at fair value at the date of acquisition.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories primarily consist of bulk and bottled liquor and merchandise and are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using an average costing methodology, which approximates cost under the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method. A portion of inventory is held by certain independent distributors on consignment until it is sold to a third party. The Company regularly monitors inventory quantities on hand and records write-downs for excess and obsolete inventories based primarily on the Company’s estimated forecast of product demand and production requirements. Such write-downs establish a new cost basis of accounting for the related inventory. The Company has recorded no write-downs of inventory for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.

 

F- 32
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, ranging from three to seven years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed using the straight-line method over the life of the lease or the useful lives of the assets, whichever is shorter. The cost and re lated accumulated depreciation and amortization of property and equipment sold or otherwise disposed of are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is reported as current period income or expense. The costs of repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.

 

Intangible Assets / Goodwill

 

The Company accounts for long-lived assets, including property and equipment, at amortized cost. Management reviews long-lived assets for probable impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. If there is an indication of impairment, management would prepare an estimate of future cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. If these estimated cash flows were less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss would be recognized to write down the asset to its estimated fair value. At June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, no impairment loss was recognized.

 

Income Taxes

 

The provision for income taxes is based on income and expenses as reported for financial statement purposes using the “asset and liability method” for accounting for deferred taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are reflected at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to the period in which the deferred tax assets or liabilities are expected to be realized or settled. As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. At June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company established valuation allowances against its net deferred tax assets.

 

Income tax positions that meet the “more-likely-than-not” recognition threshold are measured at the largest amount of income tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon settlement with the applicable taxing authority. The portion of the benefits associated with income tax positions taken that exceeds the amount measured as described above would be reflected as a liability for unrecognized income tax benefits in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets along with any associated interest and penalties that would be payable to the taxing authorities upon examination. Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits would be classified as additional income taxes in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations. There were no unrecognized income tax benefits, nor any interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits, accrued or expensed at and for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.

 

The Company files federal income tax returns in the U.S. and various state income tax returns. The Company is no longer subject to examinations by the related tax authorities for the Company’s U.S. federal and state income tax returns for years prior to 2011.

 

Comprehensive Income

 

The Company does not have any reconciling other comprehensive income items for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.

 

F- 33
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Excise Taxes

 

The Company is responsible for compliance with the TTB regulations, which includes making timely and accurate excise tax payments. The Company is subject to periodic compliance audits by the TTB. Individual states also impose excise taxes on alcohol beverages in varying amounts. The Company calculates its excise tax expense based upon units produced and on its understanding of the applicable excise tax laws. Excise taxes totaled $415,843 and $281,561 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

The Company recognizes as compensation expense all stock-based awards issued to employees. The compensation cost is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the related stock-based awards and is recognized over the service period of stock-based awards, which is generally the same as the vesting period. The fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model, which estimates the fair value of each award on the date of grant based on a variety of assumptions including expected stock price volatility, expected terms of the awards, risk-free interest rate, and dividend rates, if applicable. Stock-based awards issued to nonemployees are recorded at fair value on the measurement date and are subject to periodic market adjustments at the end of each reporting period and as the underlying stock-based awards vest. Stock-based compensation was $619,042 and $246,508 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

Accounts Receivable Factoring Program

 

During the three months ended June 30, 2017, we terminated our previous receivable factoring program. Under the prior program, we had the option to sell certain customer account receivables in advance of payment for 75% of the amount due. When the customer remitted payment, we would receive the remaining 25%. We were charged interest on the advanced 75% payment at a rate of 1.5% per month. Under the terms of the agreement with the factoring provider, any factored invoices had recourse should the customer fail to pay the invoice. Thus, we recorded factored amounts as a liability until the customer remitted payment and we received the remaining 25% of the non-factored amount. We did not factor any invoices during the six months ended June 30, 2017. At June 30, 2017, we had no factored invoices outstanding, and we incurred fees associated with the factoring program of $63,238 during the six months ended June 30, 2017. During the six months ended June 30, 2016, we factored invoices totaling $138,364 and received total proceeds of $103,773. At June 30, 2016, we had no factored invoices outstanding, and we incurred fees associated with the factoring program of $17,299 during the six months ended June 30, 2016.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standard Boards (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) No. 2016-09, Stock Compensation (Topic 718), Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting ” (“ASU 2016-09”), which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions, including the accounting for income taxes, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-09 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. We have adopted as of March 31, 2017.

 

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-2”). Under the new guidance, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date:

 

  - A lease liability, which is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and
     
  - A right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term.

 

F- 34
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. Certain targeted improvements were made to align, where necessary, lessor accounting with the lessee accounting model and Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The new lease guidance simplified the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Lessees will no longer be provided with a source of off-balance sheet financing. Public business entities should apply the amendments in ASU 2016-02 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years (i.e., January 1, 2019, for a calendar year entity). Early application is permitted for all public business entities upon issuance. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) (“ASU 2014-9”). ASU 2014-09 will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance. Under this update, an entity is required to recognize revenue upon transfer of promised goods or services to customers, in an amount that reflects the expected consideration received in exchange for those goods or services. As such, an entity will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under the current guidance. ASU 2014-09 is to be applied retrospectively either to each prior reporting period presented in the financial statements, or only to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. The Company will elect to apply the impact (if any) of applying ASU 2014-09 to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment to retained earnings. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date (“ASU 2015-14”). ASU 2015-14 defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year, making it effective for the year beginning December 31, 2017, with early adoption permitted as of January 1, 2017. The Company currently expects to adopt ASU 2014-09 in the first quarter of 2018. The Company does not expect adoption of ASU 2014-09 to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

 

In August 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-15, Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (“ASU 2014-15”). The new guidance explicitly requires that management assess an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and may require additional detailed disclosures. ASU 2014-15 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. We adopted ASU 2014-15 as of December 31, 2016.

 

In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330), Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory (“ASU 2015-11”). ASU 2015-11 is part of the FASB’s initiative to simplify accounting standards. The guidance requires an entity to recognize inventory within scope of the standard at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonable predictable costs of completion, disposal and transportation. ASU 2015-11 will be effective prospectively for the year beginning January 1, 2017. We adopted ASU 2015-11 as of March 31, 2017.

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-03, simplifying the presentation of debt issuance costs, which requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. ASU 2015-03 is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015 and early application is permitted. We have early adopted ASU 2015-03 as of December 31, 2015.

 

F- 35
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Reclassifications

 

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the June 30, 2017 presentation with no changes to net loss or total stockholders’ equity previously reported.

 

4. Business Acquisitions

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, the Company completed the following acquisitions:

 

MotherLode Craft Distillery, LLC

 

On March 8, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of MotherLode Craft Distillery, LLC (“MotherLode”), a small Portland, Oregon based provider of bottling services and production support to craft distilleries. The Company’s consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 include MotherLode’s results of operations from the Acquisition date of March 8, 2017 through June 30, 2017. The Company’s consolidated financial statements reflect the final purchase accounting adjustments in accordance with ASC 805 “Business Combinations”, whereby the purchase price was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values on the Acquisition date. MotherLode had approximately $375,000 in revenues (unaudited) in 2016.

