Item 1. Business.
Vapetek is a company engaged in developing, marketing and selling electronic cigarettes (“e-cig”), e-liquids, rechargeable batteries and vapor devices in the emerging growth e-cigarette industry. The Company’s business product mix currently stands at 25% e-liquids and 75% devices, which consist of e-cig, rechargeable batteries and vapor devices. Thus far all of our revenues have been from the sale of 3 products; The Vapetek Liquivape e-Liquid, 1100 mAh Vapetek Batteries and our DA Blaster product. All of our products are U.S. pharmacopeia (USP) grade which means our e-liquids meet the product quality and standards set by The United States Pharmacopeial Convention, a non-profit organization that publishes food ingredients and dietary supplements. Food ingredients, flavorings and colorings, are reviewed by the USP and these standards are used by regulatory agencies and manufacturers to help ensure that these products are of appropriate identity, as well as strength, quality, purity and consistency.
The Company’s executive offices are located in Huntington Beach, CA, at 5445 Oceanus Drive, Suite 102, Huntington Beach, CA, 92649.
Corporate History
The Company was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on June 18, 2013, with an objective to acquire, or merge with, an operating business.
On March 6, 2014, we entered into a Share Purchase Agreement, resulting in a change of control, with Alham Benyameen and Andy Michael Ibrahim whereby Richard Chiang our Chairman of the Board of Directors, President, CEO, CFO and Secretary elected Mr. Benyameen as our Chairman of the Board of Directors and Mr. Ibrahim as our President, CEO, CFO, Secretary and Member of our Board of Directors.
Under the terms of the agreement, Mr. Chiang our former President and CEO sold 7,200,000 shares of Vapetek, Inc., formerly known as ALPINE 2 Inc. to Mr. Benyameen and Mr. Ibrahim in exchange for $20,000. Mr. Chiang simultaneously resigned from his positions held in the Company. Upon the closing of our Share Purchase Agreement, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Benyameen and Mr. Ibrahim as officers and directors of ALPINE 2 Inc. We issued in advance 20,000,000 shares of our common stock to Mr. Benyameen and 20,000,000 shares of our common stock to Mr. Ibrahim. These shares were valued at par $0.0001 at the time of transfer. Immediately after the closing of the Share Purchase Agreement, we had 50,000,000 shares of common stock outstanding, no shares of preferred stock, no options, and no warrants outstanding. On March 12, 2014, we filed a certificate of amendment of certificate of incorporation with the State of Delaware and on March 25, 2014, officially amended our name from ALPINE 2 Inc., to Vapetek Inc.
On April 1, 2014, the Company entered into a product distribution agreement with West Coast Vape Supply Inc. to supply electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, e-liquids, and accessories, and other third party products. West Coast Vape Supply Inc. is a related party and owned 100% by the management of Vapetek Inc.
On August 11, 2014, we entered into a Licensing Agreement with PennyGrab Inc. (“PennyGrab”). PennyGrab is the owner of technology, including software code, relating a website designed for wholesale, retail, and online auction compatible products. The software code is a PHP website script that is 100% customizable and is SEO friendly that improves site search engines rankings. The software code is the “Licensed Technology.” Pursuant to the Agreement, PennyGrab granted to the Company an exclusive, transferable (including sublicensable) worldwide perpetual license of the Licensed Technology, to make, use, lease, and sell products incorporating the Licensed Technology (the “Licensed Products”). The Company is required to pay to PennyGrab royalty payments equal to $100 per year.
On September 23, 2014 we filed an 8-K regarding a change in shell Company Status as we were no longer to be deemed a shell Company as we had more than nominal operations. There are currently no outstanding comments in regards to the 8-K filed and as of today we are no longer deemed to be a shell Company.
On April 6, 2015 the Company completed a reverse stock split in which every eight shares of common stock became one share of common stock.
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Industry Overview
This section includes market and industry data that we have developed from publicly available information; various industry publications and other published industry sources and our internal data and estimates. Although we believe the publications and reports are reliable, we have not independently verified the data. Our internal data, estimates and forecasts are based upon information obtained from trade and business organizations and other contacts in the market in which we operate and our management’s understanding of industry conditions.
As of the date of the preparation of this section, these and other independent government and trade publications cited herein are publicly available on the Internet without charge. Upon request, the Company will also provide copies of such sources cited herein.
Electronic Cigarette & Vapor Industry
Electronic cigarettes, or “e-cigs” as they are sometimes referred to, are a new addition to the market, in an early stage of development that has evolved rapidly over the past few years. The primary uses of electronic cigarettes include recreational use as well as smoking cessation devices. At the core of the device is its atomizer, a technology that heats a nicotine-infused propylene glycol liquid and then converts it into a vapor that users inhale through a plastic cartridge mouthpiece. The device is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which is rechargeable through a USB port, an AC wall outlet, a car adapter or a portable charging case.
Electronic cigarettes were invented by Hon Lik, a Chinese pharmacist, who introduced it to the Chinese market in 2004 and expanded sales internationally in 2006. According to the FDA, there are more than 400 manufacturers of e-cigarette devices and components worldwide, the largest of which is Joyetech, a Chinese manufacturer.
Electronic cigarettes represent a niche market, although it should be noted that the past few years have seen a significant rise in the number of market entrants. The global e-cigarette market CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) grew 57% between 2010 and 2012, and is currently north of Two Billion Dollars ($2,000,000,000).
The first generation e-cigarettes led the initial growth of this exciting new industry, but it is the second and third generation of devices, that are now available, that are now growing the industry at a rapid rate. Known as vapor and tanks, or “e-vapor”, this sub-category of cigarettes, when coupled with the first generation e-cigarettes, are expected to grow the market to over Ten Billion Dollars ($10,000,000,000) in sales by 2017. If everything continues as projected then within the next decade the total sales from this e-cigarette market will surpass traditional cigarettes within the next decade.
When first launched e-cigarettes were sold exclusively via online e-commerce channels. Over time online retailers turned to the brick-and-mortar model to allow consumers to experience the product first hand. At present there are three primary methods in which e-cigarettes are sold. About 30% of all sales of e-cigarettes are sold through convenience stores, 26% are sold online, and 17% are sold through retail vape-shops.
The leading players in this highly fragmented market are Lorillard, the parent company to Blu (a leading e-cigarette company with roughly 40.2% of the domestic e-cigarette market), Joyetech, NJOY, Reynolds American and Altria. There are currently more than 250 different brands in the U.S. that offer e-cigarette products.
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Our Business
Vapetek is a technology company engaged in developing, marketing and selling electronic cigarettes (“e-cig”), e-liquids, rechargeable batteries and vapor devices in the emerging growth e-cigarette industry. The Company’s business product mix currently stands at 25% e-liquids and 75% devices, which consist of e-cig, rechargeable batteries and vapor devices. Thus far all of our revenues have been from the sale of 3 products: The Vapetek Liquivape e-Liquid, 1100 mAh Vapetek Batteries and our DA Blaster product.
All of our products are U.S. pharmacopeia (USP) grade which means our e-liquids meet the product quality and standards set by The United States Pharmacopeial Convention, a non-profit organization that publishes food ingredients and dietary supplements. Food ingredients, flavorings and colorings, are reviewed by the USP and these standards are used by regulatory agencies and manufacturers to help ensure that these products are of appropriate identity, as well as strength, quality, purity and consistency.
The Company has positioned itself as a technology company focused on the adoption of electronic vaporizing cigarettes (commonly known as “e-cigarettes”) by the world’s 1.2 Billion smokers. The Company provides high quality e-cigarette devices, electronic refillable and rechargeable atomizers and e-liquids offering a much safer alternative delivery system for nicotine. There are an estimated 300,000,000 people in the United States, with approximately 28% or 84,000,000 of the population classified as active cigarette smokers.
A key proposition of an e-cigarette is that it eliminates odor. One of the top reasons people ‘hate smokers’ is the smell of the burning cigarette. The Smoker smells bad, their clothes smell bad, and their breath smells bad, as well as the health issues associated with second hand smoke. The Electronic Cigarettes we are bringing to market deliver the nicotine through atomizing cartridges containing nicotine and water. This allows the Nicotine to be delivered through the lungs with Water Vapor, eliminating most all the health issues related to smoking a traditional cigarette (Examples include tar and over 4000 Carcinogenic Chemicals). The Electronic Cigarette also eliminates the smell, stink and ash associated with the burning of traditional cigarettes.
Currently the Company has customers both domestically and overseas in Japan. It should be noted that the Company expects to continue developing domestic and international sales of its products in markets that it considers to be emerging for e-cigarette devices and products. As of this time we are researching potential targets in which to expand our reach, but we do not have concrete overseas expansion plans at this time.
*All of our current products are third party products created by third party manufacturers branded under our own trademark.
Current Products
- The Vhit DABlaster Atomizer. This product is designed for wax, and its principal feature is its portability. The DABlaster is 510 threaded and connects directly into most electronic cigarette pens. The DABlaster can heat up dry wax within seconds, thereby ensuring satisfying vapor. This product is commercially available and is made from premium stainless steel, pyrex glass tube and a standard 510 thread.
- Electronic Battery Starter Kit. This product is designed as the Company’s vaporizer starter kit with an adjustable variable voltage that gives the user complete control when vaporizing dry herbs or wax. This product is commercially available.
- Vapetek Liquivape e-Liquid: The Vapetek Liquivape-liquid is a branded line of flavored cartridges in 15 milligram sizes with several flavors. Key ingredients that we use in e-liquids are all U.S. pharmacopeia (USP) grade and kosher. This product is commercially available.
Current Flavor Offerings:
- Liquivape eJuice Strawbomb Mellon
- Liquivape eJuice Willy's Berry Lemonade
- Liquivape eJuice Orange Julius
- Liquivape eJuice Redhead
- Liquivape eJuice Apple Tropicana
- Liquivape eJuice Grapevape
- Liquivape eJuice Cookie Boy
- Liquivape eJuice SnicSnax
- Liquivape eJuice Java the Hut
- Liquivape eJuice The Red Pack
- Liquivape eJuice The White Pack
- Liquivape eJuice The 100s Pack
- Liquivape eJuice The Turkish Crush
- Liquivape eJuice The Cuban Cigar
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Our Vapetek Liquivape e-Liquid contain low levels of nicotine which are disclosed on our bottles. Our e-Liquids carry 6 milligrams, 12 milligrams and 18 milligrams, but no amounts higher than the previously disclosed values.
