10-K
Brownie's Marine Group, Inc (BWMG)
UNITED
STATES
SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON,
DC 20549
FORM
10-K
(MARK ONE)
| ☒ | Annual<br> Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
|---|
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023
| ☐ | Transition<br> report under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 |
|---|
For the transition period from _______to _______.
Commission
file number 333-99393

BROWNIE’S
MARINE GROUP, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| Florida | 90-0226181 |
|---|---|
| (State<br> or other jurisdiction of<br><br> <br>incorporation<br> or organization) | (I.R.S.<br> Employer<br><br> <br>Identification<br> No.) |
| 3001<br> NW 25th Avenue, Suite 1, Pompano Beach, Florida | 33069 |
| --- | --- |
| (Address<br> of principal executive offices) | (Zip<br> Code) |
Registrant’s
telephone number, including area code (954) 462-5570
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title<br> of Each Class | Trading<br> Symbol(s) | Name<br> of each exchange on which registered |
|---|---|---|
| None | Not<br> applicable | Not<br> applicable |
Securities
registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined by Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232- 405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files.) Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Large<br> accelerated filer | ☐ | Accelerated<br> file | ☐ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-accelerated<br> filer | ☒ | Smaller<br> reporting company | ☒ |
| Emerging<br> growth company | ☐ |
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
The
aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was approximately $5,273,810.
There
were 439,545,865 shares of common stock outstanding as of May 9, 2024.
TABLE
OF CONTENTS
| Page No. | ||
|---|---|---|
| Part I | 3 | |
| Item<br> 1. | Business. | 3 |
| Item<br> 1A. | Risk Factors. | 10 |
| Item<br> 1B. | Unresolved Staff Comments. | 16 |
| Item<br> 1C | Cybersecurity | 16 |
| Item<br> 2. | Properties. | 16 |
| Item<br> 3. | Legal Proceedings. | 16 |
| Item<br> 4. | Mine Safety Disclosures. | 16 |
| Part II | 17 | |
| Item<br> 5. | Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. | 17 |
| Item<br> 6. | Reserved. | 18 |
| Item<br> 7. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. | 18 |
| Item<br> 7A. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. | 24 |
| Item<br> 8. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. | 24 |
| Item<br> 9. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. | 24 |
| Item<br> 9A. | Controls and Procedures. | 24 |
| Item<br> 9B. | Other Information. | 26 |
| Item<br> 9C. | Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions That Prevent Inspections | 26 |
| Part III | 26 | |
| Item<br> 10. | Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance. | 26 |
| Item<br> 11. | Executive Compensation. | 28 |
| Item<br> 12. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters. | 30 |
| Item<br> 13. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. | 32 |
| Item<br> 14. | Principal Accounting Fees and Services. | 33 |
| Part IV | 34 | |
| Item<br> 15. | Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules. | 34 |
| Item<br> 16. | Form 10-K Summary | 35 |
| Signatures | 36 |
| 2 |
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CAUTIONARY
STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This Annual Report includes forward-looking statements that relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Words such as, but not limited to, “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “targets,” “likely,” “aim,” “will,” “would,” “could,” and similar expressions or phrases identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operation, business strategy and financial needs.
You should read thoroughly this Annual Report with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements including those made in Part I. Item 1A. Risk Factors appearing elsewhere in this Report. Other sections of this Report include additional factors, which could adversely impact our business and financial performance. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they are made, except as required by applicable law.
PART
I
| Item 1. | Business. |
|---|
Unless specifically set forth to the contrary, when used in this report references to the “Company,” “we,” “our,” “us,” and similar terms refers to Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc., a Florida corporation, and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Trebor Industries, Inc., a Florida corporation (“Trebor”) doing business as Brownie’s Third Lung, Brownie’s High Pressure Compressor Services, Inc. a Florida corporation (“BHP”) doing business as LW Americas (“LWA”), BLU3, Inc., a Florida corporation (“BLU3”), Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation (“SSI”), doing business as Spare Air and Live Blue, Inc. (“LBI”), a Florida corporation.
Overview
The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, designs, tests, manufactures and distributes tankless dive systems, rescue air systems and yacht-based self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (“SCUBA”) air compressor and nitrox generation fill systems and acts as the exclusive distributor in North and South America for Lenhardt & Wagner GmbH (“L&W”) compressors in the high-pressure breathing air and industrial gas markets. The Company is also the exclusive United States and Caribbean distributor for Chrysalis Trading CC, a South African manufacturer of fitness and dive equipment, which is doing business as Bright Weights (“Bright Weights”), of a dive ballast system produced in South Africa.
On September 3, 2021, the Company, entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the “Merger Agreement”) with Submersible Acquisition, Inc., a Florida corporation incorporated in 2017, and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Acquisition Sub”), Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation (“Submersible” or “SSI”), and Summit Holdings V, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Summit”) and Tierra Vista Group, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Tierra Vista” and, together with Summit, the “Sellers”), the owners of all of the capital stock of Submersible, pursuant to which Acquisition Sub merged with and into Submersible (the “Merger”), and Submersible, the surviving corporation, became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
Submersible is a manufacturer of high-pressure tanks and redundant air systems for the military and recreational diving industries, based in Huntington Beach, California and sells its products to governments, militaries, private companies and the dive industry throughout the world.
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On February 13, 2022 the Company formed LBI, which is being developed as a full retail, guided tour and training model utilizing the technology developed by BLU3 to provide new users and interested divers a guided tour experience, training, and the ability to purchase all of their diving and watersports needs.
On May 2, 2022, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement (the “Asset Purchase Agreement”) with Gold Coast Scuba, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Gold Coast Scuba”), Steven M. Gagas and William Frenier, the sole members of Gold Coast Scuba (together, the “LLC Members”) and LBI. Pursuant to the terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement, LBI acquired substantially all of Gold Coast Scuba’s assets and assumed certain non-material liabilities of the business associated with these assets. In addition, LBI assumed the lease for the premises for Gold Coast Scuba.
The Company has five wholly owned subsidiaries focused on various sub-sectors of our industry as described below:
| ● | Brownie’s<br> Third Lung | Surface Supplied Air (“SSA”) |
|---|---|---|
| ● | BLU3,<br> Inc. | Ultra-Portable Tankless Dive Systems |
| ● | LW<br> Americas | High Pressure Gas Systems |
| ● | Submersible<br> Systems, Inc. | Redundant Air Tank Systems |
| ● | Live<br> Blue, Inc. | Guided Tours |
Our wholly owned subsidiaries do business under their respective trade names on both a wholesale and retail basis from our headquarters and manufacturing facility in Pompano Beach, Florida, and a manufacturing facility in Huntington Beach, California.

Surface
Supplied Air Products
Our Third Lung systems have been the market leader in gasoline powered, high-performance and more recently in the battery powered SSA diving systems. Taking full advantage of our proprietary compressor system, a series of traditional “fixed speed” electric compressors were developed for the built-in-boat market in 2005. In 2010, we introduced our variable-speed battery powered hookah system which provides divers with gasoline-free all day shallow diving experiences. These systems provide performance and runtimes for up to 3 hours by utilizing a variable speed technology that controls battery consumption based on diver demand.
In 2022, we continued to expand our dealer network and our marketing efforts with both the consumer and our network of dealers. The Company continues to pursue distributors and dealers outside of the United States in order to diversify the seasonality as well as geography risks. Additionally, we continue to pursue more aggressively the boat builder market to offer our SSA systems as an option on newly built boats, expanding our market beyond the traditional consumer markets for our products.
Our SSA products include:
● Tankless Dive Systems: The Company produces a line of tankless dive products, commonly called hookah or recreational SSA systems. These systems allow one to four divers to enjoy the marine environment up to a depth of 45 feet without the bulk and weight of conventional SCUBA gear. We believe that the removal of barriers to entry into the sport of diving and the reduction of complicated and bulky SCUBA gear invites a broader range of the general public to participate more actively and enjoyably at their own pace and schedule. Our product is designed to reduces the effort required for its transport and use while exploring, cruising or traveling.
A line of land-based systems is available for light-duty commercial applications that demand portability and performance. In addition to the gasoline-powered units and the variable speed battery powered units, a series of AC electric powered systems is also available for light to commercial use. Powered by battery for portability or household current for unlimited dive duration, these units are used primarily by businesses that work in aquatic maintenance and marine environments.
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● BIAS (Boat Integrated Air Systems): The Company developed several tankless products and complimentary accessories that it believes makes boat diving easier. The BIAS battery powered tankless kit allows boat builders, dealers and end users to seamlessly install a pre-packaged kit directly into the boat and our E-Reel, a level-winding battery powered hose reel system, provides compact storage of up to 150 feet of hose. Boaters can perform their own in-water maintenance and inspections, or just dive for enjoyment. In addition to supplying air to divers, BIAS may be used for supporting air horns, inflating boat fenders/water toys and activating pneumatically operated doors.

Ultra-PortableTankless Dive Systems
Through our wholly owned subsidiary BLU3, we develop and market a next generation electric, surface supplied air shallow dive system that is completely portable to the user. The BLU3 line currently consists of two models, NEMO and NOMAD, targeting specific performance levels and price points.
NEMO dive systems are currently sold in various countries through Amazon, and also through dealers worldwide. NEMO, designed to be the world’s smallest dive system is capable of taking a diver to 10 feet for 60 to 90 minutes on one charge of its lithium-ion battery. NEMO is portable and its batteries are FAA compliant for airline travel.
NOMAD dive system (“NOMAD”) began shipping in the third quarter of 2021 and is currently sold to consumers via our website, Amazon and through our network of dealers worldwide. The NOMAD is highly portable and expands dive capability to up to 30 feet. NOMAD has been marketed through BLU3’s internet presence and marketing campaigns as well as at industry and other trade shows across the country.
BLU3 continues to innovate in the SSA sector and currently expects to introduce a new product to its line-up in 2024.
We believe the BLU3 product lines are changing the way that people get into the water and explore the next atmosphere. The units are ultra-portable and can travel with the consumer to their adventures, wherever they may be.

High
Pressure Gas Systems
Through our wholly-owned subsidiary LW Americas, we design, manufacture, sell and install SCUBA tank fill systems for on-board yacht use under the brand “Yacht- Pro™”. Our systems provide complete diving solutions for yachts, including nitrox systems which allow yacht owners to fill tanks with oxygen enriched air on board. The Yacht-Pro™ compressor systems offer a completely marine-prepared, variable frequency drive (“VFD”) driven, automated alternative to other compressors on the market. We also design complete dive lockers, mixed gas production and distribution systems, and the Nitrox Maker™. Nitrox is oxygen-enriched air, which reduces the effects of nitrogen on divers and is the industry standard for dive professionals. The Nitrox Maker™ continuously generates oxygen rich breathing gas directly from low-pressure air with no stored oxygen or other gases required onboard. Our light duty compressor, the new Yacht Pro Essential is specifically designed as a turn-key kit for the boat builders and is optimized to integrate to onboard power systems and withstand the marine environment with all components and hardware impervious to spray from the elements. The Yacht Pro™ series contains models for both medium-duty applications, such as recreational divers and small groups, and heavy-duty use as found on research vessels, commercial operations and live-aboard dive boats. All Yacht Pro™ models come with the variable speed frequency drive reducing the initial start-up power demand typically associated with high pressure compressor systems.
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August 2017, we entered into a five-year exclusive distribution agreement with L&W, which agreement automatically renews for successive five-year terms unless terminated as provided for in the agreement. Under the terms of the Exclusive Distribution Agreement, we were appointed the exclusive distributor of L&W’s complete product line in North America and South America, including the Caribbean. We are conducting this business direct to end-users and establishing sales, distribution and service centers for high pressure air and industrial gas systems in the dive, fire, CNG, military, scientific, recreational and aerospace industries under the brand name “L&W Americas/LWA”.
We are exclusively developing a sales, distribution and service capability to assist L&W with completing a worldwide network of L&W’s agencies and service centers.
In addition to breathing air compressors and related peripheral equipment, L&W also offers compressors, storage and purification systems to meet the high-pressure requirements for natural gas filling stations, and high-pressure inert gases such as argon, helium and nitrogen for industrial applications including welding and laser cutting, and for general laboratory use.
We believe the product lines from L&W, will allow LW Americas to offer high quality, competitive products into the first responder and industrial market that utilize compressed air. Our goal will be to build a network of jobbers, dealers, installers and high-pressure compressor distributors by leveraging our know-how, brand awareness, complimentary products and creating sustainable distribution and core product original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) integration relationships.

Redundant
Air Tank Systems
In September 2021, the Company acquired SSI to further expand its product offerings and manufacturing capabilities. SSI has been manufacturing redundant air systems for recreational divers, private companies and militaries throughout the world for more than 40 years. Their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Huntington Beach, California is equipped to add to the machining and product development capabilities of the Company.
The SSI acquisition gives the Company access to a world-wide base of in excess of 400 dealers and distributors, GSA contracting capability, as well as the direct source for the redundant air needs for our Brownie’s Third Lung and BLU3 diving equipment and expands warehousing capabilities, reducing freight costs for both sets of customers.
SSI continues to innovate their technologies to meet changing military and commercial needs and is in development of the next generation of their Helicopter Emergency Egress Device (“HEED”) product line, specifically designed for aircraft and military vehicle use. Additionally, SSI has found use for their products in the medical field and continues to develop customer relationships in that area to grow revenue and diversify its product and customer portfolio.
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In February 2022, the Company incorporated LBI to begin its expansion into the retail, training and guided tour market. The Company’s vision for LBI is to become a fully integrated retail experience where the Company’s unique products can be showcased, training can be offered, and a tourist model created. LBI will provide experienced based activities for the consumer in the various watersport activities it sells. In addition, LBI aims to provide training in those activities with the goal to have the consumer purchase the equipment, particularly the unique technologies provided by BLU3, from its retail stores. LBI looks to provide the full Live Blue experience for those consumers ready to enjoy all things watersports.
In May 2022, LBI acquired the assets of Gold Coast Scuba, a dive retail and training facility based in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Florida. This retail location is the base in which the Live Blue brand will be developed.
Divingand Snorkeling Industry
The scuba diving equipment market size has grown steadily in recent years. It may grow from $4.39 billion in 2023 to $4.6 billion in 2024 at an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% according to Business and Research Company.com. The growth in the historic period can be attributed to post-pandemic recovery, rescue and safety equipment development, accessibility of diving courses, e-commerce penetration, and a rise in disposable income.
The Company has entered the tourist market via a guided tour program within LBI that is currently intended to act as an incubator for a scalable franchise model. The Company believes that the guided tour model is an important building block in introducing its battery powered diving products to the consumer market. Additionally, this model will not only give consumers the opportunity to “try before you buy”, but also provide experiential training for the consumer to increase the enjoyment and safety of our diving products.
YachtingIndustry
The global luxury yacht market is estimated to be $8.73 billion in 2023 and expected to reach $9.19 billion in 2024 and is poised to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2024 to 2028 to reach $10.78 billion, according to Business and Research Company.com, a market research firm, in their industry report dated January, 2024. The Company’s BIAS systems have been designed with this industry in mind. The Company markets directly to the yachting industry by leveraging its relationships with large yacht servicing companies, yacht builders and yacht brokerages.
The recreational sailing and boating market and yachting industries also continue to grow. Grandview Research estimates that the recreational boating market was valued at $44.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% through 2030.
HighPressure Compressor Line
According to Allied Market Research report published in February 2018, the North American high pressure compressor market is $880 million growing at an estimated CAGR of 3%.
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The Company expects to continue to distribute L&W compressors through its YachtPro, and BIAS systems, while continuing to focus on the expansion of its distribution into non-marine related distribution channels that the Company believes should positively impact its market reach.
Intellectual Property
Trade Names
The Company either owns or has licensed from entities in which Robert Carmichael, our Chairman, has an ownership interest, the following registered and unregistered trade names, trademarks and service marks: Brownie’s Third Lung™, browniedive.com, Brownie’s, Brownie’s Third Lung oval symbol, browniedive, YachtPro, NitroxMaker™, BLU3, diveBLU3.com, BLU3 Nemo, BLU3-Vent, Submersible Systems, Spare Air, HEED 3, Snorkelator, easy dive, spareair.com, HELO, RES, Gold Coast Scuba, fast float rescue harness, tankfill.com, browniestankfill, browniestankfill.com, browniespublicsafety.com, browniespublicsafety, Peleton Hose System, Twin-Trim, and Kayak Diving Hose Kit.
The Company owns the following patents:
| Patent number | Description | Issued Date | Expiration Date | Owned by |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10,758,246 | Abdominal<br> Aortic Tourniquet | 9/1/2020 | 3/17/2034 | Trebor<br> Industries, Inc. |
| 9,782,182 | Abdominal<br> Aortic Tourniquet | 10/10/2021 | 10/26/2033 | Trebor<br> Industries, Inc. |
| 9,351,737 | Abdominal<br> Aortic Tourniquet | 5/31/2016 | 3/2/2034 | Trebor<br> Industries, Inc. |
| 11,265,625 | Automated<br> Self-Contained Hooka system with unobtrusive aquatic data recording | 3/1/2022 | 10/30/2039 | BLU3,<br> Inc. |
| 11,077,924 | System<br> for adjusting pressure limits based on depth of diver(s) | 8/3/2021 | 3/20/2039 | Brownie’s<br> Marine Group, Inc. |
| 11,767,089 | System for adjusting pressure limits based on depth of diver(s) | 9/26/2023 | 4/10/2041 | Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc. |
| Application number | Description | Filed Date | Owned by | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | |
| 17/683,502 | Automated<br> Self-Contained Hooka system with unobtrusive aquatic data recording | 3/1/2022 | BLU3,<br> Inc. |
License Agreements
On April 6, 2018, the Company entered into a patent license agreement (the “STS Agreement”) with Setaysha Technical Solutions, LLC (“STS”) pursuant to which the Company licensed certain intellectual property, including patent rights, non-patent rights and know-how from STS for use in our ultra-portable tankless dive system products. Under the STS Agreement, the Company paid an initial license fee in April 2018 through the issuance of 759,422 shares of common stock with a fair value of $30,000. The STS Agreement further provides for royalties based on annual net revenues. On December 31, 2019, the Company entered into Addendum No. 1 to the STS Agreement (“Addendum No. 1”) which amended the payments due upon the first commercial sale of Nemo. Upon entering into Addendum No. 1, $8,250 was paid to STS in cash and $8,250 was paid on January 10, 2020. On February 6, 2020, the Company issued 828,221 shares of common stock with a fair value of $18,635 in satisfaction of $13,500 for the first commercial sale of the Nemo dive system. On June 30, 2020, the Company entered into Addendum No. 2 to the STS Agreement concerning STS’s assistance related to designing and commercializing certain diving products. Addendum No. 2 provides for a minimum yearly royalty of $60,000, or $15,000 per fiscal quarter, beginning in December 2019 and increasing by 2.15% per year. With the introduction of the NOMAD in the last quarter of 2021, the Company is obligated to pay an additional annual minimum royalty of $60,000 per year for the years 2022, 2023 and 2024, which increased the quarterly minimum royalty by $15,000 per quarter. On November 1, 2022 the Company issued to the designees of STS 1,155,881 shares of common stock with a fair value of $30,000 in accordance with the STS Agreement. Royalty recorded under the Amendment was $138,643 and $203,621 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
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Marketing
PrintLiterature, Public Relations, and Advertising
We have in-house graphic design capability to create and maintain product support literature, catalogs, mailings, web-based advertising, newsletters, editorials, advertorials, and press releases. We also, from time-to-time, target specific markets by selectively advertising in journals and magazines that we believe reach our potential customers. In addition, we strive to issue press releases, newsletters, and social media postings periodically to keep the public informed of our latest products and related endeavors.
Tradeshows
In 2022, the Company was represented directly or indirectly at The Palm Beach Boat Show, The Annapolis Motor and Sailing Shows, The Fort Lauderdale Boat show, Diving Equipment, Manufacturing show, The Seattle Boat Show, The Dubai Boat Show, and the HAI Heli-Expo, along with various other trade and industry shows. In 2023, the Company expanded its marketing reach via tradeshows by attending all shows attended in 2022, and attending Boot Dsseldorf in Europe, along with various other trade and industry shows.
Websites
We sell our products online through our and our subsidiaries websites and many of our products are marketed on some of our customers’ websites. In addition to these websites, numerous other websites have quick links to the Company’s website. Our products are available both domestically and internationally. Internet sales and inquiries are also supported by the Company.
Product Research and Development
Research and development costs for the year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 and were $13,880 and $18,393, respectively, none of which cost is borne directly by customers.
Government Regulation
The SCUBA industry is self-regulating; therefore, the Company is not subject to government industry specific regulation. However, SSI, our tank manufacturing company is subject to Department of Transportation (“DOT”) regulation and testing of each of their tanks. The Company strives to promote safe diving practices within the industry and believes it is at the forefront of self-regulation through responsible diving practices. The Company is subject to all regulations applicable to “for profit” companies as well as all trade and general commerce governmental regulation. All required federal and state permits, licenses, and bonds to operate its facility have been obtained.
Distribution/Customers
The Company has historically been predominantly a wholesale distributor to retail dive stores, marine stores, boat dealers, builders, and the US and international militaries. Currently, the Company generates a significant amount of direct-to-consumer sales via its websites and its relationship with Amazon via BLU3, BTL and SSI. Retail sales customers include boat owners, recreational divers, commercial divers and pilots. The Company sells products to three entities owned by the brother of Robert Carmichael, the Company’s Chairman, and two companies owned by Mr. Carmichael. Combined sales to these six entities for 2023 and 2022, represented 10.6% and 11.4%, respectively, of total net revenues.
The majority of L&W high pressure compressors and NitroxMaker™ systems have been sold to commercial dive stores, dive operators (resorts and liveaboard dive boats), yacht builders, yacht owners, and high-pressure compressor distributors.
Sales of YachtPro™ compressor systems have been split between retail sales directly to consumers and wholesale sales to OEM boat builders/resellers/brokers.
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Suppliers/Raw Materials
Principal raw materials for our business include machined parts such as rods, pistons, bearings, hoses, regulators, compressors, engines, high-pressure valves and fittings, sewn goods, and various plastic parts including pans, covers, intake staffs, and quick release connections which are typically purchased on a per order basis. Most materials are readily available from multiple vendors. Some materials require greater lead times than other materials. Accordingly, we strive to avoid out of stock situations through careful monitoring of these inventory lead times, and through avoiding single source vendors whenever possible. Principle suppliers include Lenhardt & Wagner GmbH, Xometry, Inc., Burgess Manufacturing Corp, Bix International, Inc., Carrol Stream Motor Company, Zhejiang Xiangyang Gear Electormechan, Co, Tian Li He Technology Co, Ltd, Xiamen Feipeng Insdustry Co. Ltd. and Catalina Cylinders, Inc.
Competition
We consider the most significant competitive factors in our business to be innovation, lifestyle, fair prices, shopping convenience, variety of available products, knowledgeable and prompt customer service and rapid and accurate order fulfillment. We currently have one significant competitor within the BTL business model, Airline by JSink, Inc. There are a variety of competitors, including Aqua Lung America, Coltri America and Bauer Compressors, Inc. in our redundant air tank systems and high-pressure compressor systems sales. In 2022 and 2023 competition has surfaced in the BLU3 business segment from companies such as AirBuddy, and a few other very low-cost Chinese manufactured competitors.
Overall, we are operating in a moderately competitive environment. The price structure for all the products we distribute compares favorably with the majority of our competitors based on quality and available features. We believe that our key competitive advantage is our ability to create new products and, in some cases, new markets.
Employees
As of April 16, 2024, we have forty-one full-time employees, and four part-time employees.
Seasonality
Our product lines have historically been seasonal in nature in the United States. The peak season for the diving related products, BTL, BLU3, SSI and LBI is the second and third quarters of the year. The peak season for LWA high pressure products is typically the fourth and first quarters of the year. The Company continues to address the seasonality of the business by expanding its reach beyond the traditional markets in the U.S. to other areas of the world that may somewhat offset the seasonality.
| Item1A. | Risk Factors. |
|---|
Investingin our common stock involves risks. In addition to the other information contained in this report, you should carefully consider thefollowing risks before deciding to purchase our common stock. The occurrence of any of the following risks might cause you to lose allor a part of your investment. Some statements in this report, including statements in the following risk factors, constitute forward-lookingstatements. Please refer to “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” for more information regarding forward-lookingstatements.
FINANCIAL
RISKS
We have a history of losses.
We incurred net losses of $1,248,115 and $1,892,891, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. On December 31, 2023, we had an accumulated deficit of $17,685,610. Revenues decreased by 11.6% for the year ended December 31, 2023, from 2022, and our gross profit margin decreased from 32.6% in 2022 to 27.8% in 2023, our gross profit is not sufficient to cover our operating expenses of $3,277,319 and $4,644,595 for the twelve months ending December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Operating expenses include non-cash stock compensation expenses of $81,424 and $951,414 for the years ending December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. In the year ended December 31, 2023, our selling, general and administrative expenses, decreased 29.5% from 2022. There are no assurances that we will be able to increase our revenues to a level which supports profitable operations and provide sufficient capital to pay our operating expenses and other obligations as they become due.
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Our auditors have disclosed substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a going concern.
Our independent registered public accounting firm has included an explanatory paragraph expressing substantial doubt relating to our ability to continue as a going concern in its report on our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023. We have recurring losses from operations and had a net loss of approximately $1,248,000 and have used approximately $375,000 in net cash used in our operations in the year ended December 31, 2023 as well as an accumulated deficit of approximately $17,686,000. These factors, among others, raise substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. Our consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty. Our principal sources of liquidity are sales of equity and debt securities. We do not have any firm commitments to raise additional working capital. As we are a small company who stock is quoted on the OTC Markets, we expect to encounter difficulty in raising working capital upon terms and conditions satisfactory to us, if at all. If we are unable to obtain sufficient funding or generate sufficient revenues, our business and results of operations will be adversely affected, and we may be unable to continue as a going concern.
We rely on revenues from related parties.
We generate revenues from sales to related parties, which accounted for 10.6% of our net revenues in 2023 and 11.4% of our net revenues in 2022. The loss of revenues from these related parties would have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition in future periods.
We depend on licenses with Robert Carmichael, our Chairman, who owns much of our intellectual property.
The Company has licensed from entities in which Robert Carmichael, our Chairman, has an ownership interest, the following registered and unregistered trade names, trademarks and service marks: Brownie’s Third Lung™, browniedive.com, Brownie’s, Brownie’s Third Lung oval symbol, browniedive, YachtPro. Failure to maintain such licenses with Mr. Carmichael would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition.
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results. As a result, current and potential shareholders could lose confidence in our financial reporting, which would harm our business and the trading price of our stock.
Our management has previously determined that we did not maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting. For a detailed description of these material weaknesses and our remediation efforts and plans, see Part II, Item 9A-Controls and Procedures of this Annual Report. If the result of our remediation of the identified material weaknesses is not successful, or if additional material weaknesses are identified in our internal control over financial reporting, our management will be unable to report favorably as to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and/or our disclosure controls and procedures, and we could be required to further implement expensive and time-consuming remedial measures and potentially lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports which could have an adverse effect on our stock price and potentially subject us to litigation.
The U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (“CPSC”) has issued a voluntary recall for one of our products.
On December 22, 2022, the CPSC issued a voluntary recall notice for the Nomad tankless dive system, which is distributed by BLU3, Inc. As part of the recall procedure, the CPSC has approved the Company’s proposed remedy for the recall and BLU3 will begin to receive units back from consumers to repair affected Nomad units. The Company has evaluated the costs of this recall and has deemed it necessary to set a reserve for those costs related to the recall of $160,500. In 2023 the Company finalized the recall and adjusted the reserve down to approximately $86,300 to reflect the actual impact on the Company’s financial condition.
BUSINESS
AND OPERATIONAL RISKS
We are dependent upon certain key members of management and qualified employees and consultants.
Our success depends to a significant degree on the abilities and efforts of our senior management. and on our ability to attract, retain and motivate highly qualified marketing, technical, engineering and sales personnel and consultants. These people are in high demand and often have competing employment opportunities. The labor market for skilled employees is highly competitive and we may lose key employees or be forced to increase their compensation to retain these people. Employee turnover could significantly increase our recruitment, training and other related employee costs. The loss of key personnel, or the failure to attract qualified personnel, could result in delays in development or fulfillment of any current strategic and operational plans and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
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Our failure to obtain and enforce intellectual property protection may have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our success depends in part on our ability, and the ability of our patent and trademark licensors, and entities owned and controlled by Robert Carmichael to obtain and defend our intellectual property, including patent protection for our products and processes, preserve our trade secrets, defend and enforce our rights against infringement and operate without infringing the proprietary rights of third parties, both in the United States and in other countries. Despite our efforts to protect our intellectual proprietary rights, existing copyright, trademark and trade secret laws afford only limited protection.
Our industry is characterized by frequent intellectual property litigation based on allegations of infringement of intellectual property rights. Although we are not aware of any intellectual property claims against us, we may be a party to litigation in the future.
Our intellectual property rights are valuable, and any inability to adequately protect, or uncertainty regarding validity, enforceability or scope of them could undermine our competitive position and reduce the value of our products and brand, and litigation to protect our intellectual property rights may be costly.
We attempt to strengthen and differentiate our product portfolio by developing new and innovative products and product improvements. As a result, our patents, trademarks, trade secrets, copyrights and other intellectual property rights are important assets to us. Various events outside of our control pose a threat to our intellectual property rights as well as to our products and services. For example, effective intellectual property protection may not be available in countries in which our products are sold. Also, although we have registered our trademark in various jurisdictions, our efforts to protect our proprietary rights may not be sufficient or effective. Any significant impairment of our intellectual property rights could harm our business or our ability to compete. Litigation might be necessary to protect our intellectual property rights and any such litigation may be costly and may divert our management’s attention from our core business. An adverse determination in any lawsuit involving our intellectual property is likely to jeopardize our business prospects and reputation. Although we are not aware of any of such litigation, we have no insurance coverage against litigation costs, and we would be forced to bear all litigation costs if we cannot recover them from other parties. All foregoing factors could harm our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Any unauthorized use of our intellectual property could harm our operating results.
We may be exposed to infringement or misappropriation claims by third parties, which, if determined against us, could adversely affect our business and subject us to significant liability to third parties.
Our success mainly depends on our ability to use and develop our technology and product designs without infringing upon the intellectual property rights of third parties. We may be subject to litigation involving claims of patent infringement or violations of other intellectual property rights of third parties. Holders of patents and other intellectual property rights potentially relevant to our product offerings may be unknown to us, which may make it difficult for us to acquire a license on commercially acceptable terms. There may also be technologies licensed to us and that we rely upon that are subject to infringement or other corresponding allegations or claims by third parties which may damage our ability to rely on such technologies. In addition, although we endeavor to ensure that companies that work with us possess appropriate intellectual property rights or licenses, we cannot fully avoid the risks of intellectual property rights infringement created by suppliers of components used in our products or by companies we work with in cooperative research and development activities. Our current or potential competitors may obtain patents that will prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use or sell our products. The defense of intellectual property claims, including patent infringement suits, and related legal and administrative proceedings can be both costly and time consuming, and may significantly divert the efforts and resources of our technical personnel and management. These factors could effectively prevent us from pursuing some or all of our business operations and result in our customers or potential customers deferring, canceling or limiting their purchase or use of our products, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
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We may not be able to enforce our intellectual property rights throughout the world.
The laws of some foreign countries do not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Many companies have encountered significant problems in protecting and defending intellectual property rights in certain foreign jurisdictions. This could make it difficult for us to stop the infringement or the misappropriation of our intellectual property rights. Many foreign countries have compulsory licensing laws under which a patent owner must grant licenses to third parties. In addition, many countries limit the enforceability of patents against third parties, including government agencies or government contractors. In these countries, patents may provide limited or no benefit. Patent protection must ultimately be sought on a country-by-country basis, which is an expensive and time-consuming process with uncertain outcomes. Accordingly, we may choose not to seek patent protection in certain countries, and we will not have the benefit of patent protection in such countries.
Proceedings to enforce our patent rights in foreign jurisdictions could result in substantial costs and divert our efforts from other aspects of our business. Accordingly, our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights in such countries may be inadequate. In addition, changes in the law and legal decisions by courts in the United States and foreign countries may affect our ability to obtain adequate protection for our technology and the enforcement of intellectual property.
We rely on third party vendors and manufacturers.
We deal with suppliers on an order-by order basis and have no long-term purchase contracts or other contractual assurances of continued supply or pricing. In addition, we have no long-term contracts with our manufacturing sources and compete with other companies for production facility capacity. Historically, we have purchased enough inventories of products or their substitutes to satisfy demand. However, unanticipated failure of any manufacturer or supplier to meet our requirements or our inability to build or obtain substitutes could force us to curtail or cease operations. Certain of our product components are manufactured in China. Due to Covid, and the logistics challenges existing currently, we have experienced delays and may experience continued delays in our supply chain, including component products, which are manufactured in China. Our senior management will continue to monitor our situation on a daily basis; however, we expect that these factors and others we have yet to experience may materially adversely impact our company, its business and operations for the foreseeable future.
We are dependent on consumer discretionary spending.
The success of our business depends largely upon a number of factors related to consumer spending, including current and future economic conditions affecting disposable consumer income such as employment, business conditions, tax rates, and interest rates. In times of economic uncertainty, consumers tend to defer expenditures for discretionary items, which effects demand for our products. Any significant deterioration in overall economic conditions that diminishes consumer confidence or discretionary income can reduce our sales and adversely affect our financial results. The impact of weakening consumer credit markets; layoffs; corporate restructurings; higher fuel prices; declines in the value of investments and residential real estate; and increases in federal and state taxation can all negatively affect our results. There can be no assurance that in this type of environment consumer spending will not decline, thereby adversely affecting our growth, net sales and profitability or that our business will not be adversely affected by continuing or future downturns in the economy, boating industry, or dive industry. If declines in consumer spending on recreational marine accessories and dive gear are other than temporary, we could be forced to curtail or cease operations.
Government regulations may impact us.
The SCUBA industry is self-regulating, therefore, from an industry perspective the Company is not subject to government industry specific regulation. However, our tank manufacturing operation is required to comply with DOT, as well as being approved to sell in various countries outside of the United States. The Company strives to be a leader in promoting safe diving practices within the industry and is at the forefront of self-regulation through responsible diving practices. The Company is subject to all regulations applicable to “for profit” companies as well as all trade and general commerce governmental regulation. All required federal and state permits, licenses, and bonds to operate its facility have been obtained. There can be no assurance that our operations will not be subject to more restrictive regulations in the future, which could force us to curtail or cease operations.
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Our failure to adequately protect personal information that is collected on our website and our third-party payment platforms could have a material adverse effect on our business.
A wide variety of local, state, national, and international laws, directives and regulations apply to the collection, use, retention, protection, disclosure, transfer, and other processing of personal data (including with respect to the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation and U.S. state laws such as the California Consumer Privacy Act). These data protection and privacy-related laws and regulations continue to evolve and may result in ever-increasing regulatory and public scrutiny and escalating levels of enforcement and sanctions and increased costs of compliance. Our failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations, or to protect such data, could result in enforcement actions against us, including fines, imprisonment of company officials and public censure, claims for damages by end-customers and other affected individuals, damage to our reputation and loss of goodwill (both in relation to existing end-customers and prospective end-customers), any of which could have a material adverse effect on our operations, financial performance, and business. Changing definitions of personal data and personal information, within the European Union, the United States, and elsewhere may limit or inhibit our ability to operate or expand our business, including limiting strategic partnerships that may involve the sharing of data. The evolving data protection regulatory environment may require significant management attention and financial resources to analyze and modify our information technology infrastructure to meet these changing requirements all of which could reduce our operating margins and impact our operating results and financial condition.
Bad weather could have an adverse effect on operating results.
Our business is significantly impacted by weather patterns. Unseasonably cool weather, extraordinary amounts of rainfall, or unseasonably rough surf, may decrease boat use and diving, thereby decreasing sales. Accordingly, our results of operations for any prior period may not be indicative of results of any future period.
The manufacture and distribution of recreational diving equipment could result in product liability claims.
We, like any other retailer, distributor and manufacturer of products that are designed for recreational sporting purposes, face an inherent risk of exposure to product liability claims in the event that the use of our products results in injury. Such claims may include, among other things, that our products are designed and/or manufactured improperly or fail to include adequate instructions as to proper use and/or side effects, if any. We do not obtain indemnification from parties supplying raw materials**,** manufacturing our products or marketing our products. In the event that we do not have adequate insurance or contractual indemnification, product liabilities relating to defective products could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial conditions, which could force us to curtail or cease our business operations.
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SHAREHOLDER
RISKS
The issuance of shares of our common stock upon exercise of our outstanding options, warrants, convertible debt and Series A Convertible Preferred Stock may cause immediate and substantial dilution to our existing shareholders.
We presently have vested and unvested options, warrants, convertible debt and Series A Convertible Preferred Stock that if exercised would result in the issuance of an additional 103,389,724 shares of our common stock. The issuance of shares upon exercise of options will result in dilution to the interests of other shareholders.
Our common stock may be affected by limited trading volume and may fluctuate significantly.
Our common stock is quoted on the OTCQB tier of the OTC Markets. There is a limited public market for our common stock and there can be no assurance that an active trading market for our common stock will develop. As a result, this could adversely affect our shareholders’ ability to sell our common stock in short time periods, or possibly at all. Thinly traded common stock can be more volatile than common stock traded in an active public market. Our common stock has experienced, and is likely to experience in the future, significant price and volume fluctuations, which could adversely affect the market price of our common stock without regard to our operating performance. In addition, we believe that factors such as quarterly fluctuations in our financial results and changes in the overall economy or the condition of the financial markets could cause the price of our common stock to fluctuate substantially.
Our company is a voluntary filer with the SEC and in the event that we cease reporting under the Exchange Act, investors would have limited information available to them about the company.
