MGP INGREDIENTS INC [MGPI] Filings

10-Q 1 mgpi-20230331.htm 10-Q mgpi-20230331

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

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

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2023

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

For the transition period from _________________________ to _________________________________

Commission File Number: 0-17196

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Kansas			45-4082531
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)			(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)


100 Commercial Street
Atchison,	Kansas	66002
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Zip Code)

(913) 367-1480

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

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


Title of each class	Trading Symbol	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, no par value	MGPI	NASDAQ Global Select Market

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. x Yes ☐ No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). x Yes ☐ No

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

x Large accelerated filer ☐ Accelerated filer

☐ Non-accelerated filer ☐ Smaller Reporting Company

☐ Emerging growth company

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 provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

22,009,834 shares of Common Stock, no par value, as of April 28, 2023

INDEX


PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION			Page

	Item 1.	Financial Statements

	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)		3
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)		4
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)		5
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)		6
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (Unaudited)		7
	Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements		8

	Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	17

	Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	25

	Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	25

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

	Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	25

	Item 1A.	Risk Factors	25

	Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	26

	Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	26

	Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	26

	Item 5.	Other Information	26

	Item 6.	Exhibits	26

METHOD OF PRESENTATION

Throughout this Report, when we refer to “the Company,” “MGP,” “we,” “us,” “our,” and words of similar import, we are referring to the combined business of MGP Ingredients, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries, except to the extent that the context otherwise indicates. In this Report, for any references to Note 1 through Note 10, refer to the Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1.

All amounts in this Report, except for share, par values, bushels, gallons, pounds, mmbtu, proof gallons, 9-liter cases, per share, per bushel, per gallon, per proof gallon, per 9-liter case and percentage amounts, are shown in thousands unless otherwise noted.

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts)


	Quarter Ended March 31,
	2023		2022


Sales	$	201,010	$	195,235
Cost of sales	131,186		123,414
Gross profit	69,824		71,821
Advertising and promotion expenses	7,733		5,504
Selling, general, and administrative expenses	20,532		16,237

Operating income	41,559		50,080
Interest expense, net	(995)		(1,598)
Other income (expense), net	123		54
Income before income taxes	40,687		48,536
Income tax expense	9,655		11,165
Net income	31,032		37,371
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	39		66
Net income attributable to MGP Ingredients, Inc.	31,071		37,437
Income attributable to participating securities	(311)		(318)

Net income used in earnings per common share calculation	$	30,760	$	37,119

Weighted average common shares
Basic	22,040,224		21,989,100
Diluted	22,072,271		21,989,100

Earnings per common share
Basic	$	1.40	$	1.69
Diluted	$	1.39	$	1.69

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands)


	Quarter Ended March 31,
	2023		2022
Net income attributable to MGP Ingredients, Inc.	$	31,071	$	37,437
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustment	175		(219)
Change in Company-sponsored post-employment benefit plan	(107)		(13)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	68		(232)

Comprehensive income attributable to MGP Ingredients, Inc.	31,139		37,205

Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(39)		(66)
Comprehensive income	$	31,100	$	37,139

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited) (Dollars in thousands)


	March 31, 2023		December 31, 2022
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$	31,728	$	47,889
Receivables (less allowance for credit loss, $1,475 at both March 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022)	128,611		109,267
Inventory	308,558		289,722
Prepaid expenses	6,542		2,957
Refundable income taxes	—		4,327
Total current assets	475,439		454,162
Property, plant, and equipment	461,069		450,800
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(220,100)		(215,168)
Property, plant, and equipment, net	240,969		235,632
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net	14,698		15,042
Investment in joint ventures	5,274		5,534
Intangible assets, net	216,250		216,768
Goodwill	226,294		226,294
Other assets	5,262		4,779
Total assets	$	1,184,186	$	1,158,211
Current Liabilities
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	6,400	$	5,600
Accounts payable	66,755		66,432
Federal and state excise taxes payable	7,388		4,627
Income taxes payable	4,716		—
Accrued expenses and other	17,056		28,716
Total current liabilities	102,315		105,375
Long-term debt, less current maturities	27,914		29,510
Convertible senior notes	195,305		195,225
Long-term operating lease liabilities	11,252		11,622


Other noncurrent liabilities	3,768		3,723
Deferred income taxes	67,685		67,112
Total liabilities	408,239		412,567
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 7)
Stockholders’ Equity
Capital stock
Preferred, 5% non-cumulative; $10 par value; authorized 1,000 shares; issued and outstanding 437 shares	4		4
Common stock
No par value; authorized 40,000,000 shares; issued 23,125,166 shares at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022; and 22,008,929 and 21,994,042 shares outstanding at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively	6,715		6,715
Additional paid-in capital	320,997		318,839
Retained earnings	471,471		443,061
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	(236)		(304)
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,116,237 and 1,131,124 shares at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively	(21,885)		(21,591)
Total MGP Ingredients, Inc. stockholders’ equity	777,066		746,724
Noncontrolling interest	(1,119)		(1,080)
Total equity	775,947		745,644
Total liabilities and equity	$	1,184,186	$	1,158,211

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands)