In the fourth quarter of 2015 we released our second line of e-Liquids “Dripstix”, which consists of the flavors “Strawberry Moon” and “Boomerang”. The Dripstix flavors have been added to our product line as a result of a working arrangement with JJuice LLC. In the first quarter of 2016 we will be releasing popular menthol flavors named “Menthol Tribe”. Additionally, it should be noted that Vapetek has begun selling eLiquid bottles designed specifically for the Vapor market in the United States which come in an assortment of 30ml, 60ml, 120ml and 180ml size bottles.
Customers, Distribution and Marketing
Currently, the Company sells its products through its corporate website www.vapetek.com to both retail and wholesale dealer accounts. The wholesale dealer accounts generally provide a wholesale price to volume purchasers. As of the date of this report, the Company has four wholesale dealer accounts, not including its distribution agreement with West Coast Vape Supply Inc.
The Company has an active distribution agreement with West Coast Vape Supply Inc., an e-cigarette distributor co-owned by Alham Benyameen and Andy Michael Ibrahim, the Company’s Chairman of the Board of Directors and the Company’s President, CEO, CFO and Secretary, respectively.
The Company has decided to pursue affiliate network advertising on a CPM (Cost per thousand impressions) basis and will be taking steps to move towards this goal in the first quarter of 2016.
International Distributors
Currently, the Company ships its e-Liquid flavored cartridges to a customer in Japan and expects to continue to develop international sales of its products in markets that it considers to be emerging for e-cigarette devices and products.
The Company intends to begin seeking wider distribution for its products outside the United States and will review distributors for its international distribution efforts.
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Third Party Products
The Company currently carries third party manufactured products such as the eJoint, EVO, and DABlaster products produced by National Gourmet, Smoke Vapor, Vaporijoye, Youde Technologies, and Shenzhen Seego.
Marketing
The Company currently relies on attending and presenting our products at industry trade shows as its principal marketing activity. The Company’s tradeshow booth provides information about its products, and host product presentations to attendees. On average the Company intends to, and has attended, two trade shows per quarter with presentations in its booth during these shows.
Manufacturing
We have limited manufacturing capabilities for select products, such as our e-liquids, but we depend largely on third party manufacturers for our electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, and accessories. Our customers associate certain characteristics with our products including the weight, feel, draw, flavor, packaging and other unique attributes attributed to the brands we market, distribute and sell. Any interruption in supply and/or consistency of our products may harm our relationships and reputation with customers, and have a materially adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We currently utilize multiple manufacturers in China, whom we contract with on a purchase order basis. At present, we do not have any output or requirements with regard to our contracts with our manufacturers. Our manufacturers provide us with finished products, which we hold in inventory for distribution, sale and use. Certain Chinese factories, and the products they export, have recently been the source of safety concerns and recalls, which is generally attributed to lax regulatory, quality control and safety standards. Should Chinese factories continue to draw public criticism from exporting unsafe products, whether related to our products or not, we may be adversely affected by the stigma associated with Chinese production, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Currently the following Companies are responsible for the manufacturing of our products, or are responsible for parts of the production process:
-Shenzhen Seego Technology Co., Ltd. manufactures our VhitDABlaster product.
-ZhuaiYoude Technology Co., Ltd. manufactures our Vapetek Atomizer Jig Tool product.
-Smokvapor Technology Ltd. controls the logistics of our Electronic Battery Starter Kits product.
-Shenzhen Kamry Technology Co., Ltd. manufactures the eJoint Electronic Cigarette product.
-Ten One International (H.K.) Limited manufactures the EVO Personal Vaporizer product.
Future Product Offerings
In the future we intend to carry and make available products that our manufacturing partners in China have already developed. These products are listed below and could be delivered to us within 30 days of our paid purchase order to our respective manufacturers. Our cost associated for each product is subject to change. For several of the products listed below we have acquired a small amount of said product(s) that we intend to further test and research in order determine if said product(s) are appropriate to add onto our main product line in a significant capacity.
-Devices: The eJoint electronic cigarette. This is a compact two-piece device which allows the cartridge to be disposed of for easy use, and features an efficient tank system that allows a user to vape, or to "vaporize", liquid inexpensively. The battery, e-liquid cartridge and coil can also be easily replaced.
-Devices: EVO Personal Vaporizer. The Vapetek EVO personal vaporizer will feature a display system which makes changing settings easy. As an advanced technology product, the Vapetek EVO will bring digitization to the vapor industry. The EVO Personal Vaporizer has been developed by a manufacturer in China and is commercially available to purchasers.
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-Device: Vapetek Atomizer Jig Tool
-Devices: The Vhit DABlaster Mini Atomizer. The DABlaster Mini Atomizer is a smaller version of the Vhit DABlaster Atomizer. As the Vhit DABlaster Atomizer, this product is designed for wax, and its principal feature is its portability. Made from premium machined stainless steel and Pryex glass tube, it is eGO threaded and will connect directly to most electronic cigarette pens.
Devices: Aluminum OHM Reader. The Aluminum OHM Reader tests cartomizers and atomizers without having to use a meter. It is used to test the current flow of electronic devices.
Trademarks
On July 8, 2014, the Company was granted the trademark name registration for, “VAPETEK”, from the United States Patent and Trademark Office with the serial number of 86-086,675. This trademark covers vapor batteries, namely, electronic cigarette batteries. The company originally filed its application on October 9, 2013.
Employees
As of the date of this report Vapetek Inc. employs a total of 2 people, Alham Benyameen, the Company’s Chairman of the Board of Directors and Andy Michael Ibrahim, the Company’s President, CEO, CFO, Secretary and Member of the Board of Directors. Vapetek Inc. considers its relationship with its employees to be stable. The Company sees the need for a sales manager, sales associate, outside sales associate, product formulation manager, warehouse manager, warehouse associate and web developer in the immediate future.
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Item 1A.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
The following risk factors and other information included in this Report on Form 10-K should be carefully considered. 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 presently deem less significant may also impair our business operations. If any of the events or circumstances described in the following risk factors actually occurs, our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
We have a limited operating history.
We have a limited operating history and do not have a meaningful historical record of sales and revenues nor do we have an established business track record. While we believe that we have the opportunity to be successful in the electronic cigarette industry, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in accomplishing our business initiatives, or that we will be able to achieve any significant levels of revenues or net income, from the sale of our products.
There is doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern due to insufficient cash resources to meet our business objectives.
Our continuation as a going concern is dependent on our ability to generate sufficient cash flows from operations to meet our obligations, which we have not been able to accomplish to date, and/or obtain additional financing from equity financings, debt financings, or from other sources. The extent of our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including results of operations and the growth rate of our business.
Although we intend to raise capital to finance our operations, there can be no assurance that additional financing will be available to us when needed or, if available, that it can be obtained on commercially reasonable terms. If we are not able to obtain additional financing in a timely basis, we may not be able to grow our operations as planned, may not be able to meet our other obligations as they become due and may even need to cease our operations.
If we are successfully able to raise capital, the issuance of additional equity securities by us could result in a significant dilution in the equity interests of our current stockholders and if capital is raised through debt facilities then such facilities will increase our liabilities and future cash commitments, and may also impose restrictive covenants relating to the operation of our business.
We presently do not have any arrangements for additional financing. However, we continue to evaluate various financing strategies to support our current operations and fund our future growth.
It is possible that our company may not keep up to date with the latest cyber security technology in order to adequately protect the security of our customers’ personal and other information when submitted electronically.
Cyber Security is a major issue for every company in the present economy. As technology becomes more sophisticated and business and personal information is transmitted over the internet with increasing frequency it is imperative to maintain up to date cyber security protocols to protect the proprietary information of both our clients and our business. While we intend to do everything we can to have comprehensive and up-to-date cyber security protocols and software it is possible that as technology continues to evolve there may be periods of time when our security is not sufficient to protect from increasingly proficient hackers. We will continue to update and maintain our cyber security protocols to the best of our ability, but there can be no guarantee for our company, or any other for that matter, that information transmitted electronically will be secure with no possibility of theft from third parties.
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We may not be able to compete successfully against current and future competitors.
We compete in a highly competitive market that includes other e-cigarette marketing companies, as well as traditional tobacco companies. In this highly fragmented market we have focused on building brand awareness early through viral adoption and word of mouth. In the future, we expect to employ additional marketing strategies while continuing to develop our supply chain and fulfillment capabilities. There can be no assurances that our strategy will be meaningful or successful.
We could face intense competition which could result in lower revenues and higher research and development expenditures and could adversely affect our results of operations.
Unless we keep pace with changing technologies we could lose existing customers and fail to win new customers. In order to compete effectively in the electronic cigarette market, we must continually design, develop and market new and enhanced technologies. Our future success will depend, in part, upon our ability to address the changing and sophisticated needs of the marketplace.
The market for our technology and products is still developing and if the industry adopts test criteria that are different from our internal test criteria our competitive position would be negatively affected. Additionally, governments could institute laws which negatively affect our competitive position. Our plan to pursue sales in international markets may be limited by risks related to conditions in such markets.
Various Parts of our company’s business plan are dependent on business relationships with various parties.
We expect to rely in part upon third party manufacturers and distribution partners to sell our products and we may be adversely affected if those parties do not actively promote our products. Further, if our products are not delivered in a timely manner or do not perform as promised we could experience increased costs, lower margins, liquidated damage payment obligations and reputational harm.
We must attract and maintain key personnel or our business will fail.
We must attract and retain key personnel in order to successfully operate our business. We will have to compete with other companies both within and outside the tobacco/ Electronic Cigarette industry to recruit and retain competent employees. If we cannot maintain qualified employees to meet the needs of our anticipated growth our business and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.
Our business and operating results could be harmed if we fail to manage our growth or change.
Our business may experience periods of rapid change and/or growth that could place significant demands on our personnel and financial resources. To manage possible growth and change we must continue to try to locate skilled professionals and adequate funds in a timely manner.
We hold no patents on any of our products and if we are not able to adequately protect our intellectual property in the future then we may not be able to compete effectively and we may not be profitable.
We hold no patents on any of our products and rely on trade secret protection and regulatory protection of our technologies and product candidates as well as successfully defending third-party challenges to such technologies and candidates. Upon development of new technologies, we intend to file patents on certain products in the future and we will seek to protect our technologies and product candidates from use by third parties only to the extent that valid and enforceable patents, trade secrets or regulatory protection cover them and we have exclusive rights to use them. The ability of our licensors, collaborators and suppliers to maintain their patent rights against third-party challenges to their validity, scope or enforceability will also play an important role in determining our future. There can be no assurances that we will ever successfully file or receive any patents in the future.