 

The following allocation of the purchase price is as follows:

 

Consideration given:        
86,667 shares of common stock valued at $4.35 per share   $ 377,000  
Assets and liabilities acquired:        
Cash     7,062  
Inventory     103,488  
Property and equipment     46,250  
Intangible assets - customer list and license     376,431  
Goodwill     28,182  
Accounts payable     (5,180 )
Customer deposits     (179,233 )
    $ 377,000  

 

Intangible assets are recorded at estimated fair value, as determined by management based on available information. The fair values assigned to customer list intangible asset was determined through the use of the income approach, specifically the relief from royalty and the multi-period excess earning methods. The major assumptions used in arriving at the estimated identifiable intangible asset value included management’s estimates of future cash flows, discounted at an appropriate rate of return which are based on the weighted average cost of capital for both the Company and other market participants, projected customer attrition rates, as well as applicable royalty rates for comparable assets. The useful lives for intangible assets were determined based upon the remaining useful economic lives of the tangible assets that are expected to contribute directly or indirectly to future cash flows. The customer relationships estimated useful life is seven years. The fair values assigned to the license intangible asset were determined through the use of the cost approach. The license has an indefinite life and will not be amortized.

 

F- 36
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Big Bottom Distillery, LLC

 

On May 1, 2017, the Company acquired 90% of the ownership of Big Bottom Distillery, LLC (“BBD”), a Hillsboro, Oregon based distiller of super premium spirits. The Company’s consolidated financial statements for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 include BBD’s results of operations from the Acquisition date of May 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017. The Company’s consolidated financial statements reflect the final purchase accounting adjustments in accordance with ASC 805 “Business Combinations”, whereby the purchase price was allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their estimated fair values on the Acquisition date. BBD had approximately $201,000 in revenues (unaudited) in 2016.

 

The following allocation of the purchase price is as follows:

 

Consideration given:        
28,096 shares of common stock valued at $4.80 per share for 90%   $ 134,858  
Noncontrolling interests     14,984  
Total value of acquisition   $ 149,842  
         
Assets and liabilities acquired:        
Cash (overdraft)   $ (2,521 )
Accounts receivable     6,224  
Inventory     129,922  
Property and equipment     22,717  
Intangible assets - license     25,000  
Goodwill     193,374  
Accrued liabilities     (52,841 )
Notes payable     (172,033 )
Total   $ 149,842  

 

Intangible assets are recorded at estimated fair value, as determined by management based on available information. The fair values assigned to the license intangible asset were determined through the use of the cost approach. The license has an indefinite life and will not be amortized.

 

5. Inventories

 

Inventories consist of the following at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

    June 30, 2017     December 31, 2016  
Raw materials   $ 1,042,899     $ 439,739  
Finished goods     483,127       340,298  
Total inventories   $ 1,526,026     $ 780,037  

 

6. Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment consists of the following at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

    June 30, 2017     December 31, 2016  
Furniture and fixtures   $ 165,676     $ 70,140  
Leasehold improvements     18,266       8,607  
Vehicles     39,000       38,831  
Construction in progress     81,004       34,603  
Total cost     303,946       152,181  
Less accumulated depreciation     (53,695 )     (52,965 )
Property and equipment - net   $ 250,251     $ 99,216  

 

Depreciation expense totaled $14,563 and $11, 047 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

F- 37
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

7. Intangible Assets and Goodwill

 

There were no intangible assets or goodwill at December 31, 2016. At June 30, 2017, intangible assets and goodwill consist of the following:

 

    June 30, 2017     Life  
Permits and licenses   $ 50,000       -  
Customer lists     351,431       7 years  
Goodwill     221,556       -  
Total intangible assets and goodwill     622,987          
Less accumulated amortization     (15,481 )        
Intangible assets and goodwill - net   $ 607,506          

 

Amortization expense totaled $15,481 and nil for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

8. Notes Payable

 

Notes payable consists of the following at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

 

    June 30, 2017     December 31, 2016  
Notes payable bearing interest at 7.99%. The note is payable in monthly principal plus interest payments of $472 through December, 2020. The note is secured by a vehicle.   $ -     $ 16,642  
Notes payable bearing interest at 8%. The notes have a 2-year maturity and are due at various dates between September 19, 2018 – October 19, 2018, and pay interest only on a monthly basis.     460,000       547,500  
Note payable bearing interest at 2.74%. The note is payable in monthly principal plus interest payments of $100 through December, 2019.     2,909       -  
Note payable bearing interest at 4.00%. The note is payable in quarterly principal plus interest payments of $9,614 through March, 2019.     74,354       -  
Convertible notes payable bearing interest at 4.00%. The notes principal plus accrued interest is due in full at various dates between April 3, 2020 – June 30, 2020. The notes have an automatic conversion feature upon the closing (or first in a series of closings) of the next equity financing in which the Company sells shares of its equity securities for an aggregate consideration of at least $4,000,000 at a purchase price of at least $7.50. The outstanding principal and unpaid accrued interest on the Note shall be automatically converted into equity securities at a price equal to 80% of the price paid per share by the investors in the next equity financing or $6.00, whichever is lower, provided, however, that in no event shall the conversion price be less than $6.00. The note has a voluntary conversion feature where the investor may convert, in whole or in part, at any time at the conversion rate of $6.00.     1,408,627       -  
Note payable bearing interest at 5.00%. The note principal plus accrued interest is due in full in April, 2020.     60,247       -  
Total notes payable     2,006,137       564,142  
Less current portion     (40,337 )     (4,537 )
Less debt discount for detachable warrant     (79,192 )     (131,849 )
Long-term portion of notes payable   $ 1,886,608     $ 427,756  

 

F- 38
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Maturities on notes payable as of June 30, 2017, are as follows:

 

Year ending December 31:

 

2017   $ 28,482  
2018     498,377  
2019     10,404  
2020     1,468,874  
Thereafter     -  
    $ 2,006,137  

 

9. Income Taxes

 

The provision for income taxes results in effective tax rates which are different than the federal income tax statutory rate. The nature of the differences for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 were as follows:

 

    June 30, 2017     June 30, 2016  
Expected federal income tax benefit   $ (724,684 )   $ (798,000 )
State income taxes after credits     (144,602 )     (155,000 )
Change in valuation allowance     869,286       953,000  
Total provision for income taxes   $ -     $ -  

 

The components of the net deferred tax assets and liabilities at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consisted of the following:

 

    June 30, 2017     December 31, 2016  
Deferred tax assets:                
Net operating loss carryforwards   $ 4,325,989     $ 3,557,909  
Stock-based compensation     326,585       213,181  
Total deferred tax assets     4,652,574       3,771,090  
                 
Deferred tax liabilities:                
Depreciation and amortization     (83,014 )     (70,816 )
Total deferred tax liabilities     (83,014 )     (70,816 )
Valuation allowance     (4,569,560 )     (3,700,274 )
Net deferred tax assets   $ -     $ -  

 

F- 39
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

At June 30, 2017, the Company has a cumulative net operating loss carryforward (NOL) of approximately $10.8 million, to offset against future income for federal and state tax purposes. These federal and state NOLs can be carried forward for 20 and 15 years, respectively. The federal NOLs begins to expire in 2034, and the state NOLs begins to expire in 2029. The utilization of the NOL carryforwards may be subject to substantial annual limitation due to ownership change provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and similar state provisions. In general, if the Company experiences a greater than 50 percentage aggregate change in ownership of certain significant stockholders over a three-year period (a “Section 382 ownership change”), utilization of its pre-change NOL carryforwards are subject to an annual limitation under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code (and similar state laws). The annual limitation generally is determined by multiplying the value of the Company’s stock at the time of such ownership change (subject to certain adjustments) by the applicable long-term tax-exempt rate. Such limitations may result in expiration of a portion of the NOL carryforwards before utilization and may be substantial.

