Photronics Form 10-Q, Second Quarter - 2005


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
                                               


FORM 10-Q

x

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

    

For the quarterly period ended May 1, 2005

     

OR

o

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

     

For the transition period from ___ to ___

     

                                                                                                                  

     

Commission file number 0-15451          

PHOTRONICS, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Connecticut
(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation of organization
)

                                                                        

06-0854886
(IRS Employer
Identification Number)

15 Secor Road, Brookfield, Connecticut 06804

(Address of principal executive offices and zip code)

(203) 775-9000

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:   None

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:   Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share


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 periods that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes
x  No o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 126-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes 
x No  o

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

Class

                                    

Outstanding at June 1, 2005

Common Stock, $0.01 par value

                                 

32,965,612 Shares

- 1 -



Forward Looking Information

     Certain statements in this report are considered "forward looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All forward looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. For a description of the factors that could cause the actual results of the Company to be materially different from those projected, please review the Company's SEC reports that detail these risks and uncertainties and the section captioned "Forward Looking Information" contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2004.  Any forward looking statements should be considered in light of these factors.

- 2 -



PHOTRONICS, INC.
AND SUBSIDIARIES

INDEX

PART I.

    

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

          

Page

 

 

                                                                                                  

   


     

Item 1.

 

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

   

 

 

                                                                                                  

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at
May 1, 2005 (unaudited) and October 31, 2004


4

 

 

                                                                                                  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
for the Three and Six Months Ended
May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004 (unaudited)



5

 

 

                                                                                               

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
for the Six Months Ended
May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004 (unaudited)



6

 

 

                                                                                                

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

7

  

  

                                                                                         

Item 2.

Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Results of Operations and Financial Condition


14

 

 

              

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

23

   

   

   

Item 4.

   

Controls and Procedures

24

    

  

  

   

  

    

PART II.

   

OTHER INFORMATION

   

   

Item 2.

   

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer
and Affiliated Purchasers


25

     

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

25

     

Item 5.

Other Information

26

     

Item 6.

Exhibits

26

- 3 -



PART I.     FINANCIAL INFORMATION

                                                                                         

Item 1.        Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

PHOTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

May 1,
2005

October 31,
2004

                                                                                                               


      


               

(unaudited)

ASSETS

                                                                        

              

      

              

Current assets:

  Cash and cash equivalents

$ 91,368 

$142,300 

  Short-term investments

68,898 

84,628 

  Accounts receivable, net

65,327 

68,737 

  Inventories

18,677 

16,066 

  Deferred income taxes and other current assets

36,024 

33,995 



     Total current assets

280,294 

345,726 

                 

Property, plant and equipment, net

405,414 

396,461 

Goodwill

136,396 

115,906 

Other assets

10,027 

14,778 



$832,131 

$872,871 



                 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

                                                                       

Current liabilities:

  Current portion of long-term debt

$      33 

$   3,018 

  Accounts payable

50,583 

57,746 

  Other accrued liabilities

26,930 

29,900 



     Total current liabilities

77,546 

90,664 

               

Long-term debt

262,665 

315,888 

Deferred income taxes and other liabilities

52,720 

52,122 

Minority interest

62,045 

64,724 

                                                                        

Shareholders' equity:

  Preferred stock, $0.01 par value,

     2,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding

  Common stock, $0.01 par value,

    150,000 shares authorized, 32,873 shares issued and outstanding

     at May 1, 2005 and 32,690 shares issued and outstanding

     at October 31, 2004

329 

327 

  Additional paid-in capital

204,749 

202,313 

  Retained earnings

149,786 

134,667 

  Accumulated other comprehensive income

22,316 

12,166 

  Deferred compensation on restricted stock

(25)

       



     Total shareholders' equity

377,155 

349,473 



$832,131 

$872,871 



     

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

- 4 -



PHOTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

(unaudited)

                                       

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

                                            


 



                                                

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

 

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

                            





 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

$112,893 

$97,167 

$214,076 

$187,656 

                                    

 

 

      

Costs and expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

            

 

 

 

 

 

  Cost of sales

74,457 

 