The copyright and patent positions of technology related companies can be highly uncertain and involve complex legal and factual questions that include unresolved principles and issues. No consistent policy regarding the breadth of claims allowed regarding such companies’ patents has emerged to date in the United States, and the patent situation outside the United States is even more uncertain. Changes in either the patent laws or in interpretations of patent laws in the United States or other countries may diminish the value of our intellectual property. Accordingly, we cannot predict with any certainty the range of claims that may be allowed or enforced concerning our patents.
We currently rely on trade secrets to protect our technologies, however, trade secrets are difficult to protect. While we seek to protect confidential information, in part through confidentiality agreements with our consultants and other advisors, they may unintentionally or willfully disclose our information to competitors. Enforcing a claim against a third party related to the illegal acquisition and use of trade secrets can be expensive and time consuming, and the outcome is often unpredictable. If we are not able to maintain patent or trade secret protection on our technologies and product candidates, then we may not be able to exclude competitors from developing or marketing competing products, and we may not be able to operate profitably.
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We may face difficulty, or may prove unsuccessful, in developing our own products or technologies. We may also place a substantial financial burden on our Company in researching out and developing our own technologies and products.
In the future we intend to release our own products and or technologies that we develop. We may, however, be unsuccessful in creating any new products or technologies under our own trademark Vapetek. There is uncertainty that we will arrive at a product or technology that is not already patented, and/or viable for sale and/or profitable. Additionally, the cost in attempting to develop new products or technologies under our own trademark could be quite costly. At this time we have not investigated the costs of carrying out the development of our own products or technologies. There is a risk that if we do attempt to research and/or develop our own products or technologies that it could be quite costly and not result in any new products that we are able to make a profit from.
We face a significant risk relying on third party products from third party manufacturers to makeup our product lines.
Currently we rely on third party manufacturers to provide us the products which are sold under our own trademark Vapetek. Should any of our third party manufacturers who provide us these products, which include Shenzhen Seego Technology Co., Ltd., ZhuaiYoude Technology Co., Ltd., Smokvapor Technology Limited, Shenzhen Kamry Technology Co., Ltd. or Ten One International (H.K.) Limited, experience financial distress, lack of funds, bankruptcy, or litigation, we may not be able to purchase products from them to resell under our own trademark Vapetek, as these products might no longer be available for purchase. This could cause our own operations to suffer as we would have to find a new source of inventory. This could harm our profitability and even possibly cause us to cease operations temporarily, or permanently, if we are unable to find an alternative source to carry similar products.
If we are the subject of an intellectual property infringement claim, the cost of participating in any litigation could cause us to go out of business.
There has been, and we believe that there will continue to be, significant litigation and demands for licenses in our industry regarding patent and other intellectual property rights. Although we anticipate having a valid defense to any allegation that our current products, production methods and other activities infringe the valid and enforceable intellectual property rights of any third parties, we cannot be certain that a third party will not challenge our position in the future. Other parties may own patent rights that we might infringe upon with our products or other activities, and our competitors or other patent holders may assert that our products, and the methods we employ, are covered by their patents. These parties could bring claims against us that would cause us to incur substantial litigation expenses and, if successful, may require us to pay substantial damages. Some of our potential competitors may be better able to sustain the costs of complex patent litigation and, depending on the circumstances, we could be forced to stop or delay our research, development, manufacturing or sales activities. Any of these costs could cause us to go out of business.
We could lose our competitive advantages if we are not able to protect any proprietary technology and intellectual property rights against infringement, and any related litigation could be time-consuming and costly.
Our success and ability to compete depends to a significant degree on our proprietary technology incorporated into our products. If any of our competitors copy or otherwise gains access to our proprietary technology, or develop similar technologies independently, we would not be able to compete as effectively. We also consider our trademarks invaluable to our ability to continue to develop and maintain the goodwill and recognition associated with our brand. We have registered the trademark VAPETEK for electronic cigarette batteries in the United States. This and any other measures that we may take to protect our intellectual property rights, which presently are based upon a combination of copyright, trade secret and trademark laws, may not be adequate to prevent their unauthorized use. Further, the laws of foreign countries may provide inadequate protection of such intellectual property rights. We may need to bring legal claims to enforce or protect such intellectual property rights. Any litigation, whether successful or unsuccessful, could result in substantial costs and diversions of resources. In addition, notwithstanding any rights we have secured in our intellectual property, other persons may bring claims against us that we have infringed on their intellectual property rights, including claims based upon the content we license from third parties or claims that our intellectual property right interests are not valid. Any claims against us, with or without merit, could be time consuming and costly to defend or litigate, divert our attention and resources, result in the loss of goodwill associated with our service marks or require us to make changes to our website or other of our technologies.
If we fail to effectively manage our growth our future business results could be harmed and our managerial and operational resources may be strained.
As we proceed with the expansion of our retail and manufacturing activities we expect to experience significant and rapid growth in the scope and complexity of our business. We will need to add staff to market our services, manage operations, handle sales and marketing efforts and perform finance and accounting functions. We will be required to hire a broad range of additional personnel in order to successfully advance our operations. This growth is likely to place a strain on our management and operational resources. The failure to develop and implement effective systems, or to hire and retain sufficient personnel for the performance of all of the functions necessary to effectively service and manage our potential business, or the failure to manage growth effectively, could have a materially adverse effect on our business and financial condition.
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Our products and may become obsolete and unmarketable if we are unable to respond adequately to rapidly changing technology and customer demands.
Our industry is characterized by rapid changes in technology and customer demands. As a result, our products and services may quickly become obsolete and unmarketable. Our future success will depend on our ability to adapt to technological advances, anticipate customer demands, develop new products and enhance our current products in a timely and cost-effective manner. Further, our products must remain competitive with those of other companies with substantially greater resources. We may experience technical or other difficulties that could delay or prevent the development, introduction or marketing of new products or enhanced versions of existing products. Also, we may not be able to adapt new or enhanced services to emerging industry standards, and our new products may not be favorably received.
The use of electronic cigarettes may pose health risks as great as, or greater than, regular tobacco products.
According to the FDA, electronic cigarettes may contain ingredients that are known to be toxic to humans and may contain other ingredients that may not be safe. Additionally, electronic cigarettes may be attractive to young people and may lead them to try other tobacco products, including conventional cigarettes that are known to cause disease. Because clinical studies about the safety and efficacy of electronic cigarettes have not been submitted to the FDA consumers currently have no way of knowing whether electronic cigarettes are safe before their intended use, what types or concentrations of potentially harmful chemicals are found in these products, or how much nicotine is being inhaled. In February 2012, it was reported in Florida that an electronic cigarette exploded in a smoker’s mouth causing serious injury. Although there does not appear to be similar incidences elsewhere, nor are there specific details concerning the Florida incident, there is a risk that an electronic cigarette can cause bodily injury and the publicity from such instances of injury could dramatically slow the growth of the market for electronic cigarettes.
The price of our products has been arbitrarily determined based on a percentage markup and it is possible that these prices may not be ideal for the current market, particularly in countries outside the United States, and this could lead to the company making fewer sales than anticipated which would adversely affect our business.
We determine the price of our products based on a percentage markup. The percentage is 10% - 100% depending on what the product is. If it's eliquid then the markup is typically 20% and can be up to 100%, and if it's hardware then the markup is typically 10% to West Coast Vape Supply. The same markup applies to all of our customers within the USA, however it may vary for customers outside the USA. We currently charge customers who are outside of the USA a different price due to the competition and logistics of the company in question on a case by case basis. Currently, that markup is between 60-100% from the purchase price to foreign countries. Thus far we have only had international relations with a customer in Japan. It is possible that these arbitrarily determined prices may not be ideal for the marketplace in which are items are sold, particularly in countries where the price of our products must increase in order to continue making the same amount of profit, and in such instances it is possible that customers may opt to purchase the products of competitors instead of our own. These varying prices could result in a loss of business and adversely affect our financial forecast for the future operations of our Company.
Over the next few years government regulations could change and have a substantial, and most likely negative, influence on the sale of Tobacco products throughout the United States. It is possible that our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected by these changes.
While the FDA has not yet mandated electronic cigarettes should be regulated as tobacco products, during 2012 the FDA indicated that it intends to regulate electronic cigarettes under the Tobacco Control Act through the issuance of regulations that would include electronic cigarettes under the definition of a "tobacco product" under the Tobacco Control Act subject to the FDA's jurisdiction.
The application of the Tobacco Control Act to electronic cigarettes could impose, among other things, restrictions on the content of nicotine in electronic cigarettes, the advertising, marketing and sale of electronic cigarettes, the use of certain flavorings and the introduction of new products. We cannot predict the scope of such regulations or the impact they may have on our company specifically or the electronic cigarette industry in general, though if enacted they could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
The Tobacco industry expects significant regulatory developments to take place over the next few years, driven principally by the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control ("FCTC"). The FCTC is the first international public health treaty on tobacco and its objective is to establish a global agenda for tobacco regulation with the purpose of reducing initiation of tobacco use and encouraging cessation. If electronic cigarettes are subject to one or more significant regulatory initiates enacted under the FCTC, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.
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New FDA proposed rules released on April 24, 2014
On April 24, 2014, the FDA announced by press release that it will extend its authority under the implementation of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act signed by the President in 2009. This action extends the agency’s tobacco authority over additional products such as electronic or “e-cigarettes”, cigars, pipe tobacco, nicotine gels, waterpipe (hookah), and dissolvables. Under the proposed rule, makers of these newly deemed tobacco products would, among other requirements:
* Register with the FDA and report product ingredient listings;
* Only market new tobacco products after FDA review;
* Only make direct and implied claims of reduced risk if the FDA confirms that scientific evidence supports the claim and that marketing the product will benefit the public health as a whole;
* Not distribute free samples;
In addition, under the proposed new FDA rule, the following provisions would apply to newly “deemed” tobacco products:
* Minimum age and identification restrictions to prevent sales to underage youth,
* Requirements to include health warnings, and
* Prohibition of vending machine sales, unless in a facility that never admits youth.
New products face intense media attention and public pressure.
Our product is new to the marketplace and since its introduction certain members of the media, politicians, government regulators and advocate groups, including independent doctors, have called for an outright ban of all electronic cigarettes, pending regulatory review and a demonstration of safety. A ban of this type would likely have the effect of terminating our United States sales and marketing efforts of certain products which we may currently market or have plans to market in the future. Such a ban would also likely cause public confusion as to which products are the subject of the ban and which are not and would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and performance.
The market for our products is uncertain and is still evolving.
Electronic cigarettes, having recently been introduced to market, are at an early stage of development and are evolving rapidly and are characterized by an increasing number of market entrants. Our future revenues and any future profits are substantially dependent upon the widespread acceptance and use of electronic cigarettes. Rapid growth in the use of, and interest in, electronic cigarettes is a recent phenomenon and may not continue on a lasting basis. The demand and market acceptance for these products is subject to a high level of uncertainty.