 

In assessing the realizable of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Due to the uncertainty of the realizability of the deferred tax assets, management has determined a full valuation allowance is appropriate.

 

10. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Operating Leases

 

The Company leases its warehouse, kiosks and tasting room space under operating lease agreements, which expire through October 2021. Monthly lease payments range from $1,802 to $6,400 over the terms of the leases. For operating leases which contain fixed escalations in rental payments, the Company records the total rent expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The difference between the expense computed on a straight-line basis and actual payments for rent represents deferred rent which is included within accrued liabilities on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Retail spaces under lease are subject to monthly percentage rent adjustments when gross sales exceed certain minimums.

 

At June 30, 2017, future minimum lease payments required under the operating leases are approximately as follows:

 

2017   $ 135,000  
2018     103,000  
2019     78,000  
2020     77,000  
2021     64,000  
Thereafter     -  
Total   $ 457,000  

 

Total rent expense was $145,844 and $242, 117 for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

 

On February 7, 2017, we entered into a Lease Termination Agreement with PJM BLDG. II LLC (the “Termination Agreement”), the landlord of our current headquarters and production facilities located at 1805 SE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland, Oregon. The Termination Agreement provides that the original lease agreement dated July 17, 2014 terminated on June 30, 2017 rather than October 30, 2020.

 

F- 40
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Legal Matters

 

We are not currently subject to any material legal proceedings, however we could be subject to legal proceedings and claims from time to time in the ordinary course of our business. Regardless of the outcome, litigation can, among other things, be time consuming and expensive to resolve, and divert management resources.

 

11. Net Loss per Common Share

 

Basic loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period, without considering any dilutive items. Diluted net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss by the sum of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and the potential number of any dilutive common shares outstanding during the period. Potentially dilutive securities consist of the incremental common stock issuable upon exercise of stock options and convertible notes. Potentially dilutive securities are excluded from the computation if their effect is anti-dilutive. There were no dilutive common shares at June 30, 2017 and 2016. The numerators and denominators used in computing basic and diluted net loss per common share in 2017 and 2016 are as follows:

 

    Three months ended June 30,  
    2017     2016  
Net loss attributable to Eastside Distilling, Inc. common shareholders (numerator)   $ (1,287,651 )   $ (1,327,259 )
Weighted average shares (denominator)     3,253,246       951,692  
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (0.40 )   $ (1.39 )

 

    Six months ended June 30,  
    2017     2016  
Net loss attributable to Eastside Distilling, Inc. common shareholders (numerator)   $ (2,194,506 )   $ (2,341,938 )
Weighted average shares (denominator)     2,935,551       863,965  
Basic and diluted net loss per common share   $ (0.75 )   $ (2.71 )

 

F- 41
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

12. Stockholder’s Equity

 

   

Convertible

Series A

                      Total Eastside Distilling, Inc.              
    Preferred Stock     Common Stock     Paid-in     Accumulated     Stockholders’     Noncontrolling     Total  
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     Equity     interests     Equity  
Balance, December 31, 2016     300     $ 245,838       2,542,504     $ 254     $ 13,699,785     $ (12,813,044 )   $ 1,132,833     $ -     $ 1,132,833  
Issuance of common stock     -       -       15,001       1       58,499       -       58,500       -       58,500  
Issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs of $6,033, with detachable warrants     -       -       400,019       40       1,553,927       -       1,553,967       -       1,553,967  
Issuance of common stock from warrant exercise for cash     -       -       40,834       4       159,246       -       159,250       -       159,250  
Issuance of common stock for services by third parties     -       -       70,131       7       305,293       -       305,300       -       305,300  
Issuance of common stock for services by employees     -       -       26,407       3       129,417       -       129,420       -       129,420  
Stock option exercises     -       -       9,260       1       49,999       -       50,000       -       50,000  
Stock-based compensation     -       -       -       -       279,322       -       279,322       -       279,322  
Issuance of common stock for acquisition of MotherLode, net of issuance costs of $5,580     -       -       86,667       9       371,411       -       371,420       -       371,420  
Issuance of common stock for 90% acquisition of Big Bottom Distilling, net of issuance costs of $14,400     -       -       28,096       3       120,455       -       120,458       14,984       135,442  
Shares issued for payoff of long-term notes     -       -       22,436       2       87,498       -       87,500       -       87,500  
Cumulative dividend on Series A preferred     -       5,037       -       -       -       (5,037 )     -       -       -  
Common shares issued for preferred conversion     (300 )     (250,875 )     100,001       10       235,865       -       (15,000 )     -       (15,000 )
Adjustment of shares for reverse stock-split     -       -       331       -       -       -       -       -       -  
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests     -       -       -       -       -       -       -       (1,475 )     (1,475 )
Net loss attributable to common shareholders     -       -       -       -       -       (2,189,469 )     (2,189,469 )     -       (2,189,469 )
Balance, June 30, 2017     -     $ -       3,341,687     $ 334     $ 17,050,717     $ (15,007,550 )   $ 2,043,501     $ 13,509     $ 2,057,010  

 

F- 42
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

Reverse Stock Splits

 

All shares related and per share information in these financial statements has been adjusted to give effect to the 20-for-1 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock effected on October 18, 2016, and the 3-for-1 reverse stock split of the Company’s common stock effected on June 15, 2017.

 

Issuance of Common Stock

 

From January 4, 2017 to January 22, 2017, the Company sold 15,001 shares of common stock to accredited investors at a price of $3.90 per share for aggregate cash proceeds of $58,500.

 

From March 31, 2017 to June 2, 2017, the Company issued 400,019 shares of its common stock for aggregate cash proceeds of $1,560,000, including 400,019 warrants for common stock.

 

From January 15, 2017 through February 16, 2017, the Company received warrant exercises and common stock subscriptions for 40,834 shares for aggregate cash proceeds of $159,250.

 

In March 2017, the Company issued 19,796 shares of common stock to four third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered.

 

In March 2017, the Company issued 575 shares of common stock to employees for stock-based compensation of $2,517.

 

On March 8, 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of MotherLode Craft Distillery, LLC (“MotherLode”), a Portland, Oregon based provider of bottling services and production support to craft distilleries. We issued 86,667 shares of common stock to the owners of MotherLode as consideration for the acquisition. Based on the closing share price of our common stock of $4.35 on March 8, 2017, the value of the transaction was $377,000. Issuance costs incurred were $5,580.

 

In March 2017, the Company issued 22,436 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 8% convertible promissory notes with an aggregate principal amount converted of $87,500.

 

F- 43
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

In March 2017, the Company issued 83,334 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 250 shares of preferred stock.

 

In April 2017, the Company issued 16,667 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 50 shares of preferred stock.

 

In April 2017, the Company approved a restricted stock unit grant of 33,334 shares of common stock to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Grover Wickersham, that vested on April 5, 2017, of which 10,218 shares were not issued in order to satisfy Mr. Wickersham’s personal tax withholding responsibility.

 

In April 2017, the Company issued 50,335 shares of common stock to three third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered.

 

In April 2017, the independent directors, Messrs. Trent Davis and Michael Fleming, respectively, each exercised 4,630 stock options to purchase common stock at $5.40 per share.