While we voluntarily file reports with the SEC under Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), we do not have a class of securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act. To the extent that our duty to file Exchange Act reports has automatically suspended under Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act, as a voluntary filer, we may elect to cease reporting under the Exchange Act at such time which would limit the information available to investors and shareholders about the company.
Our common stock is deemed to be “penny stock,” which may make it more difficult for investors to sell their shares due to suitability requirements.
Our common stock is deemed to be “penny stock” as that term is defined under the Exchange Act. Penny stocks generally are equity securities with a price of less than $5.00 (other than securities registered on certain national securities exchanges. Our common stock is covered by an SEC rule that imposes additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell such securities to persons other than established customers and accredited investors, which are generally institutions with assets in excess of $5,000,000, or individuals with net worth in excess of $1,000,000 or annual income exceeding $200,000 or $300,000 jointly with their spouse.
Broker/dealers dealing in penny stocks are required to provide potential investors with a document disclosing the risks of penny stocks. Moreover, broker/dealers are required to determine whether an investment in a penny stock is a suitable investment for a prospective investor. These requirements may reduce the potential market for our common stock by reducing the number of potential investors. This may make it more difficult for investors in our common stock to sell shares to third parties or to otherwise dispose of them. This could cause our stock price to decline.
Our officers and directors are able to control the Company.
Our officers and directors and their affiliates own or have the right to vote a majority of the common stock of our company. As a result, they have significant influence over the management and affairs of the Company and control over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors and significant corporate transactions, such as a merger or other sale of our company or our assets. Their interests may differ from the interests of other shareholders and thus result in corporate decisions that are disadvantageous to other shareholders. This concentration of ownership and influence in management and board decision-making could also harm the price of our capital stock by, among other things, discouraging a potential acquirer from seeking to acquire shares of our capital stock (whether by making a tender offer or otherwise) or otherwise attempting to obtain control of our company.
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| Item1B. | Unresolved Staff Comments |
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Not applicable to smaller reporting companies.
| Item1C. | Cybersecurity |
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The Company engages a third-party provider to maintain our systems and management participates in the assessment to identify any risks from cybersecurity threats. Our third-party provider monitors our firewall, network, system security and internal and external backups and reports any issues to the Company. The Company’s Board, together with management, is engaged in our cybersecurity monitoring managed by our third-party provider and it is constantly changing. Any issues are appropriately addressed timely. To date, we have not experienced any cybersecurity incidents that materially affected our business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.
| Item2. | Properties. |
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PompanoBeach, FL
Our Pompano Beach, Florida facilities are comprised of two adjoining properties totaling approximately 16,566 square feet of leased space the bulk of which is factory and warehouse space. The initial 37-month lease covering approximately 8,541 square feet commenced on September 1, 2014. The lease provided for payment of a $5,367 security deposit, base rent of approximately $4,000 per month over the term of the lease plus sales tax, and payment of 10.76% of annual operating expenses for common areas maintenance, subject to periodic adjustment. On December 1, 2016, we entered into an amendment to the initial lease agreement, commencing on October 1, 2017, which extended the term of the lease for an additional 84 months, expiring September 30, 2024. The base rent was increased to $4,626 per month with a 3% annual escalation throughout the amended term.
On November 11, 2018, the Company entered a new 69-month lease agreement for an additional 8,025 square feet adjoining its existing facility in Pompano Beach, Florida. The new lease provided for a $6,527 security deposit, an initial base rent of approximately $4,848 per month escalating at 3% per year during the term of the lease plus Florida state sales tax and payment of 10.11% of the building’s annual operating expenses for common area maintenance, subject to adjustment as provided in the lease.
HuntingtonBeach, California
Our Huntington Beach, California facility is comprised of a leased 13,000 square foot free standing building of which the bulk of the square footage is warehouse and manufacturing space. The initial lease, signed in January, 2013 was for five years with a base rent of $7,410.
On January 4, 2018, the Company entered into a sixty-one month term lease renewal for its facility in Huntington Beach, California, commencing on February 1, 2018. Base rent is approximately $9,300 per month for the first 12 months with a 2.5% annual escalation throughout the term. The Company paid a security deposit of $8,450 with the initial lease that the landlord continues to hold.
On September 14, 2022, SSI entered into a sixty-month lease renewal for its facility in Huntington Beach, California commencing on February 1, 2022. Base rent is approximately $17,550 per month for the first 24 months with an annual escalation clause of 3.0% thereafter. Obligations under the lease are guaranteed by the Company. The Company paid an additional security deposit of $10,727 upon entering into the lease.
On September 30, 2022, SSI entered into a sublease of its facility in Huntington Beach, California with Camburg Engineering, Inc.(“Tenant”) commencing October 1, 2022, The term of the sublease is through December 31, 2023 with a base monthly rent of $2,247 for the first twelve months with an 3% annual escalation thereafter. The Tenant also pays a monthly common area maintenance of $112. The Tenant provided a security deposit of $2,426 upon entering into the sublease.
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea,Florida
On May 2, 2022, LBI, entered into a lease assignment agreement with Gold Coast Scuba, LLC and Vicnsons Realty Group, LLC whereby LBI is the assignee to the remainder of the lease for approximately 1,600 square feet of retail space located at 259 Commercial Blvd., Suites 2 and 3 in Lauderdale-By-The Sea, Florida. The lease is in its third year of a three-year term and has a $2,816 per month base rent. The lease provides an option to renew for an additional term of two years with an increase of base rent by 3.5%
We believe that the facilities are suitable for their intended purpose, are being efficiently utilized and provide adequate capacity to meet demand for the foreseeable future.
| Item3. | Legal Proceedings. |
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There are no pending legal proceedings to which we are a party or in which any director, officer or affiliate of ours, any owner of record or beneficially of more than 5% of any class of our voting securities, or security holder is a party adverse to us or has a material interest adverse to us.
| Item4. | Mine Safety Disclosure. |
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Not applicable.
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PART
II
| Item5. | Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities. |
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The Company’s common stock is quoted on the OTCQB tier of the OTC Markets under the symbol “BWMG”. On March 29, 2024, the closing sale price of our common stock was $0.012 per share.
Holders of Common Stock
As of May 9, 2024, the Company had approximately 386 shareholders of record.
Dividends
We have not paid any dividends on our common stock and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. We intend to retain any earnings, if any, to finance the growth of the business. We cannot assure you that we will ever pay cash dividends. Whether we pay any cash dividends in the future will depend on our financial condition, results of operations and other factors that the board of directors will consider.
Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans
The following table provides information regarding our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2023:
Equity
Compensation Plan Information
| Plan category | Number of<br><br> securities to be<br><br> issued upon<br><br> exercise of<br><br> outstanding<br><br> options, <br><br>warrants and rights | Weighted<br> average <br>exercise<br> price of outstanding<br> options, warrants<br> and rights () | Number of<br><br> securities<br><br> remaining<br><br> available for<br><br> future issuance<br><br> under equity<br><br> compensation<br><br> plans | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plans approved by our shareholders (1) | 3,275,000 | 21,725,000 | |||
| Plans not approved by shareholders (2) | 64,164,6377 | - |
All values are in US Dollars.
(1) Represents stock options granted to employees under the Equity Compensation Plan as described in Item 10 of this Annual Report. 25,000,000 shares are reserved for issuance under the Plan.
(2) Represents (i) five-year options granted to each of Robert Carmichael, Mikkel Pitzner and Blake Carmichael to purchase an aggregate of 35,295,237 shares of common stock at $0.018 per share, (ii) a three-year option to purchase 2,000,000 shares of common stock at $0.0229 per share to Jeffrey Guzy, a former director, (iii) a three-year option to purchase 2,000,000 shares of common stock at $0.0229 per share to Biz Launch Advisors, LLC, a former financial consultant, (iv) a three-year option to purchase an aggregate of 125,000,000 shares of common stock at $0.045 per share and a to Robert Carmichael, (v) a five-year option to purchase an aggregate of 21,759,400 shares of common stock at $0.0399 per share to Blake Carmichael, (vi) a five-year option to purchase 7,110,000 shares of common stock at $0.0531 per share to Christeen Buban, President of SSI.
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Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
There were no sales of equity securities during the period covered by this Report that were not registered under the Securities Act and were not previously reported in a Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or a Current Report on Form 8-K filed by the Company.
| Item6. | Reserved |
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| Item 7. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. |
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You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our financial statements and related notes appearing in this Annual Report. Some of the information contained in this discussion and analysis or set forth elsewhere in this Annual Report, including information with respect to our plans and strategy for our business, includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. As a result of many factors, our actual results could differ materially from the results described in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in the following discussion and analysis. Forward-looking statements represent our management’s beliefs and assumptions only as of the date of this Annual Report. Actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they are made, except as required by federal securities and any other applicable law.
The management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our audited financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
Reserve for Nomad Recall
On December 22, 2022, the CPSC issued a recall notice for the Nomad tankless dive system, which is distributed by BLU3, Inc. As part of the recall procedure, the CPSC has approved the Company’s proposed remedy for the recall and BLU3 will begin to receive units back from consumers to repair affected Nomad units. Additionally, BLU3 will re-start its manufacturing process for the Nomad tankless dive system utilizing the material and design changes approved during the recall process, and immediately re-establish the product in all of its sales channels. The Company has set an allowance for expenses related to this recall of $160,500. However, in 2023 the Company adjusted the allowance down to $86,300 to reflect the actual impact on the Company’s financial condition.
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Results of Operations
YearsEnded December 31, 2023 and 2022
Overall, our net revenues decreased 11.6% in 2023 from 2022, which included a decrease of 17.8% in sales to related parties. Our cost of revenues in 2023 was 71.9% of our total net revenues as compared to 67.4% in 2022. Included in our cost of revenues are royalty expenses we pay to Robert Carmichael which decreased 6.5% in 2023 from 2022. We reported a gross profit margin of 28.1% in 2023 as compared to 32.6% in 2022.
Net Revenues
The following tables provide net revenues, costs of revenues, and gross profit margins for our segments for 2023 and 2022.
| Year Ended December 31, | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | % change | |||||
| Legacy SSA Products | $ | 2,312,122 | $ | 2,601,622 | (11.1 | )% | |
| High Pressure Gas Systems | 996,040 | 1,118,081 | (10.9 | )% | |||
| Ultra-Portable Tankless Dive Systems | 1,904,687 | 3,052,192 | (37.6 | )% | |||
| Redundant Air Tank Systems | 2,065,224 | 1,592,601 | 29.7 | % | |||
| Guided Tour Retail | 302,724 | 212,876 | 42.2 | % | |||
| Total revenue | $ | 7,580,798 | $ | 8,577,372 | (11.6 | )% |
Costof revenues as a percentage of net revenues
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Legacy SSA Products | 85.6 | % | 74.6 | % | ||
| High Pressure Gas Systems | 66.5 | % | 61.8 | % | ||
| Ultra-Portable Tankless Dive Systems | 72.6 | % | 61.2 | % | ||
| Redundant Air Tank Systems | 59.9 | % | 69.7 | % | ||
| Guided Tour Retail | 62.7 | % | 82.2 | % |
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Grossprofit margins
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | |||||
| Legacy SSA Products | 14.4 | % | 25.4 | % | ||
| High Pressure Gas Systems | 33.5 | % | 38.33 | % | ||
| Ultra-Portable Tankless Dive Systems | 27.4 | % | 38.8 | % | ||
| Redundant Air Tank Systems | 40.1 | % | 30.3 | % | ||
| Guided Tour Retail | 37.3 | % | 17.8 | % |
OperatingExpenses
Operating expenses, consisting of selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expenses and research and development costs, are reported on a consolidated basis for our operating segments. Aggregate operating expenses decreased 31.0% for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022.
Selling,General & Administrative Expenses (SG&A Expenses)
SG&A decreased by 31.0% for the years ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. SG&A during those years are as follows:
| Expense Item | 2023 | 2022 | % Change | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payroll | $ | 1,788,890 | $ | 1,946,985 | (8.1 | )% | |
| Non-Cash Stock based compensation – options | 81,424 | 998,474 | (91.8 | )% | |||
| Professional Fees | 269,621 | 340,221 | (20.8 | )% | |||
| Advertising | 365,604 | 499,441 | (26.8 | )% | |||
| All Others | 757,899 | 841,081 | (9.9 | )% | |||
| Total SG&A | $ | 3,263,439 | $ | 4,626,202 | (29.5 | )% |
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Payroll decreases for the year ended December 31, 2023 can be attributed to a decrease in the BTL and BLU3 payroll which contributed the majority of the 8.1% decrease. BLU3 decreased its engineering staff in 2023 by one engineer. Additionally, the CEO resigned in Q2 of 2023 and the annual salary was not incurred.
Non-Cash Stock compensation expenses decreased 91.8% for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease can be attributed to fewer options being issued during the year as well as certain vesting criteria not being met in 2023 that were met in 2022.
Professional fees, representing legal, accounting and other professional fees, which we paid in a combination of cash, common stock, or stock options, decreased 20.8% for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. Accounting fees decreased, 30.3% in 2023, due to the change in audit firms for the year ended December 31, 2022. Additionally, legal fees decreased by 48.9% due to fewer stock awards for legal fees in 2023.
Advertising expense decreased 26.8% for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease is attributed to less spending on direct and internet advertising by BTL, BLU3 and SSI in 2023.
Other expenses decreased 9.9% for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared the year ended December 31, 2022. The primary driver of the decrease to other expenses is the reserve for expenses related to the 2022 recall of the Nomad dive system. This reserve was decreased to reflect the actual expense of the recall in 2023.
Research& Development Expenses (R&D Expenses)
R&D expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased 24.5% as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease can be primarily attributed to the completion of the R&D for BLU3’s NOMAD in early 2022.
Other Expense
For the year ended December 31, 2023 interest expenses totaled approximately $78,700 as compared to approximately $42,500 in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2022. This increase can be attributed to the increase in convertible debt related to the SSI acquisition, as well as the financing of tools and dyes for both the SSI and BLU3 operations.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We had cash of $431,112 on December 31, 2023.The following table summarizes total current assets, total current liabilities and working capital at December 31, 2023 as compared to December 31, 2022.
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | % of Change | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Current Assets | $ | 2,736,601 | $ | 3,265,714 | (16.2 | )% | |
| Total Current Liabilities | $ | 2,502,787 | $ | 1,792,151 | 39.7 | % | |
| Working Capital | $ | 233,814 | $ | 1,473,563 | (84.1 | )% |
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The decrease in our current assets on December 31, 2023 from December 31, 2022 primarily reflects decreases in cash and inventory of approximately $476,000. The decrease in inventory was due to inventory in BLU3 that was used for the sale of the Nomad dive system through the end of 2023.
The increase in our total current liabilities for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2022 reflects an increase in customer deposits of approximately $88,206, an increase of approximately $79,011 in other liabilities, primarily attributed to the reserve for Nomad recall expenses of $160,500, and a decrease of 9,892 in operating lease liabilities with the signing of the SSI lease renewal, and an increase of $225,000 in related party demand note, due to the issuances of new notes.
Summary Cash Flows
| Years Ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (374,827 | ) | $ | (678,357 | ) |
| Net cash (used in) investing activities | $ | (29,955 | ) | $ | (62,164 | ) |
| Net cash provided by financing activities | $ | 351,467 | $ | 581,805 |
Net cash used in operating activities for 2023 was primarily the result of a net loss of $1,248,115, as well as the change in long term lease liability of $258,034 for the year ended December 31, 2023 as compared to December 31, 2022. The cash used related to net loss was offset by $462,297 in depreciation and amortization expenses and $81,424 non-cash stock based compensation expenses during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 of $29,955 reflects primarily the cash used to purchase fixed assets. This compares to cash used to acquire assets of Gold Coast Scuba of $30,000, as well as the cash used to purchase fixed assets, net of debt totaling approximately $21,124, and fixed asset purchases of $11,040 for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Net cash provided by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 reflects $200,000 in proceeds related to the sale of the Company’s common stock and units comprised of stock and $225,000 in proceeds from the issuance of demand notes. The increase in net cash was offset by repayments of notes payable and other debt of $73,533. This is compared to cash provided from the sale of common stock and units of $305,000, proceeds from the exercise of warrants of $265,000, and the repayment of debt and notes payable totaling $54,988 for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Going Concern
Our audited consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report were prepared assuming we will continue as a going concern, and, accordingly, do not include adjustments relating to the recoverability and realization of assets and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should we be unable to continue in operation. The report of our independent registered public accounting firm on our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes an explanatory paragraph stating the Company has net losses and an accumulated deficit which raises substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. If the Company is unable to raise additional funds when needed, or does not have sufficient cash flows from sales, it may be required to scale back, delay or cease operations, liquidate assets and possibly seek bankruptcy protection. We have a history of losses, and an accumulated deficit of $17,685,610 as of December 31, 2023. Despite a working capital surplus of $233,814 at December 31, 2023, the continued losses and cash used in operations raise substantial doubt as to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The Company’s ability to continue as a going concern is dependent upon the Company’s ability to continue to increase revenues, control expenses, raise capital, and to continue to sustain adequate working capital to finance its operations. The failure to achieve the necessary levels of profitability and cash flows would be detrimental to the Company. We are continuing to engage in discussions with potential sources for additional capital, however, our ability to raise capital is somewhat limited based upon our revenue levels, net losses and limited market for our common stock. If we fail to raise additional funds when needed, or if we do not have sufficient cash flows from operations, we may be required to scale back or cease certain of our operations.
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Critical Accounting Estimates
The Company’s management discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of its assets, liabilities, sales and expenses, and related footnote disclosures. On an on-going basis, the Company evaluates its estimates for product returns, bad debts, inventories, income taxes, warranty obligations, litigation and other subjective matters impacting the financial statements. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
The Company believes the following critical accounting policies affect its more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of its consolidated financial statements.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Allowances for doubtful accounts are estimated based on estimates of losses related to customer accounts receivable balances. Estimates are developed by using standard quantitative measures based on historical losses, adjusting for current economic conditions and, in some cases, evaluating specific customer accounts for risk of loss. The establishment of reserves requires the use of judgment and assumptions regarding the potential for losses on receivable balances. Though the Company considers these balances adequate and proper, changes in economic conditions in specific markets in which the Company operates and any specific customer collection issues the Company identifies could have a favorable or unfavorable effect on required allowance balances.
Inventories
The Company values inventory at the lower of cost (determined using the first-in first-out method) or net realizable value. Management’s judgment is required to determine the allowance for obsolete or excess inventory. Inventory on hand may exceed future demand either because the product is outdated or because the amount on hand is more than will be used to meet future needs. Inventory allowances are estimated by the individual operating companies using standard quantitative measures based on criteria established by the Company. Though the Company considers these reserve balances to be adequate, changes in economic conditions, customer inventory levels, or competitive conditions could have a favorable or unfavorable effect on required allowance balances.
Deferred Taxes
The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. While the Company has considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance, in the event the Company were to determine that it would not be able to realize all or part of its net deferred tax assets in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax assets would be charged to income in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should the Company determine that it would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of its net recorded amount, an adjustment to the deferred tax assets would increase income in the period such determination was made.
Warranties
The Company accrues a warranty reserve for estimated costs to provide warranty services. Warranty reserves are estimated using standard quantitative measures based on criteria established by the Company. Estimates of costs to service its warranty obligations are based on historical experience, expectation of future conditions and known product issues. To the extent the Company experiences increased warranty claim activity or increased costs associated with servicing those claims, revisions to the estimated warranty reserve would be required. The Company engages in product quality programs and processes, including monitoring and evaluating the quality of its suppliers, to help minimize warranty obligations.
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Off balance Sheet Arrangements
We currently have no off-balance sheet arrangements.
| Item7A. | Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk. |
|---|
Not required for smaller reporting companies.
| Item8. | Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. |
|---|
Our consolidated financial statements appear beginning at page F-1.
| Item9. | Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. |
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None.
| Item9A. | Controls and Procedures. |
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Evaluationof Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain “disclosure controls and procedures” as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under Exchange Act. In designing and evaluating our disclosure controls and procedures, our management recognized that disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of disclosure controls and procedures are met. The design of any disclosure controls and procedures also is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Based on their evaluations as of the end of the period covered by this report, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective such that the information relating to our company, required to be disclosed in our Securities and Exchange Commission reports (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure as a result of continuing material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting described below. A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, which results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected.
Our management, including our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operations of our disclosure controls and procedures (defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(c) and 15d-15(e)) as of December 31, 2023 and based upon the such evaluation, have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2023 were not effective due to the material weaknesses identified below.
To address these material weaknesses, management performed additional procedures to ensure the financial statements included herein fairly present, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods presented.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. Our internal control system was designed to, in general, provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements, but because of the inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
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Our management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. The framework used by management in making that assessment was the criteria set forth in the documents entitled “2013 Internal Controls – Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that assessment, management concluded that, during the period covered by this report, such internal controls and procedures were not effective as of December 31, 2023 and that material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting described below existed.
A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, within the meaning of Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCOAB”) Audit Standard No. 5, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the Company’s annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Management has identified the following material weaknesses:
| ● | There<br> are an insufficient number and lack of qualified accounting department and administrative<br> personnel and support; |
|---|---|
| ● | There<br> are insufficient written policies and procedures to ensure the correct application of accounting<br> and financial reporting with respect to GAAP and SEC disclosure requirements; |
| --- | --- |
| ● | Insufficient<br> segregation of duties, oversight of work performed and lack of controls in our finance and<br> accounting functions due to limited personnel; |
| --- | --- |
| ● | The<br> Company’s systems that impact financial information and disclosures have ineffective<br> information technology controls; |
| --- | --- |
| ● | Inadequate<br> controls surrounding revenue recognition, to ensure that all material transactions and developments<br> impacting the financial statements are reflected and properly recorded; and |
| --- | --- |
| ● | Evaluation<br> of disclosure controls and procedures was not sufficiently comprehensive due to limited personnel. |
| --- | --- |
Internal Control Remediation Efforts.
Subject to sufficient resources, management expects to remediate the material weaknesses identified above as follows:
| ● | Management<br> has leveraged and will continue to leverage experienced consultants to assist with ongoing<br> GAAP and SEC compliance requirements. We intend to expand our finance department through<br> the hiring of a certified public accountant to strengthen the segregation of duties, internal<br> controls and enhance our current staff. |
|---|---|
| ● | Segregation<br> of duties will be analyzed and adjusted Company-wide, where possible. The Company is in the<br> process of hiring additional personnel in the accounting department as part of the internal<br> controls implementation and documentation of those controls and procedures. |
| --- | --- |
| ● | The<br> Company plans on evaluating various accounting systems to enhance our system controls. |
| --- | --- |
We will continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting on an ongoing basis and are committed to taking further action and implementing additional enhancements or improvements, as necessary and as funds allow. We do not, however, expect that the material weaknesses in our disclosure controls will be remediated until such time as we have added to our accounting and administrative staff allowing improved internal control over financial reporting.
This Annual Report does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding our internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that exempt smaller reporting companies from this requirement.
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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our fourth quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
| Item9B. | Other Information. |
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None.
| Item9C. | Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections. |
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Not applicable.
PART
III
| Item10. | Directors, Executive Officers, and Corporate Governance. |
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The following are the names, ages and positions of our current executive officers and directors.
| Name | Age | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Robert<br> M. Carmichael | 62 | Chief<br> Executive Officer, Chairman, President, and Chief Financial Officer and Director |
| Christopher<br> H. Constable | 57 | Director |
| Charles<br> F. Hyatt | 55 | Director |
| Key Employee | ||
| Blake<br> Carmichael | 29 | Chief<br> Executive Officer and President of BLU3 |
Our directors are elected for a term of one year and serve until such director’s successor is duly elected and qualified. Each executive officer serves at the pleasure of the Board.
RobertM. Carmichael. Since April 2004, Mr. Carmichael has served as our Chairman and President, and from April 2004 until November 2020 served as our Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Carmichael has served as our Chief Financial Officer since 2017 and a director since 2005. Mr. Carmichael was selected to serve as a director for his general business management experience with specific experience in the diving industry.
ChristopherH. Constable. Mr. Constable as served as our Chief Executive Officer and a director starting November 2020. On June 24, 2023, Mr. Constable submitted his resignation as Chief Executive Officer effective July 7, 2023. Mr. Constable remained a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Constable sat on the board of directors of Bon Natural Life, Ltd. (NASDAQ: BON), and served as the Chairman of the audit committee until March, 2022. Prior to joining our company, from August 2020 through the November 2020, Mr. Constable provided business and financial consulting services. From 2003 through February 2020 Mr. Constable served as Chief Financial Officer of John Keeler & Co., Inc., d/b/a Blue Star Foods, a privately held international seafood company which in 2018 merged into Blue Star Foods Corp., a Miami, Florida-based sustainable seafood company (NASDAQ: BSFC). Mr. Constable served as Chief Financial Officer and a director of Blue Star Foods Corp until February 2020. Prior thereto, from 1999 to 2003, Mr. Constable was a consultant at Gateway Capital Corp., a business consulting firm, where he analyzed the financial and reporting capabilities of prospective lending customers with revenues from $10 to $100 million. Additionally, Mr. Constable was involved with loan workouts of facilities that required either liquidation or restructuring to ensure collectability for the financial institutions. From 1990 to 1999, Mr. Constable was a commercial banker at Mercantile Bankshares in Baltimore, Maryland, Finova Capital Corporation and Capital Bank, both in south Florida. Mr. Constable received his B.S. in Finance with an Accounting Minor from the Merrick School of Business at the University of Baltimore in 1989. Mr. Constable was selected to serve as a director for his experience with public companies and over 30 years background in finance and accounting.
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CharlesF. Hyatt*.* Mr. Hyatt has served as a director since March 2019. Mr. Hyatt is involved in the automotive industry and present owner of several franchise car dealerships in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, including Myrtle Beach Hyundai (since 1999). In the past his ownerships also included Hyatt Buick & GMC (from 2001 to 2022), Myrtle Beach Suzuki (from 2004 until 2012), Sun Coast Mazda and Mitsubishi (from 2001 until 2009), Stone Mountain Chevrolet (from 2001 until 2009. From 1994 to 1997, Mr. Hyatt served as Wholesale Purchase Director with Lamar Ferrel Chevrolet, and from 1991 to 1994 as General Manager of Bob Harris Ford. From 1988 to 1990, Mr. Hyatt was the Demonstration Director of Auto Dialysis, and from 1986 to 1998, the General Manager/Operational Partner of Ken Hyatt Dodge, Chrysler and Plymouth. Since 2013, Mr. Hyatt has owned and operates the Gilligan Island Funland Golf amusement park. Mr. Hyatt sits on the American Cross Heroes committee and is the winner of the Jefferson Award (2017) for his community involvement. Mr. Hyatt was selected to serve on the board of directors for his general business management experience.
There are no family relationships between any of the executive officers and directors.
KeyEmployee
BlakeCarmichael. Since December 2017, Mr. Carmichael has served as Chief Executive Officer of BLU3. He joined our company in May 2017 as an electrical engineer with a primary focus to develop new battery powered hookah diving products. Mr. Carmichael graduated from Florida Atlantic University in May 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. During college, he worked in 2014 and 2015 as a participant in the University of Central Florida / Lockheed Martin College Work Experience Program as a systems engineer with a focus on testing for infrared imaging systems used in military aircraft. In the summer of 2016, he participated in the Naval Surface Warfare Center’s Naval Research Enterprise Intern Program with a focus on integrating underwater vehicles for survey and recovery at the South Florida Ocean Measurement Facility.
Committees of the Board of Directors
We have not established an Audit Committee, Compensation Committee or a Nominating Committee The entire Board participates in the nomination and audit oversight processes and considers executive and director compensation. Given the size of the Company, the entire Board is involved in such decision-making processes. Thus, there is a potential conflict of interest in that our directors and officers have the authority to determine issues concerning management compensation, nominations, and audit issues that may affect management decisions. We are not aware of any other conflicts of interest with any of our executive officers or directors.
We are not a “listed company” under SEC rules and therefore are not required to have an audit committee comprised of independent directors. Christopher Constable is a “financial expert” within the meaning of the rules and regulations of the SEC.
Compensation of Directors
The following table provides information concerning the compensation paid to our Company’s non-employee director for services rendered as a director during the year ended December 31, 2023.
| Fees<br> earned or<br> paid in<br> cash | Stock<br> awards | Option<br> awards | Non-equity<br> incentive<br> plan compensation | Nonqualified<br> deferred<br> compensation earnings | All other<br> compensation | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name | () | () | () | () | () | () | () |
| Christopher Constable | |||||||
| Charles Hyatt |
All values are in US Dollars.
Delinquent Section 16(a) Reports
Not applicable.
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Code of Ethics
The Company has not as yet adopted a code of ethics applicable to our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions as required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 due to our small size and limited resources and because management’s attention has been focused on matters pertaining to business operations.
Shareholder Communications
Although we do not have a formal policy regarding communications with our Board, shareholders may communicate with the Board by writing to us at Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc., 3001 NW 25th Avenue, Suite 1, Pompano Beach, Florida 33069, Attention: Robert Carmichael. Shareholders who would like their submission directed to a member of the Board may so specify, and the communication will be forwarded, as appropriate.
| Item11. | Executive Compensation |
|---|
The following table provides certain information regarding compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to our Chief Executive Officer and the other executive officer with compensation exceeding $100,000 during the year ended December 31, 2023 (each a “Named Executive Officer”).
Summary
Compensation Table
| No equity | Non- qualified | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stock | Option | incentive plan | deferred compensation | All other | ||||||||
| Name and | Salary | Bonus | Awards | Awards | compensation | earnings | compensation | Total | ||||
| Principal Position | Year | () | ($) | ()(1) | ()(1) | () | () | () | () | |||
| Robert Carmichael | 2021 | (2) | ||||||||||
| CEO, Chairmen, President and CFO | 2023 | (3) | ||||||||||
| Christopher Constable, | 2022 | (4) | (5) | |||||||||
| CEO | 2023 | (6) | (5) |
All values are in US Dollars.
| (1) | Represents<br> the aggregate grant date fair value of the shares of our common stock, computed in accordance<br> with ASC Topic 718. The assumptions made in the valuations of the stock awards are included<br> in Note 13 of the notes to our consolidated financial statements. |
|---|---|
| (2) | Represents<br> (i) $18,000 in director compensation (ii) $5,686 in health insurance premiums paid on behalf<br> of Mr. Carmichael, and (iii) an aggregate of $61,308 in royalties paid to an entity controlled<br> by Mr. Carmichael under the terms of a license agreement with the Company. |
| --- | --- |
| (3) | Represents<br> (i) $18,000 in director compensation (ii) $5,921 in health insurance premiums paid on behalf<br> of Mr. Carmichael, and (iii) an aggregate of $57,320 in royalties paid to an entity controlled<br> by Mr. Carmichael under the terms of a license agreement with the Company. |
| --- | --- |
| (4) | Represents<br> a five-year option to purchase 2,403,846 shares of common stock. The option was forfeited upon Mr. Constable’s resignation as Chief Executive Officer effective July 7, 2023. |
| --- | --- |
| (5) | Represents<br> (i) $7,500 in director compensation (ii) $3,454 health insurance premiums paid by the Company<br> on behalf of Mr. Constable. |
| --- | --- |
| (6) | Represents a portion of salary for 2023 due to Mr. Constable submitted his resignation as Chief Executive Officer<br>effective July 7, 2023. |
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Equity Plan
On May 26, 2021, the Company adopted the Company’s Equity Compensation Plan (the “Plan”). The Plan provides for the award of stock options (incentive and non-qualified), stock awards and stock appreciation rights to officers, directors, employees and consultants who provide services to the Company. The terms of awards under the Plan are made by the Administrator of the Plan appointed by the Company’s Board of Directors, or in the absence of an Administrator, by the Board. The Company has reserved 25,000,000 for issuance under the Plan. The term of the Plan is ten years.
Outstanding
Equity Awards at December 31, 2023
The table below reflects all equity awards made to each Named Executive Officer that were outstanding on December 31, 2023.
| Name | Number of<br> <br>Securities<br> <br>Underlying<br> <br>Unexercised<br> <br>Options<br> <br>(#)<br> <br>Exercisable | Number of<br> <br>Securities<br> <br>Underlying<br> <br>Unexercised<br> <br>Options<br> <br>(#)<br> <br>Unexercisable | Equity Incentive<br> <br>Plan Awards:<br> <br>Number of<br> <br>Securities<br> <br>Underlying<br> <br>Unexercised<br> <br>Unearned<br> <br>Options<br> <br>(#) | Option<br> Exercise Price () | Option<br> Expiration Date | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert<br> Carmichael | 20,761,904 | (1) | - | - | 7/29/2024 | ||||
| 25,000,000 | (2) | 100,000,000 | - | 4/30/2023 |
All values are in US Dollars.
| (1) | Options<br> fully vested in January 2020 |
|---|---|
| (2) | Options<br> vest based upon certain corporate milestones as discussed in Note 13 of the financial statements<br> included in this Annual Report. |
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Christopher Constable Employment Agreement
On November 5, 2020, we entered into a three-year employment agreement (the “Constable Employment Agreement”), which agreement will automatically renew for one-year successive terms unless either party notifies the other of its desire to terminate the agreement at least 60 days prior to the then current term. Pursuant to the Agreement, Mr. Constable will serve as our Chief Executive Officer and a director. In consideration for his services, Mr. Constable is entitled to an annual base salary of $200,000, payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Company, and upon execution of the Constable Employment Agreement and on each anniversary thereof, a non- qualified immediately exercisable five-year stock option to purchase that number of shares equal to $100,000 of the value of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price equal to the market price of the common stock on the date of issuance. Pursuant to the Agreement, on November 5, 2020, we issued Mr. Constable an option to purchase 5,434,783 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0184 per share pursuant to an option award agreement and upon the first anniversary we issued Mr. Constable an option to purchase 2,403,846 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0401.
In addition, Mr. Constable is entitled to receive four-year stock options to purchase shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $0.0184 per share in the amounts listed below based upon the following performance milestones during the term of the Constable Employment Agreement: (i) 2,000,000 shares - if the Company’s total net revenues, as reported in its statement of operations in its financial statements in its filings with the SEC, including as a result of a stock or asset acquisition of a third party (“Net Revenues”) are in excess of $5,000,000, in the aggregate, for four consecutive fiscal quarters; (ii) 3,000,000 shares - if the Net Revenues are in excess of $7,500,000, in the aggregate, for four consecutive fiscal quarters; (iii) 5,000,000 shares - if the Net Revenues are in excess of $10,000,000, in the aggregate, for four consecutive fiscal quarters; and (iv) 20,000,000 shares - if the Company’s common stock is listed on the on NASDAQ or New York Stock Exchange. Mr. Constable is also entitled to participate in all benefit programs the Company offers to its executives, reimbursement for business expenses and three weeks of annual paid vacation.
The agreement may be terminated for “cause” (as defined in the Agreement), upon his death or disability, or by the Company without cause. Furthermore, Mr. Constable may terminate the Agreement for “good reason” (as defined in the agreement). If the Company terminates the agreement for cause, or if it terminates upon Mr. Constable’s death or disability, or if he voluntarily terminates the Agreement, neither Mr. Constable nor his estate (as the case may be) is entitled to any severance or other benefits following the date of termination. If the Company terminates the Agreement without cause or Mr. Constable terminates the Agreement for good reason, the Company is obligated to continue to pay Mr. Constable’s base salary for a period of six months. The Agreement also contains customary confidentiality, non-disclosure and indemnification provisions.
On June 24, 2023, Mr. Constable voluntarily submitted his resignation as Chief Executive Officer effective July 7, 2023. Mr. Constable remains a member of the Company’s Board of Directors.
Blake Carmichael Employment Agreement
On August 1, 2021, we entered into a three-year employment agreement with Blake Carmichael (the “Blake Carmichael Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Carmichael will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer of BLU3. In consideration for his services, Blake Carmichael will receive (i) an annual base salary of $120,000, payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Company, and (ii) a cash bonus equal to 5% of the net income of BLU3 payable quarterly, beginning with the first full calendar quarter after the execution of the agreement, and (iii) a non-qualified five-year stock option to purchase 3,759,400 shares of common stock at an exercise price $0.0399, 33.3% of which stock subject to the option vested immediately upon grant, 33.3% vests on the second anniversary and 33.3% vests on the third anniversary of the agreement. In addition, Blake Carmichael was granted a five-year stock option to purchase up to 18,000,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0399 per share which vests upon the achievement of certain annual financial metrics as set forth in the Agreement.
| Item12. | Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters |
|---|
Our voting securities consist of our common stock and preferred stock, par value $0.001 per share, designated Series A Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Series A Stock”). Each share of Series A Stock is convertible into one share of our common stock at any time at the option of the holder at a conversion price of $18.23 per share. Holders of our common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held, and holders of our Series A Stock are entitled to 250 votes for each share held. Our common stock and Series A Stock vote together as on any matters submitted to our shareholders for a vote.