64,133 

 

143,640 

 

125,984 

         

 

 

 

 

 

  Selling, general and administrative

13,521 

13,297 

26,239 

26,831 

          

 

 

 

 

 

  Research and development

8,120 

7,493 

15,895 

14,934 

            





    Operating income

16,795 

 

12,244 

 

28,302 

 

19,907 

     

 

 

 

 

 

     Other expense, net

(2,057)

(2,671)

(5,081)

(5,384)





    Income before income taxes and
     minority interest

14,738 

 


9,573 

 

23,221 

 


14,523 

         

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax provision

2,617 

 

1,231 

 

4,452 

 

2,524 

      





    Income before minority interest

12,121 

 

8,342 

 

18,769 

 

11,999 

         

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interest

(1,547)

 

(2,357)

 

(3,650)

 

(3,872)

     





    Net income

$ 10,574 

 

$ 5,985 

 

$ 15,119 

 

$  8,127 

     





Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Basic

$0.32 

$0.18 

$0.46 

$0.25 

     





     Diluted

$0.28 

$0.17 

$0.41 

$0.24 

     





Weighted average number of common shares
     outstanding:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Basic

32,817 

 

32,526 

 

32,760 

 

32,510 

     





     Diluted

42,398 

 

42,661 

 

42,346 

 

42,445 

     





   

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

- 5 -



PHOTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

(unaudited)

                                                                                                        

Six Months Ended


May 1,
2005

May 2,
2004



     

Cash flows from operating activities:                                       

              

       

              

    Net income

$15,119 

$  8,127 

    Adjustments to reconcile net income
       to net cash provided by operating activities:

             Depreciation and amortization

42,967 

42,445 

             Changes in assets and liabilities:

                  Accounts receivable

6,773 

(3,461)

                  Inventories

(1,460)

2,058 

                  Other current assets

(2,041)

519 

                  Accounts payable and other

(3,069)

(8,483)



Net cash provided by operating activities                     

58,289 

41,205 



Cash flows from investing activities:

     Deposits on and purchases of property,
        plant and equipment


(31,772)


(30,953)

     Acquisition of additional interest in PK Ltd.

(40,350)

     Sales (purchases) of short-term investments

16,124 

(91,409)

     Other

608 



Net cash used in investing activities

(55,998)

(121,754)



Cash flows from financing activities:

     Repayments of long-term debt

(56,193)

(4,843)

     Proceeds from issuance of common stock

2,199 

1,225 



Net cash used in financing activities

(53,994)

(3,618)



Effect of exchange rate changes on cash flows

771 

2,916 



Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

(50,932)

(81,251)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

142,300 

214,777 



Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$91,368 

$133,526 



Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

     Interest payments

$4,256 

$6,170 

     Income tax payments

$5,029 

$2,397 

     

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

- 6 -



PHOTRONICS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Three and Six Months Ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004
(unaudited)


NOTE 1 - BASIS OF FINANCIAL STATEMENT PRESENTATION

      Photronics, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the "Company" or "Photronics") is one of the world's leading manufacturers of photomasks, which are high precision photographic quartz plates containing microscopic images of electronic circuits. Photomasks are a key element in the manufacture of semiconductors and flat panel displays ("FPD"), and are used as masters to transfer circuit patterns onto semiconductor wafers and flat panel substrates during the fabrication of integrated circuits ("IC") and a variety of FPD and, to a lesser extent, other types of electrical and optical components. The Company operates principally from nine manufacturing facilities, three of which are located in the United States, three in Europe, and one each in Korea, Singapore and Taiwan.

     The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for annual financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Operating results for the interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending October 30, 2005. Certain amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2004.

NOTE 2 - STOCK BASED COMPENSATION

     The Company has several stock option plans under which incentive and non-qualified stock options may be granted. The Company accounts for those plans under the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,and related interpretations." Under this method, stock-based employee compensation cost is reflected in net income only if options granted under those plans had an exercise price less than the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. The Company uses the Black-Scholes-Merton model to calculate the fair value of stock-based compensation for pro forma disclosure purposes. The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Statement No. 123, "Accounting for Stock Based Compensation," to stock-based employee compensation (in thousands, except per share amounts).