 

In May 2017, the Company completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Big Bottom Distilling, LLC (“BBD”), a Hillsboro, Oregon-based distiller of super premium spirits. We issued 28,096 shares of common stock to the owners of BBD as consideration for 90% of the BBD LLC units. Based on the closing share price of our common stock of $4.80 on May 1, 2017, the value of the transaction was $134,858. Issuance costs incurred were $14,400

 

In June 2017, the Company issued 2,716 shares of common stock to employees for stock-based compensation of $15,943, all of which were fully vested upon issuance.

 

Issuance of Convertible Preferred Stock

 

From April 4, 2016 to June 17, 2016, the Company sold 972 shares of its series A convertible preferred stock (“Series A Preferred”) for an aggregate purchase price of $972,000, of which (i) 499 Units were purchased for $499,000 in cash (ii) 423 Units were purchased by certain of our officers in consideration of $423,000 accrued and unpaid salary and (iii) 50 Units were purchased in consideration of cancellation of $50,000 of outstanding indebtedness net of issuance costs of $69,528.

 

Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred has a stated value of $1,000, which is convertible into shares of the Company’s common stock at a fixed conversion price equal to $4.50 per share. The Series A Convertible Preferred accrue dividends at a rate of 8% per annum, cumulative. Dividends are payable quarterly in arrears at the Company’s option either in cash or “in kind” in shares of common stock; provided, however that dividends may only be paid in cash following the fiscal year in which the Company has net income (as shown in its audited financial statements contained in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for such year) of at least $500,000, to the extent permitted under applicable law out of funds legally available therefore. For “in-kind” dividends, holders will receive that number of shares of common stock equal to (i) the amount of the dividend payment due such stockholder divided by (ii) 90% of the average of the per share market values during the twenty (20) trading days immediately preceding a dividend date.

 

In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up, or sale of the Company, each holder of Series A Preferred shall be entitled to receive its pro rata portion of an aggregate payment equal to: (i) $1,000 multiplied by (ii) the total number of shares of Series A Preferred Stock issued under the Series A Certificate of Designation multiplied by (iii) 2.5.

 

For all matters submitted to a vote of the Company’s stockholders, the holders of the Series A Preferred as a class shall have an aggregate number of votes equal to the product of (x) the number of shares of Common Stock (rounded to the nearest whole number) into which the total shares of Series A Preferred Stock issued under the Series A Certificate of Designation on such date of determination are convertible multiplied by (y) 2.5 (the “Total Series A Votes”), with each holder of Series A Preferred entitled to vote its pro rata portion of the Total Series A Votes. Holders of Common Stock do not have cumulative voting rights. In addition, the holders of Series A Preferred shall vote separately a class to change any of the rights, preferences and privileges of the Series A Preferred.

 

F- 44
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

As of June 30, 2017, the Company has zero shares of preferred stock outstanding.

 

Stock-Based Compensation

 

On September 8, 2016, the Company adopted the 2016 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”). The total number of shares available for the grant of either stock options or compensation stock under the 2016 Plan is 166,667 shares, subject to adjustment. On January 1, 2017, the number of shares available for grant under the 2016 Plan reset to 289,709 shares, equal to 8% of the number of outstanding shares of the Company’s capital stock, calculated on an as-converted basis, on December 31 of the preceding calendar year. In May 2017, the Board of Directors approved an amendment to the 2016 Plan to increase the number of shares of common stock reserved thereunder to a new total of 389,709 shares, contingent upon stockholder adoption and approval of this amendment at the next annual meeting of stockholders. The exercise price per share of each stock option shall not be less than 100 percent of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. At June 30, 2017, there were 287,516 options and 61,388 restricted stock units (“RSUs”) issued under the 2016 Plan, with vesting schedules varying between immediate and five (5) years from the grant date.

 

F- 45
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

On January 29, 2015, the Company adopted the 2015 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2015 Plan”). The total number of shares available for the grant of either stock options or compensation stock under the 2015 Plan is 50,000 shares, subject to adjustment. The exercise price per share of each stock option shall not be less than 20 percent of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. At June 30, 2017, there were 14,584 options issued under the 2015 Plan outstanding, which options vest at the rate of at least 25 percent in the first year, starting 6-months after the grant date, and 75% in year two.

 

The Company also issues, from time to time, options which are not issued under or subject to a formal option plan. At June 30, 2017, there were 16,667 options outstanding that were not issued under the 2015 Plan or the 2016 Plan.

 

A summary of all stock option activity at and for the three months ended June 30, 2017 is presented below:

 

    # of Options     Weighted- Average Exercise Price  
Outstanding at December 31, 2016     173,750     $ 9.24  
Options granted     145,000 (1)     4.74  
Options exercised     (9,260 )     5.40  
Options canceled     -       -  
Outstanding at June 30, 2017     309,490     $ 7.25  
                 
Exercisable at June 30, 2017     112,250     $ 10.76  

 

(1) options granted under 2016 Plan;

 

The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding at June 30, 2017 was $231,500.

 

At June 30, 2017, there were 197,240 unvested options with an aggregate grant date fair value of $663,100. The unvested options will vest in accordance with the vesting schedule in each respective option agreement, which varies between immediate and five (5) years from the grant date. The aggregate intrinsic value of unvested options at June 30, 2017 was $184,403. During the six months ended June 30, 2017, 73,186 options became vested.

 

The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation model to measure the grant-date fair value of stock options. The grant-date fair value of stock options issued to employees is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. Stock-based awards issued to nonemployees are recorded at fair value on the measurement date and are subject to periodic market adjustments as the underlying stock-based awards vest. To determine the fair value of stock options using the Black -Scholes valuation model, the calculation takes into consideration the effect of the following:

 

  Exercise price of the option
  Fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant
  Expected term of the option
  Expected volatility over the expected term of the option
  Risk-free interest rate for the expected term of the option

 

The calculation includes several assumptions that require management’s judgment. The expected term of the options is calculated using the simplified method described in GAAP. The simplified method defines the expected term as the average of the contractual term and the vesting period. Estimated volatility is derived from volatility calculated using historical closing prices of common shares of similar entities whose share prices are publicly available for the expected term of the options. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury constant maturities in effect at the time of grant for the expected term of the options.

 

F- 46
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

The following weighted- average assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes valuation model for options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2017:

 

Risk-free interest rate     1.56 %
Expected term (in years)     6.96  
Dividend yield     -  
Expected volatility     75 %

 

The weighted-average grant-date fair value per share of stock options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2017 was $3.29. The aggregate grant date fair value of the 145,000 options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2017 was $476,965.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, total stock option expense related to stock options was $279,322 and $157,408 respectively. At June 30, 2017 , the total compensation cost related to stock options not yet recognized is approximately $650,722, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 3.24 years.

 

Warrants

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, the Company issued 400,019 detachable warrants in connection with the purchase of 400,019 shares of common stock. The Company has determined the warrants should be classified as equity on the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of June 30, 2017. The estimated fair value of the warrants at issuance was $782,837, based on the Black-Scholes option-pricing model using the weighted-average assumptions below:

 

Volatility     75 %
Risk-free interest rate     1.50 %
Expected term (in years)     3.0  
Expected dividend yield     -  
Fair value of common stock   $ 5.00  

 

A total of 40,834 warrants were exercised during the six months ended June 30, 2017 for cash proceeds of $159,250.