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| --- |
Security
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
The following table sets forth, as of March 30, 2024, the number of shares of common stock and Series A Stock beneficially owned by (i) each person, entity or group (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) known to the Company to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of the outstanding common stock; (ii) each of the Company’s directors (iii) each Named Executive Officer and (iv) all officers and directors as a group. Information relating to beneficial ownership of common stock by our principal stockholders and management is based upon information furnished by each person using “beneficial ownership” concepts under the rules of the SEC. Under these rules, a person is deemed to be a beneficial owner of a security if that person directly or indirectly has or shares voting power, which includes the power to vote or direct the voting of the security, or investment power, which includes the power to dispose or direct the disposition of the security. The person is also deemed to be a beneficial owner of any security of which that person has a right to acquire beneficial ownership within 60 days. Under the SEC rules, more than one person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of the same securities, and a person may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of securities as to which he or she may not have any pecuniary interest. Except as noted below, each person has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares beneficially owned and each stockholder’s address is c/o Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc., 3001 NW 25th Avenue, Suite 1, Pompano Beach, Florida 33069. The percentages below are calculated based on 437,742,050 issued and outstanding shares of common stock and 425,000 shares of Series A Stock outstanding as of March 30, 2024.
| Name and Address of <br>Beneficial Owner | Amount and <br><br>Nature of<br><br> Beneficial Ownership | Percent of Class | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Named Executive Officers and Directors | ||||||
| Robert M. Carmichael | 110,167,757 | ^(1)^ | 25.2 | % | ||
| Christopher H. Constable | - | ^^ | 0.0 | % | ||
| Charles F. Hyatt | 164,285,713 | ^(2)^ | 37.5 | % | ||
| All directors and executive officers as a group (three persons) | 274,453,470 | ^(1)(2)^ | 62.7 | % | ||
| 5% or Greater Shareholder | ||||||
| Joseph Perez <br>135 Weston Road, Suite 328, Weston, Florida 33326 | 50,000,000 | 11.4 | % | |||
| Summit Holdings V, LLC <br>3427 Bannerman Road, Suite D208 <br>Tallahassee, Florida 32312 | 28,288,833 | 6.5 | % | |||
| Series A Convertible Preferred Stock | ||||||
| Robert M. Carmichael | 425,000 | 100 | % | |||
| All directors and executive officers as a group (one person) | 425,000 | 100 | % | |||
| (1) | Includes:<br> (i) 14,587,190 shares held by 940A Associates, Inc., a corporation over which Mr. Carmichael is the sole owner and has voting and<br> dispositive power; (ii) an aggregate of 23,320 shares issuable upon conversion of 425,000 shares of Series A Stock (iii) options<br> to purchase an aggregate of 20,761,904 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.018 per share and (iv) options to purchase<br> an aggregate of 50,000,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.045. Does not include the voting power over 106,250,000<br> shares of common stock by virtue of Mr. Carmichael’s beneficial ownership of 425,000 shares of Series A Stock. | |||||
| --- | --- | |||||
| (2) | Includes<br> warrants to purchase an aggregate of 17,142,855 shares of common at an exercise price of $.0175 per share. |
| 31 |
| --- |
| Item13. | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence. |
|---|
We sell products to Brownie’s Southport Divers, Inc., Brownie’s Palm Beach Divers, and Brownie’s Yacht Toys, companies owned by the brother of Robert Carmichael. Combined net revenues from these entities for the years December 31, 2023 and 2022, totaled $806,824 and $977,145, respectively. Accounts receivable from Brownie’s SouthPort Diver’s, Inc., Brownie’s Palm Beach Divers, and Brownie’s Yacht Toys at December 31, 2023, were $5,901, $11,927 and $-0-, respectively. Accounts receivable from Brownie’s SouthPort Diver’s, Inc., Brownie’s Palm Beach Divers, and Brownie’s Yacht Toys at December 31, 2022, were $16,875, $6,773 and $15,532, respectively.
We also sell products to Brownie’s Global Logistics, LLC (“BGL”) and 940 Associates, Inc. (“940 A”), entities wholly-owned by Robert Carmichael. Combined net revenues from these three entities for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $1,799 and $4,646, respectively. In addition, from time to time Mr. Carmichael purchases products from us for his personal use. Accounts receivable from BGL, 940 A and Mr. Carmichael totaled $647 at December 31, 2023 and $2,408 at December 31, 2022.
We owed BGL $-0- and $2,980 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which represents purchase of inventory including batteries for Sea Lion (battery operated unit) and Honda engines for our regular gasoline powered units. As of December 31, 2022, the Company also had an amount due of $5,000 to Mr. Carmichael for an advance to BLU3,Inc. The Company also had an amount due of $441 to Robert Carmichael and $476 to Blake Carmichael as of December 31, 2023.
We are a party to an exclusive license agreement, dated February 22, 2005, with 940 A to license the trademark “Brownies Third Lung”, “Tankfill”, “Brownies Public Safety” and various other related trademarks as listed in the agreement. The agreement provides for a royalty to be paid equal to the greater of 2.5% on all sales of Trebor or $15,000 per quarter. Total royalty fees paid to 940 A in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 totaled $31,993 and $61,308, respectively. The Company had accrued royalties of $2,238 and $2,845 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
On September 30, 2022, the Company issued a convertible demand 8% promissory note in the principal amount of $66,793 to Robert Carmichael for funds to meet the working capital needs of LBI. Interest on the note is payable in shares of common stock of the Company at a conversion price equal to the 90 day value weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Company’s stock prior to the quarterly interest payment date. The note holder may demand payment or convert the outstanding principal at a conversion rate of $0.021 per share at any time. The conversion rate was calculated at a 35% discount to the 90 day VWAP of the Company’s stock as of the date of the note.
On February 2, 2022, the Company issued Charles Hyatt, a director, 10,000,000 shares upon the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $250,000.
On February 2, 2022, the Company issued Grace Hyatt, the adult child of Charles Hyatt, a director, 600,000 shares upon the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $15,000.
On March 14, 2022, the Company issued 10,000,000 shares of common stock to Charles Hyatt, a director, upon exercise of a warrant at an exercise price of $0.04 per share for proceeds of $250,000.
On March 14, 2022, the Company issued 600,000 shares of common stock to Grace Hyatt, the adult daughter of Charles Hyatt, a director, upon exercise of a warrant at an exercise price of $0.04 per share for proceeds of $15,000.
On December 13, 2022, the Company issued 5,714,286 shares of common stock and a two-year warrant to purchase 5,714,286 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share to Charles Hyatt a director, in a private offering for proceeds of $100,000.
On September 14, 2023, The Company issued an on-demand note to Robert Carmichael, the CEO of the Company (the “Lender”) in the principal amount of $50,000. The on-demand note bears no interest and is payable upon request.
On November 7, 2023, the Company issued a promissory note (the “Note”) to Charles Hyatt, a director of the Company (the “Lender”) in the principal amount of $150,000. The Note bears interest at the rate of 9.9% per annum, is payable in monthly installments, and matures on August 7, 2024.
On December 18, 2023, The Company issued an on-demand note to Robert Carmichael, the CEO of the Company (the “Lender”) in the principal amount of $25,000. The on-demand note bears no interest and is payable upon request.
Blake Carmichael, the Chief Executive Officer of BLU3 is the son of Robert Carmichael, the Company’s Chairman, President and a director.
Director Independence
The Company has two independent director, Christopher Constable and Charles Hyatt, who are considered “independent” as defined under Rule 5605 of the Nasdaq Marketplace Rules.
| 32 |
| --- |
| Item14. | Principal Accounting Fees and Services. |
|---|
The following table shows the fees that were billed for the audit and other services provided by Liggett & Webb, PA for 2022 (until October 10, 2022). As of October 10, 2022, Liggett & Webb, P.A. resigned as the independent registered public accounting firm engaged to audit the financial statements of the Company. Also on such date, the Company’s Board of Directors engaged Assurance Dimensions, Inc. to serve as its independent registered public accounting firm to perform the year-end audit for the year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. The following table shows the fees billed for the audit and other services for 2023 and 2022.
| 2023 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audit Fees | $ | 69,817 | $ | 90,040 |
| Audit-Related Fees | - | - | ||
| Tax Fees | 5,000 | 2,700 | ||
| Other | - | - | ||
| Total | $ | 74,817 | $ | 92,740 |
AuditFees
Audit fees consist of fees for professional services rendered for the audit of the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the review of financial statements included in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.
We incurred tax related fees of $5,000 and $2,700 with Liggett & Webb, P.A. for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Administration of the Engagement; Pre-Approval of Audit and Permissible Non-Audit Services
We have not yet established an audit committee. Until then, there are no formal pre-approval policies and procedures. The audit and tax fees paid to the auditors with respect to 2023 and 2022 were pre-approved by the entire board of directors.
The percentage of hours expended on Assurance Dimensions respective engagement to audit our financial statements for the most recent fiscal year that were attributed to work performed by persons other than the principal accountant’s full-time, permanent employees was 0%.
| 33 |
| --- |
PART
IV
| 34 |
| --- | | 10.22 | Addendum No. 2 to Patent License Agreement, dated June 30, 2020, between Setaysha Technical Solutions, Inc. and the Company | 10-Q | 8/26/20 | 10.1 | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 10.23 | Employment Agreement, dated November 5, 2020, between Christopher Constable and the Company. + | 8-K | 11/12/20 | 10.2 | | 10.24 | Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement Non-Plan, dated November 5, 2020, between the Company and Christopher Constable | 8-K | 11/12/20 | 10.1 | | 10.27 | First Amendment to Lease Agreement, dated December 1, 2016 between Trebor Industries, Inc. and Liberty Property Limited Partnership | 10-K | 4/22/22 | 10.27 | | 10.28 | 8% Convertible Promissory Note, dated September 3, 2021 | 8-K | 9/9/21 | 4.1 | | 10.29 | Confidentiality, Non-Competition And Non-Solicitation Agreement, dated September 3, 2021, between the Company and Richard S. Kearney | 8-K | 9/9/21 | 10.2 | | 10.30 | Investment Banking Engagement Agreement, dated August 6, 2021, between the Company and Newbridge Securities Corporation | 10-Q | 11/22/21 | 10.21 | | 10.31 | Asset Purchase Agreement, dated May 2, 2022, among the Company, Gold Coast Scuba, LLC, LLC Members and Live Blue, Inc. | 8-K | 5/3/22 | 10.67 | | 10.32 | Form of Subscription Agreement | 8-K | 9/12/22 | 10.1 | | 10.33 | Form of Common Stock Purchase Warrant | 8-K | 9/12/22 | 10.2 | | 10.34 | Lease Agreement, dated September 14, 2022, between Slater Palms, LLC and the Company | * | | | | 10.35 | Sublease Agreement, dated September 20, 2022, between Camburg Engineering, Inc. and the Company | * | | | | 21 | Subsidiaries | * | | | | 31.1 | Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) | * | | | | 31.2 | Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) | * | | | | 32.1 | Certification Pursuant to Section 1350 | * | | | | 101.INS | Inline<br> XBRL Instance Document | | | | | 101.SCH | Inline<br> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | | | | | 101.CAL | Inline<br> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document | | | | | 101.DEF | Inline<br> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document | | | | | 101.LAB | Inline<br> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document | | | | | 101.PRE | Inline<br> XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document | | | | | 104 | Cover<br> Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document) | | | |
* Filed herewith
+ Management Contract
| Item16. | Form 10-K Summary |
|---|
None.
| 35 |
| --- |
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.
| Date:<br> May 9, 2024 | Brownie’s marine group, Inc. | |
|---|---|---|
| By: | /s/ Robert M. Carmichael | |
| Robert M. Carmichael | ||
| Chief Executive Officer, | ||
| (Principal Executive Officer) | ||
| By: | /s/ Robert M. Carmichael | |
| Robert M. Carmichael | ||
| Chief Financial Officer, | ||
| (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |
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.
| /s/ Robert M. Carmichael |
|---|
| Robert M. Carmichael |
| Chairman<br> of the Board, President, Chief Executive Officer, Director, and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
| Date: May 9, 2024 |
| /s/ Christopher H. Constable |
| Christopher H. Constable |
| Director |
| Date: May 9, 2024 |
| /s/ Charles F. Hyatt |
| Charles F. Hyatt |
| Director |
| Date: May 9, 2024 |
| 36 |
| --- |
Financial
Statements and Supplementary Data Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc.
Index
to Audited Financial Statements
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID No. 5036) | F-2 |
| Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 | F-3 |
| Consolidated<br> Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 | F-4 |
| Consolidated<br> Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 | F-5 |
| Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 | F-6 |
| Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements | F-7 |
| F-1 |
| --- |

REPORT
OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors of
Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flow for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2023, and the related consolidated notes (collectively referred to as the financial statements). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash flow for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Explanatory Paragraph – Going Concern
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company had a net loss of approximately $1,248,115 and cash used in operating activities of approximately $374,827 for the year ended December 31, 2023 as well as an accumulated deficit of approximately $17,685,610 as of December 31, 2023. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans in regard to these matters are described in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, 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.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matters
The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.
Descriptionof the Matter
The Company is required to test the carrying amount of goodwill at least annually, or more frequently upon the occurrence of certain events. The Company is also required to assess the recoverability of its long-lived assets, including its amortizable intangible assets, whenever certain events occur or circumstances change that may be indicators of impairment. We identified this area as a critical audit matter because the annual goodwill impairment test and the evaluation of recovery of long-lived assets requires significant judgment regarding the evaluation of qualitative factors. Additionally, these assessments also require appropriate determination of reporting units and asset groups, including the allocation of acquired tangible and intangible assets to such groupings. The evaluation of a certain asset group also required comparison of future non-discounted cash flows to the carrying value of the asset group, which required estimates of future cash flows associated with that asset group, including growth rates, profitability rates and estimates of other sources and uses of cash such as changes in working capital and capital expenditures. The Company engaged a third-party valuation specialist to assist with its assessment.
Howwe addressed the matter in our audit
Our audit procedures to address the risk of material misstatement relating to goodwill and intangible assets included, among others, evaluating the appropriateness of asset groupings at the reporting unit level and asset group level. We also evaluated management’s assessment of qualitative factors associated with the reporting unit containing goodwill and associated with all relevant asset groups. Our procedures also included evaluating management’s forecast of non-discounted cash flows associated with a certain asset group where a qualitative factor required such further analysis. We also assessed the competence, independence, qualifications, experience, and capabilities of the third-party valuation specialist, and evaluated the appropriateness and reasonableness of the methodology and assumptions used by comparing them to external and historical data; testing the calculation and forecast model for mathematical accuracy; validating the appropriateness and reliability of inputs and amounts used; and evaluating the adequacy of the financial statement disclosures relating to goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets, including disclosure of key assumptions and judgments. As a result of our testing, we did not take exception to management’s conclusion that no impairment should be recognized related to goodwill or long-lived assets for the year ended December 31, 2023.

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2022
Margate, Florida
May 9, 2024
| F-2 |
| --- |
BROWNIE’S
MARINE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
BALANCE SHEETS
| December 31, 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASSETS | |||||
| Current Assets | |||||
| Cash | 431,112 | $ | 484,427 | ||
| Accounts receivable – net of allowances of 54,427 in 2023 and 28,558 in 2022 | 84,140 | 111,844 | |||
| Accounts receivable - related parties | 32,130 | 55,428 | |||
| Accounts receivable | 32,130 | 55,428 | |||
| Inventory, net | 1,998,807 | 2,421,885 | |||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 190,412 | 192,130 | |||
| Total current assets | 2,736,601 | 3,265,714 | |||
| Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net | 342,681 | 339,546 | |||
| Operating lease right-of-use assets | 844,083 | 1,133,092 | |||
| Intangible assets, net | 573,955 | 646,422 | |||
| Goodwill | 249,986 | 249,986 | |||
| Other assets | 30,724 | 30,724 | |||
| Total assets | 4,778,030 | $ | 5,665,484 | ||
| Liabilities and stockholders’ equity | |||||
| Current liabilities | |||||
| Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 789,702 | $ | 829,456 | ||
| Accounts payable - related parties | 46,578 | 37,539 | |||
| Customer deposits and unearned revenue | 255,740 | 167,534 | |||
| Other liabilities | 451,954 | 372,943 | |||
| Operating lease liabilities | 259,154 | 269,046 | |||
| Related party convertible demand note, net | 52,484 | 49,147 | |||
| Convertible notes | 346,871 | - | |||
| Convertible notes | 346,871 | - | |||
| Loans payable, current portion | 75,304 | 66,486 | |||
| Related party notes payable | 225,000 | - | |||
| Total current liabilities | 2,502,787 | 1,792,151 | |||
| Loans payable, net of current portion | 64,656 | 143,960 | |||
| Convertible notes, net of current portion | - | 342,943 | |||
| Operating lease liabilities | 615,915 | 864,057 | |||
| Total liabilities | 3,183,358 | 3,143,111 | |||
| Commitments and contingent liabilities (see note 15) | - | - | |||
| Stockholders’ equity | |||||
| Preferred stock; 0.001 par value: 10,000,000 shares authorized; 425,000 issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. | 425 | 425 | |||
| Common stock; 0.0001 par value; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized; 437,742,050 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2023 and 425,520,662 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022, respectively. | 43,775 | 42,553 | |||
| Common stock payable 138,941 shares and 138,941 shares, respectively as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. | 14 | 14 | |||
| Additional paid-in capital | 19,236,068 | 18,916,876 | |||
| Accumulated deficit | (17,685,610 | ) | (16,437,495 | ) | |
| Total stockholders’ equity | 1,594,672 | $ | 2,522,373 | ||
| Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | 4,778,030 | $ | 5,665,484 |
All values are in US Dollars.
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
| F-3 |
| --- |
BROWNIE’S
MARINE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR
THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net revenues | ||||||
| Net revenues | $ | 6,773,974 | $ | 7,595,581 | ||
| Net revenues - related parties | 806,824 | 981,791 | ||||
| Net revenues | 806,824 | 981,791 | ||||
| Total net revenues | 7,580,798 | 8,577,372 | ||||
| Cost of net revenues | ||||||
| Cost of net revenues | 4,889,769 | 5,055,947 | ||||
| Cost of net revenues - related parties | 387,160 | 462,297 | ||||
| Cost of net revenues | 387,160 | 462,297 | ||||
| Royalties expense - related parties | 57,320 | 61,308 | ||||
| Royalties expense | 138,643 | 203,621 | ||||
| Total cost of revenues | 5,472,892 | 5,783,173 | ||||
| Gross profit | 2,107,906 | 2,794,199 | ||||
| Operating expenses | ||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | 3,263,439 | 4,626,202 | ||||
| Research and development costs | 13,880 | 18,393 | ||||
| Total operating expenses | 3,277,319 | 4,644,595 | ||||
| Loss from operations | (1,169,413 | ) | (1,850,395 | ) | ||
| Other (income) expense, net | ||||||
| Interest expense | (78,702 | ) | (42,496 | ) | ||
| Total other (income) expense - net | (78,702 | ) | (42,496 | ) | ||
| Loss income before provision for income taxes | (1,248,115 | ) | (1,892,891 | ) | ||
| Provision for income taxes | - | - | ||||
| Net loss | $ | (1,248,115 | ) | $ | (1,892,891 | ) |
| Basic loss per common share | $ | (0.00 | ) | $ | (0.00 | ) |
| Diluted loss per common share | $ | (0.00 | ) | $ | (0.00 | ) |
| Basic weighted average common shares outstanding | 436,199,516 | 410,509,853 | ||||
| Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding | 436,199,516 | 410,509,853 |
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
| F-4 |
| --- |
BROWNIE’S
MARINE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
FOR
THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022
| Shares Outstanding | Par | Shares Outstanding | Par | Shares | Amount | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Deficit | Stockholders Equity | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred Stock | Common Stock | Common Stock Payable | Additional | Total | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares Outstanding | Par | Shares Outstanding | Par | Shares | Amount | Paid-in Capital | Accumulated Deficit | Stockholders’ Equity | ||||||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2021 | 425,000 | $ | 425 | 393,850,475 | $ | 39,386 | 138,941 | $ | 14 | $ | 17,132,434 | $ | (14,544,604 | ) | $ | 2,627,655 | ||||
| Shares issued for the purchase of units | - | - | 14,255,951 | 1,426 | - | - | 303,574 | - | 305,000 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for exercise of warrants | - | - | 10,600,000 | 1,060 | - | - | 263,940 | - | 265,000 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for Asset Purchase | - | - | 3,084,831 | 308 | - | - | 119,692 | - | 120,000 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for Royalty agreement | - | - | 1,155,881 | 116 | - | - | 29,884 | - | 30,000 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for accrued interest in convertible notes | - | - | 784,253 | 78 | - | - | 38,306 | - | 38,384 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for employee bonus | - | - | 280,000 | 28 | - | - | 11,032 | - | 11,060 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for services | - | - | 1,509,271 | 151 | - | - | 47,350 | - | 47,501 | |||||||||||
| Beneficial Conversion Feature | - | - | - | - | - | - | 19,250 | - | 19,250 | |||||||||||
| Stock Option Expense | - | - | - | - | - | - | 951,414 | - | 951,414 | |||||||||||
| Net loss | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | (1,892,891 | ) | (1,892,891 | ) | |||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2022 | 425,000 | 425 | 425,520,662 | $ | 42,553 | 138,941 | $ | 14 | $ | 18,916,876 | $ | (16,437,495 | ) | $ | 2,522,373 | |||||
| Balance | 425,000 | 425 | 425,520,662 | $ | 42,553 | 138,941 | $ | 14 | $ | 18,916,876 | $ | (16,437,495 | ) | $ | 2,522,373 | |||||
| Shares issued for the purchase of units | - | - | 11,428,570 | 1,143 | - | - | 198,857 | - | 200,000 | |||||||||||
| Shares issued for accrued interest in convertible notes | - | - | 792,818 | 79 | - | - | 38,911 | - | 38,990 | |||||||||||
| Stock Option Expense | - | - | - | - | - | - | 81,424 | - | 81,424 | |||||||||||
| Net Loss | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | (1,248,115 | ) | (1,248,115 | ) | |||||||||
| Balance, December 31, 2023 | 425,000 | 425 | 437,742,050 | $ | 43,775 | 138,941 | $ | 14 | $ | 19,236,068 | $ | (17,685,610 | ) | $ | 1,594,672 | |||||
| Balance | 425,000 | 425 | 437,742,050 | $ | 43,775 | 138,941 | $ | 14 | $ | 19,236,068 | $ | (17,685,610 | ) | $ | 1,594,672 |
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements
| F-5 |
| --- |
BROWNIE’S
MARINE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
FOR
THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash flows provided by operating activities: | ||||||
| Net loss | $ | (1,248,115 | ) | (1,892,891 | ) | |
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities: | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 162,976 | 149,120 | ||||
| Amortization of debt discount | 10,312 | 5,304 | ||||
| Amortization of right-of-use asset | 289,009 | 241,995 | ||||
| Common stock issued for services | - | 47,501 | ||||
| Shares issued for royalty | - | 30,000 | ||||
| Allowance (recovery) for doubtful accounts | 25,870 | - | ||||
| Allowance for slow moving inventory | 21,694 | 26,207 | ||||
| Allowance for Nomad recall | (160,500 | ) | 160,500 | |||
| Stock Based Compensation – Options | 81,424 | 951,414 | ||||
| Stock based compensation – stock grant | - | 11,060 | ||||
| Shares issued for accrued interest in convertible notes | 38,990 | 38,385 | ||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities | ||||||
| Change in accounts receivable, net | 1,834 | 11,426 | ||||
| Change in accounts receivable – related parties | 23,298 | 21,873 | ||||
| Change in inventory | 401,385 | (443,412 | ) | |||
| Change in prepaid expenses and other current assets | (61,971 | ) | 99,017 | |||
| Change in other assets | - | (16,626 | ) | |||
| Change in accounts payable and accrued liabilities | (39,755 | ) | 85,073 | |||
| Change in customer deposits and unearned revenue | 88,206 | 23,596 | ||||
| Change in long term lease liability | (258,034 | ) | (242,690 | ) | ||
| Change in other liabilities | 239,511 | 14,519 | ||||
| Change in accounts payable – related parties | 9,039 | 272 | ||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | (374,827 | ) | (678,357 | ) | ||
| Cash flows provided by (used) in investing activities: | ||||||
| Cash used in asset acquisition | - | (30,000 | ) | |||
| Cash used in purchase of fixed assets, net of debt | - | (21,124 | ) | |||
| Purchase of fixed assets | (29,955 | ) | (11,040 | ) | ||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (29,955 | ) | (62,164 | ) | ||
| Cash flows from financing activities: | ||||||
| Proceeds from issuance of units | 200,000 | 305,000 | ||||
| Proceeds from exercise of Warrants | - | 265,000 | ||||
| Proceeds of related party demand note | 225,000 | |||||
| Proceeds of convertible note | - | 66,793 | ||||
| Repayment of debt | (73,533 | ) | (54,988 | ) | ||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 351,467 | 581,805 | ||||
| Net decrease in cash | (53,315 | ) | (158,716 | ) | ||
| Cash, beginning balance | 484,427 | 643,143 | ||||
| Cash, end of Year | $ | 431,112 | 484,427 | |||
| Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: | ||||||
| Cash Paid for Interest | $ | 39,712 | 42,496 | |||
| Cash Paid for Income Taxes | $ | - | - | |||
| Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing activities: | ||||||
| Operating lease obtained for operating lease liability | $ | - | $ | 920,615 | ||
| Common Stock issued for asset acquisition | $ | - | $ | 120,000 | ||
| Beneficial conversion feature on notes issued for acquisition | $ | - | $ | 19,250 | ||
| Fixed asset purchase through the issuance of debt | $ | - | $ | 84,500 | ||
| Prepayment for equipment through financing | $ | - | $ | 63,689 |
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements
| F-6 |
| --- |
BROWNIE’S
MARINE GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES
TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022
Note
- Description of business and summary of significant accounting policies
Description of business – Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc., a Florida corporation (the “Company,” or “BWMG”), (1) designs, tests, manufactures and distributes recreational hookah diving, scuba and water safety products through its wholly owned subsidiary Trebor Industries, Inc., a Florida corporation organized in 1981 (“Trebor” or “BTL”), (2) manufactures and sells high pressure air and industrial compressor packages, yacht based scuba air compressor and nitrox generation systems through its wholly owned subsidiary Brownie’s High Pressure Compressor Services, Inc., a Florida corporation organized in 2017 (“BHP”), doing business as LW Americas (“LWA”) and (3) develops and markets portable battery powered surface supplied air dive systems through its wholly owned subsidiary BLU3, Inc., a Florida corporation (“BLU3”). On September 3, 2021, the Company, entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization (the “Merger Agreement”) with Submersible Acquisition, Inc., a Florida corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Acquisition Sub”), Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation (“Submersible” or “SSI”), and Summit Holdings V, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Summit”) and Tierra Vista Group, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Tierra Vista” and, together with Summit, the “Sellers”), the owners of all of the capital stock of Submersible organized in 2017, pursuant to which Acquisition Sub merged with and into Submersible (the “Merger”), and Submersible, the surviving corporation, became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
Submersible is a manufacturer of high-pressure tanks and redundant air systems for the military and recreational diving industries, based in Huntington Beach, California and sells its products to governments, militaries, private companies and the dive industry throughout the world.
On February 13, 2022 the Company filed with the Florida Department of State, articles of incorporation for a new wholly owned subsidiary, Live Blue, Inc. (“LBI”). LBI utilizes technology developed by BLU3 to provide new users and interested divers a guided tour experience. On May 2, 2022, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement (the “Asset Purchase Agreement”) with Gold Coast Scuba, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Gold Coast Scuba”), Steven M. Gagas and William Frenier, the sole members of Gold Coast Scuba (together, the “LLC Members”) and LBI. Pursuant to the terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement, LBI acquired substantially all of Gold Coast Scuba’s assets and assumed certain non-material liabilities of the business associated with these assets. In addition, LBI assumed the lease for the premises for Gold Coast Scuba as part of this asset acquisition.
Basis of Presentation – The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).
Definition of fiscal year – The Company’s fiscal year end is December 31.
Principles of Consolidation -The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of BWMG and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Trebor, BHP, BLU3, SSI and LBI. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Going Concern – The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business for the twelve-month period following the date of issuance of these financial statements. We incurred net losses for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 of $1,248,115 and $1,892,891, respectively. The Company had an accumulated deficit as of December 31, 2023 of $17,685,610.
The Company believes that existing operational cash flow may not be sufficient to fund presently anticipated operations, this raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern for the twelve months after the date that the financial statements were issued. Therefore, the Company will seek to continue to raise additional funds as needed and is currently exploring alternative sources of financing including commercial banks and other lending institutions. The Company has issued common stock and has historically issued convertible notes to finance working capital needs and may continue to seek to raise additional capital through sale of common stock or other securities or obtaining short term loans. The Company has no firm commitment for any additional capital and there are no assurances it will be successful in obtaining additional funds.
If the Company fails to raise additional funds when needed, or does not have sufficient cash flows from sales, it may be required to scale back or cease operations, liquidate assets and possibly seek bankruptcy protection. The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that may result from the outcome of these uncertainties.
Cash and equivalents – Only highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less are classified as cash and equivalents.
Financial
instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk consist principally of cash deposits. Accounts at each institution are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) up to $250,000
per EIN. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company
had approximately $25,000 and $- 0-, respectively, in excess of the FDIC insured limit.
| F-7 |
| --- |
Accounts receivable – The Company manufactures and sells its products to a broad range of customers, primarily retail stores. Few customers are provided with payment terms of 30 days. The Company has tracked historical loss information for its trade receivables and compiled historical credit loss percentages for different aging categories (current, 1–30 days past due, 31–60 days past due, 61–90 days past due, and more than 90 days past due).
In accordance with ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326), management believes that the historical
loss information it has compiled is a reasonable base on which to determine expected credit losses for trade receivables held at December 31, 2023, because the composition of the trade receivables at that date is consistent with that used in developing the historical credit-loss percentages (i.e., the similar risk characteristics of its customers and its lending practices have not changed significantly over time). As a result, management applied the applicable credit loss rates to determine the expected credit loss estimate for each aging category. Accordingly, the allowances for doubtful accounts totaled $54,427 and $28,558 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Inventory – The Company values inventory at the lower of cost (determined using the first-in first-out method) or net realizable value. Management’s judgment is required to determine the allowances for obsolete or excess inventory. Inventory on hand may exceed future demand either because the product is outdated or because the amount on hand is more than will be used to meet future needs. Inventory allowances are estimated by the individual operating companies using standard quantitative measures based on criteria established by the Company. Though the Company considers these allowance balances to be adequate, changes in economic conditions, customer inventory levels or competitive conditions could have a favorable or unfavorable effect on required allowance balances.
Property and equipment and leasehold improvements – Property and equipment and leasehold improvement is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation or amortization. Depreciation and amortization is provided principally on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or term of the lease, which are primarily 3 to 5 years. The cost of repairs and maintenance is charged to expense as incurred. Expenditures for property betterments and renewals are capitalized. Upon sale or other disposition of a depreciable asset, cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any gain or loss is reflected in other income (expense).
The Company periodically evaluates whether events and circumstances have occurred that may warrant revision of the estimated useful lives of fixed assets or whether the remaining balance of fixed assets should be evaluated for possible impairment. The Company uses an estimate of the related undiscounted cash flows over the remaining life of the fixed assets in measuring their recoverability.
Goodwill
The Company records goodwill when the consideration paid for an acquisition exceeds the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired, including related tax effects. Goodwill is not amortized; instead, goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if the Company believes indicators of impairment exist. The Company first assesses qualitative factors such as macro-economic conditions, industry and market conditions, cost factors as well as other relevant events, to determine whether it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. If the Company determines that the fair value is less than the carrying value, the Company will recognize an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying value over its fair value. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there was no such impairment.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets are comprised of customer relationships, trademarks and non-compete agreements acquired in a business combination. The Company amortizes intangible assets with a definitive life over their respective useful lives. Assets with indefinite lives are tested for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if the Company believes indicators of impairment exist.
Unlike goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, the accounting rules do not provide for an annual impairment test in determining whether fixed assets (e.g., property, plant, and equipment) and finite-lived intangible assets (e.g., customer lists) are impaired. Instead, they require that a triggering event occur before testing an asset for impairment. Once a triggering event has occurred, the impairment test employed is based on whether the intent is to hold the asset for continued use or to hold the asset for sale. If the intent is to hold the asset for continued use, the impairment test involves a comparison of undiscounted cash flows against the carrying value of the asset as an initial test. If the carrying value of such asset exceeds the undiscounted cash flow, the asset would be deemed to be impaired. Impairment would then be measured as the difference between the fair value of the fixed or amortizing intangible asset and the carrying value to determine the amount of the impairment. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there was no such impairment.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The Company recognizes revenue when performance obligations under the terms of a contract with the customer are satisfied. The Company typically satisfies its performance obligations in contracts with customers upon shipment of the goods. Generally, payment is due upon receipt of the invoice and the contracts do not have significant financing components. Product sales occur once control or title is transferred based on the commercial terms. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for transferring goods. Product sales are recorded net of variable consideration, such as provisions for returns, discounts and promotional allowances. Such provisions are calculated based on the actual allowances given. Management believes that adequate provision has been made for cash discounts, returns, spoilage and promotional allowances based on the Company’s historical experience.
A breakdown of the total revenue between related party and non-related party revenue is as follows:
Schedule of Related Party and Non-related Party Revenue
| 2023 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | $ | 6,773,974 | $ | 7,595,581 |
| Revenues - related parties | 806,824 | 981,791 | ||
| Total Revenues | $ | 7,580,798 | $ | 8,577,372 |
| F-8 |
| --- |
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales consists of the cost of the components of finished goods, the costs of raw materials utilized in the manufacture of products, in-bound and out-bound freight charges, direct manufacturing labor as well as certain internal transfer costs, warehouse expenses incurred prior to the manufacture of the Company’s finished products, inventory allowance for excess and obsolete products, and royalties paid on licensing agreements. Components account for the largest portion of the cost of sales. Components include plastic molded parts, gas powered engines, aluminum pressure bottles, electronic parts, batteries and packaging materials.
The breakdown of cost of sales to include cost of sales for related party and non-related party as well as the related party and non-related party royalty expense is as follows:
Schedule of Related Party and Non-Related Party Cost of Revenue
| **** | 2023 | 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of revenues | $ | 4,889,769 | $ | 5,055,947 |
| Cost of revenues - related parties | 387,160 | 462,297 | ||
| Cost of revenues | 387,160 | 462,297 | ||
| Royalty expense - related parties | 57,320 | 61,308 | ||
| Royalty expense | 138,643 | 203,620 | ||
| Total cost of revenues | $ | 5,472,892 | $ | 5,783,173 |
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses include selling expenses such as warehousing expenses after manufacture, as well as expenses for advertising, and other marketing expenses. Operating expenses also include such costs as payroll costs, travel costs, professional service fees (including legal fees), depreciation and other general and administrative costs.
Lease Accounting
We account for leases in accordance with ASC 842.
The lease standard requires all leases to be reported on the balance sheet as right-of-use assets and lease obligations. We elected the practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance of the new standard that retained the lease classification and initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to adoption of the standard. We did not reassess whether any contracts entered into prior to adoption are leases or contain leases.
We categorize leases with contractual terms longer than twelve months as either operating or finance leases. Finance leases are generally those leases that would allow us to substantially utilize or pay for the entire asset over its estimated life. Assets acquired under finance leases are recorded in property and equipment, net. All other leases are categorized as operating leases. We did not have any finance leases as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Our leases generally have terms that range from three years for equipment and three to six years for property. We elected the accounting policy to include both the lease and non-lease components of our agreements as a single component and account for them as a lease.
| F-9 |
| --- |
Lease liabilities are recognized at the present value of the fixed lease payments using a discount rate based on similarly secured borrowings available to us. Lease assets are recognized based on the initial present value of the fixed lease payments, reduced by landlord incentives, plus any direct costs from executing the leases. Leasehold improvements are capitalized at cost and amortized over the lesser of their expected useful life or the lease term.
When we have the option to extend the lease term, terminate the lease before the contractual expiration date, or purchase the leased asset, and it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option, we consider these options in determining the classification and measurement of the lease. Costs associated with operating lease assets are recognized on a straight-line basis within operating expenses over the term of the lease.
Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows:
Schedule of Supplemental Balance Sheet Information
| Operating Leases | Classification | December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Right-of-use assets | Operating lease assets | $ | 844,083 | $ | 1,133,092 |
| Current lease liabilities | Current operating lease liabilities | $ | 259,154 | $ | 269,046 |
| Non-current lease liabilities | Long-term operating lease liabilities | 615,915 | 864,057 | ||
| Total lease liabilities | $ | 875,069 | $ | 1,133,103 |
Lease term and discount rate were as follows:
Schedule of Operating Lease Liabilities
| December 31, 2023. | December 31, 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weighted average remaining lease term (years) | 3.47 | 4.47 | ||||
| Weighted average discount rate | 6.59 | % | 6.82 | % |
The components of lease costs were as follows:
Schedule of Lease Cost
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating lease cost | $ | 109,125 | $ | 246,571 |
| Variable lease cost | - | - | ||
| Total lease costs | $ | 109,125 | $ | 246,571 |
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information related to leases were as follows:
Schedule of Cash Flow Information Related to Leases
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash paid for operating lease liabilities | $ | 468,138 | $ | 340,471 |
| Operating right of use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities | $ | 844,083 | $ | 920,615 |
| F-10 |
| --- |
Maturities of lease liabilities were as follows as of December 31, 2023:
Schedule of Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities
| Trebor Industries<br> <br>Office Lease | BMG Office<br> <br>Lease | Submersible Systems<br> <br>Lease | Live Blue, Inc. | Total lease<br> <br>payments | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 51,064 | 51,956 | 210,600 | - | 313,620 | |||||||||
| 2025 | - | - | 216,397 | - | 216,397 | |||||||||
| 2026 | - | - | 222,886 | - | 222,886 | |||||||||
| 2027 | - | - | 229,566 | - | 229,566 | |||||||||
| Thereafter | - | - | 19,177 | 19,177 | ||||||||||
| Total | 51,064 | 51,956 | 898,626 | - | 1,001,646 | |||||||||
| Less: Imputed interest | (2,549 | ) | (2,593 | ) | (121,435 | ) | - | (126,577 | ) | |||||
| Present value of lease liabilities | $ | 48,515 | $ | 49,363 | 777,191 | $ | - | $ | 875,069 |
Detailed information on leases can be found in Note 15.
Product development costs – Product development expenditures are charged to expenses as incurred.
Advertising and marketing costs – The Company expenses the costs of producing advertisements and marketing material at the time production occurs, and expenses the costs of communicating advertisements and participating in trade shows in the period in which they occur. Advertising and trade show expense incurred for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, totaled $365,604 and $499,441, respectively.
Research and development costs – The Company accounts for research and development costs in accordance with the Accounting Standards Codification subtopic 730-10, Research and Development (“ASC 730-10”). Under ASC 730-10, all research and development costs must be charged to expense as incurred. Accordingly, internal research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Third-party research and developments costs are expensed when the contracted work has been performed or as milestone results have been achieved. Company-sponsored research and development costs related to both present and future products are expensed in the period incurred. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company incurred research and development costs of $13,880 and $18,393, respectively.