We market a single class of products which may be subject to certain government regulations whose approval we may or may not be able to achieve.
Electronic cigarettes are new to the marketplace and may be subject to regulation as a drug, a medical device, a drug and medical device and or as a tobacco product. Most electronic cigarettes are sold as a means of delivering nicotine to the body. The FDA is the regulatory agency which oversees drugs, medical devices and tobacco; however, at present it is unclear which, if any, regulatory process is required to market and sell electronic cigarettes. To date the FDA has not established a definitive policy regulating “electronic cigarettes” but is reviewing cases on a case by case basis. We intend to use reasonable efforts to file for the appropriate approvals to allow us to sell our product in the United States, however we have no indication that at present we will be able to afford to pursue regulatory approval and that if we are able to pursue said approval we have no assurances that the outcome of said approval process will result in our products being approved by the FDA. Moreover, if the FDA establishes a regulatory process that we are unable or unwilling to comply with, our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects would be adversely affected.
The anticipated costs of complying with future FDA regulations will be dependent on the rules issued by the FDA. Since our products are manufactured by third parties, we anticipate that they will bear the initial investment of approval and will pass those costs to us through price increases. If we need to seek FDA approval, then based on several factors including either pre-market approval or 510K application, we estimate an application could take between 6 to 24 months with a cost of $100,000 to $2 million. If the device is deemed a drug and a device we anticipate that the time and costs to comply with FDA regulations would be prohibitive to the future operations of our company and may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, failure to comply with FDA regulatory requirements could result in significant financial penalties and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and ability to market and sell our products.
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Our products contain low levels of nicotine, which is considered to be a highly addictive substance.
* Several of our products contain nicotine, a chemical found in cigarettes and other tobacco products which is considered to be highly addictive. Our Vapetek Liquivape e-Liquid contain low levels of nicotine which are disclosed on our bottles. Our e-Liquids carry 6 milligrams, 12 milligrams and 18 milligrams, but no amounts higher than the aforementioned numbers. The risks of nicotine exposure and toxicity through contact with the e-Liquids are the following:
* General Nicotine Exposure: Nicotine is a major factor in dependence forming properties of tobacco smoking and is known to cause a myriad of health problems, including cancer.
* Eye Contact: Will cause slight temporary eye irritation and discomfort.
* Skin Contact: Depending on the concentration of nicotine exposure, lower levels will cause irritation of the skin and flakiness. However, heavy concentration of nicotine on skin contact can cause intoxication or even death.
The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act empowers the FDA to regulate the amount of nicotine found in tobacco products, but may not require the reduction of nicotine yields of a tobacco product to zero. Any FDA regulation may require us to reformulate, recall and or discontinue certain of the products we may sell from time to time, which may have a material adverse effect on our ability to market our products and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and/or future prospects.
Our business may be affected if we are taxed like other tobacco products or if we are required to collect and remit sales tax on certain of our internet sales.
Presently our products are not taxed like cigarettes or other tobacco products, all of which have faced significant increases in the amount of taxes collected on the sale of their products. Should state and federal governments and or taxing authorities impose taxes similar to those levied against cigarettes and tobacco products on our products, it may have a material adverse effect on the demand for our products. Moreover, we may be unable to establish the systems and processes needed to track and submit the taxes we collect through internet sales, which would limit our ability to market our products through our websites which would have a material adverse effect on our revenues, operation and financial condition.
States such as New York, Hawaii, Rhode Island, Georgia and North Carolina have begun collecting taxes on Internet sales where companies have used independent contractors in those states to solicit sales from residents of those states. The requirement to collect, track and remit taxes based on independent affiliate sales may require us to increase our prices, which may affect demand for our products or conversely reduce our net profit margin; either of which would have a material adverse effect on our revenues, financial condition and operating results.
Our success is dependent upon our marketing efforts.
We have limited marketing experience in marketing electronic cigarettes and limited financial, personnel and other resources to undertake extensive marketing activities. If we are unable to generate significant market awareness for our products and our brands then our operations may not generate sufficient revenues for us to execute our business plan, generate revenues and achieve profitable operations.
We rely, in part, on the efforts of our independent sales distributors and outside broker/dealer network to augment our internal sales efforts and distribute our product to wholesalers and or retailers to generate revenues. No single distributor currently accounts for a material percentage of our revenues and we believe that should any of these relationships terminate we would be able to find suitable replacements, however any change in distributors or our ability to timely replace any given distributor would have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.
The lack of public company experience of our management team may put us at a competitive disadvantage.
As a company with a class of securities registered under the Exchange Act, we are subject to reporting and other legal, accounting, corporate governance, and regulatory requirements imposed by the Exchange Act and rules and regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act. Our Chairman and CEO lacks public company experience which could impair our ability to comply with these legal, accounting, and regulatory requirements. Such responsibilities include complying with Federal securities laws and making required disclosures on a timely basis. Our senior management may not be able to implement and affect programs and policies in an effective and timely manner that adequately responds to such increased legal and regulatory compliance and reporting requirements. Our failure to do so could lead to the imposition of fines and penalties and further result in the deterioration of our business.
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Regulations, including those contained in and issued under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“SOX”) and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (“Dodd-Frank”), increase the cost of doing business and may make it difficult for us to retain or attract qualified officers and directors, which could adversely affect the management of our business and our ability to obtain or retain listing of our Common Stock.
We are a public company. The current regulatory climate for public companies, even small and emerging growth companies such as ours, may make it difficult or prohibitively expensive to attract and retain qualified officers, directors and members of board committees required to provide for our effective management in compliance with the rules and regulations which govern publicly-held companies, including, but not limited to, certifications from executive officers and requirements for financial experts on boards of directors. The perceived increased personal risk associated with these recent changes may deter qualified individuals from accepting these roles. For example, the enactment of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 has resulted in the issuance of a series of new rules and regulations and the strengthening of existing rules and regulations by the SEC. Further, recent and proposed regulations under Dodd-Frank heighten the requirements for board or committee membership, particularly with respect to an individual’s independence from the corporation and level of experience in finance and accounting matters. We may have difficulty attracting and retaining directors with the requisite qualifications. If we are unable to attract and retain qualified officers and directors, the management of our business could be adversely affected.
Our internal controls over financial reporting may not be effective, and our independent auditors may not be able to certify as to their effectiveness, which could have a significant and adverse effect on our business.
We are subject to various SEC reporting and other regulatory requirements. We have incurred and will continue to incur expenses and, to a lesser extent, diversion of our management’s time in our efforts to comply with SOX Section 404 regarding internal controls over financial reporting. Our management’s evaluation over our internal controls over financial reporting may determine that material weaknesses in our internal control exist. If, in the future, management identifies material weaknesses, or our external auditors are unable to attest that our management’s report is fairly stated or to express an opinion on the effectiveness of our internal controls, this could result in a loss of investor confidence in our financial reports, have an adverse effect on our stock price, and subject us to sanctions or investigation by regulatory authorities.
Limitations on director and officer liability and our indemnification of our officers and directors may discourage stockholders from bringing suit against a director.
Our Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws provide, with certain exceptions as permitted by Delaware corporation law, that a director or officer shall not be personally liable to us or our stockholders for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except for acts or omissions which involve intentional misconduct, fraud or knowing violation of law, or unlawful payments of dividends. These provisions may discourage stockholders from bringing suit against a director for breach of fiduciary duty and may reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation brought by stockholders on our behalf against a director. In addition, our Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws provide for mandatory indemnification of directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by governing state law.
We may incur a variety of costs to engage in future acquisitions of companies, products or technologies, to grow our business, to expand into new markets, or to provide new services. As such, the anticipated benefits of those acquisitions may never be realized.
It is management’s intention to acquire other businesses to grow our customer base, to expand into new markets, and to provide new product lines. We may make acquisitions of, or significant investments in, complementary companies, products or technologies, although no additional material acquisitions or investments are currently pending. Acquisitions may be accompanied by risks such as:
- difficulties in assimilating the operations and employees of acquired companies;
- diversion of our management’s attention from ongoing business concerns;
- our potential inability to maximize our financial and strategic position through the successful incorporation of acquired technology and rights into our products and services;
- additional expense associated with amortization of acquired assets;
- additional expense associated with understanding and development of acquired business;
- maintenance and implementation of uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies; and
- impairment of existing relationships with employees, suppliers and customers as a result of the integration of new management employees.
Our failure to manage growth effectively could harm our ability to attract and retain key personnel and adversely impact our operating results.
There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage our expansion through acquisitions effectively. Our current and planned personnel, systems, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support and effectively manage our future operations. We may not be able to hire, train, retain, motivate and manage required personnel, which may limit our growth, damage our reputation and negatively affect our financial performance and harm our business.
The forecasts of market growth included in this Form 10-K may prove to be inaccurate, and even if the market in which we compete achieve the forecasted growth, we cannot assure you our business will grow at similar rates, if at all.
Growth forecasts are subject to significant uncertainty and are based on assumptions and estimates, which may not prove to be accurate. Forecasts relating to the expected growth in the biometrics market may prove to be inaccurate. Even if these markets experience the forecasted growth, we may not grow our business at similar rates, or at all. Our growth is subject to many factors, including our success in implementing our business strategy, which is subject to many risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, the forecasts of market growth included in this prospectus should not be taken as indicative of our future growth.
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We might require additional capital to support business growth and this capital might not be available on acceptable terms, if at all.
We intend to continue to make investments to support our business growth and may require additional funds to respond to business challenges, including the need to develop new features or enhance our existing products, improve our operating infrastructure or acquire complementary businesses and technologies. Accordingly, we may need to engage in equity or debt financings to secure funds. If we raise funds through issuances of equity or convertible debt securities our existing stockholders could suffer significant dilution, and any new equity securities we issue could have rights, preferences and privileges superior to those of holders of our common stock. Any debt financing secured by us in the future could involve restrictive covenants relating to our future capital raising activities and other financial and operational matters, which may make it more difficult for us to obtain additional capital and to pursue business opportunities, including potential acquisitions. In addition, we may not be able to obtain additional financing on terms favorable to us, if at all. If we are unable to obtain adequate financing or financing on terms satisfactory to us, when we require it, our ability to continue to support our business growth and to respond to business challenges could be significantly impaired.
If we obtain financing, existing shareholder interests may be diluted.
If we raise additional funds by issuing equity or convertible debt securities the percentage ownership of our shareholders will be diluted. In addition, any new securities could have rights, preferences and privileges senior to those of our common stock. Furthermore, we cannot assure you that additional financing will be available when and to the extent we require or that, if available, it will be on acceptable terms.