 

A summary of activity in warrants is as follows:

 

    Warrants     Weighted Average Remaining Life     Weighted Average Exercise Price     Aggregate Intrinsic Value  
                         
Outstanding at December 31, 2016     846,765       2.77 years     $ 6.48     $ 0  
                                 
Six months ended June 30, 2017:                                
Granted     400,019       3.00 years     $ 7.50     $ 0  
Exercised     (40,834 )     2.00 years     $ 3.90          
Forfeited and cancelled     (74,873 )     2.00 years     $ 6.00       -  
                                 
Outstanding at June 30, 2017     1,131,077       2.51 years     $ 6.88     $ 0  

 

F- 47
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

13. Related Party Transactions

 

The following is a description of transactions since January 1, 2015 as to which the amount involved exceeds the lesser of $120,000 or one percent (1%) of the average of our total assets at year-end for the last two completed fiscal years and in which any related person has or will have a direct or indirect material interest, other than equity and other compensation, termination and other arrangements.

 

On April 4, 2016, Steven Earles, our former chief executive officer, purchased 185 units in an offering of units consisting of shares of our series A convertible preferred stock and warrants to purchase common stock (our “Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering”) in consideration of $185,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. Each unit consisted of one share of series A convertible preferred stock and one warrant to purchase 223 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. Steven Shum, our chief financial officer, purchased 97 units in the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering in consideration of $97,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. Martin Kunkel, our former chief marketing officer, director and secretary, purchased 58 Units in the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering in consideration of $58,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. Carrie Earles, our chief branding officer and wife of Steven Earles, purchased 83 units in the Series A Preferred Stock and Warrant Unit Offering in consideration of $83,000 in accrued and unpaid salary. These issuances were unanimously approved by our Board of Directors, including all disinterested directors. Effective November 4, 2016, we entered into an agreement with Mr. Earles, the Company’s former chief executive officer, pursuant to which Mr. Earles agreed to convert 185 shares of the Company’s series A convertible preferred stock into 41,111 shares of the Company’s common stock and to cancel his warrant to purchase 41,107 shares of the Company’s common stock.

 

On June 9, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by the Grover T. Wickersham Employees’ Profit Sharing Plan (“PSP”) for which Mr. Wickersham serves as trustee, the PSP purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 83,334 units, each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one common stock purchase warrant (collectively with the common stock, the “Common Stock Units”) at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $250,000.

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by Grover T. Wickersham, Mr. Wickersham directly purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 38,334 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit for a total purchase price of $115,000. On December 30, Mr. Wickersham assigned 24,680 of his warrants to a related and un-related party. He also voluntarily canceled 8,334 additional warrants.

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by an education trust established for the benefit of an unrelated minor for which Mr. Wickersham serves as trustee (“Education Trust”), the Education Trust purchased in a private placement 16,667 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $50,000.

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement executed by the Lindsay Anne Wickersham 1999 Irrevocable Trust for which Mr. Wickersham serves as trustee (the “Irrevocable Trust”), the Irrevocable Trust purchased in a private placement 66,667 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, for a total purchase price of $200,000.

 

F- 48
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

On June 22, 2016, pursuant to a subscription agreement, Michael Fleming, a current director, directly purchased in a private placement an aggregate of 8,334 Common Stock Units at a purchase price of $3.00 per Common Stock Unit, each Common Stock Unit consisting of one share of common stock and a warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share, for a total purchase price of $25,000.

 

On June 30, 2016, the PSP purchased from us a promissory note bearing interest at the rate of 8% per annum (a “Promissory Note”) for aggregate consideration of $50,000, along with a warrant to acquire 8,334 shares of common stock at a price of $6.00 per share. On July 7, 2016, the PSP purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $120,000, along with a warrant to acquire 20,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. On December 30, 2016, the PSP exercised 43,590 warrants at a price of $3.90 per share.

 

On June 30, 2016, the Grover T. and Jill Z. Wickersham 2000 Charitable Remainder Trust (the “Wickersham Trust”) purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $50,000, along with a warrant to acquire 8,334 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. On November 21, 2016, the Wickersham Trust purchased an additional Promissory Note for aggregate consideration of $75,000, along with a warrant to acquire 12,500 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. On December 31, 2016, the Wickersham Trust exercised its 20,834 warrants along with an additional 11,218 warrants assigned from Mr. Wickersham all at a price of $3.90 in exchange for eliminating the outstanding note principal.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2016, the Company’s chief executive officer paid expenses on behalf of the Company on his personal credit card. These related party advances do not bear interest and are payable on demand. At June 30, 2016, the balance due to the chief executive officer was approximately $8,000. The Company also has a note payable due its chief executive officer in the amount of $12,500 at June 30, 2016, that was repaid during fiscal year 2016.

 

On September 19, 2016, an entity for which Lawrence Hirson, a former director, serves as manager purchased $150,000 of promissory notes and received 3-year warrants to purchase 25,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share.

 

On June 2, 2017, Mr. Wickersham purchased 15,189 units at $3.90 per unit, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and one three-year common stock purchase warrant exercisable at $7.50 per share (subject to adjustment), for total proceeds of $59,237 in cash.

 

We believe that the foregoing transactions were in our best interests. Consistent with Section 78.140 of the Nevada Revised Statutes, it is our current policy that all transactions between us and our officers, directors and their affiliates will be entered into only if such transactions are approved by a majority of the disinterested directors, are approved by vote of the stockholders, or are fair to us as a corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified by the board. We will continue to conduct an appropriate review of all related party transactions and potential conflicts of interest on an ongoing basis.

 

F- 49
 

 

Eastside Distilling, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (continued)

June 30, 2017

(unaudited)

 

14. Subsequent Events

 

On August 10, 2017, we entered into an underwriting agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with Roth Capital Partners, LLC, as representative, joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner (the “Representative”), and Aegis Capital Corp., as joint lead underwriter and joint bookrunner, and with the other underwriters (the “Underwriters”) named therein, relating to a firm commitment underwritten public offering of 1,200,000 units (the “Units”), each Unit consisting of one share of our common stock (the “Common Stock”) and warrants to purchase one share of Common Stock (the “Warrants”). The Units will be sold at a price equal to $4.50 per Unit. Each Warrant is exercisable to purchase one share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $5.40 per share (120% of the public offering price of the Units). The Warrants will be exercisable at any time from the date of issuance through August 10, 2022, unless earlier redeemed. Beginning 90 days after the date of the Underwriting Agreement, the Warrants will be redeemable at our option, in whole or in part, at a redemption price equal to $0.15 per Warrant upon 30 days’ prior written notice, at any time after the date on which the closing price of the Common Stock has equaled or exceeded $7.65 per share (170% of the public offering price of the Units) for at least five consecutive trading days. We also granted the Underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 180,000 shares of Common Stock at a price of $4.49 per share, less the underwriting discounts and commissions, and 180,000 Warrants at a price of $0.01 per Warrant, to cover over-allotments, if any.

 

The offering was conducted pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333- 215848) and a related prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which became effective on August 9, 2017. The offering closed on August 15, 2017, and the closing of the Underwriters’ overallotment option to purchase an additional 180,000 shares of Common Stock at a price of $4.49 per share occurred on August 24, 2017. Shares of our common stock and the Warrants began trading on August 10, 2017 under the symbols “ESDI” and “ESDIW,” respectively, on the NASDAQ Capital Market.