Customer deposits and unearned revenue and returns policy – The Company typically takes a minimum 50% deposit against large tankfill systems prior to ordering and/or building the systems. It will also take deposits for large rescue tank orders for both domestic and international customers. The remaining balance due is payable upon delivery, shipment, or installation of the system. Additionally, returns of all other merchandise are subject to a 15% restocking fee as stated on each sales invoice. Customer deposits totaled $255,740 and $167,534 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Warranty policy – Under the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 460, Guarantor’sGuarantees, the Company accrues a liability for estimated warranty policy costs based on standard quantitative measures based on criteria established by the Company. Estimates of costs to service its warranty obligations are based on historical experience, expectation of future conditions and known product issues. To the extent the Company experiences increased warranty claim activity or increased costs associated with servicing those claims, revisions to the estimated warranty reserve would be required. The Company engages in product quality programs and processes, including monitoring and evaluating the quality of its suppliers, to help minimize warranty obligations. The Company provides its customers with an industry standard one year warranty on systems sold and recognizes a warranty allowance based on gross sales multiplied by the historical warranty expense return rate. The warranty allowance charged to cost of net revenues and is included in accrued expenses and is deemed sufficient to absorb any material or labor costs that might be incurred on sales recorded during the period. The Company recorded a allowance for warranty work of $40,468 and $27,651 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Income taxes – The Company accounts for its income taxes under the assets and liabilities method, which requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
| F-11 |
| --- |
The Company records net deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. A valuation allowance is established against deferred tax assets that do not meet the criteria for recognition. In the event the Company were to determine that it would be able to realize deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, it would make an adjustment to the valuation allowance which would reduce the provision for income taxes.
The Company follows the accounting guidance which provides that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits. Income tax positions must meet a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold at the effective date to be recognized initially and in subsequent periods. Also included is guidance on measurement, derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition.
Stock-based compensation – The Company accounts for all compensation related to stock, options or warrants using a fair value based method whereby compensation cost is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the service period, which is usually the vesting period. The Company uses the Black-Scholes valuation model to calculate the fair value of options and warrants issued to both employees and non-employees. Stock issued for compensation is valued on the effective date of the agreement in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, which includes determination of the fair value of the share-based transaction. The fair value is determined through use of the quoted stock price.
During
the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized share based compensation with a fair value of $81,424 and $962,446, respectively.
Usage of Authorized but Unissued Shares of Common Stock - The Company has issued options, warrants and convertible promissory notes which are convertible into shares of common stock in certain situations the total of which exceeds the current authorization. The Company has adopted a policy for the sequence of usage of remaining authorized but unissued shares of common stock (the “Sequencing Policy”) which outlines the order in which the conversion of these equity-linked instruments may be settled in shares. Under the Company’s Sequencing Policy, the most recently issued equity-linked securities, including stock options, warrants, and convertible promissory notes, are settled in shares first.
Fair value of financial instruments – Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. An entity is required to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. There are three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; and model- derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.
Level 3 - Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. Level 3 assets and liabilities include financial instruments whose value is determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, as well as instruments for which the determination of fair value requires significant management judgment or estimation.
Inputs are used in applying the various valuation techniques and broadly refer to the assumptions that market participants use to make valuation decisions, including assumptions about risk. An investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. However, the determination of what constitutes “observable” requires significant judgment by the Company. Management considers observable data to be market data which is readily available, regularly distributed or updated, reliable and verifiable, not proprietary, provided by multiple, independent sources that are actively involved in the relevant market. The categorization of an investment within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the investment and does not necessarily correspond to the Company’s perceived risk of that investment.
At December 31, 2023, and 2022, the carrying amount of cash, accounts receivable, accounts receivable – related parties, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, accounts payable-related parties, customer deposits and unearned revenue, other liabilities, lease liabilities, loans payable and convertible debentures, approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments.
| F-12 |
| --- |
Loss per common share – Basic loss per share excludes any dilutive effects of options, warrants and convertible securities. Basic loss per share is computed using the weighted- average number of outstanding common shares during the applicable period. Diluted loss per share is computed using the weighted average number of common and dilutive common stock equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Common stock equivalent shares are excluded from the computation if their effect is antidilutive. At December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, 107,761,177 and 266,722,242, respectively, potentially dilutive shares were not recognized as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive. These shares reflect shares potentially issuable under convertible note agreements, outstanding warrants, outstanding stock options and the conversion of preferred stock.
New accounting pronouncements
ASU 2016-13 Current Expected Credit Loss (ASC326)
In December 2021, the FASB issued an update to ASU No. 2016-13 the Current Expected Credit Losses (CECL) standard (ASC 326), which is designed to provide greater transparency and understanding of credit risk by incorporating estimated, forward-looking data when measuring lifetime Estimated Credit Losses (ECL) and requires enhanced financial statement disclosures. This guidance was adopted on January 1, 2023, with no effect to the financial statements.
ASU 2020-06 Debt - Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging - Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40) - Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts on an Entity’s Own Equity.
In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-06, Debt - Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging
- Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40) - Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts on an Entity’s Own Equity. The ASU simplifies accounting for convertible instruments by removing major separation models required under current GAAP. Consequently, more convertible debt instruments will be reported as a single liability instrument with no separate accounting for embedded conversion features. The ASU removes certain settlement conditions that are required for equity contracts to qualify for the derivative scope exception, which will permit more equity contracts to qualify for the exceptions. The ASU also simplifies the diluted net income per share calculation in certain areas. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, including interim periods within those fiscal years, and early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of the standard on the consolidated financial statements.
Other accounting standards that have been issued or proposed by the FASB or other standards-setting bodies that do not require adoption until a future date are not expected to have a material impact on our financial statements upon adoption or are not applicable*.*
| F-13 |
| --- |
Note 2. Inventory
Inventory consists of the following as of:
Schedule of Inventory
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | ||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Raw materials | $ | 1,063,888 | $ | 1,207,957 | ||
| Work In Process | 63,258 | 80,727 | ||||
| Finished goods | 1,004,160 | 1,302,995 | ||||
| Rental Equipment | 55,893 | 55,893 | ||||
| Allowance for Obsolete or Excess Inventory | (188,392 | ) | (225,687 | ) | ||
| Total Inventory, net | $ | 1,998,807 | $ | 2,421,885 |
As
of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded allowances for obsolete or slow moving inventory of approximately $188,392 and $225,687, respectively.
Note 3. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consisted of the following:
Schedule of Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
| 2023 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | ||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||
| Prepaid inventory | $ | 109,943 | $ | 42,660 |
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 80,469 | 149,470 | ||
| Total prepaid expenses and other current assets | $ | 190,412 | $ | 192,130 |
Note 4. Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment consist of the following as of:
Schedule of Property and Equipment
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | ||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Tooling and equipment | $ | 661,951 | $ | 586,597 | ||
| Computer equipment and software | 51,770 | 40,621 | ||||
| Vehicles | 79,557 | 79,557 | ||||
| Leasehold improvements | 62,927 | 65,748 | ||||
| Total property and equipment | 856,206 | 777,523 | ||||
| Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization | (513,525 | ) | (432,977 | ) | ||
| Total property and equipment, net | $ | 342,681 | $ | 339,546 |
Depreciation
and amortization expense totaled $155,837 and $149,120 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Included in the depreciation and amortization expense for the year ending December 31, 2023 and 2022 is $76,394 and $80,597 for amortization of intangible assets, respectively.
Note 5. Other Assets
Other
assets at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 of $30,724
consisted of refundable deposits.
Note 6. Customer Credit and Vendor Concentrations
The
Company sells to three entities owned by the brother of Robert M. Carmichael and three companies owned by Robert M. Carmichael as further discussed in Note 7 - Related Parties Transactions. Combined sales to these six entities for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, represented 10.6% and 11.4%, respectively, of total net revenues.
Related Parties represented concentration in
outstanding accounts receivable of 8.6% of total outstanding accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023 and 10.1% as of December 31, 2022. Brownie’s Global Logistics, LLC represented concentration in outstanding accounts receivable of less than 10% of total outstanding accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
| F-14 |
| --- |
Additionally,
the Company has a non-related party customer, Amazon, that represented 4.8% of total outstanding accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023.
Revenue
from Amazon accounted for 10.5% of revenue for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, and 12% of total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2022, respectively.
The
Company has one vendor that for the year ended December 31, 2023, and two vendors for the year ended December 31, 2022, that supplied more than 10% each of the Company’s overall purchases. L&W supplied 14.4
%
of overall purchases for the year ended December 31, 2023. Tian Li He Technology supplied 11.9
%
of overall purchases and L&W supplied 11.7 % of overall purchases for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Note 7. Related Party Transactions
We
sell products to Brownie’s Southport Divers, Inc., Brownie’s Palm Beach Divers, and Brownie’s Yacht Toys, companies owned by the brother of Robert Carmichael. Combined net revenues from these entities for the years December 31, 2023 and 2022, totaled $806,824 and $981,791, respectively. Accounts receivable from Brownie’s SouthPort Diver’s, Inc., Brownie’s Palm Beach Divers, and Brownie’s Yacht Toys at December 31, 2023, were $12,766, $11,927 and $6,790, respectively. Accounts receivable from Brownie’s SouthPort Diver’s, Inc., Brownie’s Palm Beach Divers, and Brownie’s Yacht Toys at December 31, 2022, were $16,875, $6,773 and $15,532, respectively.
We
also sell products to Brownie’s Global Logistics, LLC (“BGL”) and 940 Associates, Inc. (“940 A”), entities wholly-owned by Robert Carmichael. Combined net revenues from these three entities for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were $1,799 and $4,646, respectively. In addition, from time to time Mr. Carmichael purchases products from us for his personal use. Accounts receivable from BGL, 940 A and Mr. Carmichael totaled $647 at December 31, 2023 and $2,408 at December 31, 2022.
We
owed BGL $-0- and $2,980 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which represents purchase of inventory including batteries for Sea Lion (battery operated unit) and Honda engines for our regular gasoline powered units. As of December 31, 2023, the Company also had an amount due of $5,000 to Mr. Carmichael for an advance to BLU3,Inc. The Company also had an amount due of $441 to Robert Carmichael and $476 to Blake Carmichael as of December 31, 2023.
We
are a party to an exclusive license agreement, dated February 22, 2005, with 940 A to license the trademark “Brownies Third Lung”, “Tankfill”, “Brownies Public Safety” and various other related trademarks as listed in the agreement. The agreement provides for a royalty to be paid equal to the greater of 2.5% on all sales of Trebor or $15,000 per quarter. Total royalty fees paid to 940 A in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 totaled $31,993 and $61,308, respectively. The Company had accrued royalties of $2,238 and $2,845 for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
On
September 30, 2022, the Company issued a convertible demand 8% promissory note in the principal amount of $66,793 to Robert Carmichael for funds to meet the working capital needs of LBI. There is no amortization schedule for the note, and interest is payable in shares of common stock of the Company at a conversion price equal to the 90 day value weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Company’s stock prior to the quarterly interest payment date. The note holder may demand payment or convert the outstanding principal at a conversion rate of $.021 per share at any time. The conversion rate was calculated at a 35% discount to the 90 day VWAP of the Company’s stock as of the date of the note. The Company recorded $19,250 for the beneficial conversion feature. As this conversion rate is a fixed rate, the embedded conversion feature is not a derivative liability.
Effective
July 29, 2019 the Company agreed to pay the members of the Company’s Board of Directors, including Mr. Carmichael, a management director, an annual fee of $18,000 for serving on the Company’s Board of Directors for the year ending December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2021, the Company had accrued $112,500 in Board of Directors’ fees. On August 21, 2020 the Company’s Board of Directors approved the continuation of the 2019 Board compensation policy for the year ending December 31, 2023. As of December 31, 2023, the Company accrued an additional $36,000 in Board of Directors’ fees for a total of $184,500 in accrued fees.
| F-15 |
| --- |
On
April 14, 2020 the Company entered into a Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement with Mr. Carmichael. Under the terms of the option agreement, as additional compensation the Company granted Mr. Carmichael an option to purchase up to an aggregate of 125,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $.045 per share. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 the Company expensed $-0- and $655,516 in relation to this option agreement, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate total of 125,000,000 options expired on April 30, 2023.
Also,
on November 5, 2020 the Company entered into a Non-Qualified Option Agreement with Mr. Constable. Under the terms of this option agreement, as additional compensations, the Company granted an option (the “Bonus Option”) to purchase up to an aggregate of 30,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $.0184 per share. During the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company expensed $-0- and $63,267, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, there were 5,000,000 shares vested from this option.
On August 1, 2021 as part of the Blake Carmichael Agreement (see Note 15) the Company entered into a Non-Qualified Stock Option agreement with Blake Carmichael. Under the terms of the Blake Carmichael agreement, Blake Carmichael is entitled to (i) a five-year option to purchase 3,759,400 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.0399 (the “BC Compensation Options”), 33.3% of the shares subject to the Option vest upon the execution of the agreement, 33% at the first anniversary date and 33% upon the second anniversary date and (ii)(ii) a 5-year option to purchase up to 18,000,000 shares to vest annually on a contract year basis, based upon the achievement of certain financial metrics tied to revenue and EBITDA, which for the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 the Company expensed $49,448 and $49,448, respectively.
On
February 2, 2022, the Company issued Charles Hyatt, a director, 10,000,000 shares upon the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $250,000.
On
February 2, 2022, the Company issued Grace Hyatt, the adult child of Charles Hyatt, a director, 600,000 shares upon the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $15,000
On November 5, 2022 the Company entered into a Non-Qualified Stock Option agreement with Christopher Constable as part of his employment agreement as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. Under the terms of the option agreement, the Company granted Mr. Constable a five-year option to purchase 3,968,254 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $.0252 the “Compensation Options”. The Compensation Options were immediately vested. The fair value of the options on the date of the grant was $95,969 using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: (i) risk free interest rate of .4.64%, (ii) expected life of 2.5 years, (iii) dividend yield of 0% and (iv) expected volatility of 256%. Stock option expense recognized during the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 for this option was $-0- and $95,969, respectively.
On
December 13, 2022, the Company issued 5,714,285 units, each unit consists of one share of common stock and a two-year warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share to Charles Hyatt a director, in a private offering for proceeds of $100,000.
On
January 18, 2023 and February 18, 2023, the Company issued to Charles Hyatt, a Company director, an aggregate of 11,428,570 units, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and a two-year common stock purchase warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share in consideration of $200,000.
On
September 14, 2023, the Company issued a convertible demand 8% promissory note in the principal amount of $50,000 to Robert Carmichael for funds to meet the working capital needs of BLU3. There is no amortization schedule for the note, and interest is payable in shares of common stock of the Company at a conversion price equal to the 90 day value weighted average price (“VWAP”) of the Company’s stock prior to the quarterly interest payment date. The note holder may demand payment or convert the outstanding principal at a conversion rate of $0.01351 per share at any time. The conversion rate was calculated at a 35% discount to the 90 day VWAP of the Company’s stock as of the date of the note. The Company recorded $-0- for the beneficial conversion feature. As this conversion rate is a fixed rate, the embedded conversion feature is not a derivative liability. The outstanding balance on this note was $50,000 as of September 30, 2023.
| F-16 |
| --- |
On November 14, 2023, the Company borrowed funds through the issuance of a promissory note (the Note) in the principal amount of $150,000 to Charles Hyatt, a Company director, for working capital requirements and payment of certain expenses in connection with the Company’s business combinations. The maturity date of the Note is May 7, 2024 (the “Maturity Date”). The Note bears interest at a rate of 9.9% per annum, and a default interest of 18% per annum. Interest payments shall be due and payable on a monthly basis. The Company may prepay the Note in whole or in part, at any time without premium or penalty.
On
December 18, 2023, the Company issued an on demand promissory note of $25,000 to to Robert Carmichael for funds to meet the working capital needs of BLU3. The promissory note bears no interest and is payable on demand.
On
March 31, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending March 31, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,336.
On
June 30, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending June 30, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,287.
On
September 30, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending September 30, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,287.
On
December 31, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending December 31, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,287.
Note 8. Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities consists of the following as of:
Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accounts payable trade and other | $ | 491,424 | $ | 504,393 |
| Accrued payroll and fringe benefits | 236,590 | 262,113 | ||
| Accrued warranty expense | 40,468 | 27,651 | ||
| Accrued Sales Tax | 21,220 | 35,299 | ||
| Accrued interest | - | - | ||
| Total | $ | 789,702 | $ | 829,456 |
Balances due certain vendors are in arrears to varying degrees. The Company is handling all delinquent accounts on a case-by-case basis.
Note 9. Other Liabilities
Other liabilities consist of the following as of:
Schedule of Other Liabilities
| December 31, 2023 | December 31, 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accrued expenses | $ | 267,454 | $ | 63,943 |
| Accrued recall reserve fee | - | 160,500 | ||
| Accrued Board of Directors fees | 184,500 | 148,500 | ||
| Total | $ | 451,954 | $ | 372,943 |
Further information regarding the recall reserve fee can be found in note 15.
| F-17 |
| --- |
Note 10. Convertible Promissory Notes and Loans Payable
Convertible Promissory Notes
Convertible Promissory Notes consist of the following at December 31, 2023:
Schedule of Convertible Debentures
| Origination | Original | Period End | Period End | Period End | Accrued | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Origination | Maturity | Interest | Principal | Discount | Principal | Discount | Balance, | Interest | |||||||||||||
| Date | Date | Rate | Balance | Balance | Balance | Balance | Net | Balance | Reg. | ||||||||||||
| 9/03/21 | 9/03/24 | 8 | % | $ | 346,500 | $ | (12,355 | ) | $ | 346,500 | $ | (3,087 | ) | $ | 343,413 | - | (1 | ) | |||
| 9/03/21 | 9/03/24 | 8 | % | $ | 3,500 | $ | (125 | ) | 3,500 | (42 | ) | 3,458 | - | (2 | ) | ||||||
| 9/30/22 | Demand | 8 | % | $ | 66,793 | $ | (19,250 | ) | 71,734 | (19,250 | ) | 52,484 | - | (3 | ) | ||||||
| $ | 421,734 | $ | (22,379 | ) | $ | 399,355 | $ | - |
A breakdown of current and long-term amounts due are as follows for the convertible promissory notes as of December 31, 2023:
Schedule Convertible Promissory Notes
| Summit Holdings<br> V, | Tierra Vista<br> Partners, | Robert Carmichael | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLC<br> Note | LLC<br> Note | Note | Total | |||||||||
| 2023 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 71,734 | $ | 71,734 | ||||
| 2024 | 346,500 | 3,500 | - | 350,000 | ||||||||
| Discount | (3,087 | ) | (42 | ) | (19,250 | ) | (22,379 | ) | ||||
| Total Loan Payments | $ | 343,413 | $ | 3,458 | $ | 52,484 | $ | 399,355 | ||||
| Current<br> Portion of Loan Payable | $ | (343,413 | ) | $ | (3,458 | ) | $ | (52,484 | ) | $ | (399,355 | ) |
| Non-Current<br> Portion of Loan Payable | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | ||||
| (1) | On<br> September 3, 2021, the Company issued a $346,500 note payable to Summit Holding V, LLC as part of the acquisition of SSI. The note<br> carries 8% unsecured convertible promissory note, due September 3, 2024. Payments on the note are to be equivalent to 50% of the<br> adjusted net profit of Submersible Systems, Inc., payable calendar quarterly commencing on December 31, 2021. Interest is payable<br> in company stock at the conversion price of $0.051272 and shall be paid quarterly. The note holder may convert any outstanding principal<br> and unpaid interest at a conversion rate of $0.051272 at any time up to the maturity date of the note. The Company recorded $12,355<br> for the beneficial conversion feature. | |||||||||||
| --- | --- | |||||||||||
| (2) | On<br> September 3, 2021, the Company issued a three-year 8% unsecured convertible promissory note<br> for $3,500 to Tierra Vista Partners, LLC as part of the acquisition of SSI. Payments on the<br> note are to be equivalent to 50% of the adjusted net profit of SSI, payable calendar quarterly<br> commencing on December 31, 2021. Interest is payable quarterly in common stock of the Company<br> at the conversion price of $0.051272 per share. The note holder may convert any outstanding<br> principal and unpaid interest at a conversion rate of $0.051272 at any time up to the maturity<br> date of the note. The Company recorded $125 for the beneficial conversion feature. | |||||||||||
| (3) | On<br> September 30, 2022, the Company issued a convertible demand 8% promissory note in the principal<br> amount of $66,793 to Robert Carmichael for funds to meet the working capital needs of LBI.<br> There is no amortization schedule for the note, and interest is payable in shares of common<br> stock of the Company at a conversion price equal to the 90 day VWAP of the Company’s<br> stock prior to the quarterly interest payment date. This note is classified as a current<br> liability as the note holder may demand payment or convert the outstanding principal at a<br> conversion rate of $0.021 per share at any time. The Company recorded $19,250 for the beneficial<br> conversion feature. |
Schedule of Future Amortization of Notes Payable
| Payment<br><br> <br>Amortization | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $ | 346,500 | |
| Total Note Payments | $ | 346,500 | |
| Current portion of note payable | (346,500 | ) | |
| Non-Current Portion of Notes Payable | $ | - |
| F-18 |
| --- | | (2) | On<br> September 3, 2021, the Company issued a three-year 8% unsecured convertible promissory note<br> for $3,500 to Tierra Vista Partners, LLC as part of the acquisition of SSI. Payments on the<br> note are to be equivalent to 50% of the adjusted net profit of SSI, payable calendar quarterly<br> commencing on December 31, 2021. Interest is payable quarterly in common stock of the Company<br> at the conversion price of $0.051272 per share. The note holder may convert any outstanding<br> principal and unpaid interest at a conversion rate of $0.051272 at any time up to the maturity<br> date of the note. The Company recorded $125 for the beneficial conversion feature. | | --- | --- |
Schedule of Future Amortization of Notes Payable
| Payment<br><br> <br>Amortization | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $ | 3,500 | |
| Total Note Payments | $ | 3,500 | |
| Current portion of note payable | (3,500 | ) | |
| Non-Current Portion of Notes Payable | $ | - | |
| (3) | On<br> September 30, 2022, the Company issued a convertible demand 8% promissory note in the principal<br> amount of $66,793 to Robert Carmichael for funds to meet the working capital needs of LBI.<br> There is no amortization schedule for the note, and interest is payable in shares of common<br> stock of the Company at a conversion price equal to the 90 day VWAP of the Company’s<br> stock prior to the quarterly interest payment date. This note is classified as a current<br> liability as the note holder may demand payment or convert the outstanding principal at a<br> conversion rate of $0.021 per share at any time. The Company recorded $19,250 for the beneficial<br> conversion feature. | ||
| --- | --- |
Loans Payable
Schedule of Future Amortization of Loans Payable
| Marlin<br> Capital BLU3 () | Mercedes<br> BMG (1) | Navitas<br> 1 BLU3 (2) | PPP<br> Loan BMG () | PPP<br> loan SSI () | NFS<br> SSI (3) | Navitas<br> 2 BLU3 (4) | Total | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | - | 11,168 | 16,629 | - | - | 26,279 | 21,228 | 75,304 | |||||||||||||
| 2025 | - | 8,687 | 15,845 | - | - | 12,328 | 21,789 | 58,649 | |||||||||||||
| 2026 | - | - | 6,007 | - | - | - | - | 6,007 | |||||||||||||
| Total Loan Payments | $ | - | $ | 19,855 | $ | 38,481 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 38,607 | $ | 44,839 | $ | 139,960 | |||||
| Current Portion of Loan Payable | $ | - | $ | (11,168 | ) | $ | (16,629 | ) | $ | - | $ | - | $ | (26,279 | ) | $ | (21,228 | ) | $ | (75,304 | ) |
| Non-Current Portion of Loan Payable | $ | - | $ | 8,687 | $ | 21,852 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 12,328 | $ | 21,789 | $ | 64,656 | |||||
| (1) | On<br> August 21, 2020, the Company executed an installment sales contract with Mercedes Benz Coconut<br> Creek for the purchase of a 2019 Mercedes Benz Sprinter delivery van. The installment agreement<br> is for $55,841 with a zero interest rate payable over 60 months with a monthly payment of<br> $931 and is personally guaranteed by Mr. Carmichael. The loan balance as of December 31,<br> 2023 was $19,855 and $31,023 as of December 31, 2022. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| --- | --- | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (2) | On<br> May 19, 2021, subsidiary BLU3, executed an equipment finance agreement to finance the purchase<br> of certain plastic molding equipment through Navitas Credit Corp. (“Navitas”).<br> The amount financed is $75,764 payable over 60 equal monthly installments of $1,611 (the<br> “Navitas 1”). The equipment finance agreement contains customary events of default.<br> The loan balance as of December 31, 2023 was $38,481 and $54,930 as of December 31, 2022. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (3) | On<br> June 29, 2022, SSI executed an equipment financing agreement with NFS Leasing (“NFS<br> Leasing”) to secure replacement production molds. The total purchase price of the molds<br> was $84,500 of which $63,375 was financed by NFS Leasing on August 15, 2022. The financing<br> agreement has a 33 month term beginning in August 2022 with a monthly payment of $2,571.<br> The financing agreement contains customary events of default, is guaranteed by the Company<br> and NFS Leasing has a lien on all of the assets of SSI. The loan balance as of December 31,<br> 2023 and December 31, 2022 was $38,607 and $60,804, respectively. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| (4) | On<br> December 12, 2022, BLU3 executed an equipment finance agreement to finance the purchase of<br> certain plastic molding equipment through Navitas Credit Corp. (“Navitas”). The<br> amount financed is $63,689 payable over 36 equal monthly installments of $2,083 (“Navitas<br> 2”). The equipment finance agreement contains customary events of default. The loan<br> balance as of December 31, 2023 was $44,839 and $63,689 as of December 31, 2022. |
| F-19 |
| --- |
Note 11. Business Combinations
GoldCoast Scuba, LLC Asset Acquisition
On May 2, 2022, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement (the “Asset Purchase Agreement”) with Gold Coast Scuba, LLC, a Florida limited liability company (“Gold Coast Scuba”), Steven M. Gagas and William Frenier, the sole members of Gold Coast Scuba (together, the “LLC Members”) and Live Blue, Inc. Pursuant to the terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement, Live Blue acquired substantially all of Gold Coast Scuba’s assets and assumed certain non-material liabilities of the business associated with these assets. In addition, LBI assumed the lease for the premises for Gold Coast Scuba as part of this asset acquisition.
In
consideration for the assets purchased, the Company paid $150,000 to the LLC Members. The purchase price was paid by (a) the issuance to the LLC Members of an aggregate of 3,084,831 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Consideration Shares”) with a fair market value of $120,000; and (b) a cash payment of $30,000.
The Consideration Shares are subject to leak out agreements whereby the shareholders are unable to sell or transfer shares based upon the following:
Summary of Holding Period and Shares Eligible To Sold
| Holding<br> Period from Closing Date | Percentage<br> of shares<br><br> <br>eligible<br> to be sold or transferred | |
|---|---|---|
| 6<br> months | Up<br> to 25.0 | % |
| 9<br> months | Up<br> to 50.0 | % |
| 12<br> months | Up<br> to 100.0 | % |
The leak-out restriction may be waived by the Company upon written request by a LLC Member, if the Company’s common stock is trading on the NYSE American or Nasdaq, and has a rolling 30-day average trading volume of 50,000 shares per day; provided, however, that (i) only up to 5% of the previous days total volume can be sold in one day and (ii) only through executing trades “On the Offer.”
The
transaction costs associated with the acquisition were $10,000 in legal fees paid in cash.
While
the agreement was structured as an asset purchase agreement, we also assumed the operations of Gulf Coast Scuba resulting in the recognition of a business combination. During 2023 we recognized revenue of $302,724 and net loss of ($88,561) associated with this business. The business combination was not material for purposes of disclosing pro forma financial information. In connection with this transaction, we recognized the following assets and liabilities:
Summary of Asset Acquisition
| Fair Value | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Inventory | $ | 48,602 | |
| Fixed Assets | 50,579 | ||
| Retail Inventory | 60,819 | ||
| Right of use asset | 29,916 | ||
| Lease liability | (29,916 | ) | |
| Net Assets Acquired | $ | 160,000 |
| F-20 |
| --- |
Note 12. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net
The following table sets forth the changes in the carrying amount of the Company’ Goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Summary of Changes in Goodwill
| 2023 | 2022 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance, January 1 | $ | 249,986 | $ | 249,986 |
| Acquisitions of Submersible Systems, Inc. | - | - | ||
| Balance, December 31 | $ | 249,986 | $ | 249,986 |
The following table sets forth the components of the Company’s intangible assets at December 31, 2023:
Summary of Intangible Assets
| Amortization<br><br> <br>Period (Years) | Cost | Accumulated<br><br> <br>Amortization | Net Book Value | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intangible Assets Subject to amortization | |||||||||
| Trademarks | 15 | $ | 121,000 | $ | (18,779 | ) | $ | 102,221 | |
| Customer Relationships | 10 | 600,000 | (140,000 | ) | 460,000 | ||||
| Non-Compete Agreements | 5 | 22,000 | (10,266 | ) | 11,734 | ||||
| Total | $ | 743,000 | $ | (169,045 | ) | $ | 573,955 |
The aggregate amortization remaining on the intangible assets as of December 31, 2023 is a follows:
Schedule of Estimated Intangible Assets Amortization Expense
| Intangible<br><br> <br>Amortization | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $ | 72,467 |
| 2025 | 72,467 | |
| 2026 | 72,467 | |
| 2027 | 71,367 | |
| Thereafter | $ | 285,187 |
| Total | $ | 573,955 |
Note 13. Stockholders’ Equity Common Stock
On
January 17, 2022, the Company issued a law firm 1,000,000 shares of common stock with a fair value of $27,500 as part of the agreed upon compensation for a representation agreement.
On
January 31, 2022, the Company issued a consultant 121,212 shares of common stock with a fair value of $4,000 for consulting services related to the dive industry. On February 2, 2022, the Company issued Charles Hyatt, a director, 10,000,000 shares from the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $250,000.
On
February 2, 2022, the Company issued Grace Hyatt, the adult child of Charles Hyatt, a director, 600,000 shares from the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $15,000.
On
February 28, 2022, the Company issued a consultant, 85,106 shares of common stock with a fair value of $4,000 for consulting services related to the dive industry.
On
May 3, 2022, the Company issued 3,084,831 shares of common stock pursuant to the asset purchase agreement with Gold Coast Scuba, LLC with a fair value of $120,000.
| F-21 |
| --- |
On
May 31, 2022, the Company issued a consultant, 302,953 shares of common stock with a fair value of $12,000 for consulting services related to the dive industry.
On
June 17, 2022, the Company issued 280,000 shares of common stock to an employee as a retirement gift. The fair value of this stock was $11,060.
On
June 30, 2022, the Company issued 449,522 shares of common stock to the holders of convertible notes for payment of interest through June 30, 2022. The fair value of these shares was $23,048.
On
September 7, 2022, the Company issued to two accredited investors, 8,541,666 units of the Company, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and a two- year common stock purchase warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.024 per share in consideration of $205,000. The Company did not pay any fees or commissions in connection with the sale of the units.
On
September 30, 2022, the Company issued 136,527 shares of common stock to the holders of convertible notes for payment of interest for the three months ending September 30, 2022. The fair value of these shares was $7,000.
On
November 1, 2022, the Company issued an aggregate of 1,155,881 shares to the designated shareholders in accordance with the amended STS Agreement. The fair value of these shares was $30,000.
On December 13, 2022, the Company issued 5,714,286 units, each unit consists of one share of common stock and a two-year warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share to Charles Hyatt a director, in a private offering for proceeds of $100,000.
On
December 31, 2022, the Company issued 198,204 shares of common stock to the holders of convertible notes for payment of interest for the three months ending December 31, 2022. The fair value of these shares was $8,336.
On
January 18, 2023 and February 18, 2023, the Company issued to Charles Hyatt, a Company director, an aggregate of 11,428,570 units, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and a two-year common stock purchase warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share in consideration of $200,000.
On
March 31, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending March 31, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,336.
On
June 30, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending June 30, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,287.
On
September 30, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending September 30, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,287.
On
December 31, 2023, the Company issued 61,677 shares of common stock to Robert Carmichael for payment of interest on the convertible demand note for the three months ending December 31, 2023. The fair value of these shares was $1,287.
Preferred Stock
During the second quarter of 2010, the holder of the majority of the Company’s outstanding shares of common stock approved an amendment to the Company’s Articles of Incorporation authorizing the issuance of 10,000,000 shares of blank check preferred stock. The blank check preferred stock as authorized has such voting powers, designations, preferences, limitations, restrictions and relative rights as may be determined by our Board of Directors of the Company from time to time in accordance with the provisions of the Florida Business Corporation Act. In April 2011 the Board of Directors designated 425,000 shares of the blank check preferred stock as Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. Each share of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock is convertible into a share of the Company’s common stock at any time at the option of the holder at a conversion price of $18.23 per share. Holders of shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are entitled to 250 votes for each share held. The Company’s common stock and Series A Convertible Preferred Stock vote together as on any matters submitted to our shareholders for a vote. As and December 31, 2022 and 2021, the
425,000
shares of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock are owned by Robert Carmichael.
Equity Compensation Plan
On
May 26, 2021 the Company adopted an Equity Compensation Plan (the “Plan”). Under the Plan, stock options may be granted to employees, directors, and consultants in the form of incentive stock options or non-statutory stock options, stock purchase rights, time vested and/performance invested restricted stock, and stock appreciation rights and unrestricted shares. The maximum number of shares that may be issued under the Plan is 25,000,000 shares. The term of the Plan is ten years.
The Company also issued options outside of the plan that were not approved by the security holders. These options may be granted to employees, directors, and consultants in the form of incentive stock options or non-qualified stock options.
| F-22 |
| --- |
Equity Compensation Plan Information as of December 31, 2023:
Schedule of Equity Compensation Plan Information
| Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights (a) | Weighted – average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights (b) | Number of securities remaining available for future issuances under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a) (c) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equity Compensation Plans Approved by Security Holders | 3,275,000 | $ | .0400 | 21,725,000 | ||
| Equity Incentive Options issued outside of the Equity Compensation Plan | 64,164,637 | .0293 | — | |||
| Total | 67,439,637 | $ | .0298 | 21,725,000 |
Options
The
Company has issued options to purchase approximately 67,439,637 shares at an average price of $0.029 with a fair value of approximately $99,000. For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company issued options to purchase -0- and 5,710,901 shares, respectively. Upon exercise, shares of new common stock are issued by the Company.
For
the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company recognized an expense of approximately $81,424
and $951,400
, respectively, of non-cash compensation expense (included in General and Administrative expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statement of Operations) determined by application of a Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following inputs: exercise price, dividend yields, risk-free interest rate, and expected annual volatility. The Company uses straight-line amortization of compensation expense over the requisite service period for time-based options. For performance-based options the Company evaluates the likelihood of a vesting qualification being met, and will establish the expense based on that evaluation. The maximum contractual term of the Company’s stock options is 5
years. The Company recognizes forfeitures as
they occur. There are options to purchase approximately 41,057,753 shares that have vested as of December 31, 2023.
The Company uses the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to estimate the fair value of its stock option awards and warrant issuances. The calculation of the fair value of the awards using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model is affected by the Company’s stock price on the date of grant as well as assumptions regarding the following:
Scheduleof Valuation Assumptions of Options
| Year ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Expected volatility | 172.0% - 346.4 | % | 215.2% – 266.8 | % | ||
| Expected term | 1.5 – 5.0 Years | 2 - 2.50 Years | ||||
| Risk-free interest rate | 0.16% - 4.64 | % | 0.3% - 1.4 | % | ||
| Forfeiture Rate | 0.17 | % | 0.17 | % |
The expected volatility was determined with reference to the historical volatility of the Company’s stock. The Company uses historical data to estimate option exercise and employee termination within the valuation model. The expected term of options granted represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury rate in effect at the time of grant.
A summary of the status of the Company’s outstanding stock options as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and changes during the periods ending on that date is as follows
| F-23 |
| --- |
Schedule of Outstanding Stock Option Activity
| Weighted | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weighted | Average | ||||||||
| Average | Remaining | Aggregate | |||||||
| Number of | Exercise | Contractual | Intrinsic | ||||||
| Options | Price | Life in Years | Value | ||||||
| Outstanding at December 31, 2021 | 233,128,266 | $ | 0.0362 | 2.23 | |||||
| Granted | 5,710,901 | 0.0281 | |||||||
| Forfeited | (400,000 | ) | 0.0354 | ||||||
| Exercised | - | - | |||||||
| Cancelled | - | - | |||||||
| Outstanding – December 31, 2022 | 238,439,167 | $ | 0.0362 | 1.43 | |||||
| Exercisable – December 31, 2022 | 111,558,754 | $ | 0.0321 | 1.33 | $ | 68,994 | |||
| Granted | - | - | |||||||
| Forfeited | (170,999,530 | ) | 0.0379 | ||||||
| Exercised | - | - | |||||||
| Cancelled | - | - | |||||||
| Outstanding – December 31, 2023 | 67,439,637 | $ | 0.0360 | 1.43 | |||||
| Exercisable – December 31, 2023 | 41,057,753 | $ | 0.0211 | 0.81 | $ | - |
The following table summarizes information about employee stock options outstanding at December 31, 2023
Summary of Exercise Price of Employee Stock Options Outstanding
| Range of Exercise Price | Weighted average remaining life | Weighted average exercise price | Number exercisable at December 31, 2023 | Weighted average exercise price | Weighted average remaining life | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.018 - 0.0225 | 35,295,237 | 0.58 | $ | 0.0180 | 35,295,237 | $ | 0.0180 | 0.58 | |||
| 0.0229 - 0.0325 | 1,050,000 | 2.39 | $ | 0.0324 | 1,037,500 | $ | 0.0325 | 2.38 | |||
| 0.0360 - 0.0425 | 23,009,400 | 2.54 | $ | 0.0398 | 3,750,016 | $ | 0.0391 | 2.29 | |||
| 0.0440 - 0.0531 | 8,085,000 | 2.56 | $ | 0.0529 | 975,000 | $ | 0.0517 | 1.71 | |||
| Outstanding options | 67,439,637 | 1.51 | $ | 0.0360 | 41,057,753 | $ | 0.0211 | 0.81 |
All values are in US Dollars.