The requirements of being a public company may strain our resources and distract our management, which could make it difficult to manage our business, particularly after we are no longer an “emerging growth company.”
We are required to comply with various regulatory and reporting requirements, including those required by the SEC. Complying with these reporting and other regulatory requirements is time-consuming and expensive and could have a negative effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. As a public company, we are subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, and requirements of SOX. The cost of complying with these requirements may place a strain on our systems and resources. The Exchange Act requires that we file annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and financial condition. SOX requires that we maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting. To maintain and improve the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, we must commit significant resources, may be required to hire additional staff and need to continue to provide effective management oversight. We will be implementing additional procedures and processes for the purpose of addressing the standards and requirements applicable to public companies. Sustaining our growth also will require us to commit additional management, operational and financial resources to identify new professionals to join the Company and to maintain appropriate operational and financial systems to adequately support expansion. These activities may divert management’s attention from other business concerns, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
As an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (“JOBS Act”) enacted on April 5, 2012, we may take advantage of certain temporary exemptions from various reporting requirements including, but not limited to, not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of SOX (and rules and regulations of the SEC thereunder, which we refer to as Section 404) and reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports and proxy statements.
When these exemptions cease to apply, we expect to incur additional expenses and devote increased management effort toward ensuring compliance with them. We will remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years, although we may cease to be an emerging growth company earlier under certain circumstances. We cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur as a result of becoming a public company or the timing of such costs.
Our reported financial results may be adversely affected by changes in accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States are subject to interpretation by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB), the SEC, and various bodies formed to promulgate and interpret appropriate accounting principles. A change in these principles or interpretations could have a significant effect on our reported financial results, and could affect the reporting of transactions completed before the announcement of a change.
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Risks Relating to Ownership of Our Securities
Our stock price may be volatile or may decline regardless of our operating performance and the price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly.
Once our shares begin trading, the market price for our common stock is likely to be volatile, in part because our shares have not been traded publicly. In addition, the market price of our common stock may fluctuate significantly in response to a number of factors, most of which we cannot control, including:
- competition from other e-cigarette and tobacco companies or related businesses;
- changes in government regulations, general economic or market conditions or trends in our industry or the economy as a whole and, in particular, in the e-cigarette and tobacco industry;
- changes in key personnel;
- entry into new geographic markets;
- actions and announcements by us or our competitors or significant acquisitions, divestitures, strategic partnerships, joint ventures or capital commitments;
- changes in operating performance and stock market valuations of other e-cigarette and tobacco and related companies;
- investors’ perceptions of our prospects and the prospects of the e-cigarette and tobacco industry;
- fluctuations in quarterly operating results, as well as differences between our actual financial and operating results and those expected by investors;
- the public’s response to press releases or other public announcements by us or third parties, including our filings with the SEC;
- announcements relating to litigation;
- financial guidance, if any, that we provide to the public, any changes in this guidance or our failure to meet this guidance;
- the development and sustainability of an active trading market for our common stock;
- future sales of our common stock by our officers, directors and significant stockholders; and
- changes in accounting principles affecting our financial reporting.
These and other factors may lower the market price of our common stock, regardless of our actual operating performance.
The stock markets and trading facilities, including the OTC Bulletin Board, have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected and continue to affect the market prices of equity securities in many companies. In the past, stockholders of some companies have instituted securities class action litigation following periods of market volatility. If we were involved in securities litigation, we could incur substantial costs and our resources and the attention of management could be diverted from our business.
Our internal controls over financial reporting may not be effective and our independent registered public accounting firm may not be able to certify as to their effectiveness, which could have a significant and adverse effect on our business and reputation.
As a public company, we will be required to evaluate our internal controls over financial reporting. Furthermore, at such time as we cease to be an “emerging growth company,” as more fully described in these Risk Factors, we shall also be required to comply with Section 404. At such time we may identify material weaknesses that we may not be able to remediate in time to meet the applicable deadline imposed upon us for compliance with the requirements of Section 404. In addition, if we fail to achieve and maintain the adequacy of our internal controls, as such standards are modified, supplemented or amended from time to time, we may not be able to ensure that we can conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404. We cannot be certain as to the timing of completion of our evaluation, testing and any remediation actions or the impact of the same on our operations. As a result, there could be a negative reaction in the financial markets due to a loss of confidence in the reliability of our financial statements. In addition, we may be required to incur costs in improving our internal control system and the hiring of additional personnel. Any such action could negatively affect our results of operations and cash flows.
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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, potentially decreasing our stock price.
We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not “emerging growth 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 shareholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We cannot predict if potential investors will find our common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be more volatile or decrease.
We will remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years, although we will lose that status sooner if our revenues exceed $1 billion, if we issue more than $1 billion in non-convertible debt in a three-year period, or if the market value of our common stock that is held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of any June 30.
In addition, Section 107 of the JOBS Act also provides that an “emerging growth company” can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. In other words, an “emerging growth company” can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. However, we may choose “opt out” of such extended transition period, and as a result, we would then comply with new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for non-emerging growth companies. Section 107 of the JOBS Act provides that our decision to opt out of the extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards would be irrevocable
When these exemptions cease to apply, we expect to incur additional expenses and devote increased management effort toward ensuring compliance with them. We may remain an “emerging growth company” for up to five years, although we may cease to be an emerging growth company earlier under certain circumstances. We cannot predict or estimate the amount of additional costs we may incur as a result of the change in our status under the JOBS Act or the timing of such costs.
Our management and director have significant control of our common stock and could control our actions in a manner that conflicts with the interests of other stockholders.
Our executive officers and directors together beneficially own approximately 87% of our common stock, representing approximately 87% of the voting power of our outstanding capital stock. As a result, these stockholders, acting together, have the ability to exercise considerable influence over matters requiring approval by our stockholders, including the election of directors, and may not always act in the best interests of other stockholders. Such a concentration of ownership may have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in our control, including transactions in which our stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares over then current market prices.
We do not intend to pay dividend for the foreseeable future.
The continued operation and growth of our business will require substantial cash. Accordingly, we do not anticipate that we will pay any cash dividends on shares of our common stock for the foreseeable future. Any determination to pay dividends in the future will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon our results of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions relating to indebtedness we may incur, restrictions imposed by applicable law and other factors our board of directors deems relevant. Accordingly, realization of a gain on your investment will depend on the appreciation of the price of our common stock, which may never occur. Investors seeking cash dividends in the foreseeable future should not purchase our common stock.
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OTC Marketplace Qualification for Quotation
To have our shares of common stock quoted on the Over-the-Counter Marketplace (“OTC”), a market maker must file an application on our behalf in order to make a market for our common stock. We have not engaged in any discussions with a FINRA Market Maker to file our application on Form 211 with FINRA. No assurances can be made that we will be able to obtain a FINRA Market Maker to file our application on Form 211.
Rule 144 may not be applicable to some, or all, of our shareholders.
Rule 144(i)(1) prohibits the use of the rule for sales of restricted stock and stock held by affiliates into the public market if the issuing company is now or ever has been a “shell company”, unless the requirements of Rule 144(i)(2) are satisfied. The following explanation is qualified in its entirely by reference to the complete text of Rule 144. Rule 144(i)(1) defines a shell company as a company that is now or at any time previously has been an issuer, that has:(A) No or nominal operations; and(B) Either:(1) No or nominal assets;(2) Assets consisting solely of cash and cash equivalents; or (3) Assets consisting of any amount of cash and cash equivalents and nominal other assets. This does not include a development stage company pursuing an actual business, a business combination related shell company, as defined in Rule 405, or an asset-backed issuer, as defined in Item 1101(b) of Regulation S-K. Rule 144(i)(2) does permit the use of Rule 144 by stockholders of an issuing company has previously been but is not now a shell company if the issuing company [that] has been filing reports with the SEC for one year that contain information about its current operating (or development stage) business activities (not including shell company activities) and it is current in its reporting obligations at the time of the proposed sale in reliance on Rule 144.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties.
As of the date of this report we do not own any properties.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
From time to time, we may become party to litigation or other legal proceedings that we consider to be a part of the ordinary course of our business. We are not currently involved in legal proceedings that could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition or results of operations. We may become involved in material legal proceedings in the future.
Item 4.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.
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PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Market Information
We are not currently listed on an exchange.
Stockholders of Our Common Shares
As of December 31, 2015, we had 54,150,000 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.
Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
The following sets forth certain information concerning securities which were sold or issued by us without the registration of the securities under the Securities Act of 1933 in reliance on exemptions from such registration requirements.
On April 7, 2015, Alham Benyameen and Andy Michael Ibrahim were each issued 20,650,000 shares of restricted common stock for services rendered to the Company. The shares were issued at par value for total non-cash expense of $4,130.
On April 8, 2015 the Company issued ETN Services, LLC 100,000 shares of restricted common stock for services rendered relating to SEC filing services. The shares were issued at par value for total non-cash expense of $10.
Between April 22, 2015 and April 25, 2015, the Company sold 1,300,000 restricted shares of common stock at par value to seven individuals for total proceeds of $130.
On April 24, 2015 we the Company issued Mitchell A. Stewart and Michael Selwanes 100,000 shares of restricted common stock each for services relating to upkeep and development of the Company’s website. The shares were issued at par value for total non-cash expense of $20.
On April 24, 2015 the Company gifted friends and family members of the Company’s Officers/Directors a total of 3,100,000 shares of restricted common stock for total non-cash expense of $310. The shares were gifted in exchange for services rendered to developing the Company business plan. Thirteen individuals were gifted shares and no monies were paid for them.
On September 14, 2015, the Company issued 400,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $10,000.
On September 19, 2015, the Company issued 800,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $20,000.
On September 21, 2015, the Company issued 300,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $7,500.
On September 23, 2015, the Company issued 20,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $500.
On September 25, 2015, the Company issued 280,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $7,000.
On October 15, 2015, the Company issued 100,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $2,500.
The above investments from September 14, 2015 to October 15, 2015 were made pursuant to the effective S-1 Registration Statement of the Company.
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
The registrant is a smaller reporting company, pursuant to Rule 229.10(f)(1), and is not required to report this information.
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Item 7.
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.
Revenues
Our sales revenue was $86,536 for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $72,857 for the year ended December 31, 2014. Currently, approximately 65% and 71% of the revenue was from one related party for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The increase in revenue is due to revenue generated from new customers.
Cost of Sales
Our cost of sales was $58,634 for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $65,177 for the year ended December 31, 2014. The decrease is due to decreasing costs of inventory to increase the margin on sales of electronic cigarettes or “e-cigs”, e-cig attachments, customizable devices, and e-liquid cartridges.