 

Pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement, the Company will pay the Underwriters a commission equal to 7.0% of the gross proceeds of the offering and will also issue the Representative a warrant (the “Representative’s Warrant”) to purchase an aggregate of 120,000 Units, with an exercise price of $5.40 per Unit, which is equal to 120% of the public offering price per Unit. The Representative’s Warrant will be exercisable at any time, and from time to time, in whole or in part, during the four-year period commencing on August 10, 2018.

 

The Underwriting Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and agreements by the Company, and customary conditions to closing, indemnification obligations of the Company and the Underwriters, including for liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, other obligations of the parties, and termination provisions.

 

In connection with the offering, the Company also entered into a warrant agent agreement (the “Warrant Agreement”) dated August 10, 2017 with Pacific Stock Transfer Company (“Pacific Stock”) for Pacific Stock to act as warrant agent for the Warrants.

 

Copies of the Warrant Agreement, the form of Warrant Certificate and the form of Underwriters’ Warrant were filed as Exhibit 4.1, Exhibit 4.2 and Exhibit 4.3, respectively, to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 10, 2017. The foregoing descriptions of the Warrant Agreement , Warrant Certificate and Underwriters’ Warrant are not complete and are qualified in their entirety by reference to Exhibit 4.1, Exhibit 4.2 and Exhibit 4.3, respectively.

 

F- 50
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

UP TO 2,462,436 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK

 

 

 

 

PROSPECTUS

 

SEPTEMBER 21 , 2017

 

 

 

Neither we nor the selling stockholders have authorized any dealer, salesperson or other person to give any information or to make any representations not contained in this prospectus or any prospectus supplement. You must not rely on any unauthorized information. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities in any jurisdiction where an offer or sale is not permitted. The information in this prospectus is current as of the date of this prospectus. You should not assume that this prospectus is accurate as of any other date.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

PART II

 

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

 

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.

 

The following table sets forth all costs and expenses payable by Eastside Distilling, Inc. (the “Registrant”) in connection with the resale of the common stock being registered. All amounts shown are estimates except for the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) registration fee.

 

 

SEC Registration Fee   $ 1,055.97   
Accounting Fees and Expenses     10,000   
Legal Fees and Expenses     20,000   
Transfer Agent Fees     5,000   
Miscellaneous     4,000   
Total   $ 40,000   

 

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

 

Nevada law provides for discretionary indemnification for each person who serves as one of our directors or officers. We may indemnify such individuals against all costs, expenses and liabilities incurred in a threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding brought because such individual is one of our officers or directors. Such individual must have conducted himself in good faith and reasonably believed that his conduct was in, or not opposed to, our best interests. In a criminal action, he must not have had a reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.

 

Disclosure of Commission Position of Indemnification for Securities Act Liabilities

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Act, may be permitted to our directors, officers and controlling persons pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, we have been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable.

 

Except as otherwise disclosed under the heading “Business—Legal Proceedings” of this registration statement, there is at present no pending litigation or proceeding involving any of the Registrant’s directors or executive officers as to which indemnification is required or permitted, and the Registrant is not aware of any threatened litigation or proceeding that may result in a claim for indemnification.

 

The Registrant plans to enter into an underwriting agreement which provides that the underwriters are obligated, under some circumstances, to indemnify the Registrant’s directors, officers and controlling persons against specified liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act.

 

Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.

 

The following lists set forth information regarding all securities sold or granted by the Registrant within the past three years that were not registered under the Securities Act, and the consideration, if any, received by the Registrant for such securities:

 

1. On various dates from March 31, 2017 through June 4 2017, the Registrant issued 400,000 shares of its common stock for $1,560,000 in cash, including three-year warrants to purchase 400,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $7.50 per share (subject to adjustment).

 

II- 1
 

 

2. On various dates from April 21, 2017 through June 30, 2017, the Registrant issued an aggregate of $900,000 convertible promissory notes to accredited investors. The notes have a maturity date of three years from the date of issuance, and bear interest at the rate of five percent (5%) per annum. The notes have an automatic conversion feature upon the closing (or first in a series of closings) of the next equity financing in which the Registrant sells shares of its equity securities for an aggregate consideration of at least $4,000,000 at a purchase price of at least $7.50. The outstanding principal and unpaid accrued interest on the notes shall be automatically converted into equity securities at a price equal to 80% of the price paid per share by the investors in the next equity financing or $6.00, whichever is lower, provided, however, that in no event shall the conversion price be less than $6.00. The notes have a voluntary conversion feature where the investor may convert, in whole or in part, at any time at the conversion rate of $6.00.
   
3. On May 1, 2017, the Registrant issued 28,096 shares of its common stock in exchange for 90% of the outstanding limited liability company units of Big Bottom Distilling, LLC. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from this issuance.
   
4. On April 3, 2017, the Registrant issued 8,334 shares of common stock to a third-party consultant in exchange for services rendered. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from this issuance.
   
5. In March 2017, the Registrant issued 19,795 shares of common stock to four third-party consultants in exchange for services rendered. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from this issuance.
   
6. In March 2017, the Registrant issued 575 shares of common stock to employees for stock-based compensation of $2,517. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from this issuance.
   
7. On March 8, 2017, the Registrant completed the acquisition of MotherLode. The Registrant issued 86,667 shares of common stock to the owners of MotherLode as consideration for the acquisition. Based on the closing share price of the common stock of $4.35 on March 8, 2017, the value of the transaction was $377,000. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from this issuance.
   
8. In March 2017, the Registrant issued 22,436 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 8% convertible promissory notes with an aggregate principal amount converted of $87,500. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from these issuances.
   
9. In March 2017, the Registrant issued 83,334 shares of its common stock upon conversion of 250 shares of preferred stock. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from these issuances.
   
10. From January 15, 2017 through February 16, 2017, accredited investors exercised warrants and subscribed to shares of common stock totaling $159,250 for 40,834 shares issued.
   
11. From January 4, 2017 to January 22, 2017, the Registrant sold 15,000 shares of common stock to accredited investors at a price of $3.90 per share for aggregate cash proceeds of $58,500.
   
12. On December 30, 2016, the Registrant closed a private placement in which it issued an aggregate of 266,667 units at a per unit price of $3.90, each unit consisting of one share of the Registrant’s common stock, par value $0.0001 and a three-year warrant to acquire one share of the Registrant’s common stock at an exercise price of $7.50 per share. The units were sold to 30 accredited investors for aggregate gross cash proceeds of $1,040,000 pursuant to separate subscription agreements entered into with each investor.
   
13. Effective December 30, 2016, the Registrant issued 295,513 shares of its common stock to 10 accredited investors upon exercise of outstanding warrants in exchange for principal reduction in the Registrant’s outstanding promissory notes issued to investors between June 2016 and October 2016. The warrant exercise resulted in a reduction in the principal amount of promissory notes of $1,152,499. The warrants’ original exercise price of $6.00 per share had been temporarily reduced to $3.90 per share through December 31, 2016 to induce holders to exercise their outstanding warrants.
   
14. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Registrant issued 188,261 shares of its common stock to five accredited investors upon exercise of outstanding warrants, raising $734,216 in cash proceeds. The warrants’ original exercise price of $6.00 per share had been temporarily reduced to $3.90 per share through December 31, 2016 to induce holders to exercise their outstanding warrants.
   