As
of December 31, 2023, the Company had approximately $1,504,700
of unrecognized pre-tax non-cash compensation
expense related to options to performance based options to purchase shares, which the Company expects to recognize, based on a weighted-average period of 2.1 years. The Company uses straight-line amortization of compensation expense over the requisite service period for time-based options. For performance-based options the Company evaluates the likelihood of a vesting qualification being met, and will establish the expense based on that evaluation.
Stock option expense recognized during the year ended December 31, 2023 and
December 31, 2022 was $81,424 and 951,414, respectively.
| F-24 |
| --- |
Warrants
On
February 2, 2022, the Company issued Charles Hyatt 10,000,000 shares of common stock upon the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $250,000.
On
February 2, 2022, the Company issued Grace Hyatt, the adult child of Charles Hyatt, 600,000 shares of common stock upon the exercise of a warrant at $0.025 per share in consideration of $15,000.
On
September 7, 2022, the Company issued an aggregate of 8,541,666 units to two accredited investors. Each unit consisted of one share of common stock and a two-year common stock purchase warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.024 per share in consideration of $205,000.
On
December 13, 2022, the Company issued to Charles Hyatt, 5,714,285 units. Each unit consisted of one share of common stock and a two-year common stock purchase warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share in consideration of $100,000.
On
January 18, 2023 and February 18, 2023, the Company issued to Charles Hyatt, an aggregate of 11,428,570 units, with each unit consisting of one share of common stock and a two-year common stock purchase warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0175 per share in consideration of $200,000.
A summary of the Company’s warrants as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and changes during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented below:
Schedule of Warrants Activity
| Weighted | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weighted | Average | ||||||||
| Average | Remaining | Aggregate | |||||||
| Number of | Exercise | Contractual | Intrinsic | ||||||
| Warrants | Price | Life in Years | Value | ||||||
| Outstanding at December 31, 2021 | - | $ | - | - | |||||
| Granted | 14,255,951 | 0.0214 | |||||||
| Forfeited | - | - | |||||||
| Exercised | - | - | |||||||
| Cancelled | - | - | |||||||
| Outstanding – December 31, 2022 | 18,255,951 | $ | 0.0245 | 1.55 | |||||
| Exercisable – December 31, 2022 | 18,255,951 | $ | 0.0245 | 1.55 | $ | 12,000 | |||
| Granted | 11,428,570 | 0.0175 | |||||||
| Forfeited | (4,000,000 | ) | - | ||||||
| Exercised | - | - | |||||||
| Cancelled | - | - | |||||||
| Outstanding – December 31, 2023 | 25,684,521 | $ | 0.0247 | 0.93 | |||||
| Exercisable – December 31, 2023 | 25,684,521 | $ | 0.0247 | 0.93 | $ | - |
Note 14. Income Taxes
The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred tax assets to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. While the Company has considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance, in the event the Company were to determine that it would not be able to realize all or part of its net deferred tax assets in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax assets would be charged to income in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should the Company determine that it would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of its net recorded amount, an adjustment to the deferred tax assets would increase income in the period such determination was made.
| F-25 |
| --- |
The components of the provision for income tax expense are as follows for the years ended:
Schedule of Provision for Income Tax Expense
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | ||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Current taxes | ||||||
| Federal | $ | — | $ | — | ||
| State | — | — | ||||
| Current taxes | — | — | ||||
| Change in deferred taxes | 347,400 | 680,108 | ||||
| Change in valuation allowance | (347,400 | ) | (680,108 | ) | ||
| Provision for income tax expense | $ | — | $ | — |
The following is a summary of the significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Summary of Significant Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | ||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Deferred tax assets: | ||||||
| Equity based compensation | $ | 416,237 | $ | 395,600 | ||
| Allowance for doubtful accounts | 13,800 | 7,200 | ||||
| Reserves for slow moving inventory | 47,800 | 42,200 | ||||
| Depreciation | 23,800 | 13,800 | ||||
| Reserve for recall | 3,200 | (33,700 | ) | |||
| Net operating loss carryforward | 2,027,000 | 1,759,300 | ||||
| Total deferred tax assets | 2,531,800 | 2,218,100 | ||||
| Deferred tax liabilities | ||||||
| Reserve for recall | - | (33,700 | ) | |||
| Total deferred tax asset (liability) | - | (33,700 | ) | |||
| Total deferred tax | 2,531,800 | 2,184,400 | ||||
| Valuation allowance | (2,531,800 | ) | (2,184,400 | ) | ||
| Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance | $ | - | $ | - |
The effective tax rate used for calculation of the deferred taxes as of December 31, 2023 was 25.35%. The Company has established a 100% valuation allowance against deferred tax assets of approximately $2,531,800, due to the uncertainty regarding realization reserve against the deferred tax assets. The change in valuation allowance was an increase of $347,400. The Company has approximately $3,346,650 of net loss carryforward that expire through 2037 and $4,651,143 that carryforward indefinitely but is limited to 80% of taxable income in any one year.
The
effective tax rate used for calculation of the deferred taxes as of December 31, 2022 was 25.35%
.
The Company has established a 100%
valuation
allowance against deferred tax assets of $2,184,400
due
to the uncertainty regarding realization reserve against the deferred tax assets. The change in valuation allowance was an increase of $347,400 .
The significant differences between the statutory tax rate and the effective tax rates for the Company for the years ended are as follows:
Schedule of Differences Between Statutory Tax Rate and Effective Tax Rate
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | ||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Statutory tax rate | (21.00 | )% | (21.00 | )% | ||
| State tax, net of Federal benefits | (4.28 | )% | (4.30 | )% | ||
| Permanent differences | 0.21 | % | 0.07 | % | ||
| Temporary differences | 3.68 | % | 10.90 | % | ||
| Change in valuation allowance | 21,39 | % | 14.35 | % | ||
| Effective tax rate | — | % | — | % |
The Company’s income tax returns for 2019 through 2023 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Services and state tax authorities.
| F-26 |
| --- |
Note 15. Commitments and Contingencies
Leases
On August 14, 2014, the Company entered into a thirty-seven month lease for its facilities in Pompano Beach, Florida, commencing on September 1, 2014. Terms included payment of a $5,367 security deposit; base rent of approximately $4,000 per month over the term of the lease plus sales tax; and payment of 10.76% of annual operating expenses (common areas maintenance), which was approximately $2,000 per month subject to periodic adjustment. On December 1, 2016, the Company entered into an amendment to the initial lease agreement, commencing on October 1, 2017, extending the term of the lease for an additional eighty-four months, expiring September 30, 2024. The base rent was increased to $4,626 per month with a 3% annual escalation throughout the amended term.
On January 4, 2018, the Company entered into a sixty-one month
lease renewal for its facility in
Huntington Beach, California commencing on February 1, 2018. Terms included base rent of approximately $9,300
per
month for the first 12 months with an annual escalation clause of 2.5
%
thereafter. The Company paid a security deposit of $8,450 upon entering into the lease.
On November 11, 2018, the Company entered a sixty-nine month lease commencing on January 1, 2019 for approximately 8,025 square feet adjoining its existing facility in Pompano Beach, Florida. Terms of the new lease include a $6,527 security deposit; initial base rent of approximately $4,848 per month escalating at 3% per year during the term of the lease plus Florida state sales tax and 10.11% of the buildings annual operating expenses (common area maintenance) which is approximately $1,679 per month, subject to adjustment as provided in the lease.
On
May 2, 2022, LBI entered into a lease assignment agreement with Gold Coast Scuba, LLC and Vicnsons Realty Group, LLC whereby LBI is the assignee to the remainder of the lease for the property located at 259 Commercial Blvd., Suites 2 and 3 in Lauderdale-By-The Sea, Florida. The lease is in its third year of a three-year term and has a $2,816 per month base rent. The lease provides an option to renew for an additional term of two years with an increase of base rent by 3.5%.
On
September 14, 2022, SSI entered into a sixty-month lease renewal for its facility in Huntington Beach, California effective February 1, 2022. Terms included base rent of approximately $17,550 per month for the first 24 months with an annual escalation clause of 3.0% thereafter. Obligations under the lease are guaranteed by the Company. The Company paid an additional security deposit of $10,727 upon entering into the lease.
On
September 30, 2022, SSI entered into a sublease of its facility in Huntington Beach, California with Camburg Engineering, Inc.(“Tenant”) commencing October 1, 2022, The term of the sublease is through December 31, 2023 with a base monthly rent of $2,247 for the first twelve months with an 3% annual escalation thereafter. The Tenant also pays a monthly common area maintenance of $112. The Tenant provided a security deposit of $2,426 upon entering into the sublease.
RoyaltyAgreement
On
June 30, 2020, the Company entered into Amendment No. 2 to its Patent License Agreement with Setaysha Technical Solutions, LLC (“STS”). The amendment set certain limits and expectations of the assistance from STS related to designing and commercializing certain diving products and revised the royalty payments due to STS as consideration for uncompensated services. The Company is obligated to pay STS a minimum yearly royalty of $60,000, or $15,000 per fiscal quarter, beginning in December 2019 and increasing by 2.15% per year. The minimum royalty was temporarily increased to $60,000 for fiscal years 2022, 2023 and 2024, with a fourth quarter true up against earned royalties. In addition, if the Company terminates the Agreement with STS prior to December 31, 2023, the Company is obligated to pay STS $180,000, less cumulative royalties paid in excess of $200,174 for the years 2019 through 2024. In accordance with the amendment, the Company will pay additional minimum royalties of $60,000 per year or $15,000 per quarter for the years 2022 through 2024. On November 1, 2022 the Company issued to the designees of STS 1,155,881 shares of common stock with a fair value of $30,000 in accordance with the Patent License Agreement. Royalty recorded under this Agreement was $138,643 and $203,621 for twelve months ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively. As included in other liabilities, accrued royalties under this agreement were $41,151 and $18,870 at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Consultingand Employment Agreements
On
June 9, 2020, the Company entered into a one-year advertising and marketing agreement with Figment Design for $8,840 per month which agreement terminated on July 31, 2021.
On
November 5, 2020, the Company entered into a three-year employment agreement with Christopher Constable (the “Constable Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Constable serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Previously, Mr. Constable had provided advisory services to the Company through an agreement with Brandywine LLC. In consideration for his services, Mr. Constable shall receive (i) an annual base salary of $200,000, payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Company, and (ii) upon execution of the Employment Agreement and on each anniversary of the date of the Agreement during the term, a non-qualified immediately exercisable five-year option to purchase that number of shares equal to $100,000 of the value of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of issuance. Accordingly, on November 5, 2020, Mr. Constable was issued an option to purchase 5,434,783 shares of the common stock at an exercise price of $0.0184 per share and on November 5, 2021, Mr. Constable was issued an option to purchase 2,403,846 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.0401 per share.
| F-27 |
| --- |
In addition, Mr. Constable shall be entitled to receive four-year stock options to purchase shares of common stock at an exercise price equal to $0.0184 per share in the following amounts based upon the following performance milestones during the term of the Constable Employment Agreement: (i) 2,000,000 shares – if the Company’s total net revenues, as reported in its statement of operations in its financial statements in its filings with the SEC, including as a result of a stock or asset acquisition of a third party (“Net Revenues”) are in excess of $5,000,000, in the aggregate, for four consecutive fiscal quarters; (ii) 3,000,000 shares – if the Company’s Net Revenues are in excess of $7,500,000, in the aggregate, for four consecutive fiscal quarters; (iii) 5,000,000 shares – if the Company’s Net Revenues are in excess of $10,000,000, in the aggregate, for four consecutive fiscal quarters; and (iv) 20,000,000 shares – if the Company’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ or New York Stock Exchange.
On June 24, 2023, Christopher Constable submitted his resignation as Chief Executive Officer of Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc., a Florida corporation (the “Company”) effective July 7, 2023. Mr. Constable will remain a member of the Company’s Board of Directors and in a consulting capacity until further notice. Mr. Constable’s resignation did not arise from any disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to the Company’s operations, policies or practices.
On
March 1, 2021, the Company entered into an investor relations consulting agreement with BGM Equity Partners, LLC. The term of the agreement is twelve months. As compensation, the Company issued 3,000,000 shares of its common stock valued at $120,000 to BGM Equity Partners. The agreement expired on March 1, 2022.
On
August 1, 2021, the Company and Blake Carmichael entered into a three-year employment agreement (the “Blake Carmichael Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Carmichael shall serve as Chief Executive Officer of BLU3. In consideration for his services, Blake Carmichael shall receive (i) an annual base salary of $120,000
,
payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Company, and (ii) a cash bonus equal to 5% of the net income of BLU3 payable quarterly, beginning with the first full calendar quarter after the execution of the agreement. (iii) upon execution of the Employment Agreement, a non-qualified five-year stock option to purchase 3,759,400
shares
at $0.0399 , 33.3% of which shares vest immediately, 33.3% vest on the second anniversary, and 33.3% vest on the third anniversary of the agreement.
In addition, Blake Carmichael shall be entitled to receive a five-year stock option to purchase up to 18,000,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.0399 per share that will vest upon annual financial metrics based upon a revenue measurement, expediency measurement and an EBITDA measurement.
On September 3, 2021, SSI and Christeen Buban entered into a three-year employment agreement (the “Buban Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Ms. Buban shall serve as the President of SSI. In consideration for her services, Mrs. Buban shall receive (i) an annual base salary of $110,000, payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Company, (ii) a car allowance and cell phone allowance of $10,800 per year, (iii) a five-year option issued under the Plan to purchase 300,000 shares of common stock of the Company at $0.0531 per share, which option vests quarterly over the eight calendar quarters.
In addition, Mrs. Buban shall be entitled to receive a five-year stock option to purchase up to 7,110,000 shares of common stock of the Company at an exercise price of $0.0531 per share, which vests upon the attainment of certain defined annual financial metrics, as set forth in the Buban Employment Agreement.
On
May 2, 2022, the Company entered into a two-year employment agreement with Steven Gagas (the “Gagas Employment Agreement”) pursuant to which Mr. Gagas shall serve as the General Manager of the dive shop currently operating within LBI. In consideration for his services Mr. Gagas shall receive an annual salary of $50,000.
On
January 17, 2022, the Company entered into an agreement with The Crone Law Group, PC (“CLG”) for the provision of legal services. In consideration therefor, the Company will pay CLG a monthly flat fee of $3,000 for the SEC reporting work, and its normal hourly rate for any other legal work and issued 1,000,000 shares of common stock with a fair market value of $27,500 to CLG.
On
December 22, 2022, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (the “CPSC”) issued a voluntary recall notice for the Nomad tankless dive system, which is distributed by BLU3, Inc. As part of the recall procedure, the CPSC has approved the Company’s proposed remedy for the recall and BLU3 will begin to receive units back from consumers to repair affected Nomad units. The Company has evaluated the costs of this recall and has deemed it necessary to set an allowance of $160,500 for such costs. In 2023 the Company finalized the recall and adjusted the reserve down to approximately $86,300 to reflect the actual impact on the Company’s financial condition.
Legal
The
Company was a defendant in an action, Basil Vann, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Jeffrey William Morris v. Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc., filed on May 6, 2019 in the Circuit Court of the 17th Judicial Circuit, Broward County, Florida. The complaint, related to consulting services provided to the Company by the deceased between 2005 and 2017, alleged breach of contract and quantum meruit and sought $15,870.97 in unpaid consulting fees together with interest. In April 2020, the Company filed a Motion to Dismiss, and at a hearing held in May 2021, the Court struck certain allegations contained in the complaint, the parties agreed that the quantum meruit allegation is deemed to be an alternative to the breach of contract allegation but permitted certain other allegations to stand. The parties entered mediation pursuant to the Court’s order. This action was settled for $10,000 on July 12, 2021. The Company paid monthly installments of $1,000. The settlement was fully paid during the second quarter of 2022.
Note 16. Subsequent Events
On February 8, 2024, Brownies Marine Group, Inc. (the “Company”), issued a promissory note (the “Note”) to Charles Hyatt, a director of the Company (the “Lender”) in the principal amount of $280,000. The Note bears interest is payable in monthly installments at the rate of 9.9%per annum and matures on August 7, 2024.
The proceeds of the Note will primarily be used for general working capital purposes.
Events of default on the Note include insolvency and failure to pay principal or interest when due and upon the occurrence of an event of default as described in the Note, the outstanding interest and principal will become immediately due and payable. The default interest rate on the Note is 18%. The Note can be repaid at any time without penalty or premium.
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Exhibit10.2

STANDARDINDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL MULTI-TENANT LEASE - GROSS
| 1. | Basic Provisions (“Basic Provisions”). |
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1.1 Parties. This Lease (“Lease”), dated for reference purposes only September 14, 2022, is made by and between Slater Palms LLC (“Lessor”) and Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation(“Lessee”), (collectively the “Parties”, or individually a “Party”).
1.2(a) Premises: That certain real property, including all improvements therein or to be provided by Lessor under the terms of this Lease, commonly known as (street address, unit/suite, city, state, zip):
7413Slater Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (“Premises”).The Premises are located in the County of Orange, and are generally described as (describe briefly the nature of the Premises and the “Project”): a freestanding industrialbuilding of approximately 13,000 square feet which is part of a larger multi-tenant business park. In addition to Lessee’s rights to use and occupy the Premises as hereinafter specified, Lessee shall have non-exclusive rights to any utility raceways of the building containing the Premises (“Building”) and to the Common Areas (as defined in Paragraph 2.7 below), but shall not have any rights to the roof, or exterior walls of the Building or to any other buildings in the Project. The Premises, the Building, the Common Areas, the land upon which they are located, along with all other buildings and improvements thereon, are herein collectively referred to as the “Project.” (See also Paragraph 2)
1.2(b) Parking: Twenty-six (26) unreserved vehicle parking spaces. (See also Paragraph 2.6)
1.3 Term: Five (5) years and zero (0) months (“Original Term”) commencing February 1,2023 (“Commencement Date”) and ending January 31, 2028 (“Expiration Date”). (See also Paragraph 3)
1.4 Early Possession: If the Premises are available Lessee may have non-exclusive possession of the Premises commencing N/A(“Early Possession Date”). (See also Paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3)
1.5 Base Rent: $17,550.00 per month (“Base Rent”), payable on the first (1st) day of each month commencing February 1, 2023. (See also Paragraph 4)
☒ If this box is checked, there are provisions in this Lease for the Base Rent to be adjusted. See Paragraph 50.
1.6 Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses: — percent ( —%) (“Lessee’sShare”). In the event that the size of the Premises and/or the Project are modified during the term of this Lease, Lessor shall recalculate Lessee’s Share to reflect such modification.
1.7 Base Rent and Other Monies Paid Upon Execution:
| (a) | Base Rent: — for the period —. |
|---|---|
| (b) | Common Area Operating Expenses: The current estimate for the period — is —. |
| --- | --- |
| (c) | Security Deposit: See Paragraph 53 (“Security Deposit”). (See also Paragraph 5) |
| --- | --- |
| (d) | Other: — for —. |
| --- | --- |
| (e) | Total Due Upon Execution of this Lease: $10,727.00. |
| --- | --- |
1.8 Agreed Use: General office, warehousing and manufacturing of underwater breathing systems. (See also Paragraph 6)
1.9 Insuring Party. Lessor is the “Insuring Party”. (See also Paragraph 8)
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1.10 Real Estate Brokers. (See also Paragraph 15 and 25)
(a) Representation: Each Party acknowledges receiving a Disclosure Regarding Real Estate Agency Relationship, confirms and consents to the following agency relationships in this Lease with the following real estate brokers (“Broker(s)”) and/or their agents (“Agent(s)”):
Lessor’s Brokerage Firm
Lee& Associates®-Newport Beach License No. 01197433 is the broker of (check one): ☒ the Lessor; or ☐ both the Lessee and Lessor (dual agent).
Lessor’s Agent
BradSchneider/Nick Krakower License No. 01887613/02100512 is (check one): ☒ the Lessor’s Agent (salesperson or broker associate); or ☐ both the Lessee’s Agent and the Lessor’s Agent (dual agent).
Lessee’s Brokerage Firm
_________________________ License No. ___________________ Is the broker of (check one): ☐ the Lessee; or ☐ both the Lessee and Lessor (dual agent).
Lessee’s Agent
_________________________ License No. _____________________ is (check one): ☐ the Lessee’s Agent (salesperson or broker associate); or ☐ both the Lessee’s Agent and the Lessor’s Agent (dual agent).
(b) Payment to Brokers. Upon execution and delivery of this Lease by both Parties, Lessor shall pay to the Brokers the brokerage fee agreed to in a separate written agreement ~~(or if there is no such agreement, the sum of ________ or ______ % of the total BaseRent)~~ for the brokerage services rendered by the Brokers.
1.11 Guarantor. The obligations of the Lessee under this Lease are to be guaranteed by ____________ (“Guarantor”). (See also Paragraph 37)
1.12 Attachments. Attached hereto are the following, all of which constitute a part of this Lease:
☒ an Addendum consisting of Paragraphs 50 through 53;
☐ a site plan depicting the Premises;
☐ a site plan depicting the Project;
☐ a current set of the Rules and Regulations for the Project;
☐ a current set of the Rules and Regulations adopted by the owners’ association;
☐ a Work Letter;
☒ other (specify): Arbitration Agreement (54) and Guaranty of Lease.
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2.Premises.
2.1 Letting. Lessor hereby leases to Lessee, and Lessee hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises, for the term, at the rental, and upon all of the terms, covenants and conditions set forth in this Lease. While the approximate square footage of the Premises may have been used in the marketing of the Premises for purposes of comparison, the Base Rent stated herein is NOT tied to square footage and is not subject to adjustment should the actual size be determined to be different. NOTE: Lessee is advised to verify the actual sizeprior to executing this Lease.
2.2 Condition. Lessor shall deliver that portion of the Premises contained within the Building (“Unit”) to Lessee broom clean and free of debris on the Commencement Date or the Early Possession Date, whichever first occurs (“Start Date”), and, so long as the required service contracts described in Paragraph 7.1(b) below are obtained by Lessee and in effect within thirty days following the Start Date, warrants that the existing electrical, plumbing, fire sprinkler, lighting, heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems (“HVAC”), loading doors, sump pumps, if any, and all other such elements in the Unit, other than those constructed by Lessee, shall be in good operating condition on said date, that the structural elements of the roof, bearing walls and foundation of the Unit shall be free of material defects, and that the Unit does not contain hazardous levels of any mold or fungi defined as toxic under applicable state or federal law. If a non-compliance with such warranty exists as of the Start Date, or if one of such systems or elements should malfunction or fail within the appropriate warranty period, Lessor shall, as Lessor’s sole obligation with respect to such matter, except as otherwise provided in this Lease, promptly after receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth with specificity the nature and extent of such non-compliance, malfunction or failure, rectify same at Lessor’s expense. The warranty periods shall be as follows: (i) 6 months as to the HVAC systems, and (ii) 30 days as to the remaining systems and other elements of the Unit. If Lessee does not give Lessor the required notice within the appropriate warranty period, correction of any such non-compliance, malfunction or failure shall be the obligation of Lessee at Lessee’s sole cost and expense (except for the repairs to the fire sprinkler systems, roof, foundations, and/or bearing walls - see Paragraph 7). Lessor also warrants, that unless otherwise specified in writing, Lessor is unaware of (i) any recorded Notices of Default affecting the Premise; (ii) any delinquent amounts due under any loan secured by the Premises; and (iii) any bankruptcy proceeding affecting the Premises.
2.3 Compliance. Lessor warrants that to the best of its knowledge the improvements on the Premises and the Common Areas comply with the building codes, applicable laws, covenants or restrictions of record, regulations, and ordinances (“Applicable Requirements”) that were in effect at the time that each improvement, or portion thereof, was constructed. Said warranty does not apply to the use to which Lessee will put the Premises, modifications which may be required by the Americans with Disabilities Act or any similar laws as a result of Lessee’s use (see Paragraph 49), or to any Alterations or Utility Installations (as defined in Paragraph 7.3(a)) made or to be made by Lessee. NOTE: Lessee is responsible for determining whether or not the Applicable Requirements, and especially thezoning are appropriate for Lessee’s intended use, and acknowledges that past uses of the Premises may no longer be allowed. If the Premises do not comply with said warranty, Lessor shall, except as otherwise provided, promptly after receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth with specificity the nature and extent of such non-compliance, rectify the same at Lessor’s expense. If Lessee does not give Lessor written notice of a non-compliance with this warranty within 6 months following the Start Date, correction of that non-compliance shall be the obligation of Lessee at Lessee’s sole cost and expense. If the Applicable Requirements are hereafter changed so as to require during the term of this Lease the construction of an addition to or an alteration of the Unit, Premises and/or Building, the remediation of any Hazardous Substance, or the reinforcement or other physical modification of the Unit, Premises and/or Building (“Capital Expenditure”), Lessor and Lessee shall allocate the cost of such work as follows:
(a) Subject to Paragraph 2.3(c) below, if such Capital Expenditures are required as a result of the specific and unique use of the Premises by Lessee as compared with uses by tenants in general, Lessee shall be fully responsible for the cost thereof, provided, however, that if such Capital Expenditure is required during the last 2 years of this Lease and the cost thereof exceeds 6 months’ Base Rent, Lessee may instead terminate this Lease unless Lessor notifies Lessee, in writing, within 10 days after receipt of Lessee’s termination notice that Lessor has elected to pay the difference between the actual cost thereof and the amount equal to 6 months’ Base Rent. If Lessee elects termination, Lessee shall immediately cease the use of the Premises which requires such Capital Expenditure and deliver to Lessor written notice specifying a termination date at least 90 days thereafter. Such termination date shall, however, in no event be earlier than the last day that Lessee could legally utilize the Premises without commencing such Capital Expenditure.
(b) If such Capital Expenditure is not the result of the specific and unique use of the Premises by Lessee (such as, governmentally mandated seismic modifications), then Lessor shall pay for such Capital Expenditure and Lessee shall only be obligated to pay, each month during the remainder of the term of this Lease or any extension thereof, on the date that on which the Base Rent is due, an amount equal to 1/144th of the portion of such costs reasonably attributable to the Premises. Lessee shall pay Interest on the balance but may prepay its obligation at any time. If, however, such Capital Expenditure is required during the last 2 years of this Lease or if Lessor reasonably determines that it is not economically feasible to pay its share thereof, Lessor shall have the option to terminate this Lease upon 90 days prior written notice to Lessee unless Lessee notifies Lessor, in writing, within 10 days after receipt of Lessor’s termination notice that Lessee will pay for such Capital Expenditure. If Lessor does not elect to terminate, and fails to tender its share of any such Capital Expenditure, Lessee may advance such funds and deduct same, with Interest, from Rent until Lessor’s share of such costs have been fully paid. If Lessee is unable to finance Lessor’s share, or if the balance of the Rent due and payable for the remainder of this Lease is not sufficient to fully reimburse Lessee on an offset basis, Lessee shall have the right to terminate this Lease upon 30 days written notice to Lessor.
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(c) Notwithstanding the above, the provisions concerning Capital Expenditures are intended to apply only to non-voluntary, unexpected, and new Applicable Requirements. If the Capital Expenditures are instead triggered by Lessee as a result of an actual or proposed change in use, change in intensity of use, or modification to the Premises then, and in that event, Lessee shall either: (i) immediately cease such changed use or intensity of use and/or take such other steps as may be necessary to eliminate the requirement for such Capital Expenditure, or (ii) complete such Capital Expenditure at its own expense. Lessee shall not have any right to terminate this Lease.
2.4 Acknowledgements. Lessee acknowledges that: (a) it has been given an opportunity to inspect and measure the Premises; (b) it has been advised by Lessor and/or Brokers to satisfy itself with respect to the size and condition of the Premises (including but not limited to the electrical, HVAC and fire sprinkler systems, security, environmental aspects, and compliance with Applicable Requirements and the Americans with Disabilities Act), and their suitability for Lessee’s intended use; (c) Lessee has made such investigation as it deems necessary with reference to such matters and assumes all responsibility therefor as the same relate to its occupancy of the Premises; (d) it is not relying on any representation as to the size of the Premises made by Brokers or Lessor; (e) the square footage of the Premises was not material to Lessee’s decision to lease the Premises and pay the Rent stated herein; and (f) neither Lessor, Lessor’s agents, nor Brokers have made any oral or written representations or warranties with respect to said matters other than as set forth in this Lease. In addition, Lessor acknowledges that: (i) Brokers have made no representations, promises or warranties concerning Lessee’s ability to honor the Lease or suitability to occupy the Premises, and (ii) it is Lessor’s sole responsibility to investigate the financial capability and/or suitability of all proposed tenants.
2.5 Lessee as Prior Owner/Occupant. The warranties made by Lessor in Paragraph 2 shall be of no force or effect if immediately prior to the Start Date Lessee was the owner or occupant of the Premises. In such event, Lessee shall be responsible for any necessary corrective work.
2.6 Vehicle Parking. Lessee shall be entitled to use the number of Parking Spaces specified in Paragraph 1.2(b) on those portions of the Common Areas designated from time to time by Lessor for parking. Lessee shall not use more parking spaces than said number. Said parking spaces shall be used for parking by vehicles no larger than full-size passenger automobiles or pick-up trucks, herein called “Permitted Size Vehicles.” Lessor may regulate the loading and unloading of vehicles by adopting Rules and Regulations as provided in Paragraph 2.9. No vehicles other than Permitted Size Vehicles may be parked in the Common Area without the prior written permission of Lessor. In addition:
(a) Lessee shall not permit or allow any vehicles that belong to or are controlled by Lessee or Lessee’s employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors or invitees to be loaded, unloaded, or parked in areas other than those designated by Lessor for such activities.
(b) Lessee shall not service or store any vehicles in the Common Areas.
(c) If Lessee permits or allows any of the prohibited activities described in this Paragraph 2.6, then Lessor shall have the right, without notice, in addition to such other rights and remedies that it may have, to remove or tow away the vehicle involved and charge the cost to Lessee, which cost shall be immediately payable upon demand by Lessor.
2.7 Common Areas - Definition. The term “Common Areas” is defined as all areas and facilities outside the Premises and within the exterior boundary line of the Project and interior utility raceways and installations within the Unit that are provided and designated by the Lessor from time to time for the general non-exclusive use of Lessor, Lessee and other tenants of the Project and their respective employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors and invitees, including parking areas, loading and unloading areas, trash areas, roofs, roadways, walkways, driveways and landscaped areas.
2.8 Common Areas - Lessee’s Rights. Lessor grants to Lessee, for the benefit of Lessee and its employees, suppliers, shippers, contractors, customers and invitees, during the term of this Lease, the non-exclusive right to use, in common with others entitled to such use, the Common Areas as they exist from time to time, subject to any rights, powers, and privileges reserved by Lessor under the terms hereof or under the terms of any rules and regulations or restrictions governing the use of the Project. Under no circumstances shall the right herein granted to use the Common Areas be deemed to include the right to store any property, temporarily or permanently, in the Common Areas. Any such storage shall be permitted only by the prior written consent of Lessor or Lessor’s designated agent, which consent may be revoked at any time. In the event that any unauthorized storage shall occur, then Lessor shall have the right, without notice, in addition to such other rights and remedies that it may have, to remove the property and charge the cost to Lessee, which cost shall be immediately payable upon demand by Lessor.
2.9 Common Areas - Rules and Regulations. Lessor or such other person(s) as Lessor may appoint shall have the exclusive control and management of the Common Areas and shall have the right, from time to time, to establish, modify, amend and enforce reasonable rules and regulations (“Rules and Regulations”) for the management, safety, care, and cleanliness of the grounds, the parking and unloading of vehicles and the preservation of good order, as well as for the convenience of other occupants or tenants of the Building and the Project and their invitees. Lessee agrees to abide by and conform to all such Rules and Regulations, and shall use its best efforts to cause its employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors and invitees to so abide and conform. Lessor shall not be responsible to Lessee for the non-compliance with said Rules and Regulations by other tenants of the Project.
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2.10 Common Areas - Changes. Lessor shall have the right, in Lessor’s sole discretion, from time to time:
(a) To make changes to the Common Areas, including, without limitation, changes in the location, size, shape and number of driveways, entrances, parking spaces, parking areas, loading and unloading areas, ingress, egress, direction of traffic, landscaped areas, walkways and utility raceways;
(b) To close temporarily any of the Common Areas for maintenance purposes so long as reasonable access to the Premises remains available;
(c) To designate other land outside the boundaries of the Project to be a part of the Common Areas;
(d) To add additional buildings and improvements to the Common Areas;
(e) To use the Common Areas while engaged in making additional improvements, repairs or alterations to the Project, or any portion thereof; and
(f) To do and perform such other acts and make such other changes in, to or with respect to the Common Areas and Project as Lessor may, in the exercise of sound business judgment, deem to be appropriate.
3.Term.
3.1 Term. The Commencement Date, Expiration Date and Original Term of this Lease are as specified in Paragraph 1.3.
3.2 Early Possession. Any provision herein granting Lessee Early Possession of the Premises is subject to and conditioned upon the Premises being available for such possession prior to the Commencement Date. Any grant of Early Possession only conveys a non-exclusive right to occupy the Premises. If Lessee totally or partially occupies the Premises prior to the Commencement Date, the obligation to pay Base Rent shall be abated for the period of such Early Possession. All other terms of this Lease (including but not limited to the obligations to pay Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses, Real Property Taxes and insurance premiums and to maintain the Premises) shall be in effect during such period. Any such Early Possession shall not affect the Expiration Date.
3.3 Delay In Possession. Lessor agrees to use commercially reasonable efforts to deliver exclusive possession of the Premises to Lessee by the Commencement Date. If, despite said efforts, Lessor is unable to deliver possession by such date, Lessor shall not be subject to any liability therefor, nor shall such failure affect the validity of this Lease or change the Expiration Date. Lessee shall not, however, be obligated to pay Rent or perform its other obligations until Lessor delivers possession of the Premises and any period of rent abatement that Lessee would otherwise have enjoyed shall run from the date of delivery of possession and continue for a period equal to what Lessee would otherwise have enjoyed under the terms hereof, but minus any days of delay caused by the acts or omissions of Lessee. If possession is not delivered within 60 days after the Commencement Date, as the same may be extended under the terms of any Work Letter executed by Parties, Lessee may, at its option, by notice in writing within 10 days after the end of such 60 day period, cancel this Lease, in which event the Parties shall be discharged from all obligations hereunder. If such written notice is not received by Lessor within said 10 day period, Lessee’s right to cancel shall terminate. If possession of the Premises is not delivered within 120 days after the Commencement Date, this Lease shall terminate unless other agreements are reached between Lessor and Lessee, in writing.
3.4 Lessee Compliance. Lessor shall not be required to tender possession of the Premises to Lessee until Lessee complies with its obligation to provide evidence of insurance (Paragraph 8.5). Pending delivery of such evidence, Lessee shall be required to perform all of its obligations under this Lease from and after the Start Date, including the payment of Rent, notwithstanding Lessor’s election to withhold possession pending receipt of such evidence of insurance. Further, if Lessee is required to perform any other conditions prior to or concurrent with the Start Date, the Start Date shall occur but Lessor may elect to withhold possession until such conditions are satisfied.
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4.Rent.
4.1. Rent Defined. All monetary obligations of Lessee to Lessor under the terms of this Lease (except for the Security Deposit) are deemed to be rent (“Rent”).
4.2 Common Area Operating Expenses. Lessee shall pay to Lessor during the term hereof, in addition to the Base Rent, Lessee’s Share (as specified in Paragraph 1.6) of all Common Area Operating Expenses, as hereinafter defined, during each calendar year of the term of this Lease, in accordance with the following provisions:
(a) The following costs relating to the ownership and operation of the Project are defined as “Common Area Operating Expenses”:
(i) Costs relating to the operation, repair and maintenance, in neat, clean, good order and condition, but not the replacement (see subparagraph (e)), of the following:
(aa) The Common Areas and Common Area improvements, including parking areas, loading and unloading areas, trash areas, roadways, parkways, walkways, driveways, landscaped areas, bumpers, irrigation systems, Common Area lighting facilities, fences and gates, elevators, roofs, exterior walls of the buildings, building systems and roof drainage systems.
(bb) Exterior signs and any tenant directories.
(cc) Any fire sprinkler systems.
(dd) All other areas and improvements that are within the exterior boundaries of the Project but outside of the Premises and/or any other space occupied by a tenant.
(ii) The cost of water, gas, electricity and telephone to service the Common Areas and any utilities not separately metered.
(iii) The cost of trash disposal, pest control services, property management, security services, owners’ association dues and fees, the cost to repaint the exterior of any structures and the cost of any environmental inspections.
(iv) Reserves set aside for maintenance and repair of Common Areas and Common Area equipment.
(v) Any increase above the Base Real Property Taxes (as defined in Paragraph 10).
(vi) Any “Insurance Cost Increase” (as defined in Paragraph 8).
(vii) Any deductible portion of an insured loss concerning the Building or the Common Areas.
(viii) Auditors’, accountants’ and attorneys’ fees and costs related to the operation, maintenance, repair and replacement of the Project.
(ix) The cost of any capital improvement to the Building or the Project not covered under the provisions of Paragraph 2.3 provided; however, that Lessor shall allocate the cost of any such capital improvement over a 12 year period and Lessee shall not be required to pay more than Lessee’s Share of 1/144th of the cost of such capital improvement in any given month. Lessee shall pay Interest on the unamortized balance but may prepay its obligation at any time.
(x) The cost of any other services to be provided by Lessor that are stated elsewhere in this Lease to be a Common Area Operating Expense.