	Quarter to Date Ended March 31,
	2023		2022
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income	$	31,032	$	37,371
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	5,171		5,621


Share-based compensation	1,215		1,373
Equity method investment loss (income)	260		(394)
Deferred income taxes, including change in valuation allowance	573		347
Other, net	99		24
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables, net	(19,227)		(9,601)
Inventory	(18,707)		(13,696)
Prepaid expenses	(3,578)		657
Income taxes payable (refundable)	9,043		5,437
Accounts payable	6,498		4,638
Accrued expenses and other	(10,208)		(8,896)
Federal and state excise taxes payable	2,761		(515)

Other, net	89		(136)
Net cash provided by operating activities	5,021		22,230

Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	(16,237)		(10,642)


Contributions to equity method investment	—		(1,028)

Other, net	(708)		(363)
Net cash used in investing activities	(16,945)		(12,033)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Payment of dividends and dividend equivalents	(2,669)		(2,661)
Purchase of treasury stock	(801)		(714)


Principal payments on long-term debt	(800)		(807)



Net cash used in financing activities	(4,270)		(4,182)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	33		(288)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(16,161)		5,727
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	47,889		21,568
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	31,728	$	27,295

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

For Quarter to Date Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022

(Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands)


	Capital Stock Preferred		Issued Common		Additional Paid-In Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss)		Treasury Stock		Non-controlling Interest		Total
Balance, December 31, 2022	$	4	$	6,715	$	318,839	$	443,061	$	(304)	$	(21,591)	$	(1,080)	$	745,644
Comprehensive income:
Net income (loss)	—		—		—		31,071		—		—		(39)		31,032
Other comprehensive income	—		—		—		—		68		—		—		68
Dividends and dividend equivalents of $0.12 per common share and per restricted stock unit, net of estimated forfeitures	—		—		—		(2,661)		—		—		—		(2,661)
Share-based compensation	—		—		2,665		—		—		—		—		2,665
Stock shares awarded, forfeited or vested	—		—		(507)		—		—		507		—		—
Stock shares repurchased	—		—		—		—		—		(801)		—		(801)
Balance, March 31, 2023	$	4	$	6,715	$	320,997	$	471,471	$	(236)	$	(21,885)	$	(1,119)	$	775,947


	Capital Stock Preferred		Issued Common		Additional Paid-In Capital		Retained Earnings		Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss)		Treasury Stock		Non-controlling Interest		Total
Balance, December 31, 2021	$	4	$	6,715	$	315,802	$	344,237	$	354	$	(22,357)	$	(490)	$	644,265
Comprehensive income:
Net income (loss)	—		—		—		37,437		—		—		(66)		37,371
Other comprehensive loss	—		—		—		—		(232)		—		—		(232)
Dividends and dividend equivalents of $0.12 per common share and per restricted stock unit, net of estimated forfeitures	—		—		—		(2,661)		—		—		—		(2,661)
Share-based compensation	—		—		1,373		—		—		—		—		1,373
Stock shares awarded, forfeited or vested	—		—		(604)		—		—		604		—		—
Stock shares repurchased	—		—		—		—		—		(711)		—		(711)
Balance, March 31, 2022	$	4	$	6,715	$	316,571	$	379,013	$	122	$	(22,464)	$	(556)	$	679,405

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements

MGP INGREDIENTS, INC.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Dollars in thousands, unless otherwise noted)

Note 1. Accounting Policies and Basis of Presentation

The Company. MGP Ingredients, Inc. (“the Company,” or “MGP”) is a Kansas corporation headquartered in Atchison, Kansas and is a leading producer and supplier of premium distilled spirits, branded spirits and food ingredients. Distilled spirits include premium bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys and grain neutral spirits (“GNS”), including vodka and gin. The Company’s distilled spirits are either sold directly or indirectly to manufacturers of other branded spirits. MGP is also a producer of high quality industrial alcohol for use in both food and non-food applications. The Company has a portfolio of its own high quality branded spirits which are produced through its distilleries and bottling facilities and sold to distributors. The Company’s branded spirits products account for a range of price points from value products through ultra premium brands, with a focus on high-end American whiskey, tequila and gin. The Company’s protein and starch food ingredients provide a host of functional, nutritional, and sensory benefits for a wide range of food products to serve the consumer packaged goods industry. The ingredients products are sold directly, or through distributors, to manufacturers and processors of finished packaged goods or to bakeries.

The Company reports three operating segments: Distilling Solutions, Branded Spirits and Ingredient Solutions. Certain amounts in the 2022 consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2023 presentation.

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly owned and majority owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as of and for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements contain all adjustments (consisting of normal and recurring adjustments) necessary to fairly present the results for interim periods in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC, certain information and note disclosures normally included in the financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted.

The Company holds a 60 percent interest in Dos Primos Tequila, LLC (“Dos Primos”). The Company consolidated Dos Primos’ activity on the financial statements and presented the 40 percent non-controlling interest portion on a separate line.

Use of Estimates. The financial reporting policies of the Company conform to GAAP. The preparation of unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the 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. The application of certain of these policies places demands on management’s judgment, with financial reporting results relying on estimation about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. For all of these policies, management cautions that future events rarely develop as forecast, and estimates routinely require adjustment and may require material adjustment.