Operating Expenses
Our operating expenses increased by $50,123 to $85,068 for the year ended December 31, 2015 from $34,945 for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in expenses is primarily due to the addition of rent expense and increased professional fees and other expenses related to our reporting requirements as a public company.
Net Loss
We recorded a net loss of $57,166 for the year ended December 31, 2015, as compared with a net loss of $27,265 for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in net loss is attributed to the increased operating expenses.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash Used in Operating Activities
For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 we used $62,910 and $17,153 for operating activities, respectively. Our increase in inventory and professional fee expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 was the main contributing factor for our negative operating cash flow.
Cash from Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2014, we purchased a new computer for $1,100. There have been no other capital expenditures during 2015 or 2014.
Cash from Financing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2015 we generated $63,972 in cash from advances from related parties and sale of our common stock.
On April 16, 2014, the Company executed a Loan Agreement for $5,000 with PennyGrab, Inc., a company owned 100% by our Chairman, Alham Benyameen. The note is non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than April 16, 2019.
On July 2, 2014, the Company executed another Consolidated Loan Agreement for $4,500 to West Coast Vape Supply Inc., The note is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than July 2, 2019.
On March 10, 2015, the Company executed another Consolidated Loan Agreement for $20,000 to West Coast Vape Supply Inc., The note is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than March 10, 2020.
On April 17, 2015, West Coast Vape Supply loaned the Company $5,000 for general operating expenses. The loan is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand, and due no later than April 17, 2020.
On July 17, 2015, West Coast Vape Supply loaned the Company $5,000 for general operating expenses. The loan is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand, and due no later than April 17, 2020.
As of December 31, 2015, we have insufficient cash to operate our business at the current level for the next twelve months and insufficient cash to achieve our business goals. The success of our business plan beyond the next 12 months is contingent upon us obtaining additional financing. We intend to fund operations through debt and/or equity financing arrangements, which may be insufficient to fund our capital expenditures, working capital, or other cash requirements. We do not have any formal commitments or arrangements for the sales of stock or the advancement or loan of funds at this time. There can be no assurance that such additional financing will be available to us on acceptable terms, or at all.
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Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.
As a “smaller reporting company”, we are not required to provide the information required by this Item.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
VAPETEK, INC.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
Vapetek, Inc.
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Vapetek, Inc. (the "Company”) as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 and the related statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ deficit and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with 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 was not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits 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 includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the results of its operations, changes in stockholders’ deficit and its cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 7 to the financial statements, these conditions raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management's plans in regard to these matters are also described in Note 7. The financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of asset carrying amounts or the amount and classification of liabilities that might result should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.
/s/ Anton & Chia, LLP
Newport Beach, California
March 30, 2016
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
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Vapetek Inc.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
As of December 31, 2015
NOTE 1. ORGANIZATION AND DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
VAPETEK Inc., f/k/a, ALPINE 2 Inc. (the “Company”), was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on June 18, 2013. VAPETEK Inc. designs, markets, and distributes electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, e-liquids, and accessories. The Company’s products are designed to look like traditional cigarettes, are battery-powered products that enable users to inhale nicotine vapor without smoke, tar, ash, or carbon monoxide.
On March 6, 2014, the Board of Directors and majority stockholder of the Company approved an amendment to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation to change the name of the Company from ALPINE 2 Inc. to VAPETEK Inc. On that date, the Company filed a Certificate of Amendment with the State of Delaware.
On April 1, 2014, the Company entered into a product distribution agreement with West Coast Vape Supply Inc. to supply electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, e-liquids, and accessories, and other third party products. West Coast Vape Supply Inc. is a related party and owned 100% by the management of Vapetek Inc.
On September 23, 2014, the Company filed its Form 8-K (“Super 8-K”) outlining its discussion on its asset acquisition license with PennyGrab Inc., its entry into a product distribution agreement with West Coast Vape Supply Inc. to supply products of electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, e-liquids, and accessories, and other third party products, the development of its corporate website and sales from its line of products that it now offers. As a fully-operating entity, the Super 8-K disclosed that it had exited its shell company status pursuant to Item 5.06, Change in Shell Company Status.
On August 11, 2014, the Company entered into a Licensing Agreement (the “Agreement”) with PennyGrab Inc. (“PennyGrab”). PennyGrab, a company owned 100% by our Chairman, Alham Benyameen, is the owner of technology, including software code, relating a website designed for wholesale, retail, and online auction compatible products. The software code is a PHP website script that is 100% customizable and is SEO friendly that improves site search engines rankings. The software code is the “Licensed Technology.”
Pursuant to the Agreement, PennyGrab granted to the Company an exclusive, transferable (including sublicensable) worldwide perpetual license of the Licensed Technology, to make, use, lease, and sell products incorporating the Licensed Technology. The Company is required to pay to PennyGrab royalty payments equal to $100 (One Hundred Dollars) per year. The term of the Agreement is ongoing and effective as of August 11, 2014.
NOTE 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary in order for the financial statements to be not misleading have been reflected herein. The Company has elected a fiscal year ending on December 31.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities. These estimates and judgments are based on historical information, information that is currently available to the Company and on various other assumptions that the Company believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term investments with original maturities of less than 90 days. Cash equivalents are placed with high credit quality financial institutions and are primarily in money market funds. The carrying value of those investments approximates fair value. There were no cash equivalents as of December 31, 2015.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior year financial information to conform to the presentation used in the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2015.
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Inventory
The Company inventories a variety of electronic cigarettes, known as “e-cigs”, e-cig attachments, customizable devices, and e-liquid cartridges is stated at the lower of cost (first in, first out method) or market. As of December 31, 2015, the Company has $17,471 of finished goods inventory on hand.
Property and equipment
Property and equipment are stated at the lower of cost or fair value. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets, currently three years.
The estimated useful lives are based on the nature of the assets as well as current operating strategy and legal considerations such as contractual life. Future events, such as property expansions, property developments, new competition, or new regulations, could result in a change in the manner in which the Company uses certain assets requiring a change in the estimated useful lives of such assets.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue is only recognized when all of the following criteria are met: (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (3) the price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.
On occasion the Company may receive payment for a sale in advance of shipping the product. When this occurs the funds received are considered to not yet be earned and are reported as a liability on the financial statements as deferred revenue.
Returns, Repairs and Exchange Policy
It is the policy of the Company to issue no refunds once an order has been shipped unless due to product defects or Company error. The default warranty for all products is 14 days unless otherwise specified. Eligibility for refunds, repairs or exchanges are limited to products determined to have manufacturing defects or premature failure. Products that are damaged through misuse, negligence, and abuse or modified or repaired by anyone other than Vapetek, Inc. are not eligible for exchange.
Shipping fees are non-refundable.
The Company records shipping costs in accordance with EITF 00-10 Accounting for Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs. Accordingly, the shipping costs is shown in the financial statements to be included with general and administrative expense.
Due to personal tastes and preferences the Company does not offer returns, refunds or exchanges for e-liquid products. All e-liquid purchases are final.
If fulfillment errors occur, requests to correct mistakes that are made by the Company resulting in a customer’s receipt of incorrect or missing items in the order will be accepted for 14 days after the receipt of the order. Requests for missing or incorrect items will not be accepted after 14 days from the date the order has been received.
Basic Earnings (Loss) per Share
Basic earnings (loss) per common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing income available to common shareholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period increased to include the number of additional shares of common stock that would have been outstanding if potentially dilutive securities had been issued. There were no potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the periods presented.
Stock-based compensation
The Company accounts for equity based transactions with non-employees under the provisions of ASC Topic No. 505-50, “Equity-Based Payments to Non-Employees” (“Topic No. 505-50”). Topic No. 505-50 establishes that equity-based payment transactions with non-employees shall be measured at the fair value of the consideration received or the fair value of the equity instruments issued, whichever is more reliably measurable. The fair value of common stock issued for payments to non-employees in accordance with ASC Topic 505, “Equity”, whereas the value of the stock compensation is based upon the measurement date as determined at either (a) the date at which a performance commitment is reached, or (b) at the date at which the necessary performance to earn the equity instrument is complete. The fair value of equity instruments, other than common stock, is estimated using the Black-Scholes option valuation model. In general, the Company recognizes an asset or expense in the same manner as if it was to pay cash for the goods or services instead of paying with or using the equity instrument.
The Company accounts for employee stock-based compensation in accordance with the guidance of FASB ASC Topic 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation which requires all share-based payments to employees, including grants of employee stock options, to be recognized in the financial statements based on their fair values on the grant date. The fair value of the equity instrument is charged directly to compensation expense and credited to additional paid-in capital over the period during which services are rendered. There has been no stock-based compensation issued to employees.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The carrying amount of cash, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, as applicable, approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of these items. The fair value of the related party notes payable cannot be determined because of the Company's affiliation with the parties with whom the agreements exist. The use of different assumptions or methodologies may have a material effect on the estimates of fair values.
ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” requires disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments held by the Company. ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments,” defines fair value, and establishes a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosures of fair value measurement that enhances disclosure requirements for fair value measures. The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for receivables and current liabilities each qualify as financial instruments and are a reasonable estimate of their fair values because of the short period of time between the origination of such instruments and their expected realization and their current market rate of interest. The three levels of valuation hierarchy are defined as follows:
· Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets;
· Level 2: Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and
· Level 3: Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.
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Impact of New Accounting Standards
In July 2015 the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330), Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory applies to all inventory except that which is measured using last-in, first-out (LIFO) or the retail inventory method. Inventory measured using first-in, first-out (FIFO) or average cost is included in the new amendments. The amendments will take effect for public business entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of adoption on the Company’s financial statements
The Company has implemented all new accounting pronouncements that are in effect. These pronouncements did not have any material impact on the financial statements unless otherwise disclosed, and the Company does not believe that there are any other new accounting pronouncements that have been issued that might have a material impact on its financial position or results of operations.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are computed using the asset and liability method of accounting. Under the asset and liability method, a deferred tax asset or liability is recognized for estimated future tax effects attributable to temporary differences and carry-forwards. The measurement of deferred income tax assets is adjusted by a valuation allowance, if necessary, to recognize future tax benefits only to the extent, based on available evidence; it is more likely than not such benefits will be realized. The Company’s deferred tax assets were fully reserved at December 31, 2015 and 2014.
The Company accounts for its income taxes using the Income Tax topic of the FASB ASC 740, which requires the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse.