(b) Any Common Area Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes that are specifically attributable to the Unit, the Building or to any other building in the Project or to the operation, repair and maintenance thereof, shall be allocated entirely to such Unit, Building, or other building. However, any Common Area Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes that are not specifically attributable to the Building or to any other building or to the operation, repair and maintenance thereof, shall be equitably allocated by Lessor to all buildings in the Project.
(c) The inclusion of the improvements, facilities and services set forth in Subparagraph 4.2(a) shall not be deemed to impose an obligation upon Lessor to either have said improvements or facilities or to provide those services unless the Project already has the same, Lessor already provides the services, or Lessor has agreed elsewhere in this Lease to provide the same or some of them.
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(d) Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses is payable monthly on the same day as the Base Rent is due hereunder. The amount of such payments shall be based on Lessor’s estimate of the annual Common Area Operating Expenses. Within 60 days after written request (but not more than once each year) Lessor shall deliver to Lessee a reasonably detailed statement showing Lessee’s Share of the actual Common Area Operating Expenses for the preceding year. If Lessee’s payments during such year exceed Lessee’s Share, Lessor shall credit the amount of such over-payment against Lessee’s future payments. If Lessee’s payments during such year were less than Lessee’s Share, Lessee shall pay to Lessor the amount of the deficiency within 10 days after delivery by Lessor to Lessee of the statement.
(e) Common Area Operating Expenses shall not include the cost of replacing equipment or capital components such as the roof, foundations, exterior walls or Common Area capital improvements, such as the parking lot paving, elevators, fences that have a useful life for accounting purposes of 5 years or more.
(f) Common Area Operating Expenses shall not include any expenses paid by any tenant directly to third parties, or as to which Lessor is otherwise reimbursed by any third party, other tenant, or insurance proceeds.
4.3 Payment. Lessee shall cause payment of Rent to be received by Lessor in lawful money of the United States, without offset or deduction (except as specifically permitted in this Lease), on or before the day on which it is due. All monetary amounts shall be rounded to the nearest whole dollar. In the event that any statement or invoice prepared by Lessor is inaccurate such inaccuracy shall not constitute a waiver and Lessee shall be obligated to pay the amount set forth in this Lease. Rent for any period during the term hereof which is for less than one full calendar month shall be prorated based upon the actual number of days of said month. Payment of Rent shall be made to Lessor at its address stated herein or to such other persons or place as Lessor may from time to time designate in writing. Acceptance of a payment which is less than the amount then due shall not be a waiver of Lessor’s rights to the balance of such Rent, regardless of Lessor’s endorsement of any check so stating. In the event that any check, draft, or other instrument of payment given by Lessee to Lessor is dishonored for any reason, Lessee agrees to pay to Lessor the sum of $25 in addition to any Late Charge and Lessor, at its option, may require all future Rent be paid by cashier’s check. Payments will be applied first to accrued late charges and attorney’s fees, second to accrued interest, then to Base Rent and Common Area Operating Expenses, and any remaining amount to any other outstanding charges or costs.
5.Security Deposit. Lessee shall deposit with Lessor upon execution hereof the Security Deposit as security for Lessee’s faithful performance of its obligations under this Lease. If Lessee fails to pay Rent, or otherwise Defaults under this Lease, Lessor may use, apply or retain all or any portion of said Security Deposit for the payment of any amount already due Lessor, for Rents which will be due in the future, and/ or to reimburse or compensate Lessor for any liability, expense, loss or damage which Lessor may suffer or incur by reason thereof. If Lessor uses or applies all or any portion of the Security Deposit, Lessee shall within 10 days after written request therefor deposit monies with Lessor sufficient to restore said Security Deposit to the full amount required by this Lease. If the Base Rent increases during the term of this Lease, Lessee shall, upon written request from Lessor, deposit additional monies with Lessor so that the total amount of the Security Deposit shall at all times bear the same proportion to the increased Base Rent as the initial Security Deposit bore to the initial Base Rent. Should the Agreed Use be amended to accommodate a material change in the business of Lessee or to accommodate a sublessee or assignee, Lessor shall have the right to increase the Security Deposit to the extent necessary, in Lessor’s reasonable judgment, to account for any increased wear and tear that the Premises may suffer as a result thereof. If a change in control of Lessee occurs during this Lease and following such change the financial condition of Lessee is, in Lessor’s reasonable judgment, significantly reduced, Lessee shall deposit such additional monies with Lessor as shall be sufficient to cause the Security Deposit to be at a commercially reasonable level based on such change in financial condition. Lessor shall not be required to keep the Security Deposit separate from its general accounts. Within 90 days after the expiration or termination of this Lease, Lessor shall return that portion of the Security Deposit not used or applied by Lessor. Lessor shall upon written request provide Lessee with an accounting showing how that portion of the Security Deposit that was not returned was applied. No part of the Security Deposit shall be considered to be held in trust, to bear interest or to be prepayment for any monies to be paid by Lessee under this Lease. THE SECURITY DEPOSIT SHALL NOT BE USED BY LESSEE IN LIEU OF PAYMENT OF THE LAST MONTH’S RENT.
6.Use.
6.1 Use. Lessee shall use and occupy the Premises only for the Agreed Use, or any other legal use which is reasonably comparable thereto, and for no other purpose. Lessee shall not use or permit the use of the Premises in a manner that is unlawful, creates damage, waste or a nuisance, or that disturbs occupants of or causes damage to neighboring premises or properties. Other than guide, signal and seeing eye dogs, Lessee shall not keep or allow in the Premises any pets, animals, birds, fish, or reptiles. Lessor shall not unreasonably withhold or delay its consent to any written request for a modification of the Agreed Use, so long as the same will not impair the structural integrity of the Building or the mechanical or electrical systems therein, and/or is not significantly more burdensome to the Project. If Lessor elects to withhold consent, Lessor shall within 7 days after such request give written notification of same, which notice shall include an explanation of Lessor’s objections to the change in the Agreed Use.
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6.2 Hazardous Substances.
(a) Reportable Uses Require Consent. The term “Hazardous Substance” as used in this Lease shall mean any product, substance, or waste whose presence, use, manufacture, disposal, transportation, or release, either by itself or in combination with other materials expected to be on the Premises, is either: (i) potentially injurious to the public health, safety or welfare, the environment or the Premises; (ii) regulated or monitored by any governmental authority, or (iii) a basis for potential liability of Lessor to any governmental agency or third party under any applicable statute or common law theory. Hazardous Substances shall include, but not be limited to, hydrocarbons, petroleum, gasoline, and/or crude oil or any products, by-products or fractions thereof. Lessee shall not engage in any activity in or on the Premises which constitutes a Reportable Use of Hazardous Substances without the express prior written consent of Lessor and timely compliance (at Lessee’s expense) with all Applicable Requirements. “Reportable Use” shall mean (i) the installation or use of any above or below ground storage tank; (ii) the generation, possession, storage, use, transportation, or disposal of a Hazardous Substance that requires a permit from, or with respect to which a report, notice, registration or business plan is required to be filed with, any governmental authority, and/or (iii) the presence at the Premises of a Hazardous Substance with respect to which any Applicable Requirements requires that a notice be given to persons entering or occupying the Premises or neighboring properties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee may use any ordinary and customary materials reasonably required to be used in the normal course of the Agreed Use, ordinary office supplies (copier toner, liquid paper, glue, etc.) and common household cleaning materials, so long as such use is in compliance with all Applicable Requirements, is not a Reportable Use, and does not expose the Premises or neighboring property to any meaningful risk of contamination or damage or expose Lessor to any liability therefor. In addition, Lessor may condition its consent to any Reportable Use upon receiving such additional assurances as Lessor reasonably deems necessary to protect itself, the public, the Premises and/or the environment against damage, contamination, injury and/or liability, including, but not limited to, the installation (and removal on or before Lease expiration or termination) of protective modifications (such as concrete encasements) and/or increasing the Security Deposit.
(b) Duty to Inform Lessor. If Lessee knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, that a Hazardous Substance has come to be located in, on, under or about the Premises, other than as previously consented to by Lessor, Lessee shall immediately give written notice of such fact to Lessor, and provide Lessor with a copy of any report, notice, claim or other documentation which it has concerning the presence of such Hazardous Substance.
(c) Lessee Remediation. Lessee shall not cause or permit any Hazardous Substance to be spilled or released in, on, under, or about the Premises (including through the plumbing or sanitary sewer system) and shall promptly, at Lessee’s expense, comply with all Applicable Requirements and take all investigatory and/or remedial action reasonably recommended, whether or not formally ordered or required, for the cleanup of any contamination of, and for the maintenance, security and/or monitoring of the Premises or neighboring properties, that was caused or materially contributed to by Lessee, or pertaining to or involving any Hazardous Substance brought onto the Premises during the term of this Lease, by or for Lessee, or any third party.
(d) Lessee Indemnification. Lessee shall indemnify, defend and hold Lessor, its agents, employees, lenders and ground lessor, if any, harmless from and against any and all loss of rents and/or damages, liabilities, judgments, claims, expenses, penalties, and attorneys’ and consultants’ fees arising out of or involving any Hazardous Substance brought onto the Premises by or for Lessee, or any third party (provided, however, that Lessee shall have no liability under this Lease with respect to underground migration of any Hazardous Substance under the Premises from areas outside of the Project not caused or contributed to by Lessee). Lessee’s obligations shall include, but not be limited to, the effects of any contamination or injury to person, property or the environment created or suffered by Lessee, and the cost of investigation, removal, remediation, restoration and/or abatement, and shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease. No termination, cancellation or release agreement entered into by Lessor and Lessee shall release Lessee from its obligations under this Lease with respect to Hazardous Substances, unless specifically so agreed by Lessor in writing at the time of such agreement.
(e) Lessor Indemnification. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph 8.7, Lessor and its successors and assigns shall indemnify, defend, reimburse and hold Lessee, its employees and lenders, harmless from and against any and all environmental damages, including the cost of remediation, which are suffered as a direct result of Hazardous Substances on the Premises prior to Lessee taking possession or which are caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Lessor, its agents or employees. Lessor’s obligations, as and when required by the Applicable Requirements, shall include, but not be limited to, the cost of investigation, removal, remediation, restoration and/or abatement, and shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease.
(f) Investigations and Remediations. Lessor shall retain the responsibility and pay for any investigations or remediation measures required by governmental entities having jurisdiction with respect to the existence of Hazardous Substances on the Premises prior to the Lessee taking possession, unless such remediation measure is required as a result of Lessee’s use (including “Alterations”, as defined in paragraph 7.3(a) below) of the Premises, in which event Lessee shall be responsible for such payment. Lessee shall cooperate fully in any such activities at the request of Lessor, including allowing Lessor and Lessor’s agents to have reasonable access to the Premises at reasonable times in order to carry out Lessor’s investigative and remedial responsibilities.
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(g) Lessor Termination Option. If a Hazardous Substance Condition (see Paragraph 9.1(e)) occurs during the term of this Lease, unless Lessee is legally responsible therefor (in which case Lessee shall make the investigation and remediation thereof required by the Applicable Requirements and this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, but subject to Lessor’s rights under Paragraph 6.2(d) and Paragraph 13), Lessor may, at Lessor’s option, either (i) investigate and remediate such Hazardous Substance Condition, if required, as soon as reasonably possible at Lessor’s expense, in which event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, or (ii) if the estimated cost to remediate such condition exceeds 12 times the then monthly Base Rent or $100,000, whichever is greater, give written notice to Lessee, within 30 days after receipt by Lessor of knowledge of the occurrence of such Hazardous Substance Condition, of Lessor’s desire to terminate this Lease as of the date 60 days following the date of such notice. In the event Lessor elects to give a termination notice, Lessee may, within 10 days thereafter, give written notice to Lessor of Lessee’s commitment to pay the amount by which the cost of the remediation of such Hazardous Substance Condition exceeds an amount equal to 12 times the then monthly Base Rent or $100,000, whichever is greater. Lessee shall provide Lessor with said funds or satisfactory assurance thereof within 30 days following such commitment. In such event, this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, and Lessor shall proceed to make such remediation as soon as reasonably possible after the required funds are available. If Lessee does not give such notice and provide the required funds or assurance thereof within the time provided, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in Lessor’s notice of termination.
6.3 Lessee’s Compliance with Applicable Requirements. Except as otherwise provided in this Lease, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole expense, fully, diligently and in a timely manner, materially comply with all Applicable Requirements, the requirements of any applicable fire insurance underwriter or rating bureau, and the recommendations of Lessor’s engineers and/or consultants which relate in any manner to the Premises, without regard to whether said Applicable Requirements are now in effect or become effective after the Start Date. Lessee shall, within 10 days after receipt of Lessor’s written request, provide Lessor with copies of all permits and other documents, and other information evidencing Lessee’s compliance with any Applicable Requirements specified by Lessor, and shall immediately upon receipt, notify Lessor in writing (with copies of any documents involved) of any threatened or actual claim, notice, citation, warning, complaint or report pertaining to or involving the failure of Lessee or the Premises to comply with any Applicable Requirements. Likewise, Lessee shall immediately give written notice to Lessor of: (i) any water damage to the Premises and any suspected seepage, pooling, dampness or other condition conducive to the production of mold; or (ii) any mustiness or other odors that might indicate the presence of mold in the Premises.
6.4 Inspection; Compliance. Lessor and Lessor’s “Lender” (as defined in Paragraph 30) and consultants authorized by Lessor shall have the right to enter into Premises at any time in the case of an emergency, and otherwise at reasonable times after reasonable notice, for the purpose of inspecting and/or testing the condition of the Premises and/or for verifying compliance by Lessee with this Lease. The cost of any such inspections shall be paid by Lessor, unless a violation of Applicable Requirements, or a Hazardous Substance Condition (see Paragraph 9.1(e)) is found to exist or be imminent, or the inspection is requested or ordered by a governmental authority. In such case, Lessee shall upon request reimburse Lessor for the cost of such inspection, so long as such inspection is reasonably related to the violation or contamination. In addition, Lessee shall provide copies of all relevant material safety data sheets (MSDS) to Lessor within 10 days of the receipt of written request therefor. Lessee acknowledges that any failure on its part to allow such inspections or testing will expose Lessor to risks and potentially cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the extent of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, should the Lessee fail to allow such inspections and/or testing in a timely fashion the Base Rent shall be automatically increased, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, by an amount equal to 10% of the then existing Base Rent or $100, whichever is greater for the remainder to the Lease. The Parties agree that such increase in Base Rent represents fair and reasonable compensation for the additional risk/costs that Lessor will incur by reason of Lessee’s failure to allow such inspection and/or testing. Such increase in Base Rent shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to such failure nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder.
7.Maintenance; Repairs; Utility Installations; Trade Fixtures and Alterations.
7.1 Lessee’s Obligations.
(a) In General. Subject to the provisions of Paragraph 2.2 (Condition), 2.3 (Compliance), 6.3 (Lessee’s Compliance with Applicable Requirements), 7.2 (Lessor’s Obligations), 9 (Damage or Destruction), and 14 (Condemnation), Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole expense, keep the Premises, Utility Installations (intended for Lessee’s exclusive use, no matter where located), and Alterations in good order, condition and repair (whether or not the portion of the Premises requiring repairs, or the means of repairing the same, are reasonably or readily accessible to Lessee, and whether or not the need for such repairs occurs as a result of Lessee’s use, any prior use, the elements or the age of such portion of the Premises), including, but not limited to, all equipment or facilities, such as plumbing, HVAC equipment, electrical, lighting facilities, boilers, pressure vessels, fixtures, interior walls, interior surfaces of exterior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, plate glass, and skylights but excluding any items which are the responsibility of Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 7.2. Lessee, in keeping the Premises in good order, condition and repair, shall exercise and perform good maintenance practices, specifically including the procurement and maintenance of the service contracts required by Paragraph 7.1(b) below. Lessee’s obligations shall include restorations, replacements or renewals when necessary to keep the Premises and all improvements thereon or a part thereof in good order, condition and state of repair.
(b) Service Contracts. Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole expense, procure and maintain contracts, with copies to Lessor, in customary form and substance for, and with contractors specializing and experienced in the maintenance of the following equipment and improvements, if any, if and when installed on the Premises: (i) HVAC equipment, (ii) boiler and pressure vessels, and (iii) clarifiers. However, Lessor reserves the right, upon notice to Lessee, to procure and maintain any or all of such service contracts, and Lessee shall reimburse Lessor, upon demand, for the cost thereof.
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(c) Failure to Perform. If Lessee fails to perform Lessee’s obligations under this Paragraph 7.1, Lessor may enter upon the Premises after 10 days’ prior written notice to Lessee (except in the case of an emergency, in which case no notice shall be required), perform such obligations on Lessee’s behalf, and put the Premises in good order, condition and repair, and Lessee shall promptly pay to Lessor a sum equal to 115% of the cost thereof.
(d) Replacement. Subject to Lessee’s indemnification of Lessor as set forth in Paragraph 8.7 below, and without relieving Lessee of liability resulting from Lessee’s failure to exercise and perform good maintenance practices, if an item described in Paragraph 7.1(b) cannot be repaired other than at a cost which is in excess of 50% of the cost of replacing such item, then such item shall be replaced by Lessor, and the cost thereof shall be prorated between the Parties and Lessee shall only be obligated to pay, each month during the remainder of the term of this Lease or any extension thereof, on the date on which Base Rent is due, an amount equal to the product of multiplying the cost of such replacement by a fraction, the numerator of which is one, and the denominator of which is 144 (i.e. 1/144th of the cost per month). Lessee shall pay Interest on the unamortized balance but may prepay its obligation at any time.
7.2 Lessor’s Obligations. Subject to the provisions of Paragraphs 2.2 (Condition), 2.3 (Compliance), 4.2 (Common Area Operating Expenses), 6 (Use), 7.1 (Lessee’s Obligations), 9 (Damage or Destruction) and 14 (Condemnation), Lessor, subject to reimbursement pursuant to Paragraph 4.2, shall keep in good order, condition and repair the foundations, exterior walls, structural condition of interior bearing walls, exterior roof, fire sprinkler system, Common Area fire alarm and/or smoke detection systems, fire hydrants, parking lots, walkways, parkways, driveways, landscaping, fences, signs and utility systems serving the Common Areas and all parts thereof, as well as providing the services for which there is a Common Area Operating Expense pursuant to Paragraph 4.2. Lessor shall not be obligated to paint the exterior or interior surfaces of exterior walls nor shall Lessor be obligated to maintain, repair or replace windows, doors or plate glass of the Premises.
7.3 Utility Installations; Trade Fixtures; Alterations.
(a) Definitions. The term “Utility Installations” refers to all floor and window coverings, air and/or vacuum lines, power panels, electrical distribution, security and fire protection systems, communication cabling, lighting fixtures, HVAC equipment, plumbing, and fencing in or on the Premises. The term “Trade Fixtures” shall mean Lessee’s machinery and equipment that can be removed without doing material damage to the Premises. The term “Alterations” shall mean any modification of the improvements, other than Utility Installations or Trade Fixtures, whether by addition or deletion. “Lessee Owned Alterationsand/or Utility Installations” are defined as Alterations and/or Utility Installations made by Lessee that are not yet owned by Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 7.4(a).
(b) Consent. Lessee shall not make any Alterations or Utility Installations to the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent. Lessee may, however, make non-structural Alterations or Utility Installations to the interior of the Premises (excluding the roof) without such consent but upon notice to Lessor, as long as they are not visible from the outside, do not involve puncturing, relocating or removing the roof or any existing walls, will not affect the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and/or life safety systems, do not trigger the requirement for additional modifications and/or improvements to the Premises resulting from Applicable Requirements, such as compliance with Title 24, and the cumulative cost thereof during this Lease as extended does not exceed a sum equal to 3 month’s Base Rent in the aggregate or a sum equal to one month’s Base Rent in any one year. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall not make or permit any roof penetrations and/or install anything on the roof without the prior written approval of Lessor. Lessor may, as a precondition to granting such approval, require Lessee to utilize a contractor chosen and/or approved by Lessor. Any Alterations or Utility Installations that Lessee shall desire to make and which require the consent of the Lessor shall be presented to Lessor in written form with detailed plans. Consent shall be deemed conditioned upon Lessee’s: (i) acquiring all applicable governmental permits, (ii) furnishing Lessor with copies of both the permits and the plans and specifications prior to commencement of the work, and (iii) compliance with all conditions of said permits and other Applicable Requirements in a prompt and expeditious manner. Any Alterations or Utility Installations shall be performed in a workmanlike manner with good and sufficient materials. Lessee shall promptly upon completion furnish Lessor with as-built plans and specifications. For work which costs an amount in excess of one month’s Base Rent, Lessor may condition its consent upon Lessee providing a lien and completion bond in an amount equal to 150% of the estimated cost of such Alteration or Utility Installation and/or upon Lessee’s posting an additional Security Deposit with Lessor.
(c) Liens; Bonds. Lessee shall pay, when due, all claims for labor or materials furnished or alleged to have been furnished to or for Lessee at or for use on the Premises, which claims are or may be secured by any mechanic’s or materialmen’s lien against the Premises or any interest therein. Lessee shall give Lessor not less than 10 days notice prior to the commencement of any work in, on or about the Premises, and Lessor shall have the right to post notices of non-responsibility. If Lessee shall contest the validity of any such lien, claim or demand, then Lessee shall, at its sole expense defend and protect itself, Lessor and the Premises against the same and shall pay and satisfy any such adverse judgment that may be rendered thereon before the enforcement thereof. If Lessor shall require, Lessee shall furnish a surety bond in an amount equal to 150% of the amount of such contested lien, claim or demand, indemnifying Lessor against liability for the same. If Lessor elects to participate in any such action, Lessee shall pay Lessor’s attorneys’ fees and costs.
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7.4 Ownership; Removal; Surrender; and Restoration.
(a) Ownership. Subject to Lessor’s right to require removal or elect ownership as hereinafter provided, all Alterations and Utility Installations made by Lessee shall be the property of Lessee, but considered a part of the Premises. Lessor may, at any time, elect in writing to be the owner of all or any specified part of the Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations. Unless otherwise instructed per paragraph 7.4(b) hereof, all Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations shall, at the expiration or termination of this Lease, become the property of Lessor and be surrendered by Lessee with the Premises.
(b) Removal. By delivery to Lessee of written notice from Lessor not earlier than 90 and not later than 30 days prior to the end of the term of this Lease, Lessor may require that any or all Lessee Owned Alterations or Utility Installations be removed by the expiration or termination of this Lease. Lessor may require the removal at any time of all or any part of any Lessee Owned Alterations or Utility Installations made without the required consent.
(c) Surrender; Restoration. Lessee shall surrender the Premises by the Expiration Date or any earlier termination date, with all of the improvements, parts and surfaces thereof broom clean and free of debris, and in good operating order, condition and state of repair, ordinary wear and tear excepted. “Ordinary wear and tear” shall not include any damage or deterioration that would have been prevented by good maintenance practice. Notwithstanding the foregoing and the provisions of Paragraph 7.1(a), if the Lessee occupies the Premises for 12 months or less, then Lessee shall surrender the Premises in the same condition as delivered to Lessee on the Start Date with NO allowance for ordinary wear and tear. Lessee shall repair any damage occasioned by the installation, maintenance or removal of Trade Fixtures, Lessee owned Alterations and/or Utility Installations, furnishings, and equipment as well as the removal of any storage tank installed by or for Lessee. Lessee shall also remove from the Premises any and all Hazardous Substances brought onto the Premises by or for Lessee, or any third party (except Hazardous Substances which were deposited via underground migration from areas outside of the Premises) to the level specified in Applicable Requirements. Trade Fixtures shall remain the property of Lessee and shall be removed by Lessee. Any personal property of Lessee not removed on or before the Expiration Date or any earlier termination date shall be deemed to have been abandoned by Lessee and may be disposed of or retained by Lessor as Lessor may desire. The failure by Lessee to timely vacate the Premises pursuant to this Paragraph 7.4(c) without the express written consent of Lessor shall constitute a holdover under the provisions of Paragraph 26 below.
8.Insurance; Indemnity.
8.1 Payment of Premium Increases.
(a) As used herein, the term “Insurance Cost Increase” is defined as any increase in the actual cost of the insurance applicable to the Building and/or the Project and required to be carried by Lessor, pursuant to Paragraphs 8.2(b), 8.3(a) and 8.3(b), over and above the Base Premium, as hereinafter defined, calculated on an annual basis. Insurance Cost Increase shall include, but not be limited to, requirements of the holder of a mortgage or deed of trust covering the Premises, Building and/or Project, increased valuation of the Premises, Building and/or Project, and/or a general premium rate increase. The term Insurance Cost Increase shall not, however, include any premium increases resulting from the nature of the occupancy of any other tenant of the Building. The “Base Premium” shall be the annual premium applicable to the 12 month period immediately preceding the Start Date. If, however, the Project was not insured for the entirety of such 12 month period, then the Base Premium shall be the lowest annual premium reasonably obtainable for the Required Insurance as of the Start Date, assuming the most nominal use possible of the Building. In no event, however, shall Lessee be responsible for any portion of the premium cost attributable to liability insurance coverage in excess of $2,000,000 procured under Paragraph 8.2(b).
(b) Lessee shall pay any Insurance Cost Increase to Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 4.2. Premiums for policy periods commencing prior to, or extending beyond, the term of this Lease shall be prorated to coincide with the corresponding Start Date or Expiration Date.
8.2 Liability Insurance.
(a) Carried by Lessee. Lessee shall obtain and keep in force a Commercial General Liability policy of insurance protecting Lessee and Lessor as an additional insured against claims for bodily injury, personal injury and property damage based upon or arising out of the ownership, use, occupancy or maintenance of the Premises and all areas appurtenant thereto. Such insurance shall be on an occurrence basis providing single limit coverage in an amount not less than $1,000,000 per occurrence with an annual aggregate of not less than $2,000,000. Lessee shall add Lessor as an additional insured by means of an endorsement at least as broad as the Insurance Service Organization’s “Additional Insured-Managers or Lessors of Premises” Endorsement. The policy shall not contain any intra-insured exclusions as between insured persons or organizations, but shall include coverage for liability assumed under this Lease as an “insuredcontract” for the performance of Lessee’s indemnity obligations under this Lease. The limits of said insurance shall not, however, limit the liability of Lessee nor relieve Lessee of any obligation hereunder. Lessee shall provide an endorsement on its liability policy(ies) which provides that its insurance shall be primary to and not contributory with any similar insurance carried by Lessor, whose insurance shall be considered excess insurance only.
(b) Carried by Lessor. Lessor shall maintain liability insurance as described in Paragraph 8.2(a), in addition to, and not in lieu of, the insurance required to be maintained by Lessee. Lessee shall not be named as an additional insured therein.
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8.3 Property Insurance - Building, Improvements and Rental Value.
(a) Building and Improvements. Lessor shall obtain and keep in force a policy or policies of insurance in the name of Lessor, with loss payable to Lessor, any ground-lessor, and to any Lender insuring loss or damage to the Premises. The amount of such insurance shall be equal to the full insurable replacement cost of the Premises, as the same shall exist from time to time, or the amount required by any Lender, but in no event more than the commercially reasonable and available insurable value thereof. Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, Trade Fixtures, and Lessee’s personal property shall be insured by Lessee not by Lessor. If the coverage is available and commercially appropriate, such policy or policies shall insure against all risks of direct physical loss or damage (except the perils of flood and/or earthquake unless required by a Lender), including coverage for debris removal and the enforcement of any Applicable Requirements requiring the upgrading, demolition, reconstruction or replacement of any portion of the Premises as the result of a covered loss. Said policy or policies shall also contain an agreed valuation provision in lieu of any coinsurance clause, waiver of subrogation, and inflation guard protection causing an increase in the annual property insurance coverage amount by a factor of not less than the adjusted U.S. Department of Labor Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for the city nearest to where the Premises are located. If such insurance coverage has a deductible clause, the deductible amount shall not exceed $5,000 per occurrence.
(b) Rental Value. Lessor shall also obtain and keep in force a policy or policies in the name of Lessor with loss payable to Lessor and any Lender, insuring the loss of the full Rent for one year with an extended period of indemnity for an additional 180 days (“Rental Value insurance”). Said insurance shall contain an agreed valuation provision in lieu of any coinsurance clause, and the amount of coverage shall be adjusted annually to reflect the projected Rent otherwise payable by Lessee, for the next 12 month period.
(c) Adjacent Premises. Lessee shall pay for any increase in the premiums for the property insurance of the Building and for the Common Areas or other buildings in the Project if said increase is caused by Lessee’s acts, omissions, use or occupancy of the Premises.
(d) Lessee’s Improvements. Since Lessor is the Insuring Party, Lessor shall not be required to insure Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations unless the item in question has become the property of Lessor under the terms of this Lease.
8.4 Lessee’s Property; Business Interruption Insurance; Worker’s Compensation Insurance.
(a) Property Damage. Lessee shall obtain and maintain insurance coverage on all of Lessee’s personal property, Trade Fixtures, and Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations. Such insurance shall be full replacement cost coverage with a deductible of not to exceed $1,000 per occurrence. The proceeds from any such insurance shall be used by Lessee for the replacement of personal property, Trade Fixtures and Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations.
(b) Business Interruption. Lessee shall obtain and maintain loss of income and extra expense insurance in amounts as will reimburse Lessee for direct or indirect loss of earnings attributable to all perils commonly insured against by prudent lessees in the business of Lessee or attributable to prevention of access to the Premises as a result of such perils.
(c) Worker’s Compensation Insurance. Lessee shall obtain and maintain Worker’s Compensation Insurance in such amount as may be required by Applicable Requirements. Such policy shall include a ‘Waiver of Subrogation’ endorsement. Lessee shall provide Lessor with a copy of such endorsement along with the certificate of insurance or copy of the policy required by paragraph 8.5.
(d) No Representation of Adequate Coverage. Lessor makes no representation that the limits or forms of coverage of insurance specified herein are adequate to cover Lessee’s property, business operations or obligations under this Lease.
8.5 Insurance Policies. Insurance required herein shall be by companies maintaining during the policy term a “General Policyholders Rating” of at least A-, VII, as set forth in the most current issue of “Best’s Insurance Guide”, or such other rating as may be required by a Lender. Lessee shall not do or permit to be done anything which invalidates the required insurance policies. Lessee shall, prior to the Start Date, deliver to Lessor certified copies of policies of such insurance or certificates with copies of the required endorsements evidencing the existence and amounts of the required insurance. No such policy shall be cancelable or subject to modification except after 30 days prior written notice to Lessor. Lessee shall, at least 10 days prior to the expiration of such policies, furnish Lessor with evidence of renewals or “insurance binders” evidencing renewal thereof, or Lessor may increase his liability insurance coverage and charge the cost thereof to Lessee, which amount shall be payable by Lessee to Lessor upon demand. Such policies shall be for a term of at least one year, or the length of the remaining term of this Lease, whichever is less. If either Party shall fail to procure and maintain the insurance required to be carried by it, the other Party may, but shall not be required to, procure and maintain the same.
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8.6 Waiver of Subrogation. Without affecting any other rights or remedies, Lessee and Lessor each hereby release and relieve the other, and waive their entire right to recover damages against the other, for loss of or damage to its property arising out of or incident to the perils required to be insured against herein. The effect of such releases and waivers is not limited by the amount of insurance carried or required, or by any deductibles applicable hereto. The Parties agree to have their respective property damage insurance carriers waive any right to subrogation that such companies may have against Lessor or Lessee, as the case may be, so long as the insurance is not invalidated thereby.
8.7 Indemnity. Except for Lessor’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, Lessee shall indemnify, protect, defend and hold harmless the Premises, Lessor and its agents, Lessor’s master or ground lessor, partners and Lenders, from and against any and all claims, loss of rents and/or damages, liens, judgments, penalties, attorneys’ and consultants’ fees, expenses and/or liabilities arising out of, involving, or in connection with, a Breach of the Lease by Lessee and/or the use and/or occupancy of the Premises and/or Project by Lessee and/or by Lessee’s employees, contractors or invitees. If any action or proceeding is brought against Lessor by reason of any of the foregoing matters, Lessee shall upon notice defend the same at Lessee’s expense by counsel reasonably satisfactory to Lessor and Lessor shall cooperate with Lessee in such defense. Lessor need not have first paid any such claim in order to be defended or indemnified.
8.8 Exemption of Lessor and its Agents from Liability. Notwithstanding the negligence or breach of this Lease by Lessor or its agents, neither Lessor nor its agents shall be liable under any circumstances for: (i) injury or damage to the person or goods, wares, merchandise or other property of Lessee, Lessee’s employees, contractors, invitees, customers, or any other person in or about the Premises, whether such damage or injury is caused by or results from fire, steam, electricity, gas, water or rain, indoor air quality, the presence of mold or from the breakage, leakage, obstruction or other defects of pipes, fire sprinklers, wires, appliances, plumbing, HVAC or lighting fixtures, or from any other cause, whether the said injury or damage results from conditions arising upon the Premises or upon other portions of the Building, or from other sources or places; (ii) any damages arising from any act or neglect of any other tenant of Lessor or from the failure of Lessor or its agents to enforce the provisions of any other lease in the Project; or (iii) injury to Lessee’s business or for any loss of income or profit therefrom. Instead, it is intended that Lessee’s sole recourse in the event of such damages or injury be to file a claim on the insurance policy(ies) that Lessee is required to maintain pursuant to the provisions of paragraph 8.
8.9 Failure to Provide Insurance. Lessee acknowledges that any failure on its part to obtain or maintain the insurance required herein will expose Lessor to risks and potentially cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the extent of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, for any month or portion thereof that Lessee does not maintain the required insurance and/or does not provide Lessor with the required binders or certificates evidencing the existence of the required insurance, the Base Rent shall be automatically increased, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, by an amount equal to 10% of the then existing Base Rent or $100, whichever is greater. The parties agree that such increase in Base Rent represents fair and reasonable compensation for the additional risk/costs that Lessor will incur by reason of Lessee’s failure to maintain the required insurance. Such increase in Base Rent shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to the failure to maintain such insurance, prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder, nor relieve Lessee of its obligation to maintain the insurance specified in this Lease.
9.Damage or Destruction.
9.1 Definitions.
(a) “Premises Partial Damage” shall mean damage or destruction to the improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, which can reasonably be repaired in 3 months or less from the date of the damage or destruction, and the cost thereof does not exceed a sum equal to 6 month’s Base Rent. Lessor shall notify Lessee in writing within 30 days from the date of the damage or destruction as to whether or not the damage is Partial or Total.
(b) “Premises Total Destruction” shall mean damage or destruction to the improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations and Trade Fixtures, which cannot reasonably be repaired in 3 months or less from the date of the damage or destruction and/or the cost thereof exceeds a sum equal to 6 month’s Base Rent. Lessor shall notify Lessee in writing within 30 days from the date of the damage or destruction as to whether or not the damage is Partial or Total.
(c) “Insured Loss” shall mean damage or destruction to improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations and Trade Fixtures, which was caused by an event required to be covered by the insurance described in Paragraph 8.3(a), irrespective of any deductible amounts or coverage limits involved.
(d) “Replacement Cost” shall mean the cost to repair or rebuild the improvements owned by Lessor at the time of the occurrence to their condition existing immediately prior thereto, including demolition, debris removal and upgrading required by the operation of Applicable Requirements, and without deduction for depreciation.
(e) “Hazardous Substance Condition” shall mean the occurrence or discovery of a condition involving the presence of, or a contamination by, a Hazardous Substance, in, on, or under the Premises which requires restoration.
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9.2 Partial Damage - Insured Loss. If a Premises Partial Damage that is an Insured Loss occurs, then Lessor shall, at Lessor’s expense, repair such damage (but not Lessee’s Trade Fixtures or Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations) as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall continue in full force and effect; provided, however, that Lessee shall, at Lessor’s election, make the repair of any damage or destruction the total cost to repair of which is $10,000 or less, and, in such event, Lessor shall make any applicable insurance proceeds available to Lessee on a reasonable basis for that purpose. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the required insurance was not in force or the insurance proceeds are not sufficient to effect such repair, the Insuring Party shall promptly contribute the shortage in proceeds as and when required to complete said repairs. In the event, however, such shortage was due to the fact that, by reason of the unique nature of the improvements, full replacement cost insurance coverage was not commercially reasonable and available, Lessor shall have no obligation to pay for the shortage in insurance proceeds or to fully restore the unique aspects of the Premises unless Lessee provides Lessor with the funds to cover same, or adequate assurance thereof, within 10 days following receipt of written notice of such shortage and request therefor. If Lessor receives said funds or adequate assurance thereof within said 10 day period, the party responsible for making the repairs shall complete them as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall remain in full force and effect. If such funds or assurance are not received, Lessor may nevertheless elect by written notice to Lessee within 10 days thereafter to: (i) make such restoration and repair as is commercially reasonable with Lessor paying any shortage in proceeds, in which case this Lease shall remain in full force and effect, or (ii) have this Lease terminate 30 days thereafter. Lessee shall not be entitled to reimbursement of any funds contributed by Lessee to repair any such damage or destruction. Premises Partial Damage due to flood or earthquake shall be subject to Paragraph 9.3, notwithstanding that there may be some insurance coverage, but the net proceeds of any such insurance shall be made available for the repairs if made by either Party.
9.3 Partial Damage - Uninsured Loss. If a Premises Partial Damage that is not an Insured Loss occurs, unless caused by a negligent or willful act of Lessee (in which event Lessee shall make the repairs at Lessee’s expense), Lessor may either: (i) repair such damage as soon as reasonably possible at Lessor’s expense (subject to reimbursement pursuant to Paragraph 4.2), in which event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, or (ii) terminate this Lease by giving written notice to Lessee within 30 days after receipt by Lessor of knowledge of the occurrence of such damage. Such termination shall be effective 60 days following the date of such notice. In the event Lessor elects to terminate this Lease, Lessee shall have the right within 10 days after receipt of the termination notice to give written notice to Lessor of Lessee’s commitment to pay for the repair of such damage without reimbursement from Lessor. Lessee shall provide Lessor with said funds or satisfactory assurance thereof within 30 days after making such commitment. In such event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, and Lessor shall proceed to make such repairs as soon as reasonably possible after the required funds are available. If Lessee does not make the required commitment, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in the termination notice.