Inventory. Inventory includes finished goods, raw materials in the form of agricultural commodities used in the production process as well as bottles, caps, and labels used in the bottling process, and certain maintenance and repair items. Bourbons, ryes, and other whiskeys included in inventory are normally aged in barrels for several years, following industry practice. All barreled bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys are classified as a current asset. The Company includes warehousing, insurance, and other carrying charges applicable to barreled whiskey in inventory costs.

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value on the first-in, first-out, or FIFO, method. Inventory valuations are impacted by constantly changing prices paid for key materials, primarily corn. Inventory consists of the following:


	March 31, 2023		December 31, 2022
Finished goods	$	50,730	$	47,073
Barreled distillate (bourbons and other whiskeys)	210,615		199,040
Raw materials	33,524		29,931
Work in process	1,351		1,645
Maintenance materials	10,004		9,931
Other	2,334		2,102
Total	$	308,558	$	289,722

Revenue Recognition. Revenue is recognized when control of the promised goods or services, through performance obligations by the Company, is transferred to the customer in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to receive in exchange for the performance obligations. The term between invoicing and when payment is due is not significant and the period between when the entity transfers the promised good or service to the customer and when the customer pays for that good or service is one year or less.

Revenue is recognized for the sale of products at the point in time finished products are delivered to the customer in accordance with shipping terms. This is a faithful depiction of the satisfaction of the performance obligation because, at the point control passes to the customer, the customer has legal title and the risk and rewards of ownership have transferred, and the customer has a present obligation to pay.

The Distilling Solutions segment routinely enters into bill and hold arrangements, whereby the Company produces and sells aged and unaged distillate to customers, and the product is barreled at the customer’s request and warehoused at a Company location for an extended period of time in accordance with directions received from the Company’s customers. Even though the aged and unaged distillate remains in the Company’s possession, a sale is recognized at the point in time when the customer obtains control of the product. Control is transferred to the customer in bill and hold transactions when: the customer acceptance specifications have been met, legal title has transferred, the customer has a present obligation to pay for the product, and the risk and rewards of ownership have transferred to the customer. Additionally, all of the following bill and hold criteria have to be met in order for control to be transferred to the customer: the reason for the bill and hold arrangement is substantive, the customer has requested the product be warehoused, the product has been identified as separately belonging to the customer, the product is currently ready for physical transfer to the customer, and the Company does not have the ability to use the product or direct it to another customer.

Warehouse services revenue is recognized over the time that warehouse services are rendered and as they are rendered. This is a faithful depiction of the satisfaction of the performance obligation because control of the aging products has already passed to the customer and there are no additional performance activities required by the Company, except as requested by the customer. The performance of the service activities, as requested, is invoiced as satisfied and revenue is concurrently recognized. Contract bottling is recognized over the time contract bottling services are rendered and as they are rendered.

Sales in the Branded Spirits segment reflect reductions attributable to consideration given to customers in incentive programs, including discounts and allowances for certain volume targets. These allowances and discounts are not for distinct goods and are paid only when the depletion volume targets are achieved by the customer. The amounts reimbursed to customers are determined based on agreed-upon amounts and are recorded as a reduction of revenue.

Excise Tax. The Company is responsible for compliance with the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau of the U.S. Treasury Department (the “TTB”) regulations, which include 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 federal and state excise tax expense based upon units shipped and on its understanding of the applicable excise tax laws. Excise taxes that are both imposed on and concurrent with a specific revenue-producing transaction, and that are collected by the Company from a customer, are excluded from revenue and expense.

Income Taxes. The Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. A valuation allowance is recognized if it is more likely than not that at least some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

Earnings Per Common Share (“EPS”). Basic and diluted EPS is computed using the two-class method, which is an earnings allocation formula that determines net income per share for each class of Common Stock and participating security according to dividends declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Basic EPS amounts are computed by dividing net income attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average shares outstanding during each period. Diluted EPS is computed using the if-converted method by dividing the net income attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average shares outstanding, inclusive of the impact of the Convertible Senior Notes, except for where the result would be anti-dilutive as of the balance sheet date.

Translation of Foreign Currencies. Assets and liabilities of Niche Drinks Co., Ltd. (“Niche”), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company whose functional currency is the British pound sterling, are translated to U.S. dollars using the exchange rate in effect at the condensed consolidated balance sheet date. Results of operations are translated using average rates during the period. Adjustments resulting from the translation process are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income. The Company maintains a U.S. bank account denominated in British pound sterling, which is adjusted for the market exchange rate at the reporting period-end. Any impact of the adjustment for the exchange rate applied to the financial asset is reported in other income (expense), net on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The Company records goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets in connection with various acquisitions of businesses and allocates the goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets to its respective reporting units. The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment at least annually, in the fourth quarter, or on an interim basis if events and circumstances occur that would indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value. To the extent that the carrying value exceeds fair value, an impairment of goodwill is recognized. Judgment is required in the determination of reporting units, the assignment of assets and liabilities to reporting units, including goodwill, and the determination of fair value of the reporting units. The Company separately evaluates indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. As of March 31, 2023, the Company determined that goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets were not impaired.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. The Company determines the fair values of its financial instruments based on a fair value hierarchy, which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels based upon the observability of inputs. Fair values determined by Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access. Level 2 inputs include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, and include situations where there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls has been determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.