NOTE 3. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
On April 16, 2014, the Company executed a Loan Agreement for $5,000 with PennyGrab, Inc., a company owned 100% by our Chairman, Alham Benyameen. This loan was made under the Loan Agreement (“Loan Agreement”) and provided capital to purchase inventory and begin our operations. Pursuant to this agreement, the Company began supplying products electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, e-liquids, and accessories, and other third party products during the second quarter. The note is non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than April 16, 2019. The note also contains a conversion feature that allows PennyGrab, Inc. to convert into shares of restricted common stock at any time after the first year’s anniversary of the date of the Loan Agreement, at the price based upon either: a) the price of its most recent private placement offering, closest to the time of conversion, b) if publicly -traded, then the bid price of its common stock on the closing day of conversion. The loan agreement has been amended on April 1, 2015 to eliminate the conversion clause. All other terms remain the same. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
On June 1, 2014, the Company entered into a Lease Agreement (“Lease”) with MEWE World, Inc. (“MEWE”), a company owned 100% by our Chairman, Alham Benyameen. The term of the lease is one year commencing June 1, 2014 and ending May 30, 2015. The Company shall pay MEWE rent of $9,660 per year in equal monthly installments of $805 payable in advance on the 1st of every month. As of December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, the Company has a payable to MEWE in the amount of $9,660 and $5,635, respectively.
On June 2, 2014, the Company executed a Consolidated Loan Agreement for $13,658 to West Coast Vape Supply Inc., a company owned 100% by the Company’s management. The note is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than June 2, 2019. The note also contains a conversion feature that allows West Coast Vape Supply to convert into shares of restricted common stock at any time after the first year’s anniversary of the date of the Loan Agreement, at the price based upon either: a) the price of its most recent private placement offering, closest to the time of conversion, b) if publicly -traded, then the bid price of its common stock on the closing day of conversion. The loan agreement has been amended on April 1, 2015 to eliminate the conversion clause. All other terms remain the same. This loan was repaid in full as of December 31, 2015.
On July 2, 2014, the Company executed another Consolidated Loan Agreement for $4,500 to West Coast Vape Supply Inc., The note is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than July 2, 2019. The note also contains a conversion feature that allows West Coast Vape Supply, Inc. to convert into shares of restricted common stock at any time after the first year’s anniversary of the date of the Loan Agreement, at the price based upon either: a) the price of its most recent private placement offering, closest to the time of conversion, b) if publicly -traded, then the bid price of its common stock on the closing day of conversion at. The loan agreement has been amended on April 1, 2015 to eliminate the conversion clause. All other terms remain the same. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
On March 10, 2015, the Company executed another Consolidated Loan Agreement for $20,000 to West Coast Vape Supply Inc., The note is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than March 10, 2020. The note also contains a conversion feature that allows West Coast Vape Supply, Inc. to convert into shares of restricted common stock at any time after the first year’s anniversary of the date of the Loan Agreement, at the price based upon either: a) the price of its most recent private placement offering, closest to the time of conversion, b) if publicly -traded, then the bid price of its common stock on the closing day of conversion at. This loan agreement has been amended on April 1, 2015 to eliminate the conversion clause. All other terms remain the same. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
On April 17, 2015, West Coast Vape Supply loaned the Company $5,000 for general operating expenses. The loan is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand, and due no later than April 17, 2020. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
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On June 1, 2015, the Company entered into a Lease Agreement (“Lease”) with West Coast Vape Supply, Inc. (“West Coast”) a company owned 100% by the Company’s management. The term of the lease is one year commencing June 1, 2015 and ending March 31, 2017. The Company shall pay West Coast rent of $26,400 per year in equal monthly installments of $2,200 payable in advance on the 1st of every month.
On July 17, 2015, West Coast Vape Supply loaned the Company $5,000 for general operating expenses. The loan is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand, and due no later than April 17, 2020. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
The Company recognized $56,114 and $51,622 in revenue from West Coast Vape Supply, a related party, for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. This revenue consisted of approximately 64.8% and 70.8%, respectively of the Company’s total sales. Sales made to West Coast Vape Supply are not recognized unless they are then sold on to a third party in an arm’s length transaction.
NOTE 4. STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT
On April 6, 2015, the Company completed a reverse stock split in which every eight shares of common stock became one share of common stock. All shares throughout these financial statements and Form 10-Q have been retroactively restated for the reverse split.
On April 7, 2015, Alham Benyameen and Andy Michael Ibrahim were each issued 20,650,000 shares of restricted common stock for services rendered to the Company. The shares were issued at par value for total non-cash expense of $4,130.
On April 8, 2015 the Company issued ETN Services, LLC 100,000 shares of restricted common stock for services rendered relating to SEC filing services. The shares were issued at par value for total non-cash expense of $10.
Between April 22, 2015 and April 25, 2015, the Company sold 1,300,000 restricted shares of common stock at par value to seven individuals for total proceeds of $130. The private placements from the sale of shares were exempt from registration under Regulation D of the Securities Act of 1933.
On April 24, 2015 we the Company issued Mitchell A. Stewart and Michail Selwanes 100,000 shares of restricted common stock each for services relating to upkeep and development of the Company’s website. The shares were issued at par value for total non-cash expense of $20.
On April 24, 2015 the Company issued to thirteen individuals related to the Company’s Officers/Directors a total of 3,100,000 shares of restricted common stock for total non-cash expense of $310. The shares were issued in exchange for services rendered to developing the Company business plan.
During the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company issued 3,200,000 shares of common stock for total cash proceeds of $47,630. These shares were made pursuant to the effective S-1 Registration Statement of the Company.
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NOTE 5 - INCOME TAXES
For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Company has incurred a net loss of $57,166 and, therefore, has no tax liability. The net deferred tax asset generated by the loss carry-forward has been fully reserved. The cumulative net operating loss carry-forward is approximately $87,000 at December 31, 2015, and will expire beginning in the year 2033.
The provision for Federal income tax consists of the following for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:
The cumulative tax effect at the expected rate of 34% of significant items comprising our net deferred tax amount is as follows as of December 31, 2015 and 2014:
Due to the change in ownership provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1986, net operating loss carry forwards of approximately $87,000 for Federal income tax reporting purposes are subject to annual limitations. Should a change in ownership occur, net operating loss carry forwards may be limited as to use in future years.
ASC Topic 740 provides guidance on the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company's financial statements. Topic 740 requires a company to determine whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination based upon the technical merits of the position. If the more-likely-than-not threshold is met, a company must measure the tax position to determine the amount to recognize in the financial statements.
The Company includes interest and penalties arising from the underpayment of income taxes in the statements of operations in the provision for income taxes. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had no accrued interest or penalties related to uncertain tax positions.
NOTE 6. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
On June 1, 2015, the Company entered into a Lease Agreement (“Lease”) with West Coast Vape Supply, Inc. (“West Coast”) a company owned 100% by the Company’s management. The term of the lease begins June 1, 2015 and ending March 31, 2017. The Company shall pay West Coast rent of $26,400 per year in equal monthly installments of $2,200 payable in advance on the 1st of every month. Future minimum rental payments are as follows:
NOTE 7. GOING CONCERN
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. The Company has incurred losses since inception and has an accumulated a deficit of $87,264 as of December 31, 2015. The Company requires capital for its contemplated operational and marketing activities. The Company’s ability to raise additional capital through the future issuances of common stock is unknown. The obtainment of additional financing, the successful development of the Company’s contemplated plan of operations, and its transition, ultimately, to the attainment of profitable operations are necessary for the Company to continue operations. The ability to successfully resolve these factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The financial statements of the Company do not include any adjustments that may result from the outcome of these aforementioned uncertainties.
NOTE 8. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On January 21, 2016, the Company issued 250,000 shares of common stock to a vendor for development of Company software and its website.
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Item 9.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None
Item 9A.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including the Chief Executive Officer who also acts as our principal financial officer, we have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. The disclosure controls and procedures ensure that all information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is: (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rule and forms; and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer concluded that, as of December 31, 2015, these disclosure controls and procedures were not effective.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
As required by Rule 13a-15 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer evaluated our company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that as of the end of the period covered by this report, these disclosure controls and procedures were not effective to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by our company in reports it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the Securities Exchange Commission and to ensure that such information is accumulated and communicated to our company's management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The conclusion that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective was due to the presence of the following material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting which are indicative of many small companies with small staff: (i) inadequate segregation of duties and effective risk assessment; and (ii) insufficient written policies and procedures for accounting and financial reporting with respect to the requirements and application of both United States generally accepted accounting principles and Securities and Exchange Commission guidelines. Management anticipates that such disclosure controls and procedures will not be effective until the material weaknesses are remediated.
We plan to take steps to enhance and improve the design of our internal controls over financial reporting. During the period covered by this report on Form 10-K, we have not been able to remediate the material weaknesses identified above. To remediate such weaknesses, we plan to implement the following changes during our fiscal year ending December 31, 2016, subject to obtaining additional financing: (i) appoint additional qualified personnel to address inadequate segregation of duties and ineffective risk management; and (ii) adopt sufficient written policies and procedures for accounting and financial reporting. The remediation efforts set out above are largely dependent upon our securing additional financing to cover the costs of implementing the changes required. If we are unsuccessful in securing such funds, remediation efforts may be adversely affected in a material manner.
Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within our company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake.
Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Our management has determined that there were no changes made in the implementation of our internal controls over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of the year ended December 31, 2015.
Attestation Report of Independent Public Accounting Firm
This annual report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting because as a smaller reporting company we are not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permit us to provide only management’s report in this annual report.
Item 9B.
Item 9B. Other Information.
None.
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PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
Biographical information regarding the officers and Directors of the Company, who will continue to serve as officers and Directors of the Company and Vapetek, Inc. are provided below:
NAME
AGE
POSITION
Alham Benyameen
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Andy Michael Ibrahim
President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary and Member of the Board of Directors
Alham Benyameen- Chairman of the Board of Directors
Mr. Benyameen is the Co-President of West Coast Vape Supply Inc., with Andy Michael Ibrahim, an international distributor to retail locations supplying the vaping industry with high quality brand names since August 2013. Since January 2006, Mr. Benyameen has been the President and CEO of MeWe World, Inc. an online retailer of consumer electronics with 7 employees, which was recently honored by inclusion in the 2009-2011 editions of Internet Retailer's Top 500 Guide. Mr. Benyameen grew the company's revenues from $50,000 to over $24M dollars over a period of 2 years. Since July 2011, Mr. Benyameen has been the President of PennyGrab, Inc., an online pay to bid auction website, PennyGrab, Inc. which had over $1M in sales in 2013. From 1999 to 2001 Mr. Benyameen worked as a sales manager for Atek, responsible for obtaining profitable results through the sales team by developing the team through motivation, counseling, skills development and product knowledge development. From 1997 to 1999, Mr. Benyameen worked at as a sales associate for Bit-By-Bit Computer Rental, one of the largest computer equipment rental companies in Southern California. Mr. Benyameen identified and generated leads for new business through the use of sales marketing tools.