- 7 -



 

  

Three Months Ended

     

Six Months Ended

 



 

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

 


 


 


 


                   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reported net income

$10,574 

 

$5,985 

$15,119 

$8,127 

 

 

Deduct: Total stock-based
employee compensation expense
determined under fair value-based
method for all awards, net of
related tax effects

(2,525)

 

(308)

(3,021)

(1,291)





Pro forma net income

$ 8,049 

 

$5,677 

$12,098 

$6,836 





Earnings per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per share:

 

        As reported

$0.32 

$0.18 

$0.46 

$0.25 

        Pro forma

$0.25 

$0.17 

$0.37 

$0.21 

 

Diluted earnings per share:

        As reported

$0.28 

$0.17 

$0.41 

$0.24 

        Pro forma

$0.22 

$0.16 

$0.34 

$0.21 

     In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123, "Share-Based Payments (revised 2004)," (SFAS No. 123R). This statement eliminates the option to apply the intrinsic value measurement provisions of APB Opinion No. 25 to stock compensation awards issued to employees. Rather this statement requires companies to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of the award. That cost will be recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide services in exchange for the award - the requisite service period (usually the vesting period). SFAS No. 123R will also require companies to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) awards and the Company will be required to expense the grant date fair value of the Company's ESPP awards.  On April 14, 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission deferred the effective date of SFAS No. 123R for certain companies, thereby deferring the effective date for the Company from its quarter beginning August 1, 2005 to its quarter beginning October 31, 2005.  Based on the number of stock options outstanding as of May 1, 2005, the effect of the adoption of SFAS No. 123R would be to increase compensation expense by approximately $0.2 million in the Company’s fiscal quarter beginning October 31, 2005.

- 8 -


NOTE 3 - COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

      The following table summarizes comprehensive income for the three and six months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004 (in thousands):

 

  

Three Months Ended

      

Six Months Ended

  


 


  

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

 

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

  



 


 


                

 

 

Net income

$10,574 

 

$5,985 

 

$15,119 

 

$ 8,127 

  

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

   Change in unrealized net
      losses on investments,
      net of tax

(957)

 

(487)

 

(382)

 

(496)

   Foreign currency translation
      adjustments

4,355 

 

(2,158)

 

10,532 

 

6,751 





3,398 

 

(2,645)

10,150 

6,255 





Total comprehensive income

$13,972 

 

$3,340 

$25,269 

$14,382 





NOTE 4 - EARNINGS PER SHARE

     The calculation of basic earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share is presented below (in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

  

Three Months Ended

  

Six Months Ended

  


 


  

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

 

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

  



 


 


Net income

$10,574 

$5,985 

$15,119 

$ 8,127 

     

Effect of dilutive securities:

   Interest expense on convertible notes, net of related tax effect

1,086 

1,086 

2,171 

2,171 

       





Earnings for diluted earnings per share

$11,660 

$7,071 

$17,290 

$10,298 

     





Weighted average common shares computations:

   Weighted average common shares used for basic earnings per share

32,817 

32,526 

32,760 

32,510 

     

Effect of dilutive securities:

      Convertible notes

9,441 

9,441 

9,441 

9,441 

      Employee stock options

140 

694 

145 

494 

      





      Dilutive potential common shares

9,581 

10,135 

9,586 

9,935 

     





Weighted average common shares used for diluted earnings per share

42,398 

42,661 

42,346 

42,445 

      





Basic earnings per share

$0.32 

$0.18 

$0.46 

$0.25 

Diluted earnings per share

$0.28 

$0.17 

$0.41 

$0.24 


- 9 -


     The effect of the potential conversion of some of the Company's convertible subordinated notes and the exercise of certain stock options would have been antidilutive. The following table shows the amount of incremental shares outstanding that would have been added if the assumed conversion of the remaining convertible subordinated notes and stock options had been dilutive.