The Company’s short-term financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable. The carrying value of the short-term financial instruments approximates the fair value due to their short-term nature. These financial instruments have no stated maturities or the financial instruments have short-term maturities that approximate market.

The fair value of the Company’s debt is estimated based on current market interest rates for debt with similar maturities and credit quality. Excluding the impact of the conversion feature of the Convertible Senior Notes, the fair value of the Company’s debt was $141,877 and $150,249 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. The financial statement carrying value of total debt (net of unamortized loan fees) was $229,619 and $230,335 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. These fair values are considered Level 2 under the fair value hierarchy. Fair value disclosure for deferred compensation plan investments is included in Note 8, Employee and Non-Employee Benefit Plans.

Equity Method Investments. The Company holds 50 percent interests in DGL Destiladores, S.de R.L. de C.V. (“DGL”) and Agricola LG, S.de R.L. de C.V. (“Agricola”) (combined “LMX”), which are accounted for as equity method investments and are considered affiliates of the Company. The investment in LMX, which is recorded in investment in joint ventures on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, was $5,274 and $5,534 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded a loss of $260 and a gain of $394 from our equity method investments, respectively, which is recorded in other income (expense), net on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. During the quarter ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company purchased $8,417 and $8,391, respectively, of finished goods from LMX and bulk beverage alcohol from the other 50 percent owner of DGL.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standard Updates. The Company did not adopt any new Accounting Standard Updates during the quarter ended March 31, 2023.

Note 2. Revenue

The Company generates revenue from the Distilling Solutions segment by the sale of products and by providing warehouse services related to the storage and aging of customer products. The Company generates revenue from the Branded Spirits segment by the sale of products and by providing contract bottling services. The Company generates revenue from the Ingredient Solutions segment by the sale of products. Revenue related to sales of products is recognized at a point in time whereas revenue generated from warehouse services and contract bottling services is recognized over time. Contracts with customers include a single performance obligation (either the sale of products, the provision of warehouse services or contract bottling services).

Disaggregation of Sales. The following table presents the Company’s sales by segment and major products and services:


	Quarter Ended March 31,
	2023		2022
Distilling Solutions
Brown goods	$	68,324	$	62,145
White goods	15,954		20,086
Premium beverage alcohol	84,278		82,231
Industrial alcohol	10,439		11,495
Food grade alcohol	94,717		93,726
Fuel grade alcohol	2,556		3,282
Distillers feed and related co-products	9,092		8,917
Warehouse services	6,858		5,584
Total Distilling Solutions	113,223		111,509

Branded Spirits
Ultra premium	9,115		12,597
Super premium	2,847		2,946
Premium	6,784		6,140
Premium plus	18,746		21,683
Mid	20,835		19,273
Value	13,421		11,299
Other	3,881		3,496
Total Branded Spirits	56,883		55,751

Ingredient Solutions
Specialty wheat starches	14,686		15,203
Specialty wheat proteins	11,890		9,419
Commodity wheat starches	3,807		3,353
Commodity wheat proteins	521		—
Total Ingredient Solutions	30,904		27,975

Total sales	$	201,010	$	195,235

Note 3. Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Definite-Lived Intangible Assets. The Company acquired definite-lived intangible assets in connection with various acquisitions of businesses. The distributor relationships have a carrying value of $37,260, net of accumulated amortization of $4,140. The distributor relationships have a useful life of 20 years. The amortization expense was $518 for both quarters ended March 31, 2023 and 2022.

As of March 31, 2023, the expected future amortization expense related to definite-lived intangible assets are as follows:


Remainder of 2023	$	1,553
2024	2,070
2025	2,070
2026	2,070
2027	2,070
Thereafter	27,427
Total	$	37,260

Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets. The Company records goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets in connection with various acquisitions of businesses and allocates the goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets to its respective reporting units. The carrying amount of goodwill, which relates to the Branded Spirits segment, was $226,294 at both March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. The carrying amount of indefinite-lived intangible assets, which relates to the Branded Spirits segment, was $178,990 at both March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022.

Note 4. Corporate Borrowings

The following table presents the Company’s outstanding indebtedness:


Description(a)	March 31, 2023		December 31, 2022
Credit Agreement - Revolver, 5.90% (variable rate) due 2026	$	—	$	—
Convertible Senior Notes, 1.88% (fixed rate) due 2041	201,250		201,250

Note Purchase Agreement
Series A Senior Secured Notes, 3.53% (fixed rate) due 2027	14,400		15,200
Senior Secured Notes, 3.80% (fixed rate) due 2029	20,000		20,000

Total indebtedness outstanding	235,650		236,450
Less unamortized loan fees(b)	(6,031)		(6,115)
Total indebtedness outstanding, net	229,619		230,335
Less current maturities of long-term debt	(6,400)		(5,600)
Long-term debt	$	223,219	$	224,735

(a) Interest rates are as of March 31, 2023.