15. From October 19, 2016 through November 21, 2016, the Registrant issued $450,000 of principal amount of 8% promissory notes and warrants to purchase shares of our common stock to accredited investors. The aggregate gross proceeds from the sale of the notes and warrants were $450,000. The notes have a October 19, 2018 and November 21, 2018 maturity date and bear interest at the eight percent (8%) per annum. The notes were issued with warrants to purchase up to 75,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. The number of warrant shares underlying each warrant are equal to the principal amount of the promissory note subscribed for by a subscriber divided by two (2). The warrants will be exercisable for three (3) years after the closing date.

 

II- 2
 

 

16. On September 19, 2016, the Registrant issued $900,000 of principal amount of 8% promissory notes and warrants to purchase shares of our common stock to accredited investors. The aggregate gross proceeds from the sale of the notes and warrants were $900,000. The notes have a September 19, 2018 maturity date and bear interest at the eight percent (8%) per annum. The notes were issued with warrants to purchase up to 150,000 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. The number of warrant shares underlying each warrant are equal to the principal amount of the promissory note subscribed for by a subscriber divided by two (2). The warrants will be exercisable for three (3) years after the closing date.
   
17. On July 19, 2016, the Registrant issued 5-year warrants to purchase 2,994 shares of our common stock to certain placement agents in consideration of services rendered in connection with our prior private placement offering of series A preferred stock and warrants. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from these issuances.
   
18. On July 7, 2016, the Registrant issued 4,268 shares of its common stock in consideration of $17,759 in accrued and unpaid dividends due at June 30, 2016 for our outstanding Series A Preferred Stock. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from these issuances.
   
19. Since July 1, 2016, the Registrant has issued 26,562 shares of our common stock, net, to consultants in consideration of services rendered. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds from these issuances.
   
20. From June 30, 2016 to July 7, 2016, the Registrant issued $350,000 of principal amount of 8% promissory notes and warrants to purchase shares of its common stock to accredited investors. The aggregate gross proceeds from the sale of the notes and warrants were $350,000. The notes have a June 30, 2018 maturity date and bear interest at the eight percent (8%) per annum. The notes were issued with warrants to purchase up to 58,334 shares of our common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per share. The number of warrant shares underlying each warrant are equal to the principal amount of the promissory note subscribed for by an investor multiplied by ten (10). The warrants will be exercisable for three (3) years after the closing date.
   
21. From June 4, 2016 to June 22, 2016, the Registrant conducted closings for the sale of 666,667 units to accredited investors at a price of $3.00 per common unit for an aggregate cash purchase price of $2,000,000 (of which a closing for the sale of 300,000 common units for a purchase price of $900,000 occurred on June 22, 2016). Each common unit consisted of (i) one share of the Registrant’s common stock and (ii) one warrant, exercisable for 3-years, to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per whole share.
   
22. From June 8, 2016 to June 17, 2016, the Registrant sold 42 units to accredited investors and a single unaccredited investor at a price of $1,000 per unit for an aggregate cash purchase price of $42,000. Each unit consisted of (i) one share of the Registrant’s Series A Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into shares of common stock at a rate of $4.50 per share, and (ii) one warrant, exercisable for 3-years, to purchase six hundred sixty-seven shares (223) shares of common stock at an exercise price of $6.00 per whole share.
   
23. On April 4, 2016, the Registrant conducted an initial closing for 880 units to 12 accredited investors at a price of $1,000 per Unit for an aggregate purchase price of $880,000, of which (i) 407 units were purchased for cash (ii) 423 units were purchased by certain of our officers in consideration of $423,000 accrued and unpaid salary and (iii) 50 units were purchased in consideration of cancellation of outstanding indebtedness. Each unit consisted of (i) one share of the Registrant’s Series A Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share at a rate of $9.00 per share, and (ii) one warrant, exercisable for 3-years, to purchase three hundred thirty three (333) shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $10.80 per whole share. The Registrant received gross proceeds of $407,000 from the sale of the 407 Units for cash.
   
24. On April 8, 2015, the Registrant issued 625 shares of our common stock in consideration of services rendered under a consulting agreement. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds in connection with this issuance.

 

II- 3
 

 

25. On March 25, 2015, the Registrant granted options to purchase an aggregate of 2,500 shares of stock at an exercise price of $105.00 to two employees pursuant to the terms of their employment agreement with the Registrant.
   
26. On February 10, 2015, the Registrant issued to its Chief Marketing Officer an option to purchase 3,334 shares of stock at an exercise price of $111.00 pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement with the Registrant.
   
27. On December 31, 2014, the Registrant completed an offering of 91,875 shares of its common stock at a price of $24.00 per share for an aggregate purchase price of $2,205,000.
   
28. On October 31, 2014, in connection with the closing of the Registrant’s acquisition of Eastside Distilling, LLC, the Registrant issued 533,334 shares of its common stock to the members of Eastside Distilling, LLC.
   
29. In October 2014, Eastside Distilling, LLC agreed to grant an option to purchase 16,667 shares of its common stock to a third-party consultant at an exercise price of $24.00 per share in consideration of services rendered, which agreement was assumed by the Registrant upon closing of its acquisition of Eastside Distilling on October 31, 2014. The option was granted on February 10, 2015 and expired on February 10, 2017.
   
30. On September 19, 2014, the Registrant amended a previously issued non-interest bearing demand note in the amount of $150,000 issued on June 13, 2014 to include new terms including interest, conversion rights, a maturity date and a pre-payment penalty. The Registrant did not receive any cash proceeds for issuance of the amended note.

 

None of the foregoing transactions involved any underwriters, underwriting discounts or commissions, general solicitation or any public offering, and the Registrant believes each transaction was exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The Registrant believes that the Section 4(a)(2) exemption applies to the transactions described above because such transactions were predicated on the fact that the issuances were made only to investors who (i) confirmed to the Registrant in writing that they are accredited investors, or if not accredited, have such knowledge and experience in financial and business matters that they are capable of evaluating the merits and risks of their investment; and (ii) either received adequate business and financial information about the Registrant or had access, through their relationships with the Registrant, to such information. Furthermore, the Registrant affixed appropriate legends to the share certificates and instruments issued in each foregoing transaction setting forth that the securities had not been registered and the applicable restrictions on transfer.

 

Item 16. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

 

(a)       Exhibits.

 

See the Exhibit Index on the page immediately following the signature page for a list of exhibits filed as part of this registration statement on Form S-1, which Exhibit Index is incorporated herein by reference.

 

(b)       Financial Statement Schedules.

 

No financial statement schedules are provided because the information called for is not required or is shown either in the financial statements or the notes thereto.

 

Item 17. Undertakings.

 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Act, may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is therefore unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

II- 4
 

 

The Registrant hereby undertakes:

 

(a) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:

 

(i) To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;

 

(ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the Registration Statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective Registration Statement; and

 

(iii) To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration Statement or any material change to such information in the Registration Statement;

 

provided, however, that paragraphs (a)(i), (a)(ii) and (a)(iii) do not apply if the information required to be included in a post-effective amendment by those paragraphs is contained in reports filed with or furnished to the Commission by the registrant pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act that are incorporated by reference in the registration statement.