Andy Michael Ibrahim- President, CEO, CFO, Secretary and Member of the Board of Directors
Mr. Ibrahim is the Co-President of West Coast Vape Supply Inc., with Alham Benyameen, an international distributor to retail locations supplying the vaping industry with high quality brand names since August 2013. Mr. Ibrahim has more than 15 years experience in marketing, branding, from product development to fulfillment. From 2002 to present, Mr. Ibrahim created Creative Art Center, Inc. to expand marketing practices to other companies that can benefit from proven marketing strategies and to increase revenue and grow market share. Creative Art Center, Inc. has and continues to be a great source for name brands to get help and increase the product sales and visibility in their industry. Mr. Ibrahim continues to oversee operations, product sales, purchasing and marketing for the company. Mr. Ibrahim worked from 1999 to 2002 as the marketing director for Affiliated Funding Corp. Mr. Ibrahim managed a team of mortgage consultants and successfully acquired more than $100 mil in business per year from licensed active Realtors Nationwide. During this time Mr. Ibrahim executed a marketing plan that captured the market share of many top leading corresponding lenders. Mr. Ibrahim managed a team of designers and production specialist to create, produce, market and distribute an international brand named Shaolin Clothing from 1995 to 1999. In that capacity, Mr. Ibrahim successfully negotiated and the implemented the acquisition of other brands to create a distribution company to add value with brand names for the distribution. During this time he managed and organized many trade shows and product exhibits. Then Mr. Ibrahim helped the distribution be acquired to Global World Industries. Mr. Ibrahim attended University of Phoenix from 1999 to 2002 and also graduated from Orange Coast College with an emphasis in Business Marketing.
Corporate governance
The Company promotes accountability for adherence to honest and ethical conduct; endeavors to provide full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and in other public communications made by the Company; and strives to be compliant with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations. The Company has not formally adopted a written code of business conduct and ethics that governs the Company’s employees, officers and Directors as the Company is not required to do so.
In lieu of an Audit Committee, the Company’s Board of Directors, is responsible for reviewing and making recommendations concerning the selection of outside auditors, reviewing the scope, results and effectiveness of the annual audit of the Company's financial statements and other services provided by the Company’s independent public accountants. The Board of Directors reviews the Company's internal accounting controls, practices and policies.
Committees of the Board
Our Company currently does not have nominating, compensation, or audit committees or committees performing similar functions nor does our Company have a written nominating, compensation or audit committee charter. Our sole Director believes that it is not necessary to have such committees, at this time, because the Director(s) can adequately perform the functions of such committees.
Audit Committee Financial Expert
Our Board of Directors has determined that we do not have a board member that qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in Item 407(D)(5) of Regulation S-K, nor do we have a Board member that qualifies as “independent” as the term is used in Item 7(d)(3)(iv)(B) of Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined by Rule 4200(a)(14) of the FINRA Rules.
We believe that our Director(s) are capable of analyzing and evaluating our financial statements and understanding internal controls and procedures for financial reporting. The Director(s) of our Company does not believe that it is necessary to have an audit committee because management believes that the Board of Directors can adequately perform the functions of an audit committee. In addition, we believe that retaining an independent Director who would qualify as an "audit committee financial expert" would be overly costly and burdensome and is not warranted in our circumstances given the stage of our development and the fact that we have not generated any positive cash flows from operations to date.
Involvement in Certain Legal Proceedings
None of our officer nor directors, promoters or control persons have been involved in the past ten years in any of the following:
(1) Any bankruptcy petition filed by or against any business of which such person was a general partner or executive officer either at the time of the bankruptcy or within two years prior to that time;
(2) Any conviction in a criminal proceeding or being subject to a pending criminal proceeding (excluding traffic violations and other minor offenses);
(3) Being subject to any order, judgment or decree, not subsequently reversed, suspended or vacated, or any court of competent jurisdiction, permanently or temporarily enjoining, barring, suspending or otherwise limiting his involvement in any type of business, securities or banking activities; or
(4) Being found by a court of competent jurisdiction (in a civil action), the Commission or the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to have violated a federal or state securities or commodities law, and the judgment has not been reversed, suspended, or vacated.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires our directors, executive officers and persons who own more than ten percent of our common stock, to file with the SEC initial reports of ownership and reports of changes in ownership of common stock. Officers, directors and ten-percent or greater beneficial owners are required by SEC regulations to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) reports they file. Based upon a review of those forms and representations regarding the need for filing for the year ended December 31, 2015, we believe all forms were timely filed.
Code of Ethics
The Company has not adopted a Code of Ethics.
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Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
Summary Compensation Table:
Our Board of Directors determines the compensation given to our executive officers in their sole determination. Our Board of Directors reserves the right to pay our executive or any future executives a salary, and/or issue them shares of common stock issued in consideration for services rendered and/or to award incentive bonuses which are linked to our performance, as well as to the individual executive officer’s performance. This package may also include long-term stock based compensation to certain executives, which is intended to align the performance of our executives with our long-term business strategies. Additionally, while our Board of Directors has not granted any performance base stock options to date, the Board of Directors reserves the right to grant such options in the future, if the Board in its sole determination believes such grants would be in the best interests of the Company.
Compensation of Directors
The table below summarizes all compensation of our directors as of December 31, 2015.
Our Board of Directors does not currently receive any consideration for their services as members of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors reserves the right in the future to award the members of the Board of Directors cash or stock based consideration for their services to the Company, which awards, if granted shall be in the sole determination of the Board of Directors.
Stock Option Grants
We have not granted any stock options to our executive officers since our incorporation.
Employment Agreements
We do not have a formal employment or consulting agreement with any officers or Directors.
Long-term, Stock Based Compensation
In order to attract, retain and motivate executive talent necessary to support the Company’s long-term business strategy we may award our executive and any future executives with long-term, stock-based compensation in the future, in the sole discretion of our Board of Directors, which we do not currently have any immediate plans to award.
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Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
As of March 14, 2016, the Company has 54,400,000 shares of common stock issued and outstanding, which number of issued and outstanding shares of common stock have been used throughout this report.
Beneficial ownership has been determined in accordance with Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act. Under this rule, certain shares may be deemed to be beneficially owned by more than one person (if, for example, persons share the power to vote or the power to dispose of the shares). In addition, shares are deemed to be beneficially owned by a person if the person has the right to acquire shares (for example, upon exercise of an option or warrant) within 60 days of the date as of which the information is provided. In computing the percentage ownership of any person, the amount of shares is deemed to include the amount of shares beneficially owned by such person by reason of such acquisition rights. As a result, the percentage of outstanding shares of any person as shown in the following table does not necessarily reflect the person’s actual voting power at any particular date.
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
On March 10, 2015, the Company executed another Consolidated Loan Agreement for $20,000 to West Coast Vape Supply Inc., The note is non-interest bearing, payable on demand and is due no later than March 10, 2020. The note also contains a conversion feature that allows West Coast Vape Supply, Inc. to convert into shares of restricted common stock at any time after the first year’s anniversary of the date of the Loan Agreement, at the price based upon either: a) the price of its most recent private placement offering, closest to the time of conversion, b) if publicly -traded, then the bid price of its common stock on the closing day of conversion at. This loan agreement has been amended on April 1, 2015 to eliminate the conversion clause. All other terms remain the same. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
On April 17, 2015, West Coast Vape Supply loaned the Company $5,000 for general operating expenses. The loan is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand, and due no later than April 17, 2020. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
On June 1, 2015, the Company entered into a Lease Agreement (“Lease”) with West Coast Vape Supply, Inc. (“West Coast”) a company owned 100% by the Company’s management. The term of the lease is one year commencing June 1, 2015 and ending March 31, 2017. The Company shall pay West Coast rent of $26,400 per year in equal monthly installments of $2,200 payable in advance on the 1st of every month.
On July 17, 2015, West Coast Vape Supply loaned the Company $5,000 for general operating expenses. The loan is unsecured, non-interest bearing, payable on demand, and due no later than April 17, 2020. As of December 31, 2015, this loan is still outstanding.
The Company recognized $56,114 and $51,622 in revenue from West Coast Vape Supply, a related party, for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. This revenue consisted of approximately 64.8% and 70.8%, respectively of the Company’s total sales. Sales made to West Coast Vape Supply are not recognized unless they are then sold on to a third party in an arm’s length transaction.
Review, Approval and Ratification of Related Party Transactions
Given our small size and limited financial resources, we have not adopted formal policies and procedures for the review, approval or ratification of transactions, such as those described above, with our executive officer(s), Director(s) and significant stockholders. We intend to establish formal policies and procedures in the future, once we have sufficient resources and have appointed additional Directors, so that such transactions will be subject to the review, approval or ratification of our Board of Directors, or an appropriate committee thereof. On a moving forward basis, our Directors will continue to approve any related party transaction.
Corporate Governance
The Company promotes accountability for adherence to honest and ethical conduct; endeavors to provide full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and in other public communications made by the Company; and strives to be compliant with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations. The Company has not formally adopted a written code of business conduct and ethics that governs the Company’s employees, officers and Directors as the Company is not required to do so.
In lieu of an Audit Committee, the Company’s Board of Directors, is responsible for reviewing and making recommendations concerning the selection of outside auditors, reviewing the scope, results and effectiveness of the annual audit of the Company's financial statements and other services provided by the Company’s independent public accountants. The Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company review the Company's internal accounting controls, practices and policies.
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Item 14.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
Below is the aggregate amount of fees billed for professional services rendered by our principal accountants with respect to our last two fiscal years.
All of the professional services rendered by principal accountants for the audit of our annual financial statements that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for last two fiscal years were approved by our board of directors.
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.
(a) Financial Statements
1. Financial statements for our company are listed in the index under Item 8 of this document
2. All financial statement schedules are omitted because they are not applicable, not material or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.
(a) Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.
(1) Filed herewith.
(2) Users of this data are advised that, pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or Annual Report for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 18 of the Exchange Act of 1934 and otherwise are not subject to liability.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Vapetek Inc.
(Registrant)
By: /s/ Andy Michael Ibrahim
Andy Michael Ibrahim,
Director
Dated: March 30, 2016
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
By: /s/ Andy Michael Ibrahim
Andy Michael Ibrahim,
President, Chief Executive Officer,
Chief Financial Officer, Director
Dated: March 30, 2016
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