(b) Loan fees are being amortized over the life of the debt instruments.

Credit Agreement. On February 14, 2020, the Company entered into a credit agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with multiple participants led by Wells Fargo Bank, National Association (“Wells Fargo Bank”) that matures on March 14, 2026. The Credit Agreement provided for a $300,000 revolving credit facility. On May 14, 2021, the Credit Agreement was amended to increase the principal amount to $400,000 and to increase the amount of the revolving credit facility by up to an additional $100,000. On August 31, 2022, the Credit Agreement was amended to change the interest rate benchmark from LIBOR to SOFR. The Credit Agreement includes certain requirements and covenants with which the Company was in compliance at March 31, 2023. As of March 31, 2023, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement, leaving $400,000 available.

Convertible Senior Notes. On November 16, 2021, the Company issued $201,250 in aggregate principal amount of 1.88% convertible senior notes due in 2041 (“2041 Notes”). The 2041 Notes were issued pursuant to an indenture, dated as of November 16, 2021 ( the “Indenture”), by and among the Company, as issuer, Luxco, Inc., MGPI Processing, Inc. and MGPI of Indiana, LLC as subsidiary guarantors, and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The 2041 Notes are senior, unsecured obligations of the Company and interest is payable semi-annually in arrears at a fixed interest rate of 1.88% on May 15 and

November 15 of each year. The 2041 Notes mature on November 15, 2041 (“Maturity Date”) unless earlier repurchased, redeemed or converted, per the agreement. Upon conversion, the Company will pay cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the 2041 Notes to be converted and pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of the Company’s common stock, or a combination of cash and shares of the Company’s common stock, at its election, in respect to the remainder, if any, of the Company’s conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the 2041 Notes being converted.

Note Purchase Agreements. The Company’s Note Purchase and Private Shelf Agreement (the “Note Purchase Agreement”), with PGIM, Inc., (“Prudential”), an affiliate of Prudential Financial, Inc., and certain affiliates of Prudential, provides for the issuance of $20,000 of Series A Senior Secured Notes and the issuance of up to $105,000 of additional Senior Secured Notes (or any higher amount solely to the extent Prudential has provided written notice to the Company of its authorization of such a higher amount). On July 29, 2021, Prudential provided the Company notice pursuant to Section 1.2 of the Note Purchase Agreement that Prudential has authorized an increase in the amount of additional Senior Secured Notes that may be issued under the uncommitted shelf facility under the Note Purchase Agreement from $105,000 to $140,000, effective as of July 29, 2021. The deadline for issuing the notes under the shelf facility is August 23, 2023.

During 2017, the Company issued $20,000 of Series A Senior Secured Notes with a maturity date of August 23, 2027. During 2019, the Company issued $20,000 of additional Senior Secured Notes with a maturity date of April 30, 2029. The Note Purchase Agreement includes certain requirements and covenants with which the Company was in compliance at March 31, 2023. As of March 31, 2023, the Company had $14,400 of Series A Senior Secured Notes and $20,000 of additional Senior Secured Notes outstanding under the Note Purchase Agreement, leaving $120,000 available of Senior Secured Notes.

Note 5. Income Taxes

The Company’s tax provision for interim periods is determined using an estimated annual effective tax rate, adjusted for discrete items arising in that quarter. In each quarter, the estimated annual effective tax rate is updated and a year to date adjustment is made to the provision. The Company’s quarterly effective tax rate can be subject to significant change due to the effect of discrete items arising in a given quarter.

Income tax expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, was $9,655 for an effective tax rate of 23.7 percent. The effective tax rate for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 differed from the 21 percent federal statutory rate on pretax income primarily due to state and foreign income taxes, partially offset by state and federal tax credits, the deduction applicable to export activity, and the discrete impact of certain items related to equity compensation.

Income tax expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, was $11,165 for an effective tax rate of 23.0 percent. The effective tax rate for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 differed from the 21 percent federal statutory rate on pretax income primarily due to state income taxes, income taxes on foreign subsidiaries, partially offset by state and federal tax credits, and the deduction applicable to export activity.

Note 6. Equity and EPS

The computations of basic and diluted EPS:


	Quarter Ended March 31,
	2023		2022
Operations:
Net income(a)	$	31,032	$	37,371
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	39		66
Income attributable to participating securities (unvested shares and units)(b)	(311)		(318)
Net income used in EPS calculation	$	30,760	$	37,119

Share information:
Basic weighted average common shares(c)	22,040,224		21,989,100

Diluted weighted average common shares(d)	22,072,271		21,989,100

Basic EPS	$	1.40	$	1.69
Diluted EPS	$	1.39	$	1.69

(a)Net income attributable to all shareholders.

(b)Participating securities included 227,810 and 189,297 unvested restricted stock units (“RSUs”) at March 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

(c)Under the two-class method, basic weighted average common shares exclude unvested participating securities.

(d)The impacts of the Convertible Senior Notes were included in the diluted weighted average common shares if the inclusion was dilutive. The Convertible Senior Notes would only have a dilutive impact if the average market price per share during the quarter and year to date period exceeds the conversion price of $96.24 per share. There was no dilutive impact for the quarter ended March 31, 2022.