 

Three Months Ended

    

Six Months Ended

  


 


May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

May 1,
2005

 

May 2,
2004

  



 


 


Convertible notes

2,922 

5,405 

3,004 

5,405 

Employee stock options

817 

39 

955 

660 





Total potentially dilutive shares excluded

3,739 

5,444 

3,959 

6,065 





NOTE 5 - INVESTMENTS

      Investments, comprised of fixed income bonds and marketable equity securities, are classified as available-for-sale, and are carried at fair value based on quoted market prices.  Investments available for current operations are classified in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as current assets, investments held for long-term purposes are included in "Other Assets".  Unrealized gains on investments are as follows (in thousands):

     

May 1,
2005

     

October 31,
2004



Fair value

  Short-term debt investments

$62,969 

$78,764 

  Short-term equity fund

5,929 

5,864 

  Long-term equity investments

2,231 

2,910 



Total fair value

71,129 

87,538 

   

Cost

  Short-term debt investments

63,454 

78,966 

  Short-term equity fund

5,000 

5,000 

  Long-term equity investments

168 

667 

   



Total cost

68,622 

84,633 

   



Unrealized gain (loss)

  Short-term debt investments

(485)

(202)

  Short-term equity fund

929 

864 

  Long-term equity investments

2,063 

2,243 

  



Total unrealized gain, net

2,507 

2,905 

      

Less deferred income taxes

1,089 

1,105 

      



Net unrealized gains

$ 1,418 

$ 1,800 



- 10 -



NOTE 6 - CONSOLIDATION, RESTRUCTURING AND RELATED CHARGES

     Since 2001, the Company has closed four manufacturing facilities in North America and one in Europe due in part to the migration of semiconductor manufacturing to Asia, excess capacity and competitive pricing pressures. Decisions regarding which facilities to close were based on sales volume projections, customer base and production qualifications.

     In March 2003, the Company implemented a plan to close its Phoenix, Arizona manufacturing facility and further consolidate its North American manufacturing network in order to increase capacity utilization and manufacturing efficiencies. Total consolidation and related charges of $42.0 million were recorded during the second quarter of fiscal 2003. Components of the charge include $3.4 million for workforce reductions of approximately 170 employees in the United States, $4.4 million for facility lease payments, and $34.2 million of non-cash charges for the impairment of the carrying value of fixed assets.

     In August 2002, the Company implemented a consolidation plan that included the discontinuation of photomask manufacturing at its Milpitas, California site and a reduction of its workforce of approximately 135 employees in the United States. The total charge associated with this plan was $14.5 million, which included $2.5 million for workforce reductions, $1.5 million for facility lease payments, and $10.5 million of non-cash charges for the impairment of the carrying value of fixed assets.

     In April 2001, as part of the Company's final phase of its merger with Align-Rite, the Company initiated a consolidation plan to consolidate its global photomask manufacturing network and reduce its global workforce by approximately 120 employees. The total charge of $38.1 million consisted of non-cash charges of $29.6 million for the impairment of fixed assets and intangible assets, $4.0 million for severance and benefits and $4.5 million for facility closing costs and lease payments.

     For these previously announced actions, the Company's restructuring expenditures were $0.6 million and $1.2 million for the three and six months ended May 1, 2005 respectively, and $0.6 million and $1.4 million for the three and six months ended May 2, 2004, respectively. These payments relate to severance and benefits for terminated employees, and non-cancelable facility leases and other payments. From April 2001 through May 1, 2005, the Company had expended, including non-cash charges, approximately $91.1 million.

     The following tables set forth the Company's restructuring reserve as of May 1, 2005 and reflects the activity affecting the reserve for the three and six months then ended (in thousands):

Three Months Ended

 

 

May 1, 2005

 

 


 

 

January 30,
2005

     

Costs
Paid

     

May 1,
2005

 

 


 


 


                                  

Manufacturing capacity reduction and other             

 

$4,086

 

$(604)

$3,482




      

Six Months Ended

 

 

May 1, 2005

 

 


 

 

October 31,
2004

     

Costs
Paid

     

May 1,
2005

 

 


 


 


                                  

Manufacturing capacity reduction and other 

 

$4,717

 

$(1,235)

$3,482




     As of May 1, 2005, "manufacturing capacity reduction and other" of $3.5 million primarily represents non-cancelable lease obligations that will be paid over the respective lease terms through 2009.