9.4 Total Destruction. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, if a Premises Total Destruction occurs, this Lease shall terminate 60 days following such Destruction. If the damage or destruction was caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Lessee, Lessor shall have the right to recover Lessor’s damages from Lessee, except as provided in Paragraph 8.6.
9.5 DamageNear End of Term. If at any time during the last 6 months of this Lease there is damage for which the cost to repair exceeds one month’s Base Rent, whether or not an Insured Loss, Lessor may terminate this Lease effective 60 days following the date of occurrence of such damage by giving a written termination notice to Lessee within 30 days after the date of occurrence of such damage. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Lessee at that time has an exercisable option to extend this Lease or to purchase the Premises, then Lessee may preserve this Lease by (a) exercising such option and (b) providing Lessor with any shortage in insurance proceeds (or adequate assurance thereof) needed to make the repairs on or before the earlier of (i) the date which is 10 days after Lessee’s receipt of Lessor’s written notice purporting to terminate this Lease, or (ii) the day prior to the date upon which such option expires. If Lessee duly exercises such option during such period and provides Lessor with funds (or adequate assurance thereof) to cover any shortage in insurance proceeds, Lessor shall, at Lessor’s commercially reasonable expense, repair such damage as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall continue in full force and effect. If Lessee fails to exercise such option and provide such funds or assurance during such period, then this Lease shall terminate on the date specified in the termination notice and Lessee’s option shall be extinguished.
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9.6 Abatement of Rent; Lessee’s Remedies.
(a) Abatement. In the event of Premises Partial Damage or Premises Total Destruction or a Hazardous Substance Condition for which Lessee is not responsible under this Lease, the Rent payable by Lessee for the period required for the repair, remediation or restoration of such damage shall be abated in proportion to the degree to which Lessee’s use of the Premises is impaired, but not to exceed the proceeds received from the Rental Value insurance. All other obligations of Lessee hereunder shall be performed by Lessee, and Lessor shall have no liability for any such damage, destruction, remediation, repair or restoration except as provided herein.
(b) Remedies. If Lessor is obligated to repair or restore the Premises and does not commence, in a substantial and meaningful way, such repair or restoration within 90 days after such obligation shall accrue, Lessee may, at any time prior to the commencement of such repair or restoration, give written notice to Lessor and to any Lenders of which Lessee has actual notice, of Lessee’s election to terminate this Lease on a date not less than 60 days following the giving of such notice. If Lessee gives such notice and such repair or restoration is not commenced within 30 days thereafter, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in said notice. If the repair or restoration is commenced within such 30 days, this Lease shall continue in full force and effect. “Commence” shall mean either the unconditional authorization of the preparation of the required plans, or the beginning of the actual work on the Premises, whichever first occurs.
9.7 Termination; Advance Payments. Upon termination of this Lease pursuant to Paragraph 6.2(g) or Paragraph 9, an equitable adjustment shall be made concerning advance Base Rent and any other advance payments made by Lessee to Lessor. Lessor shall, in addition, return to Lessee so much of Lessee’s Security Deposit as has not been, or is not then required to be, used by Lessor.
10.Real Property Taxes.
10.1 Definitions.
(a) “Real Property Taxes.” As used herein, the term “Real Property Taxes” shall include any form of assessment; real estate, general, special, ordinary or extraordinary, or rental levy or tax (other than inheritance, personal income or estate taxes); improvement bond; and/or license fee imposed upon or levied against any legal or equitable interest of Lessor in the Project, Lessor’s right to other income therefrom, and/or Lessor’s business of leasing, by any authority having the direct or indirect power to tax and where the funds are generated with reference to the Project address. The term “Real Property Taxes” shall also include any tax, fee, levy, assessment or charge, or any increase therein: (i) imposed by reason of events occurring during the term of this Lease, including but not limited to, a change in the ownership of the Project; (ii) a change in the improvements thereon; and/or (iii) levied or assessed on machinery or equipment provided by Lessor to Lessee pursuant to this Lease.
(b) “Base Real Property Taxes.” As used herein, the term “Base Real Property Taxes” shall be the amount of Real Property Taxes, which are assessed against the Project, during the entire calendar year in which the Lease is executed.
10.2 Payment of Taxes. Except as otherwise provided in Paragraph 10.3, Lessor shall pay the Real Property Taxes applicable to the Project, and said payments shall be included in the calculation of Common Area Operating Expenses in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph 4.2.
10.3 Additional Improvements. Common Area Operating Expenses shall not include Real Property Taxes specified in the tax assessor’s records and work sheets as being caused by additional improvements placed upon the Project by other tenants or by Lessor for the exclusive enjoyment of such other Tenants. Notwithstanding Paragraph 10.2 hereof, Lessee shall, however, pay to Lessor at the time Common Area Operating Expenses are payable under Paragraph 4.2, the entirety of any increase in Real Property Taxes if assessed solely by reason of Alterations, Trade Fixtures or Utility Installations placed upon the Premises by Lessee or at Lessee’s request or by reason of any alterations or improvements to the Premises made by Lessor subsequent to the execution of this Lease by the Parties.
10.4 Joint Assessment. If the Building is not separately assessed, Real Property Taxes allocated to the Building shall be an equitable proportion of the Real Property Taxes for all of the land and improvements included within the tax parcel assessed, such proportion to be determined by Lessor from the respective valuations assigned in the assessor’s work sheets or such other information as may be reasonably available. Lessor’s reasonable determination thereof, in good faith, shall be conclusive.
10.5 Personal Property Taxes. Lessee shall pay prior to delinquency all taxes assessed against and levied upon Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, Trade Fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all personal property of Lessee contained in the Premises. When possible, Lessee shall cause its Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, Trade Fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all other personal property to be assessed and billed separately from the real property of Lessor. If any of Lessee’s said property shall be assessed with Lessor’s real property, Lessee shall pay Lessor the taxes attributable to Lessee’s property within 10 days after receipt of a written statement setting forth the taxes applicable to Lessee’s property.
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11.Utilities and Services.
11.1 Lessee shall pay for all water, gas, heat, light, power, telephone, trash disposal and other utilities and services supplied to the Premises, together with any taxes thereon. Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph 4.2, if at any time in Lessor’s sole judgment, Lessor determines that Lessee is using a disproportionate amount of water, electricity or other commonly metered utilities, or that Lessee is generating such a large volume of trash as to require an increase in the size of the trash receptacle and/or an increase in the number of times per month that it is emptied, then Lessor may increase Lessee’s Base Rent by an amount equal to such increased costs. There shall be no abatement of Rent and Lessor shall not be liable in any respect whatsoever for the inadequacy, stoppage, interruption or discontinuance of any utility or service due to riot, strike, labor dispute, breakdown, accident, repair or other cause beyond Lessor’s reasonable control or in cooperation with governmental request or directions.
11.2 Within fifteen days of Lessor’s written request, Lessee agrees to deliver to Lessor such information, documents and/or authorization as Lessor needs in order for Lessor to comply with new or existing Applicable Requirements relating to commercial building energy usage, ratings, and/or the reporting thereof.
12.Assignment and Subletting.
12.1 Lessor’s Consent Required.
(a) Lessee shall not voluntarily or by operation of law assign, transfer, mortgage or encumber (collectively, “assign or assignment”) or sublet all or any part of Lessee’s interest in this Lease or in the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent.
(b) Unless Lessee is a corporation and its stock is publicly traded on a national stock exchange, a change in the control of Lessee shall constitute an assignment requiring consent. The transfer, on a cumulative basis, of 25% or more of the voting control of Lessee shall constitute a change in control for this purpose.
(c) The involvement of Lessee or its assets in any transaction, or series of transactions (by way of merger, sale, acquisition, financing, transfer, leveraged buy-out or otherwise), whether or not a formal assignment or hypothecation of this Lease or Lessee’s assets occurs, which results or will result in a reduction of the Net Worth of Lessee by an amount greater than 25% of such Net Worth as it was represented at the time of the execution of this Lease or at the time of the most recent assignment to which Lessor has consented, or as it exists immediately prior to said transaction or transactions constituting such reduction, whichever was or is greater, shall be considered an assignment of this Lease to which Lessor may withhold its consent. “Net Worth of Lessee” shall mean the net worth of Lessee (excluding any guarantors) established under generally accepted accounting principles.
(d) An assignment or subletting without consent shall, at Lessor’s option, be a Default curable after notice per Paragraph 13.1(d), or a non-curable Breach without the necessity of any notice and grace period. If Lessor elects to treat such unapproved assignment or subletting as a non-curable Breach, Lessor may either: (i) terminate this Lease, or (ii) upon 30 days written notice, increase the monthly Base Rent to 110% of the Base Rent then in effect. Further, in the event of such Breach and rental adjustment, (i) the purchase price of any option to purchase the Premises held by Lessee shall be subject to similar adjustment to 110% of the price previously in effect, and (ii) all fixed and non- fixed rental adjustments scheduled during the remainder of the Lease term shall be increased to 110% of the scheduled adjusted rent.
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(e) Lessee’s remedy for any breach of Paragraph 12.1 by Lessor shall be limited to compensatory damages and/or injunctive relief.
(f) Lessor may reasonably withhold consent to a proposed assignment or subletting if Lessee is in Default at the time consent is requested.
(g) Notwithstanding the foregoing, allowing a de minimis portion of the Premises, ie. 20 square feet or less, to be used by a third party vendor in connection with the installation of a vending machine or pay phone shall not constitute a subletting.
12.2 Terms and Conditions Applicable to Assignment and Subletting.
(a) Regardless of Lessor’s consent, no assignment or subletting shall: (i) be effective without the express written assumption by such assignee or sublessee of the obligations of Lessee under this Lease, (ii) release Lessee of any obligations hereunder, or (iii) alter the primary liability of Lessee for the payment of Rent or for the performance of any other obligations to be performed by Lessee.
(b) Lessor may accept Rent or performance of Lessee’s obligations from any person other than Lessee pending approval or disapproval of an assignment. Neither a delay in the approval or disapproval of such assignment nor the acceptance of Rent or performance shall constitute a waiver or estoppel of Lessor’s right to exercise its remedies for Lessee’s Default or Breach.
(c) Lessor’s consent to any assignment or subletting shall not constitute a consent to any subsequent assignment or subletting.
(d) In the event of any Default or Breach by Lessee, Lessor may proceed directly against Lessee, any Guarantors or anyone else responsible for the performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease, including any assignee or sublessee, without first exhausting Lessor’s remedies against any other person or entity responsible therefor to Lessor, or any security held by Lessor.
(e) Each request for consent to an assignment or subletting shall be in writing, accompanied by information relevant to Lessor’s determination as to the financial and operational responsibility and appropriateness of the proposed assignee or sublessee, including but not limited to the intended use and/or required modification of the Premises, if any, together with a fee of $500 as consideration for Lessor’s considering and processing said request. Lessee agrees to provide Lessor with such other or additional information and/or documentation as may be reasonably requested. (See also Paragraph 36)
(f) Any assignee of, or sublessee under, this Lease shall, by reason of accepting such assignment, entering into such sublease, or entering into possession of the Premises or any portion thereof, be deemed to have assumed and agreed to conform and comply with each and every term, covenant, condition and obligation herein to be observed or performed by Lessee during the term of said assignment or sublease, other than such obligations as are contrary to or inconsistent with provisions of an assignment or sublease to which Lessor has specifically consented to in writing.
(g) Lessor’s consent to any assignment or subletting shall not transfer to the assignee or sublessee any Option granted to the original Lessee by this Lease unless such transfer is specifically consented to by Lessor in writing. (See Paragraph 39.2)
12.3 Additional Terms and Conditions Applicable to Subletting. The following terms and conditions shall apply to any subletting by Lessee of all or any part of the Premises and shall be deemed included in all subleases under this Lease whether or not expressly incorporated therein:
(a) Lessee hereby assigns and transfers to Lessor all of Lessee’s interest in all Rent payable on any sublease, and Lessor may collect such Rent and apply same toward Lessee’s obligations under this Lease; provided, however, that until a Breach shall occur in the performance of Lessee’s obligations, Lessee may collect said Rent. In the event that the amount collected by Lessor exceeds Lessee’s then outstanding obligations any such excess shall be refunded to Lessee. Lessor shall not, by reason of the foregoing or any assignment of such sublease, nor by reason of the collection of Rent, be deemed liable to the sublessee for any failure of Lessee to perform and comply with any of Lessee’s obligations to such sublessee. Lessee hereby irrevocably authorizes and directs any such sublessee, upon receipt of a written notice from Lessor stating that a Breach exists in the performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease, to pay to Lessor all Rent due and to become due under the sublease. Sublessee shall rely upon any such notice from Lessor and shall pay all Rents to Lessor without any obligation or right to inquire as to whether such Breach exists, notwithstanding any claim from Lessee to the contrary.
(b) In the event of a Breach by Lessee, Lessor may, at its option, require sublessee to attorn to Lessor, in which event Lessor shall undertake the obligations of the sublessor under such sublease from the time of the exercise of said option to the expiration of such sublease; provided, however, Lessor shall not be liable for any prepaid rents or security deposit paid by such sublessee to such sublessor or for any prior Defaults or Breaches of such sublessor.
(c) Any matter requiring the consent of the sublessor under a sublease shall also require the consent of Lessor.
(d) No sublessee shall further assign or sublet all or any part of the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent.
(e) Lessor shall deliver a copy of any notice of Default or Breach by Lessee to the sublessee, who shall have the right to cure the Default of Lessee within the grace period, if any, specified in such notice. The sublessee shall have a right of reimbursement and offset from and against Lessee for any such Defaults cured by the sublessee.
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13.Default; Breach; Remedies.
13.1 Default; Breach. A “Default” is defined as a failure by the Lessee to comply with or perform any of the terms, covenants, conditions or Rules and Regulations under this Lease. A “Breach” is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the following Defaults, and the failure of Lessee to cure such Default within any applicable grace period:
(a) The abandonment of the Premises; the vacating of the Premises prior to the expiration or termination of this Lease without providing a commercially reasonable level of security, or where the coverage of the property insurance described in Paragraph 8.3 is jeopardized as a result thereof, or without providing reasonable assurances to minimize potential vandalism; or failure to deliver to Lessor exclusive possession of the entire Premises in accordance herewith prior to the expiration or termination of this Lease.
(b) The failure of Lessee to make any payment of Rent or any Security Deposit required to be made by Lessee hereunder, whether to Lessor or to a third party, when due, to provide reasonable evidence of insurance or surety bond, or to fulfill any obligation under this Lease which endangers or threatens life or property, where such failure continues for a period of 3 business days following written notice to Lessee. THE ACCEPTANCE BY LESSOR OF A PARTIAL PAYMENT OF RENT OR SECURITY DEPOSIT SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE A WAIVER OF ANY OF LESSOR’S RIGHTS, INCLUDING LESSOR’S RIGHT TO RECOVER POSSESSION OF THE PREMISES.
(c) The failure of Lessee to allow Lessor and/or its agents access to the Premises or the commission of waste, act or acts constituting public or private nuisance, and/or an illegal activity on the Premises by Lessee, where such actions continue for a period of 3 business days following written notice to Lessee. In the event that Lessee commits waste, a nuisance or an illegal activity a second time then, the Lessor may elect to treat such conduct as a non-curable Breach rather than a Default.
(d) The failure by Lessee to provide (i) reasonable written evidence of compliance with Applicable Requirements, (ii) the service contracts, (iii) the rescission of an unauthorized assignment or subletting, (iv) an Estoppel Certificate or financial statements, (v) a requested subordination, (vi) evidence concerning any guaranty and/or Guarantor, (vii) any document requested under Paragraph 41, (viii) material safety data sheets (MSDS), or (ix) any other documentation or information which Lessor may reasonably require of Lessee under the terms of this Lease, where any such failure continues for a period of 10 days following written notice to Lessee.
(e) A Default by Lessee as to the terms, covenants, conditions or provisions of this Lease, or of the rules adopted under Paragraph 2.9 hereof, other than those described in subparagraphs 13.1(a), (b), (c) or (d), above, where such Default continues for a period of 30 days after written notice; provided, however, that if the nature of Lessee’s Default is such that more than 30 days are reasonably required for its cure, then it shall not be deemed to be a Breach if Lessee commences such cure within said 30 day period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion.
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(f) The occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the making of any general arrangement or assignment for the benefit of creditors;
(ii) becoming a “debtor” as defined in 11 U.S.C. § 101 or any successor statute thereto (unless, in the case of a petition filed against Lessee, the same is dismissed within 60 days); (iii) the appointment of a trustee or receiver to take possession of substantially all of Lessee’s assets located at the Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease, where possession is not restored to Lessee within 30 days; or (iv) the attachment, execution or other judicial seizure of substantially all of Lessee’s assets located at the Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease, where such seizure is not discharged within 30 days; provided, however, in the event that any provision of this subparagraph is contrary to any applicable law, such provision shall be of no force or effect, and not affect the validity of the remaining provisions.
(g) The discovery that any financial statement of Lessee or of any Guarantor given to Lessor was materially false.
(h) If the performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease is guaranteed: (i) the death of a Guarantor, (ii) the termination of a Guarantor’s liability with respect to this Lease other than in accordance with the terms of such guaranty, (iii) a Guarantor’s becoming insolvent or the subject of a bankruptcy filing, (iv) a Guarantor’s refusal to honor the guaranty, or (v) a Guarantor’s breach of its guaranty obligation on an anticipatory basis, and Lessee’s failure, within 60 days following written notice of any such event, to provide written alternative assurance or security, which, when coupled with the then existing resources of Lessee, equals or exceeds the combined financial resources of Lessee and the Guarantors that existed at the time of execution of this Lease.
13.2 Remedies. If Lessee fails to perform any of its affirmative duties or obligations, within 10 days after written notice (or in case of an emergency, without notice), Lessor may, at its option, perform such duty or obligation on Lessee’s behalf, including but not limited to the obtaining of reasonably required bonds, insurance policies, or governmental licenses, permits or approvals. Lessee shall pay to Lessor an amount equal to 115% of the costs and expenses incurred by Lessor in such performance upon receipt of an invoice therefor. In the event of a Breach, Lessor may, with or without further notice or demand, and without limiting Lessor in the exercise of any right or remedy which Lessor may have by reason of such Breach:
(a) Terminate Lessee’s right to possession of the Premises by any lawful means, in which case this Lease shall terminate and Lessee shall immediately surrender possession to Lessor. In such event Lessor shall be entitled to recover from Lessee: (i) the unpaid Rent which had been earned at the time of termination; (ii) the worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid rent which would have been earned after termination until the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that the Lessee proves could have been reasonably avoided; (iii) the worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid rent for the balance of the term after the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that the Lessee proves could be reasonably avoided; and (iv) any other amount necessary to compensate Lessor for all the detriment proximately caused by the Lessee’s failure to perform its obligations under this Lease or which in the ordinary course of things would be likely to result therefrom, including but not limited to the cost of recovering possession of the Premises, expenses of reletting, including necessary renovation and alteration of the Premises, reasonable attorneys’ fees, and that portion of any leasing commission paid by Lessor in connection with this Lease applicable to the unexpired term of this Lease. The worth at the time of award of the amount referred to in provision (iii) of the immediately preceding sentence shall be computed by discounting such amount at the discount rate of the Federal Reserve Bank of the District within which the Premises are located at the time of award plus one percent. Efforts by Lessor to mitigate damages caused by Lessee’s Breach of this Lease shall not waive Lessor’s right to recover any damages to which Lessor is otherwise entitled. If termination of this Lease is obtained through the provisional remedy of unlawful detainer, Lessor shall have the right to recover in such proceeding any unpaid Rent and damages as are recoverable therein, or Lessor may reserve the right to recover all or any part thereof in a separate suit. If a notice and grace period required under Paragraph 13.1 was not previously given, a notice to pay rent or quit, or to perform or quit given to Lessee under the unlawful detainer statute shall also constitute the notice required by Paragraph 13.1. In such case, the applicable grace period required by Paragraph 13.1 and the unlawful detainer statute shall run concurrently, and the failure of Lessee to cure the Default within the greater of the two such grace periods shall constitute both an unlawful detainer and a Breach of this Lease entitling Lessor to the remedies provided for in this Lease and/or by said statute.
(b) Continue the Lease and Lessee’s right to possession and recover the Rent as it becomes due, in which event Lessee may sublet or assign, subject only to reasonable limitations. Acts of maintenance, efforts to relet, and/or the appointment of a receiver to protect the Lessor’s interests, shall not constitute a termination of the Lessee’s right to possession.
(c) Pursue any other remedy now or hereafter available under the laws or judicial decisions of the state wherein the Premises are located. The expiration or termination of this Lease and/or the termination of Lessee’s right to possession shall not relieve Lessee from liability under any indemnity provisions of this Lease as to matters occurring or accruing during the term hereof or by reason of Lessee’s occupancy of the Premises.
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13.3 Inducement Recapture. Any agreement for free or abated rent or other charges, the cost of tenant improvements for Lessee paid for or performed by Lessor, or for the giving or paying by Lessor to or for Lessee of any cash or other bonus, inducement or consideration for Lessee’s entering into this Lease, all of which concessions are hereinafter referred to as “Inducement Provisions,” shall be deemed conditioned upon Lessee’s full and faithful performance of all of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease. Upon Breach of this Lease by Lessee, any such Inducement Provision shall automatically be deemed deleted from this Lease and of no further force or effect, and any rent, other charge, bonus, inducement or consideration theretofore abated, given or paid by Lessor under such an Inducement Provision shall be immediately due and payable by Lessee to Lessor, notwithstanding any subsequent cure of said Breach by Lessee. The acceptance by Lessor of rent or the cure of the Breach which initiated the operation of this paragraph shall not be deemed a waiver by Lessor of the provisions of this paragraph unless specifically so stated in writing by Lessor at the time of such acceptance.
13.4 Late Charges. Lessee hereby acknowledges that late payment by Lessee of Rent will cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the exact amount of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Such costs include, but are not limited to, processing and accounting charges, and late charges which may be imposed upon Lessor by any Lender. Accordingly, if any Rent shall not be received by Lessor within 5 days after such amount shall be due, then, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, Lessee shall immediately pay to Lessor a one-time late charge equal to 10% of each such overdue amount or $100, whichever is greater. The parties hereby agree that such late charge represents a fair and reasonable estimate of the costs Lessor will incur by reason of such late payment. Acceptance of such late charge by Lessor shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to such overdue amount, nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder. In the event that a late charge is payable hereunder, whether or not collected, for 3 consecutive installments of Base Rent, then notwithstanding any provision of this Lease to the contrary, Base Rent shall, at Lessor’s option, become due and payable quarterly in advance.
13.5 Interest. Any monetary payment due Lessor hereunder, other than late charges, not received by Lessor, when due shall bear interest from the 31st day after it was due. The interest (“Interest”) charged shall be computed at the rate of 10% per annum but shall not exceed the maximum rate allowed by law. Interest is payable in addition to the potential late charge provided for in Paragraph 13.4.
13.6 Breach by Lessor.
(a) Notice of Breach. Lessor shall not be deemed in breach of this Lease unless Lessor fails within a reasonable time to perform an obligation required to be performed by Lessor. For purposes of this Paragraph, a reasonable time shall in no event be less than 30 days after receipt by Lessor, and any Lender whose name and address shall have been furnished to Lessee in writing for such purpose, of written notice specifying wherein such obligation of Lessor has not been performed; provided, however, that if the nature of Lessor’s obligation is such that more than 30 days are reasonably required for its performance, then Lessor shall not be in breach if performance is commenced within such 30 day period and thereafter diligently pursued to completion.
(b) Performance by Lessee on Behalf of Lessor. In the event that neither Lessor nor Lender cures said breach within 30 days after receipt of said notice, or if having commenced said cure they do not diligently pursue it to completion, then Lessee may elect to cure said breach at Lessee’s expense and offset from Rent the actual and reasonable cost to perform such cure, provided however, that such offset shall not exceed an amount equal to the greater of one month’s Base Rent or the Security Deposit, reserving Lessee’s right to reimbursement from Lessor for any such expense in excess of such offset. Lessee shall document the cost of said cure and supply said documentation to Lessor.
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14.Condemnation. If the Premises or any portion thereof are taken under the power of eminent domain or sold under the threat of the exercise of said power (collectively “Condemnation”), this Lease shall terminate as to the part taken as of the date the condemning authority takes title or possession, whichever first occurs. If more than 10% of the floor area of the Unit, or more than 25% of the parking spaces is taken by Condemnation, Lessee may, at Lessee’s option, to be exercised in writing within 10 days after Lessor shall have given Lessee written notice of such taking (or in the absence of such notice, within 10 days after the condemning authority shall have taken possession) terminate this Lease as of the date the condemning authority takes such possession. If Lessee does not terminate this Lease in accordance with the foregoing, this Lease shall remain in full force and effect as to the portion of the Premises remaining, except that the Base Rent shall be reduced in proportion to the reduction in utility of the Premises caused by such Condemnation. Condemnation awards and/or payments shall be the property of Lessor, whether such award shall be made as compensation for diminution in value of the leasehold, the value of the part taken, or for severance damages; provided, however, that Lessee shall be entitled to any compensation paid by the condemnor for Lessee’s relocation expenses, loss of business goodwill and/or Trade Fixtures, without regard to whether or not this Lease is terminated pursuant to the provisions of this Paragraph. All Alterations and Utility Installations made to the Premises by Lessee, for purposes of Condemnation only, shall be considered the property of the Lessee and Lessee shall be entitled to any and all compensation which is payable therefor. In the event that this Lease is not terminated by reason of the Condemnation, Lessor shall repair any damage to the Premises caused by such Condemnation.
15.Brokerage Fees.
15.1Additional Commission. In addition to the payments owed pursuant to Paragraph 1.10 above, Lessor agrees that: (a) if Lessee exercises ~~any Option, (b) if Lessee or anyone affiliated with Lessee acquires from Lessor any rights to the Premises or otherpremises owned by Lessor and located within the Project, (c) if Lessee remains in possession of the Premises, with the consent of Lessor,after the expiration of this Lease, or (d) if Base Rent is increased, whether by agreement or operation of an escalation clause herein,then, Lessor shall pay Brokers a fee in accordance with the fee schedule of the Brokers in effect at the time the Lease was executed.The provisions of this paragraph are intended to supersede the~~ provisions of any earlier agreement to the contrary.
15.2 Assumption of Obligations. Any buyer or transferee of Lessor’s interest in this Lease shall be deemed to have assumed Lessor’s obligation hereunder. Brokers shall be third party beneficiaries of the provisions of Paragraphs 1.10, 15, 22 and 31. If Lessor fails to pay to Brokers any amounts due as and for brokerage fees pertaining to this Lease when due, then such amounts shall accrue Interest. In addition, if Lessor fails to pay any amounts to Lessee’s Broker when due, Lessee’s Broker may send written notice to Lessor and Lessee of such failure and if Lessor fails to pay such amounts within 10 days after said notice, Lessee shall pay said monies to its Broker and offset such amounts against Rent. In addition, Lessee’s Broker shall be deemed to be a third party beneficiary of any commission agreement entered into by and/or between Lessor and Lessor’s Broker for the limited purpose of collecting any brokerage fee owed.
15.3 Representations and Indemnities of Broker Relationships. Lessee and Lessor each represent and warrant to the other that it has had no dealings with any person, firm, broker, agent or finder (other than the Brokers and Agents, if any) in connection with this Lease, and that no one other than said named Brokers and Agents is entitled to any commission or finder’s fee in connection herewith. Lessee and Lessor do each hereby agree to indemnify, protect, defend and hold the other harmless from and against liability for compensation or charges which may be claimed by any such unnamed broker, finder or other similar party by reason of any dealings or actions of the indemnifying Party, including any costs, expenses, attorneys’ fees reasonably incurred with respect thereto.
16.Estoppel Certificates.
(a) Each Party (as “Responding Party”) shall within 10 days after written notice from the other Party (the “RequestingParty”) execute, acknowledge and deliver to the Requesting Party a statement in writing in form similar to the then most current “Estoppel Certificate” form published BY AIR CRE, plus such additional information, confirmation and/or statements as may be reasonably requested by the Requesting Party.
(b) If the Responding Party shall fail to execute or deliver the Estoppel Certificate within such 10 day period, the Requesting Party may execute an Estoppel Certificate stating that: (i) the Lease is in full force and effect without modification except as may be represented by the Requesting Party, (ii) there are no uncured defaults in the Requesting Party’s performance, and (iii) if Lessor is the Requesting Party, not more than one month’s rent has been paid in advance. Prospective purchasers and encumbrancers may rely upon the Requesting Party’s Estoppel Certificate, and the Responding Party shall be estopped from denying the truth of the facts contained in said Certificate. In addition, Lessee acknowledges that any failure on its part to provide such an Estoppel Certificate will expose Lessor to risks and potentially cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the extent of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, should the Lessee fail to execute and/or deliver a requested Estoppel Certificate in a timely fashion the monthly Base Rent shall be automatically increased, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, by an amount equal to 10% of the then existing Base Rent or $100, whichever is greater for remainder of the Lease. The Parties agree that such increase in Base Rent represents fair and reasonable compensation for the additional risk/costs that Lessor will incur by reason of Lessee’s failure to provide the Estoppel Certificate. Such increase in Base Rent shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to the failure to provide the Estoppel Certificate nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder.
(c) If Lessor desires to finance, refinance, or sell the Premises, or any part thereof, Lessee and all Guarantors shall within 10 days after written notice from Lessor deliver to any potential lender or purchaser designated by Lessor such financial statements as may be reasonably required by such lender or purchaser, including but not limited to Lessee’s financial statements for the past 3 years. All such financial statements shall be received by Lessor and such lender or purchaser in confidence and shall be used only for the purposes herein set forth.
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17.Definition of Lessor. The term “Lessor” as used herein shall mean the owner or owners at the time in question of the fee title to the Premises, or, if this is a sublease, of the Lessee’s interest in the prior lease. In the event of a transfer of Lessor’s title or interest in the Premises or this Lease, Lessor shall deliver to the transferee or assignee (in cash or by credit) any unused Security Deposit held by Lessor. Upon such transfer or assignment and delivery of the Security Deposit, as aforesaid, the prior Lessor shall be relieved of all liability with respect to the obligations and/or covenants under this Lease thereafter to be performed by the Lessor. Subject to the foregoing, the obligations and/or covenants in this Lease to be performed by the Lessor shall be binding only upon the Lessor as hereinabove defined.
18.Severability. The invalidity of any provision of this Lease, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction, shall in no way affect the validity of any other provision hereof.
19.Days. Unless otherwise specifically indicated to the contrary, the word “days” as used in this Lease shall mean and refer to calendar days.
20.Limitation on Liability. The obligations of Lessor under this Lease shall not constitute personal obligations of Lessor, or its partners, members, directors, officers or shareholders, and Lessee shall look to the Premises, and to no other assets of Lessor, for the satisfaction of any liability of Lessor with respect to this Lease, and shall not seek recourse against Lessor’s partners, members, directors, officers or shareholders, or any of their personal assets for such satisfaction.
21.Time of Essence. Time is of the essence with respect to the performance of all obligations to be performed or observed by the Parties under this Lease.
22.No Prior or Other Agreements; Broker Disclaimer. This Lease contains all agreements between the Parties with respect to any matter mentioned herein, and no other prior or contemporaneous agreement or understanding shall be effective. Lessor and Lessee each represents and warrants to the Brokers that it has made, and is relying solely upon, its own investigation as to the nature, quality, character and financial responsibility of the other Party to this Lease and as to the use, nature, quality and character of the Premises. Brokers have no responsibility with respect thereto or with respect to any default or breach hereof by either Party.
23.Notices.
23.1 Notice Requirements. All notices required or permitted by this Lease or applicable law shall be in writing and may be delivered in person (by hand or by courier) or may be sent by regular, certified or registered mail or U.S. Postal Service Express Mail, with postage prepaid, or by facsimile transmission, or by email, and shall be deemed sufficiently given if served in a manner specified in this Paragraph 23. The addresses noted adjacent to a Party’s signature on this Lease shall be that Party’s address for delivery or mailing of notices. Either Party may by written notice to the other specify a different address for notice, except that upon Lessee’s taking possession of the Premises, the Premises shall constitute Lessee’s address for notice. A copy of all notices to Lessor shall be concurrently transmitted to such party or parties at such addresses as Lessor may from time to time hereafter designate in writing.
23.2 Date of Notice. Any notice sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, shall be deemed given on the date of delivery shown on the receipt card, or if no delivery date is shown, the postmark thereon. If sent by regular mail the notice shall be deemed given 72 hours after the same is addressed as required herein and mailed with postage prepaid. Notices delivered by United States Express Mail or overnight courier that guarantees next day delivery shall be deemed given 24 hours after delivery of the same to the Postal Service or courier. Notices delivered by hand, or transmitted by facsimile transmission or by email shall be deemed delivered upon actual receipt. If notice is received on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, it shall be deemed received on the next business day.
23.3 Options. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in order to exercise any Options (see paragraph 39), the Notice must be sent by Certified Mail (return receipt requested), Express Mail (signature required), courier (signature required) or some other methodology that provides a receipt establishing the date the notice was received by the Lessor.
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24.Waivers.
(a) No waiver by Lessor of the Default or Breach of any term, covenant or condition hereof by Lessee, shall be deemed a waiver of any other term, covenant or condition hereof, or of any subsequent Default or Breach by Lessee of the same or of any other term, covenant or condition hereof. Lessor’s consent to, or approval of, any act shall not be deemed to render unnecessary the obtaining of Lessor’s consent to, or approval of, any subsequent or similar act by Lessee, or be construed as the basis of an estoppel to enforce the provision or provisions of this Lease requiring such consent.
(b) The acceptance of Rent by Lessor shall not be a waiver of any Default or Breach by Lessee. Any payment by Lessee may be accepted by Lessor on account of monies or damages due Lessor, notwithstanding any qualifying statements or conditions made by Lessee in connection therewith, which such statements and/or conditions shall be of no force or effect whatsoever unless specifically agreed to in writing by Lessor at or before the time of deposit of such payment.
(c) THE PARTIES AGREE THAT THE TERMS OF THIS LEASE SHALL GOVERN WITH REGARD TO ALL MATTERS RELATED THERETO AND HEREBY WAIVE THE PROVISIONS OF ANY PRESENT OR FUTURE STATUTE TO THE EXTENT THAT SUCH STATUTE IS INCONSISTENT WITH THIS LEASE.
25.Disclosures Regarding The Nature of a Real Estate Agency Relationship.
(a) When entering into a discussion with a real estate agent regarding a real estate transaction, a Lessor or Lessee should from the outset understand what type of agency relationship or representation it has with the agent or agents in the transaction. Lessor and Lessee acknowledge being advised by the Brokers in this transaction, as follows:
(i) Lessor’s Agent. A Lessor’s agent under a listing agreement with the Lessor acts as the agent for the Lessor only. A Lessor’s agent or subagent has the following affirmative obligations: To the Lessor: A fiduciary duty of utmost care, integrity, honesty, and loyalty in dealings with the Lessor. To the Lessee and the Lessor: (a) Diligent exercise of reasonable skills and care in performance of the agent’s duties. (b) A duty of honest and fair dealing and good faith. (c) A duty to disclose all facts known to the agent materially affecting the value or desirability of the property that are not known to, or within the diligent attention and observation of, the Parties. An agent is not obligated to reveal to either Party any confidential information obtained from the other Party which does not involve the affirmative duties set forth above.
(ii) Lessee’s Agent. An agent can agree to act as agent for the Lessee only. In these situations, the agent is not the Lessor’s agent, even if by agreement the agent may receive compensation for services rendered, either in full or in part from the Lessor. An agent acting only for a Lessee has the following affirmative obligations. To the Lessee: A fiduciary duty of utmost care, integrity, honesty, and loyalty in dealings with the Lessee. To the Lessee and the Lessor: (a) Diligent exercise of reasonable skills and care in performance of the agent’s duties. (b) A duty of honest and fair dealing and good faith. (c) A duty to disclose all facts known to the agent materially affecting the value or desirability of the property that are not known to, or within the diligent attention and observation of, the Parties. An agent is not obligated to reveal to either Party any confidential information obtained from the other Party which does not involve the affirmative duties set forth above.
(iii) Agent Representing Both Lessor and Lessee. A real estate agent, either acting directly or through one or more associate licenses, can legally be the agent of both the Lessor and the Lessee in a transaction, but only with the knowledge and consent of both the Lessor and the Lessee. In a dual agency situation, the agent has the following affirmative obligations to both the Lessor and the Lessee: (a) A fiduciary duty of utmost care, integrity, honesty and loyalty in the dealings with either Lessor or the Lessee. (b) Other duties to the Lessor and the Lessee as stated above in subparagraphs (i) or (ii). In representing both Lessor and Lessee, the agent may not, without the express permission of the respective Party, disclose to the other Party confidential information, including, but not limited to, facts relating to either Lessee’s or Lessor’s financial position, motivations, bargaining position, or other personal information that may impact rent, including Lessor’s willingness to accept a rent less than the listing rent or Lessee’s willingness to pay rent greater than the rent offered. The above duties of the agent in a real estate transaction do not relieve a Lessor or Lessee from the responsibility to protect their own interests. Lessor and Lessee should carefully read all agreements to assure that they adequately express their understanding of the transaction. A real estate agent is a person qualified to advise about real estate. If legal or tax advice is desired, consult a competent professional. Both Lessor and Lessee should strongly consider obtaining tax advice from a competent professional because the federal and state tax consequences of a transaction can be complex and subject to change.
(b) Brokers have no responsibility with respect to any default or breach hereof by either Party. The Parties agree that no lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving any breach of duty, error or omission relating to this Lease may be brought against Broker more than one year after the Start Date and that the liability (including court costs and attorneys’ fees), of any Broker with respect to any such lawsuit and/or legal proceeding shall not exceed the fee received by such Broker pursuant to this Lease; provided, however, that the foregoing limitation on each Broker’s liability shall not be applicable to any gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Broker.