 

(b) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof;

 

(c) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering;

 

(d) That, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act of 1933 to any purchaser:

 

(i) Each prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) shall be deemed to be part of the Registration Statement as of the date the filed prospectus was deemed part of and included in the Registration Statement; and

 

(ii) Each prospectus required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2), (b)(5), or (b)(7) as part of a registration statement in reliance on Rule 430B relating to an offering made pursuant to Rule 415(a)(1)(i), (vii), or (x) for the purpose of providing the information required by section 10(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 shall be deemed to be part of and included in the Registration Statement as of the earlier of the date such form of prospectus is first used after effectiveness or the date of the first contract of sale of securities in the offering described in the prospectus. As provided in Rule 430B, for liability purposes of the issuer and any person that is at that date an underwriter, such date shall be deemed to be a new effective date of the Registration Statement relating to the securities in the Registration Statement to which that prospectus relates, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the Registration Statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement or prospectus that is part of the Registration Statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such effective date, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the Registration Statement or prospectus that was part of the Registration Statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such effective date;

 

(e) That, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this Registration Statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act of 1933 shall be deemed to be part of this Registration Statement as of the time it was declared effective;

 

(f) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof;

 

II- 5
 

 

(g) To deliver or cause to be delivered with the prospectus, to each person to whom the prospectus is sent or given, the latest annual report to security holders that is incorporated by reference in the prospectus and furnished pursuant to and meeting the requirements of Rule 14a-3 or Rule 14c-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and, where interim financial information required to be presented by Article 3 of Regulation S-X are not set forth in the prospectus, to deliver, or cause to be delivered to each person to whom the prospectus is sent or given, the latest quarterly report that is specifically incorporated by reference in the prospectus to provide such interim financial information; and

 

(h) That, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the registrant’s annual report pursuant to section 13(a) or section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and, where applicable, each filing of an employee benefit plan’s annual report pursuant to section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

II- 6
 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, the Registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Portland, State of Oregon, on the 21st day of September, 2017.

 

  EASTSIDE DISTILLING, INC.
   
  By:  /s/ Grover T. Wickersham
    Grover T. Wickersham
    Chief Executive Officer and
    Chairman of the Board

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Grover T. Wickersham and Steven Shum, and each of them, as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, each with the full power of substitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place or stead, in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this Registration Statement (including post-effective amendments), and to sign any registration statement for the same offering covered by this Registration Statement that is to be effective upon filing pursuant to Rule 462(b) promulgated under the Securities Act, and all post-effective amendments thereto, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each of them, full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or their, his or her substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature   Title   Date
         
/s/ Grover T. Wickersham   Chief Executive Officer and Chairman   September 21, 2017
Grover T. Wickersham   (Principal Executive Officer)    

 

       
/s/ Steven Shum   Chief Financial Officer   September 21, 2017
Steven Shum   (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)    
         

/s/ Trent D. Davis

  Director   September 21, 2017
Trent D. Davis        
         
/s/ Michael M. Fleming   Director   September 21, 2017
Michael (Mick) M. Fleming        
         
/s/ Jack Peterson   Director   September 21, 2017
Jack Peterson        
         
/s/ Shelly A. Saunders   Director   September 21, 2017
Shelly A. Saunders        

 

II- 7
 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit

Number

  Description of Document
3.1   Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant, as presently in effect, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on November 14, 2011 (File No. 333-177918) and incorporated by reference herein.
3.2   Certificate of Designation – Series A Preferred Stock, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 9, 2016 and filed on March 11, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.3   Amendment to Certificate of Designation After Issuance of Class or Series, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 1, 2016 and filed on June 9, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.4   Certificate of Change, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 6, 2016 and filed on October 11, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.5   Certificate of Change, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated June 14, 2017 and filed on June 15, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.6   Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Registrant, as presently in effect, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 13, 2016 and filed on October 19, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.1   Form of the Registrant’s common stock certificate, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to Amendment No. 2 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (SEC File No. 333-215848) (the “2017 S-1 Registration Statement”) filed on July 7, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.2   Warrant Agreement between the Registrant and Pacific Stock Transfer Company dated August 10, 2017, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 10, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.3   Form of Warrant to purchase common stock (included as Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.2), filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 10, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.4   Common Stock Purchase Warrant, filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 10, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
5.1   Opinion of Sklar Williams PLLC regarding legality.
10.1+   Eastside Distilling, Inc. 2016 Equity Incentive Plan and forms of agreement thereunder, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on November 14, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.2+   Employment Agreement dated February 6, 2015 between Steven Earles and Eastside Distilling, Inc., filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 6, 2015 and filed on February 10, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.3+   First Amendment to Employment Agreement (Steven Earles), filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2015 filed on August 14, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.4+   Second Amendment to Employment Agreement dated November 4, 2016 between Steven Earles and the Registrant, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 4, 2016 and filed on November 10, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.5+   Employment Agreement dated October 5, 2015 between Steven Shum and the Registrant, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 5, 2015 and filed on October 6, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.6+   First Amendment to Employment Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 4, 2016 and filed on November 10, 2016 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.7+  

Employment Agreement dated February 27, 2015 between Melissa Heim and the Registrant, filed as Exhibit 10.7 to the Registrant’s 2017 Registration Statement, filed on February 1, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.

 

II- 8
 

 

Exhibit
Number
  Description of Document
     
10.8   Lease Agreement dated July 17, 2014 between PJM Bldg. II LLC and Eastside Distilling LLC, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-202033) filed on February 11, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.9   Lease Agreement with Oregon City Building Limited Partnership, filed as Exhibit 10.8 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-202033) filed on February 11, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.10   Specialty Lease Agreement dated January 20, 2015 between RPR Washington Square LLC and the Registrant, filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-202033) filed on February 11, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.11   License Agreement dated October 10, 2014 between Clackamas Town Center and the Registrant, filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-202033) filed on February 11, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.12   Non-Exclusive Consulting Agreement with Rinvest Securities, Inc., filed as Exhibit 10.11 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 and filed on March 31, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.13   Registration Rights Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 30, 2016 and filed on January 6, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.14   Purchase and Assignment of Membership Interests, Assumption of Obligations, Agreement to be Bound by Limited Liability Company Agreement and Admission of Substituted Member among the Registrant, Allen Barteld and MotherLode, LLC, dated as of March 8, 2017, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K and filed on March 14, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.15   Employment Agreement between the Company and Allen Barteld dated as of March 1, 2017 and executed on March 8, 2017, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 8, 2017, filed on March 14, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.16   Employment Agreement between the Company and Jarrett Catalani dated as of July 1, 2017, filed as Exhibit 10.16 to Amendment No. 3 to the Registrant’s 2017 Registration Statement, filed on July 20, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.17   Underwriting Agreement between the Registrant and Roth Capital Partners, as representative of the several underwriters, dated August 10, 2017, filed as Exhibit 1.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed on August 10, 2017 and incorporated by reference herein.
14   Code of Ethics, filed as Exhibit 14 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-202033), filed on February 11, 2015 and incorporated by reference herein.
23.1*   Consent of BPM LLP, independent registered public accounting firm.
23.2*   Consent of Sklar Williams PLLC (included in Exhibit 5.1).
24.1*   Power of Attorney (included in signature pages).
     
101.INS*   XBRL Instance Document
     
101.SCH*   XBRL Taxonomy Schema Linkbase Document
     
101.CAL*   XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document
     
101.DEF*   XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
     
101.LAB*   XBRL Taxonomy Labels Linkbase Document
     
101.PRE*   XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

* Filed herewith.  
+ Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan.

 

II- 9