Common Stock Share Activity. The following table presents the Company’s share activity:


	Shares Outstanding
	Capital Stock Preferred	Common Stock
Balance, December 31, 2022	437	21,994,042
Issuance of Common Stock	—	23,324
Repurchase of Common Stock (a)	—	(8,437)
Balance, March 31, 2023	437	22,008,929


	Shares Outstanding
	Capital Stock Preferred	Common Stock
Balance, December 31, 2021	437	21,964,314
Issuance of Common Stock	—	29,807
Repurchase of Common Stock (a)	—	(9,021)
Balance, March 31, 2022	437	21,985,100

(a)The Common Stock repurchases were for tax withholding on equity based compensation.

Note 7. Commitments and Contingencies

There are various legal and regulatory proceedings involving the Company and its subsidiaries. The Company accrues estimated costs for a contingency when management believes that a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated.

Note 8. Employee and Non-Employee Benefit Plans

Share-Based Compensation Plans. The Company’s share-based compensation plans provide for the awarding of stock options, stock appreciation rights, shares of restricted stock (“Restricted Stock”), and RSUs for senior executives and salaried employees, as well as non-employee directors. The Company currently has two active equity-based compensation plans: the Employee Equity Incentive Plan of 2014 (the “2014 Plan”) and the Non-Employee Director Equity Incentive Plan (the “Directors’ Plan”).

As of March 31, 2023, 658,081 RSUs had been granted of the 1,500,000 shares approved under the 2014 Plan, and 132,395 shares had been granted of the 300,000 shares approved under the Directors’ Plan. As of March 31, 2023, there were 227,810 unvested RSUs under the Company’s long-term incentive plans, all of which were participating securities (See Note 6).

Deferred Compensation Plan. The Company established an unfunded Executive Deferred Compensation Plan (“EDC Plan”) effective as of June 30, 2018, with a purpose to attract and retain highly-compensated key employees by providing participants with an opportunity to defer receipt of a portion of their salary, bonus, and other specified compensation. The Company’s obligations under this plan will change in conjunction with the performance of the participants’ investments, along with contributions to and withdrawals from the plan. Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on deferred compensation plan investments were included as a component of other income (expense), net on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. For the quarter ended March 31, 2023, the Company had a gain on deferred compensation plan investments of $179, and for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, the Company had a loss on deferred compensation plan investments of $339.

Plan investments are classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy since the investments trade with sufficient frequency and volume to enable the Company to obtain pricing information on an ongoing basis. Participants were able to direct the deferral of a portion of their base salary and a portion of their estimated accrued Short-term incentive plan (“STI Plan”) amounts that were paid during the first quarter of the following year. Base salary amounts elected for deferral are deposited into the EDC Plan by the Company on a weekly basis and allocated by participants among Company-determined investment options. STI Plan deferral amounts are deposited, at the time of payment, into the EDC Plan by the Company and allocated by participants among Company-determined investment options.

At March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the EDC Plan investments were $2,751 and $2,176, respectively, which were recorded in other assets on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The EDC Plan current liabilities were $470 and $510 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, which were included in accrued expenses and other on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The EDC Plan non-current liabilities were $2,445 and $2,191 at March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively, and were included in other noncurrent liabilities on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Note 9. Operating Segments

At March 31, 2023, the Company had three segments: Distilling Solutions, Branded Spirits, and Ingredient Solutions. The Distilling Solutions segment consists of food grade alcohol and distillery co-products, such as distillers feed (commonly called dried distillers grain in the industry) and fuel grade alcohol. The Distilling Solutions segment also includes warehouse services, including barrel put away, barrel storage, and barrel retrieval services. The Branded Spirits segment consists of a portfolio of high quality branded spirits which are produced through the distilleries and bottling facilities. The Ingredient Solutions segment consists of specialty starches and proteins and commodity starches and proteins.

Operating profit for each segment is based on sales less identifiable operating expenses. Non-direct selling, general and administrative expenses, interest expense, and other general miscellaneous expenses are excluded from segment operations and are classified as Corporate. Receivables, inventories, property, plant and equipment, leases, goodwill and intangible assets have been identified with the segments to which they relate. All other assets are considered as Corporate.

The following table presents summarized financial information for each segment:


	Quarter Ended March 31,
	2023		2022
Sales to Customers
Distilling Solutions	$	113,223	$	111,509
Branded Spirits	56,883		55,751
Ingredient Solutions	30,904		27,975
Total	$	201,010	$	195,235

Gross Profit
Distilling Solutions	$	33,028	$	38,933
Branded Spirits	24,593		24,782
Ingredient Solutions	12,203		8,106
Total	$	69,824	$	71,821

Depreciation and Amortization
Distilling Solutions	$	2,851	$	2,861
Branded Spirits	1,491		1,782
Ingredient Solutions	658		612
Corporate	171		366
Total	$	5,171	$	5,621

Income (loss) before Income Taxes
Distilling Solutions	$	32,301	$	37,992
Branded Spirits	9,157		10,786
Ingredient Solutions	10,846		7,471
Corporate	(11,617)		(7,713)
Total	$	40,687	$	48,536

The following table allocates assets to each segment as of:


	March 31, 2023		December 31, 2022
Identifiable Assets
Distilling Solutions	$	369,447	$	350,068
Branded Spirits	706,854		698,985
Ingredient Solutions	72,827		63,943
Corporate	35,058		45,215
Total	$	1,184,186	$	1,158,211

Note 10. Subsequent Events

Dividend. On May 4, 2023, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend payable to stockholders of record as of May 19, 2023, of the Company’s Common Stock, resulting in dividend equivalents payable to holders of certain RSUs as of May 19, 2023, of $0.12 per share and per unit, payable on June 2, 2023.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollar amounts in thousands, unless otherwise noted)

CAUTIONARY NOTE CONCERNING FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS

This Report on Form 10-Q contains forward looking statements as well as historical information. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, regarding the prospects of our industry and our prospects, plans, financial position, and strategic plan may constitute forward looking statements. In addition, forward looking statements are usually identified by or are associated with such words as “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “hopeful,” “should,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “encouraged,” “opportunities,” “potential,” and/or the negatives or variations of these terms or similar terminology. Forward looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward looking statements. A detailed discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from such forward looking statements is included in the section titled “Risk Factors” (Item 1A) of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022. Forward looking statements are made as of the date of this report, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

OVERVIEW

MGP is a leading producer and supplier of premium distilled spirits, branded spirits and food ingredients. Distilled spirits include premium bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys (“brown goods”) and grain neutral spirits (“GNS”), including vodka and gin. Our distilled spirits are either sold directly or indirectly to manufacturers of other branded spirits. MGP is also a producer of high quality industrial alcohol for use in both food and non-food applications. The Company has a portfolio of our own high quality branded spirits, which we produce through our distilleries and bottling facilities and sell to distributors. Our branded spirits products account for a range of price points from value products through ultra premium brands, with a focus on high-end

American whiskey, tequila and gin. The Company’s protein and starch food ingredients serve a host of functional, nutritional, and sensory benefits for a wide range of food products to serve the consumer packaged goods industry. Our ingredients products are sold directly, or through distributors, to manufacturers and processors of finished packaged goods or to bakeries.

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in this Report, as well as our audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - General, set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Consolidated Results

The table below details the consolidated results for the quarters ended March 31, 2023 and 2022:


	Quarter Ended March 31,
	2023			2022			2023 v. 2022
Sales	$	201,010		$	195,235		3	%
Cost of sales	131,186			123,414			6
Gross profit	69,824			71,821			(3)
Gross margin %	34.7		%	36.8		%	(2.1)		pp(a)
Advertising and promotion expenses	7,733			5,504			41
Selling, general, and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses	20,532			16,237			26

Operating income	41,559			50,080			(17)
Operating margin %	20.7		%	25.7		%	(5.0)		pp
Interest expense, net	(995)			(1,598)			38
Other income (expense), net	123			54			128
Income before income taxes	40,687			48,536			(16)
Income tax expense	9,655			11,165			(14)
Effective tax expense rate %	23.7		%	23.0		%	0.7		pp
Net income	$	31,032		$	37,371		(17)	%
Net income margin %	15.4		%	19.1		%	(3.7)		pp

(a) Percentage points (“pp”).

Sales - Sales for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 were $201,010, an increase of 3 percent compared to the year-ago quarter, which was the result of increased sales in the Ingredient Solutions, Distilling Solutions, and Branded Spirits segments. Within the Ingredient Solutions segment, sales were up 10 percent, primarily due to increased sales of specialty wheat proteins. Within the Distilling Solutions segment, sales were up 2 percent, primarily due to an increase in the sales of brown goods within premium beverage alcohol. Within the Branded Spirits segment, sales were up 2 percent, primarily due to increased sales of brands in the value and mid price tiers (see Segment Results).

Gross profit - Gross profit for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 was $69,824, a decrease of 3 percent compared to the year-ago quarter. The decrease was driven by a decrease in gross profit in the Distilling Solutions and Branded Spirits segments, partially offset by an increase in gross profit in the Ingredient Solutions segment. Within the Distilling Solutions segment, gross profit declined by $5,905, or 15 percent. Within the Branded Spirits segment, gross profit was in line with the year-ago quarter, slightly decreasing by $189, or 1 percent. Within the Ingredient Solutions segment, gross profit increased by $4,097, or 51 percent (see Segment Results).

Advertising and promotion expenses - Advertising and promotion expenses for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 were $7,733, an increase of 41 percent compared to the year-ago quarter, primarily driven by increased advertising and promotion investment in the Branded Spirits segment, specifically in the premium plus price tiers.

SG&A expenses - SG&A expenses for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 were $20,532, an increase of 26 percent compared to the year-ago quarter, primarily due to higher personnel expense.

Operating income - Operating income for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 decreased to $41,559 from $50,080 for the quarter ended March 31, 2022, primarily due to a decrease in gross profit in the Distilling Solutions and Branded Spirits segments as well as an increase in the previously described advertising and promotion and SG&A expenses. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in gross profit in the Ingredient Solutions segment.