- 11 -


     The following table sets forth the Company's restructuring reserve as of May 2, 2004 and reflects the activity affecting the reserve for the three and six months ended May 2, 2004 (in thousands):

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

May 2, 2004

 

 


 

 

February 1,
2004

     

Costs
Paid

      

May 2,
2004

 

 


 


 


       

Manufacturing capacity reduction and other

 

$5,747

 

$(101)

$5,646

                                    

Workforce reductions

 

871

 

(538)

333

      

 


 


 


Total

 

$6,618

 

$(639)

$5,979




     

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

May 2, 2004

 

 


 

 

November 2,
2003

     

Costs
Paid

      

May 2,
2004

 

 


 


 


       

Manufacturing capacity reduction and other

 

$5,855

 

$  (209)

$5,646

                                    

Workforce reductions

 

1,499

 

(1,166)

333

      

 


 


 


Total

 

$7,354

 

$(1,375)

$5,979




NOTE 7 - SEGMENT INFORMATION

     The Company operates in a single industry segment as a manufacturer of photomasks, which are high precision photographic quartz plates containing microscopic images of electronic circuits for use in the fabrication of semiconductors and FPD.  The Company's net sales, operating income (loss) and identifiable assets by geographic area as of and for the three and six months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004 were as follows (in thousands):

- 12 -




Three Months

  


Six Months

As of
May 1, 2005




                         


Net
Sales

  

Operating
Income
(Loss)

    


Net
Sales

  

Operating
Income
(Loss)

     


Total
Assets






May 1, 2005:

      

North America

$ 35,337 

$  (422)

$ 67,363 

$(1,945)

$374,947 

     

Europe

20,148 

3,276 

37,861 

4,896 

116,270 

     

Asia

57,408 

13,941 

108,852 

25,351 

340,914 






     

$112,893 

$16,795 

$214,076 

$28,302 

$832,131 






           


Three Months

     


Six Months

As of
May 2, 2004




                          


Net
Sales

  

Operating
Income
(Loss)

    


Net
Sales

  

Operating
Income
(Loss)

     


Total
Assets






May 2, 2004:

     

North America               

$35,819 

$    (32)

$ 71,353 

$  (774)

$491,164 

     

Europe

18,287 

2,250 

33,217 

2,360 

112,184 

      

Asia

43,061 

10,026 

83,086 

18,321 

269,491 






    

$97,167 

$12,244 

$187,656 

$19,907 

$872,839 






NOTE 8 - INCOME TAXES

     The income tax provision differs from the amount computed by applying the United States statutory rate of 35% to income before income taxes due to the Company’s reduced tax rates in certain Asian jurisdictions and valuation allowances placed on certain deferred tax assets generated by net operating loss carry forwards.

     The American Jobs Creation Act (AJCA) was signed into law on October 22, 2004. The AJCA includes a provision for an 85% deduction for the repatriation of certain foreign earnings. The Company may elect to apply this provision to qualifying earnings repatriations in fiscal 2005. Currently, the Company is reviewing the published guidance and expects to complete its evaluation within a reasonable period of time following the issuance of final guidance. The range of possible amounts that the Company is considering for repatriation is between zero and $129 million. The related potential range of income tax effects is estimated to be between zero and $22 million taking into account the Company’s tax attributes.

- 13 -



NOTE 9 - ACQUISITION OF ADDITIONAL SHARES OF PK LTD.

     During the first quarter of fiscal 2005, Photronics invested $40.4 million to purchase 5.4 million additional shares of PK Ltd. (PKL), its non-wholly owned subsidiary in Korea.  This transaction increased the Company's ownership in PKL by 15%, resulting in a total ownership of 90%.  As the Company has previously consolidated PKL, the additional incremental ownership has been initially allocated to goodwill with a reduction in minority interests.  The Company is in the process of analyzing fair value attributes of the additional ownership.