(c) Lessor and Lessee agree to identify to Brokers as “Confidential” any communication or information given Brokers that is considered by such Party to be confidential.
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26.No Right To Holdover. Lessee has no right to retain possession of the Premises or any part thereof beyond the expiration or termination of this Lease. At or prior to the expiration or termination of this Lease Lessee shall deliver exclusive possession of the Premises to Lessor. For purposes of this provision and Paragraph 13.1(a), exclusive possession shall mean that Lessee shall have vacated the Premises, removed all of its personal property therefrom and that the Premises have been returned in the condition specified in this Lease. In the event that Lessee does not deliver exclusive possession to Lessor as specified above, then Lessor’s damages during any holdover period shall be computed at the amount of the Rent (as defined in Paragraph 4.1) due during the last full month before the expiration or termination of this Lease (disregarding any temporary abatement of Rent that may have been in effect), but with Base Rent being 150% of the Base Rent payable during such last full month. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as consent by Lessor to any holding over by Lessee.
27.Cumulative Remedies. No remedy or election hereunder shall be deemed exclusive but shall, wherever possible, be cumulative with all other remedies at law or in equity.
28.Covenants and Conditions; Construction of Agreement. All provisions of this Lease to be observed or performed by Lessee are both covenants and conditions. In construing this Lease, all headings and titles are for the convenience of the Parties only and shall not be considered a part of this Lease. Whenever required by the context, the singular shall include the plural and vice versa. This Lease shall not be construed as if prepared by one of the Parties, but rather according to its fair meaning as a whole, as if both Parties had prepared it.
29.Binding Effect; Choice of Law. This Lease shall be binding upon the Parties, their personal representatives, successors and assigns and be governed by the laws of the State in which the Premises are located. Any litigation between the Parties hereto concerning this Lease shall be initiated in the county in which the Premises are located. Signatures to this Lease accomplished by means of electronic signature or similar technology shall be legal and binding.
30.Subordination; Attornment; Non-Disturbance.
30.1 Subordination. This Lease and any Option granted hereby shall be subject and subordinate to any ground lease, mortgage, deed of trust, or other hypothecation or security device (collectively, “Security Device”), now or hereafter placed upon the Premises, to any and all advances made on the security thereof, and to all renewals, modifications, and extensions thereof. Lessee agrees that the holders of any such Security Devices (in this Lease together referred to as “Lender”) shall have no liability or obligation to perform any of the obligations of Lessor under this Lease. Any Lender may elect to have this Lease and/or any Option granted hereby superior to the lien of its Security Device by giving written notice thereof to Lessee, whereupon this Lease and such Options shall be deemed prior to such Security Device, notwithstanding the relative dates of the documentation or recordation thereof.
30.2 Attornment. In the event that Lessor transfers title to the Premises, or the Premises are acquired by another upon the foreclosure or termination of a Security Device to which this Lease is subordinated (i) Lessee shall, subject to the non-disturbance provisions of Paragraph 30.3, attorn to such new owner, and upon request, enter into a new lease, containing all of the terms and provisions of this Lease, with such new owner for the remainder of the term hereof, or, at the election of the new owner, this Lease will automatically become a new lease between Lessee and such new owner, and (ii) Lessor shall thereafter be relieved of any further obligations hereunder and such new owner shall assume all of Lessor’s obligations, except that such new owner shall not: (a) be liable for any act or omission of any prior lessor or with respect to events occurring prior to acquisition of ownership; (b) be subject to any offsets or defenses which Lessee might have against any prior lessor, (c) be bound by prepayment of more than one month’s rent, or (d) be liable for the return of any security deposit paid to any prior lessor which was not paid or credited to such new owner.
30.3 Non-Disturbance. With respect to Security Devices entered into by Lessor after the execution of this Lease, Lessee’s subordination of this Lease shall be subject to receiving a commercially reasonable non-disturbance agreement (a “Non-Disturbance Agreement”) from the Lender which Non-Disturbance Agreement provides that Lessee’s possession of the Premises, and this Lease, including any options to extend the term hereof, will not be disturbed so long as Lessee is not in Breach hereof and attorns to the record owner of the Premises. Further, within 60 days after the execution of this Lease, Lessor shall, if requested by Lessee, use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a Non-Disturbance Agreement from the holder of any pre-existing Security Device which is secured by the Premises. In the event that Lessor is unable to provide the Non-Disturbance Agreement within said 60 days, then Lessee may, at Lessee’s option, directly contact Lender and attempt to negotiate for the execution and delivery of a Non-Disturbance Agreement.
30.4 Self-Executing. The agreements contained in this Paragraph 30 shall be effective without the execution of any further documents; provided, however, that, upon written request from Lessor or a Lender in connection with a sale, financing or refinancing of the Premises, Lessee and Lessor shall execute such further writings as may be reasonably required to separately document any subordination, attornment and/or Non-Disturbance Agreement provided for herein.
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31.Attorneys’ Fees. If any Party or Broker brings an action or proceeding involving the Premises whether founded in tort, contract or equity, or to declare rights hereunder, the Prevailing Party (as hereafter defined) in any such proceeding, action, or appeal thereon, shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees. Such fees may be awarded in the same suit or recovered in a separate suit, whether or not such action or proceeding is pursued to decision or judgment. The term, “Prevailing Party” shall include, without limitation, a Party or Broker who substantially obtains or defeats the relief sought, as the case may be, whether by compromise, settlement, judgment, or the abandonment by the other Party or Broker of its claim or defense. The attorneys’ fees award shall not be computed in accordance with any court fee schedule, but shall be such as to fully reimburse all attorneys’ fees reasonably incurred. In addition, Lessor shall be entitled to attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses incurred in the preparation and service of notices of Default and consultations in connection therewith, whether or not a legal action is subsequently commenced in connection with such Default or resulting Breach ($200 is a reasonable minimum per occurrence for such services and consultation).
32.Lessor’s Access; Showing Premises; Repairs. Lessor and Lessor’s agents shall have the right to enter the Premises at any time, in the case of an emergency, and otherwise at reasonable times after reasonable prior notice for the purpose of showing the same to prospective purchasers, lenders, or tenants, and making such alterations, repairs, improvements or additions to the Premises as Lessor may deem necessary or desirable and the erecting, using and maintaining of utilities, services, pipes and conduits through the Premises and/or other premises as long as there is no material adverse effect on Lessee’s use of the Premises. All such activities shall be without abatement of rent or liability to Lessee.
33.Auctions. Lessee shall not conduct, nor permit to be conducted, any auction upon the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent. Lessor shall not be obligated to exercise any standard of reasonableness in determining whether to permit an auction.
34.Signs. Lessor may place on the Premises ordinary “For Sale” signs at any time and ordinary “For Lease” signs during the last 6 months of the term hereof. Except for ordinary “For Sublease” signs which may be placed only on the Premises, Lessee shall not place any sign upon the Project without Lessor’s prior written consent. All signs must comply with all Applicable Requirements.
35.Termination; Merger. Unless specifically stated otherwise in writing by Lessor, the voluntary or other surrender of this Lease by Lessee, the mutual termination or cancellation hereof, or a termination hereof by Lessor for Breach by Lessee, shall automatically terminate any sublease or lesser estate in the Premises; provided, however, that Lessor may elect to continue any one or all existing subtenancies. Lessor’s failure within 10 days following any such event to elect to the contrary by written notice to the holder of any such lesser interest, shall constitute Lessor’s election to have such event constitute the termination of such interest.
36.Consents. All requests for consent shall be in writing. Except as otherwise provided herein, wherever in this Lease the consent of a Party is required to an act by or for the other Party, such consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Lessor’s actual reasonable costs and expenses (including but not limited to architects’, attorneys’, engineers’ and other consultants’ fees) incurred in the consideration of, or response to, a request by Lessee for any Lessor consent, including but not limited to consents to an assignment, a subletting or the presence or use of a Hazardous Substance, shall be paid by Lessee upon receipt of an invoice and supporting documentation therefor. Lessor’s consent to any act, assignment or subletting shall not constitute an acknowledgment that no Default or Breach by Lessee of this Lease exists, nor shall such consent be deemed a waiver of any then existing Default or Breach, except as may be otherwise specifically stated in writing by Lessor at the time of such consent. The failure to specify herein any particular condition to Lessor’s consent shall not preclude the imposition by Lessor at the time of consent of such further or other conditions as are then reasonable with reference to the particular matter for which consent is being given. In the event that either Party disagrees with any determination made by the other hereunder and reasonably requests the reasons for such determination, the determining party shall furnish its reasons in writing and in reasonable detail within 10 business days following such request.
37.Guarantor.
37.1 Execution. The Guarantors, if any, shall each execute a guaranty in the form most recently published BY AIR CRE.
37.2 Default. It shall constitute a Default of the Lessee if any Guarantor fails or refuses, upon request to provide: (a) evidence of the execution of the guaranty, including the authority of the party signing on Guarantor’s behalf to obligate Guarantor, and in the case of a corporate Guarantor, a certified copy of a resolution of its board of directors authorizing the making of such guaranty, (b) current financial statements, (c) an Estoppel Certificate, or (d) written confirmation that the guaranty is still in effect.
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38.Quiet Possession. Subject to payment by Lessee of the Rent and performance of all of the covenants, conditions and provisions on Lessee’s part to be observed and performed under this Lease, Lessee shall have quiet possession and quiet enjoyment of the Premises during the term hereof.
39.Options. If Lessee is granted any option, as defined below, then the following provisions shall apply.
39.1 Definition. “Option” shall mean: (a) the right to extend or reduce the term of or renew this Lease or to extend or reduce the term of or renew any lease that Lessee has on other property of Lessor; (b) the right of first refusal or first offer to lease either the Premises or other property of Lessor; (c) the right to purchase, the right of first offer to purchase or the right of first refusal to purchase the Premises or other property of Lessor.
39.2 Options Personal To Original Lessee. Any Option granted to Lessee in this Lease is personal to the original Lessee, and cannot be assigned or exercised by anyone other than said original Lessee and only while the original Lessee is in full possession of the Premises and, if requested by Lessor, with Lessee certifying that Lessee has no intention of thereafter assigning or subletting.
39.3 Multiple Options. In the event that Lessee has any multiple Options to extend or renew this Lease, a later Option cannot be exercised unless the prior Options have been validly exercised.
39.4 Effect of Default on Options.
(a) Lessee shall have no right to exercise an Option: (i) during the period commencing with the giving of any notice of Default and continuing until said Default is cured, (ii) during the period of time any Rent is unpaid (without regard to whether notice thereof is given Lessee), (iii) during the time Lessee is in Breach of this Lease, or (iv) in the event that Lessee has been given 3 or more notices of separate Default, whether or not the Defaults are cured, during the 12 month period immediately preceding the exercise of the Option.
(b) The period of time within which an Option may be exercised shall not be extended or enlarged by reason of Lessee’s inability to exercise an Option because of the provisions of Paragraph 39.4(a).
(c) An Option shall terminate and be of no further force or effect, notwithstanding Lessee’s due and timely exercise of the Option, if, after such exercise and prior to the commencement of the extended term or completion of the purchase, (i) Lessee fails to pay Rent for a period of 30 days after such Rent becomes due (without any necessity of Lessor to give notice thereof), or (ii) if Lessee commits a Breach of this Lease.
40.Security Measures. Lessee hereby acknowledges that the Rent payable to Lessor hereunder does not include the cost of guard service or other security measures, and that Lessor shall have no obligation whatsoever to provide same. Lessee assumes all responsibility for the protection of the Premises, Lessee, its agents and invitees and their property from the acts of third parties.
41.Reservations. Lessor reserves the right: (i) to grant, without the consent or joinder of Lessee, such easements, rights and dedications that Lessor deems necessary; (ii) to cause the recordation of parcel maps and restrictions; and (iii) to create and/or install new utility raceways, so long as such easements, rights, dedications, maps, restrictions, and utility raceways do not unreasonably interfere with the use of the Premises by Lessee. Lessee agrees to sign any documents reasonably requested by Lessor to effectuate such rights.
42.Performance Under Protest. If at any time a dispute shall arise as to any amount or sum of money to be paid by one Party to the other under the provisions hereof, the Party against whom the obligation to pay the money is asserted shall have the right to make payment “under protest” and such payment shall not be regarded as a voluntary payment and there shall survive the right on the part of said Party to institute suit for recovery of such sum. If it shall be adjudged that there was no legal obligation on the part of said Party to pay such sum or any part thereof, said Party shall be entitled to recover such sum or so much thereof as it was not legally required to pay. A Party who does not initiate suit for the recovery of sums paid “under protest” within 6 months shall be deemed to have waived its right to protest such payment.
43.Authority; Multiple Parties; Execution.
(a) If either Party hereto is a corporation, trust, limited liability company, partnership, or similar entity, each individual executing this Lease on behalf of such entity represents and warrants that he or she is duly authorized to execute and deliver this Lease on its behalf. Each Party shall, within 30 days after request, deliver to the other Party satisfactory evidence of such authority.
(b) If this Lease is executed by more than one person or entity as “Lessee”, each such person or entity shall be jointly and severally liable hereunder. It is agreed that any one of the named Lessees shall be empowered to execute any amendment to this Lease, or other document ancillary thereto and bind all of the named Lessees, and Lessor may rely on the same as if all of the named Lessees had executed such document.
(c) This Lease may be executed by the Parties in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
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44.Conflict. Any conflict between the printed provisions of this Lease and the typewritten or handwritten provisions shall be controlled by the typewritten or handwritten provisions.
45.Offer. Preparation of this Lease by either party or their agent and submission of same to the other Party shall not be deemed an offer to lease to the other Party. This Lease is not intended to be binding until executed and delivered by all Parties hereto.
46.Amendments. This Lease may be modified only in writing, signed by the Parties in interest at the time of the modification. As long as they do not materially change Lessee’s obligations hereunder, Lessee agrees to make such reasonable non-monetary modifications to this Lease as may be reasonably required by a Lender in connection with the obtaining of normal financing or refinancing of the Premises.
47.Waiver of Jury Trial. THE PARTIES HEREBY WAIVE THEIR RESPECTIVE RIGHTS TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING INVOLVING THE PROPERTYOR ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT.
48.Arbitration of Disputes. An Addendum requiring the Arbitration of all disputes between the Parties and/or Brokers arising out of this Lease ☒ is ☐ is not attached to this Lease.
49.Accessibility; Americans with Disabilities Act.
(a) The Premises:
☒ have not undergone an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp). Note: A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) can inspect the subject premises and determine whether the subject premises comply with all of the applicable construction-related accessibility standards under state law. Although state law does not require a CASp inspection of the subject premises, the commercial property owner or lessor may not prohibit the lessee or tenant from obtaining a CASp inspection of the subject premises for the occupancy or potential occupancy of the lessee or tenant, if requested by the lessee or tenant. The parties shall mutually agree on the arrangements for the time and manner of the CASp inspection, the payment of the fee for the CASp inspection, and the cost of making any repairs necessary to correct violations of construction-related accessibility standards within the premises.
☐ have undergone an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) and it was determined that the Premises met all applicable construction-related accessibility standards pursuant to California Civil Code §55.51 et seq. Lessee acknowledges that it received a copy of the inspection report at least 48 hours prior to executing this Lease and agrees to keep such report confidential.
☐ have undergone an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) and it was determined that the Premises did not meet all applicable construction-related accessibility standards pursuant to California Civil Code §55.51 et seq. Lessee acknowledges that it received a copy of the inspection report at least 48 hours prior to executing this Lease and agrees to keep such report confidential except as necessary to complete repairs and corrections of violations of construction related accessibility standards.
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In the event that the Premises have been issued an inspection report by a CASp the Lessor shall provide a copy of the disability access inspection certificate to Lessee within 7 days of the execution of this Lease.
(b) Since compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other state and local accessibility statutes are dependent upon Lessee’s specific use of the Premises, Lessor makes no warranty or representation as to whether or not the Premises comply with ADA or any similar legislation. In the event that Lessee’s use of the Premises requires modifications or additions to the Premises in order to be in compliance with ADA or other accessibility statutes, Lessee agrees to make any such necessary modifications and/or additions at Lessee’s expense.
LESSORAND LESSEE HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND REVIEWED THIS LEASE AND EACH TERM AND PROVISION CONTAINED HEREIN, AND BY THE EXECUTION OF THIS LEASESHOW THEIR INFORMED AND VOLUNTARY CONSENT THERETO. THE PARTIES HEREBY AGREE THAT, AT THE TIME THIS LEASE IS EXECUTED, THE TERMS OF THISLEASE ARE COMMERCIALLY REASONABLE AND EFFECTUATE THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF LESSOR AND LESSEE WITH RESPECT TO THE PREMISES.
ATTENTION:NO REPRESENTATION OR RECOMMENDATION IS MADE BY AIR CRE OR BY ANY BROKER AS TO THE LEGAL SUFFICIENCY, LEGAL EFFECT, OR TAX CONSEQUENCESOF THIS LEASE OR THE TRANSACTION TO WHICH IT RELATES. THE PARTIES ARE URGED TO:
1.SEEK ADVICE OF COUNSEL AS TO THE LEGAL AND TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE.
2.RETAIN APPROPRIATE CONSULTANTS TO REVIEW AND INVESTIGATE THE CONDITION OF THE PREMISES. SAID INVESTIGATION SHOULD INCLUDE BUT NOT BELIMITED TO: THE POSSIBLE PRESENCE OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES, THE ZONING OF THE PREMISES, THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY, THE CONDITION OF THEROOF AND OPERATING SYSTEMS, COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND THE SUITABILITY OF THE PREMISES FOR LESSEE’SINTENDED USE.
WARNING:IF THE PREMISES ARE LOCATED IN A STATE OTHER THAN CALIFORNIA, CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE LEASE MAY NEED TO BE REVISED TO COMPLY WITH THELAWS OF THE STATE IN WHICH THE PREMISES ARE LOCATED.
The parties hereto have executed this Lease at the place and on the dates specified above their respective signatures.
| Executed<br> at: | Kapalua,<br> Hawaii | Executed<br> at: | Huntington<br> Beach | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| On: | September<br> 30, 2022 | 12:56 PM PDT | On: | September<br> 30, 2022 | 12:20 PM PDT |
| By LESSOR: | By LESSEE: | ||||
| Slater Palms LLC | Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation | ||||
| By: | /s/ Stephen J. Rimel | By: | /s/ Christeen Buban | ||
| Name<br> Printed: | Stephen J. Rimel | Name<br> Printed: | Christeen Buban | ||
| Title: | Managing Member | Title: | President | ||
| Phone: | Phone: | ||||
| Fax: | Fax: | ||||
| Email: | Email: | ||||
| By: | By: | ||||
| Name<br> Printed: | Name<br> Printed: | ||||
| Title: | Title: | ||||
| Phone: | Phone: | ||||
| Fax: | Fax: | ||||
| Email: | Email: | ||||
| Address | Address | ||||
| Federal<br> ID No.: | Federal<br> ID No.: | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | |||
| BROKER | BROKER | ||||
| Lee & Associates®-Newport Beach | |||||
| Attn: | Brad Schneider/Nick Krakower | Attn: | |||
| Title: | SVP/Principal / Senior Associate | Title: | |||
| Address: | 100 Bayview Circle, Suite 600 | Address: | |||
| Newport<br> Beach, CA 92660 | |||||
| Phone: | (949) 724-4708/(949) 724-4720 | Phone: | |||
| Fax: | (949) 623-6308/(949( 6320 | Fax: | |||
| Email: | bschneider@lee-associates.com/<br><br> <br>nkrakower@lee-associates.com | Email: | |||
| Federal<br> ID No.: | Federal<br> ID No.: | ||||
| --- | --- | --- | |||
| Broker<br> DRE License #: | 01197433 | Broker<br> DRE License #: | |||
| Agent<br> DRE License #: | 01887613/02100512 | Agent<br> DRE License #: |
AIRCRE * https://www.aircre.com * 213-687-8777 * contracts@aircre.com
NOTICE:No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing.
Schneider/Submersible Systems-7413 Slater Avenue-Gross Lease
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ADDENDUMTO LEASE
| Date: | September 14, 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| By and Between | **** | |
| Lessor: | Slater Palms LLC | |
| Lessee: | Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation | |
| Property Address: | 7413 Slater Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 | |
| (street<br> address, city, state, zip) |
Paragraph: 50-53
In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this Addendum and the printed provisions of the Lease, this Addendum shall control.
50. Rent Schedule:
| February 1, 2023 - January 31, 2024 | $ | 17,550.00 |
|---|---|---|
| February 1, 2024 - January 31, 2025 | $ | 17,550.00 |
| February 1, 2025 - January 31, 2026 | $ | 18,077.00 |
| February 1, 2026 - January 31, 2027 | $ | 18,619.00 |
| February 1, 2027 - January 31, 2028 | $ | 19,177.00 |
51. Lessor Improvements:
Lessor, at Lessor’s sole cost & expense, shall install a new roll up door.
52. Operating Expenses:
The above mentioned Rent is inclusive of a $0.05/SF Common Area Operating Expense (CAM). Lessee shall not be obligated to pay any additional CAM charge during the term of the lease.
53. Security Deposit:
The current Security Deposit on file is $8,450.00. The total Security Deposit required is $19,177.00. Therefore, the Lessee shall pay to Lessor a Security Deposit equivalent to $10,727.00 upon execution of this lease.
AIRCRE * https://www.aircre.com * 213-687-8777 * contracts@aircre.com
NOTICE:No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing.
Submersible Systems-7413 Slater Avenue-Gross Lease
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ARBITRATIONAGREEMENT
STANDARDLEASE ADDENDUM
| Dated: | September 14, 2022 | |
|---|---|---|
| By and Between | **** | |
| Lessor: | Slater Palms LLC | |
| Lessee: | Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation | |
| Property Address: | 7413 Slater Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 | |
| (street<br> address, city, state, zip) |
Paragraph: 54
A. ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES:
Except as provided in Paragraph B below, the Parties agree to resolve any and all claims, disputes or disagreements arising under this Lease, including, but not limited to any matter relating to Lessor’s failure to approve an assignment, sublease or other transfer of Lessee’s interest in the Lease under Paragraph 12 of this Lease, any other defaults by Lessor, or any defaults by Lessee by and through arbitration as provided below and irrevocably waive any and all rights to the contrary. The Parties agree to at all times conduct themselves in strict, full, complete and timely accordance with the terms hereof and that any attempt to circumvent the terms of this Arbitration Agreement shall be absolutely null and void and of no force or effect whatsoever.
B. DISPUTES EXCLUDED FROM ARBITRATION:
The following claims, disputes or disagreements under this Lease are expressly excluded from the arbitration procedures set forth herein:
Disputes for which a different resolution determination is specifically set forth in this Lease, 2. All claims by either party which (a) seek anything other than enforcement or determination of rights under this Lease, or (b) are primarily founded upon matters of fraud, willful misconduct, bad faith or any other allegations of tortious action, and seek the award of punitive or exemplary damages, 3. Claims relating to (a) Lessor’s exercise of any unlawful detainer rights pursuant to applicable law or (b) rights or remedies used by Lessor to gain possession of the Premises or terminate Lessee’s right of possession to the Premises, all of which disputes shall be resolved by suit filed in the applicable court of jurisdiction, the decision of which court shall be subject to appeal pursuant to applicable law 4. Any claim or dispute that is within the jurisdiction of the Small Claims Court and
All claims arising under Paragraph 39 of this Lease.
C. APPOINTMENT OF AN ARBITRATOR:
All disputes subject to this Arbitration Agreement, shall be determined by binding arbitration before☒: a retired judge of the applicable court of jurisdiction (e.g., the Superior Court of the State of California) affiliated with Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services, Inc. (“JAMS”), ☐ the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) under its commercial arbitration rules, ☐__________, or as may be otherwise mutually agreed by Lessor and Lessee (the “Arbitrator”). In the event that the parties elect to use an arbitrator other than one affiliated with JAMS or AAA then such arbitrator shall be obligated to comply with the Code of Ethics for Arbitrators in Commercial Disputes (see: http://www.adr.org/aaa/ShowProperty?nodeId=/UCM/ADRSTG_003867). Such arbitration shall be initiated by the Parties, or either of them, within ten (10) days after either party sends written notice (the “Arbitration Notice”) of a demand to arbitrate by registered or certified mail to the other party and to the Arbitrator. The Arbitration Notice shall contain a description of the subject matter of the arbitration, the dispute with respect thereto, the amount involved, if any, and the remedy or determination sought. If the Parties have agreed to use JAMS they may agree on a retired judge from the JAMS panel. If they are unable to agree within ten days, JAMS will provide a list of three available judges and each party may strike one. The remaining judge (or if there are two, the one selected by JAMS) will serve as the Arbitrator. If the Parties have elected to utilize AAA or some other organization, the Arbitrator shall be selected in accordance with said organization’s rules. In the event the Arbitrator is not selected as provided for above for any reason, the party initiating arbitration shall apply to the appropriate Court for the appointment of a qualified retired judge to act as the Arbitrator.
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D. ARBITRATION PROCEDURE:
1. PRE-HEARING ACTIONS. The Arbitrator shall schedule a pre-hearing conference to resolve procedural matters, arrange for the exchange of information, obtain stipulations, and narrow the issues. The Parties will submit proposed discovery schedules to the Arbitrator at the pre-hearing conference. The scope and duration of discovery will be within the sole discretion of the Arbitrator. The Arbitrator shall have the discretion to order a pre-hearing exchange of information by the Parties, including, without limitation, production of requested documents, exchange of summaries of testimony of proposed witnesses, and examination by deposition of parties and third-party witnesses. This discretion shall be exercised in favor of discovery reasonable under the circumstances. The Arbitrator shall issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum as provided for in the applicable statutory or case law (e.g., in California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1282.6).
2. THE DECISION. The arbitration shall be conducted in the city or county within which the Premises are located at a reasonably convenient site. Any Party may be represented by counsel or other authorized representative. In rendering a decision(s), the Arbitrator shall determine the rights and obligations of the Parties according to the substantive laws and the terms and provisions of this Lease. The Arbitrator’s decision shall be based on the evidence introduced at the hearing, including all logical and reasonable inferences therefrom. The Arbitrator may make any determination and/or grant any remedy or relief that is just and equitable. The decision must be based on, and accompanied by, a written statement of decision explaining the factual and legal basis for the decision as to each of the principal controverted issues. The decision shall be conclusive and binding, and it may thereafter be confirmed as a judgment by the court of applicable jurisdiction, subject only to challenge on the grounds set forth in the applicable statutory or case law (e.g., in California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1286.2). The validity and enforceability of the Arbitrator’s decision is to be determined exclusively by the court of appropriate jurisdiction pursuant to the provisions of this Lease. The Arbitrator may award costs, including without limitation, Arbitrator’s fees and costs, attorneys’ fees, and expert and witness costs, to the prevailing party, if any, as determined by the Arbitrator in his discretion.
Whenever a matter which has been submitted to arbitration involves a dispute as to whether or not a particular act or omission (other than a failure to pay money) constitutes a Default, the time to commence or cease such action shall be tolled from the date that the Notice of Arbitration is served through and until the date the Arbitrator renders his or her decision. Provided, however, that this provision shall NOT apply in the event that the Arbitrator determines that the Arbitration Notice was prepared in bad faith.
Whenever a dispute arises between the Parties concerning whether or not the failure to make a payment of money constitutes a default, the service of an Arbitration Notice shall NOT toll the time period in which to pay the money. The Party allegedly obligated to pay the money may, however, elect to pay the money “under protest” by accompanying said payment with a written statement setting forth the reasons for such protest. If thereafter, the Arbitrator determines that the Party who received said money was not entitled to such payment, said money shall be promptly returned to the Party who paid such money under protest together with Interest thereon as defined in Paragraph 13.5. If a Party makes a payment “under protest” but no Notice of Arbitration is filed within thirty days, then such protest shall be deemed waived. (See also Paragraph 42 or 43)
AIRCRE * https://www.aircre.com * 213-687-8777 * contracts@aircre.com
NOTICE:No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing.
Submersible Systems-7413 Slater Avenue-Gross Lease
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GUARANTYOF LEASE
WHEREAS, Slater Palms, LLC, hereinafter “Lessor”, and Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation, hereinafter “Lessee”, are about to execute a document entitled “Lease” dated September 14, 2022 concerning the premises commonly known as (street address, city, state, zip) 7413 Slater Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA 92647 wherein Lessor will lease the premises to Lessee, and
WHEREAS, Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc. hereinafter “Guarantors” have a financial interest in Lessee, and
WHEREAS, Lessor would not execute the Lease if Guarantors did not execute and deliver to Lessor this Guaranty of Lease.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the execution of said Lease by Lessor and as a material inducement to Lessor to execute said Lease, Guarantors hereby jointly, severally, unconditionally and irrevocably guarantee the prompt payment by Lessee of all rents and all other sums payable by Lessee under said Lease and the faithful and prompt performance by Lessee of each and every one of the terms, conditions and covenants of said Lease to be kept and performed by Lessee.
It is specifically agreed by Lessor and Guarantors that: (i) the terms of the foregoing Lease may be modified by agreement between Lessor and Lessee, or by a course of conduct, and (ii) said Lease may be assigned by Lessor or any assignee of Lessor without the consent of or notice to Guarantors and that this Guaranty shall guarantee the performance of said Lease as so modified.
This Guaranty shall not be released, modified or affected by the failure or delay on the part of Lessor to enforce any of the rights or remedies of the Lessor under said Lease.
No notice of default by Lessee under the Lease need be given by Lessor to Guarantors, it being specifically agreed that the guarantee of the undersigned is a continuing guarantee under which Lessor may proceed immediately against Lessee and/or against Guarantors following any breach or default by Lessee or for the enforcement of any rights which Lessor may have as against Lessee under the terms of the Lease or at law or in equity.
Lessor shall have the right to proceed against Guarantors following any breach or default by Lessee under the Lease without first proceeding against Lessee and without previous notice to or demand upon either Lessee or Guarantors.
Guarantors hereby waive (a) notice of acceptance of this Guaranty. (b) demand of payment, presentation and protest, (c) all right to assert or plead any statute of limitations relating to this Guaranty or the Lease, (d) any right to require the Lessor to proceed against the Lessee or any other Guarantor or any other person or entity liable to Lessor, (e) any right to require Lessor to apply to any default any security deposit or other security it may hold under the Lease, (f) any right to require Lessor to proceed under any other remedy Lessor may have before proceeding against Guarantors, (g) any right of subrogation that Guarantors may have against Lessee.
Guarantors do hereby subordinate all existing or future indebtedness of Lessee to Guarantors to the obligations owed to Lessor under the Lease and this Guaranty.
If a Guarantor is married, such Guarantor expressly agrees that recourse may be had against his or her separate property for all of the obligations hereunder.
The obligations of Lessee under the Lease to execute and deliver estoppel statements and financial statements, as therein provided, shall be deemed to also require the Guarantors to provide estoppel statements and financial statements to Lessor. The failure of the Guarantors to provide the same to Lessor shall constitute a default under the Lease.
The term “Lessor” refers to and means the Lessor named in the Lease and also Lessor’s successors and assigns. So long as Lessor’s interest in the Lease, the leased premises or the rents, issues and profits therefrom, are subject to any mortgage or deed of trust or assignment for security, no acquisition by Guarantors of the Lessor’s interest shall affect the continuing obligation of Guarantors under this Guaranty which shall nevertheless continue in full force and effect for the benefit of the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee or assignee under such mortgage, deed of trust or assignment and their successors and assigns.
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The term “Lessee” refers to and means the Lessee named in the Lease and also Lessee’s successors and assigns.
Any recovery by Lessor from any other guarantor or insurer shall first be credited to the portion of Lessee’s indebtedness to Lessor which exceeds the maximum liability of Guarantors under this Guaranty.
No provision of this Guaranty or right of the Lessor can be waived, nor can the Guarantors be released from their obligations except in writing signed by the Lessor.
Any litigation concerning this Guaranty shall be initiated in a state court of competent jurisdiction in the county in which the leased premises are located and the Guarantors consent to the jurisdiction of such court. This Guaranty shall be governed by the laws of the State in which the leased premises are located and for the purposes of any rules regarding conflicts of law the parties shall be treated as if they were all residents or domiciles of such State.
In the event any action be brought by said Lessor against Guarantors hereunder to enforce the obligation of Guarantors hereunder, the unsuccessful party in such action shall pay to the prevailing party therein a reasonable attorney’s fee. The attorney’s fee award shall not be computed in accordance with any court fee schedule, but shall be such as to full reimburse all attorneys’ fees reasonably incurred.
If any Guarantor is a corporation, partnership, or limited liability company, each individual executing this Guaranty on said entity’s behalf represents and warrants that he or she is duly authorized to execute this Guaranty on behalf of such entity. Signatures to this Guaranty accomplished by means of electronic signature or similar technology shall be legal and binding.
Ifthis Form has been filled in, it has been prepared for submission to your attorney for his approval. No representation or recommendationis made BY AIR CRE, the real estate broker or its agents or employees as to the legal sufficiency, legal effect, or tax consequencesof this Form or the transaction relating thereto.
SIGNATURE PAGE TO FOLLOW
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| GUARANTORS | Executed<br> At: | Pompano<br> Beach, FL | ||
| --- | --- | --- | ||
| Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc. | On: | September<br> 30, 2022 | 12:35 PM PDT | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | |
| By: | /s/ Christopher Constable | By: | ||
| Name<br> Printed: | Christopher<br> Constable | Name<br> Printed: | ||
| Title: | Chief<br> Executive Officer | Title: | ||
| Address: | Address: |
AIRCRE * https://www.aircre.com * 213-687-8777 * contracts@aircre.com
NOTICE:No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing.
Schneider/SubmersibleSystems-7413 Slater-Guaranty of Lease
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Exhibit 10.34




















































Exhibit 10.35


















































Exhibit21
Subsidiaries
Trebor Industries, Inc., a Florida corporation
Brownie’s High Pressure Compressor Services, Inc., a Florida corporation
bLU3, Inc., a Florida corporation
Submersible Systems, Inc., a Florida corporation
Live Blue, Inc., a Florida corporation
EXHIBIT 31.1
OFFICER’SCERTIFICATE PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-14(A)/15D-14(A)
I, Robert M. Carmichael, certify that:
| 1. | I<br> have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, of Brownie’s<br> Marine Group, Inc.; | |
|---|---|---|
| 2. | Based<br> on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or<br> omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances<br> under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered<br> by this report; | |
| --- | --- | |
| 3. | Based<br> on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this<br> report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations<br> and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; | |
| --- | --- | |
| 4. | I<br> am responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined<br> in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15 (e)) and internal controls over financial reporting<br> (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 3a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: | |
| --- | --- | |
| (a) | Designed<br> such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures<br> to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the<br> registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within<br> those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; | |
| --- | --- | |
| (b) | Designed<br> such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial<br> reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding<br> the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external<br> purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; | |
| --- | --- | |
| (c) | Evaluated<br> the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented<br> in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures,<br> as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and | |
| --- | --- | |
| (d) | Disclosed<br> in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting<br> that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s<br> fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is<br> reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial<br> reporting; and | |
| --- | --- | |
| 5. | I<br> have disclosed, based on my most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting,<br> to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board<br> of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): | |
| --- | --- | |
| (a) | All<br> significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control<br> over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s<br> ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and | |
| --- | --- | |
| (b) | Any<br> fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant<br> role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. | |
| --- | --- | |
| Date:<br> May 9, 2024 | /s/ Robert M. Carmichael | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Name: | Robert M. Carmichael | |
| Title: | Chief<br> Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) |
EXHIBIT 31.2
OFFICER’SCERTIFICATE PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-14(A)/15D-14(A)
I, Robert M. Carmichael, certify that:
| 1. | I<br> have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, of Brownie’s<br> Marine Group, Inc.; | |
|---|---|---|
| 2. | Based<br> on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or<br> omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances<br> under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered<br> by this report; | |
| --- | --- | |
| 3. | Based<br> on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this<br> report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations<br> and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; | |
| --- | --- | |
| 4. | I<br> am responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined<br> in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15 (e)) and internal controls over financial reporting<br> (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 3a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: | |
| --- | --- | |
| (a) | Designed<br> such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures<br> to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the<br> registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within<br> those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; | |
| --- | --- | |
| (b) | Designed<br> such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial<br> reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding<br> the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external<br> purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; | |
| --- | --- | |
| (c) | Evaluated<br> the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented<br> in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures,<br> as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and | |
| --- | --- | |
| (d) | Disclosed<br> in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting<br> that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s<br> fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is<br> reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial<br> reporting; and | |
| --- | --- | |
| 5. | I<br> have disclosed, based on my most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting,<br> to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board<br> of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): | |
| --- | --- | |
| (a) | All<br> significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control<br> over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s<br> ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and | |
| --- | --- | |
| (b) | Any<br> fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant<br> role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting. | |
| --- | --- | |
| Date:<br> May 9, 2024 | /s/ Robert M. Carmichael | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Name: | Robert<br> M. Carmichael | |
| Title: | Chairman<br> of the Board, President, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting officer) |
EXHIBIT32.1
CERTIFICATIONPURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350
ASADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Brownie’s Marine Group, Inc. (the “Company”) for the year ended December 31, 2023 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned, in the capacities and on the dates indicated below, hereby certifies pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to his knowledge:
| 1. | The<br> Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange<br> Act of 1934, as amended; and | |
|---|---|---|
| 2. | The<br> information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial<br> condition and results of operation of the Company. | |
| --- | --- | |
| /s/ Robert M. Carmichael | ||
| --- | --- | --- |
| Date:<br> May 9, 2024 | Name: | Robert M. Carmichael |
| Title: | Chief<br> Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer | |
| /s/ Robert M. Carmichael | ||
| Name: | Robert<br> M. Carmichael | |
| Title: | Chief<br> Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) |