Operating income, quarter versus quarter	Operating Income		Change
Operating income for the quarter ended March 31, 2022	$	50,080
Decrease in gross profit - Distilling Solutions segment(a)	(5,905)		(12)	%	pp(b)
Decrease in gross profit - Branded Spirits segment(a)	(189)		—		pp
Increase in gross profit - Ingredient Solutions segment(a)	4,097		8		pp
Increase in advertising and promotion expenses	(2,229)		(4)		pp
Increase in SG&A expenses	(4,295)		(9)		pp

Operating income for the quarter ended March 31, 2023	$	41,559	(17)	%

(a) See segment discussion.

(b) Percentage points (“pp”).

Income tax expense - Income tax expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 was $9,655, for an effective tax rate of 23.7 percent. Income tax expense for the quarter ended March 31, 2022 was $11,165, for an effective tax rate of 23.0 percent. The decrease in income tax expense, quarter versus quarter, was due primarily to lower income before income taxes. The increase in effective tax rate, quarter versus quarter, was due primarily to lower state tax credits.

Earnings per common share (“EPS”) - Basic EPS was $1.40 for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, compared to $1.69 for the quarter ended March 31, 2022. The change in Basic EPS, quarter versus quarter, was primarily due to a decrease in operating income. Diluted EPS was $1.39 for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, compared to $1.69 for the quarter ended March 31, 2022. The change in Diluted EPS, quarter versus quarter, was primarily due to the same changes as Basic EPS as well as the impact of dilutive shares outstanding related to the conversion feature of the Convertible Senior Notes.


Change in basic and diluted EPS, quarter versus quarter	Basic and Diluted EPS		Change
Basic and diluted EPS for the quarter ended March 31, 2022	$	1.69
Change in operating income(a)	(0.30)		(18)	%	pp(b)



Change in interest expense, net(a)	0.02		1		pp
Change in weighted average shares outstanding	(0.01)		(1)		pp
Basic EPS for the quarter ended March 31, 2023	$	1.40	(18)	%
Impact of dilutive shares outstanding	(0.01)		(1)		pp
Diluted EPS for the quarter ended March 31, 2023	$	1.39	(19)	%

(a) Item is net of tax based on the effective tax rate for the base year (2022).

(b) Percentage points (“pp”).

SEGMENT RESULTS

Distilling Solutions

The following tables show selected financial information for the Distilling Solutions segment for the quarters ended March 31, 2023 and 2022.


	DISTILLING SOLUTIONS SALES
	Quarter Ended March 31,						Quarter versus Quarter Sales Change Increase/(Decrease)
	2023			2022			$ Change		% Change
Brown goods	$	68,324		$	62,145		$	6,179	10	%
White goods	15,954			20,086			(4,132)		(21)
Premium beverage alcohol	84,278			82,231			2,047		2
Industrial alcohol	10,439			11,495			(1,056)		(9)
Food grade alcohol	94,717			93,726			991		1
Fuel grade alcohol	2,556			3,282			(726)		(22)
Distillers feed and related co-products	9,092			8,917			175		2
Warehouse services	6,858			5,584			1,274		23
Total Distilling Solutions	$	113,223		$	111,509		$	1,714	2	%

	Change in Quarter versus Quarter Sales Attributed to:
	Total (a)			Volume(b)			Net Price/Mix(c)
Premium beverage alcohol	2%			(17)%			19%

	Other Financial Information
	Quarter Ended March 31,						Quarter versus Quarter Increase / (Decrease)
	2023			2022			$ Change		% Change
Gross profit	$	33,028		$	38,933		$	(5,905)	(15)	%
Gross margin %	29.2		%	34.9		%			(5.7)		pp(d)

(a) Total sales change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales dollars and prior period sales dollars, divided by prior period sales dollars.

(b) Volume change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales volume and prior period sales volume, multiplied by prior period sales per unit. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.

(c) Price/Mix change is calculated by taking the difference between current period sales-per-unit and prior period sales-per unit, multiplied by current period sales volume. The product is then divided by prior period sales dollars.

(d) Percentage points (“pp”).

Total sales of the Distilling Solutions segment for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 increased by $1,714, or 2 percent, compared to the prior year quarter. Sales of brown goods within premium beverage alcohol, warehouse services, and distillers feed and related co-products increased while white goods within premium beverage alcohol, industrial alcohol, and fuel grade alcohol decreased. The increase in sales of brown goods was driven by a higher average selling price, partially offset by lower sales volume. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in sales of white goods and industrial alcohol, which was driven primarily by lower sales volume, partially offset by a higher average selling price.

Gross profit decreased quarter versus quarter by $5,905, or 15 percent. Gross margin for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 decreased to 29.2 percent from 34.9 percent for the prior year quarter. The decrease in gross profit was primarily due to higher input costs and lower sales volume for brown goods, as well as higher input costs for white goods and industrial alcohol. The average selling price for these products also increased, but not enough to offset the higher input costs and lower sales volumes.

Branded Spirits

The following tables show selected financial information for the Branded Spirits segment for the quarters ended March 31, 2023 and 2022.

BRANDED SPIRITS SALES

Quarter Ended March 31,

Quarter versus Quarter Sales Change Increase/(Decrease)

2023

2022

$ Change

% Change

Ultra premium