NOTE 10 - REDEMPTIONS OF SUBORDINATED CONVERTIBLE NOTES

     On April 14, 2005 and November 10, 2004, the Company redeemed $10.0 million and $41.4 million, respectively, of its outstanding 4.75% subordinated convertible notes, resulting in an early extinguishment charge recorded in other income (expense), net, in the condensed consolidated statement of operations of $0.2 million and $1.6 million for the three and six month periods ended May 1, 2005.

     These redemptions resulted in a total principal balance outstanding of its 4.75% subordinated convertible notes after the redemptions of $100.1 million as of May 1, 2005.

NOTE 11 - OTHER RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

     In November of 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, "Inventory Costs, an amendment of Accounting Research Bulletin (ARB) No. 43, Chapter 4."  The purpose of this statement is to clarify the accounting of abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs and waste material. ARB No. 43 stated that under some circumstances these costs may be so abnormal that they are required to be treated as current period costs.  SFAS 151 requires that these costs be treated as current period costs, regardless if they meet the criteria of "so abnormal." In addition, the statement requires that allocation of fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. The provision of this statement shall be effective for inventory costs incurred during fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. The early adoption of SFAS 151 did not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial position.

     In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 153, "Exchanges of Nonmonetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29."  SFAS No. 153 is effective for nonmonetary asset exchanges occurring in fiscal periods beginning after June 15, 2005, with earlier application permitted. The Company is evaluating SFAS No. 153, and does not believe it will have a material impact on its 2005 consolidated financial statements.

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
                OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

Overview

     Management’s discussion and analysis of the Company’s financial condition, business results and outlook should be read in conjunction with its condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes.  Various segments of this MD&A do contain forward looking statements, all of which are presented based on current expectations and may be adversely affected by uncertainties and risk factors presented throughout this filing and the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the 2004 fiscal year, leading actual results to materially differ from these expectations.

     The Company sells the majority of its photomasks to semiconductor designers and manufacturers. Further, photomask technology is also being applied to the fabrication of higher performance electronic products such as flat panel displays ("FPD"), micro-electronic mechanical systems and certain nanotechnology applications. Thus, the Company’s selling cycle is tightly interwoven with the development and release of new semiconductor designs and flat panel applications, particularly as it relates to these customers' migration to more advanced design methodologies and fabrication processes. The Company believes that the demand for photomasks primarily depends on design activity rather than sales volumes from products produced using photomask technologies. Consequently, an increase in semiconductor sales does not necessarily result in a corresponding increase in photomask sales. In addition, the reduced use of customized integrated circuits ("IC"), a reduction in design complexity or other changes in the technology or methods of manufacturing semiconductors, or a slowdown in the introduction of new semiconductor designs could reduce demand for photomasks

- 14 -


even if demand for semiconductors increases. Further, advances in design and production methods for semiconductors and other high performance electronics could reduce the demand for photomasks. Historically, the semiconductor industry has been volatile, with sharp periodic downturns and slowdowns. These downturns have been characterized by, among other things, diminished product demand, excess production capacity and accelerated erosion of selling prices.

     At this time, state-of-the-art for IC and FPD masks are considered to be 65 nanometer and G6 - G7 process technology, respectively, while 90 nanometer is in the early stages of being moved into volume production, and 130 and 180 nanometer and the G3 through G5 technology for FPD constitute the majority of designs being fabricated in volume today.  The Company expects there to be a steady increase in 130 nanometer designs moving to wafer fabrication throughout fiscal 2005 and believes it is well positioned to service an increasing volume of this business through investments in manufacturing processes and technology in the global regions where its customers are located.

     In addition to its cyclical nature, the global semiconductor industry experienced tremendous technology-based difficulties in transitioning from the 180 nanometer process node to the 130 nanometer process node. The Company believes that these technological issues have been addressed, as seen by improving yields and utilization rates in the Company's mask fabrication facilities and its customers' wafer fabrication facilities. End markets leading the global semiconductor industry out of a downturn in 2004 have been closely tied to consumer driven applications for high performance semiconductor devices, including, but not limited to, communications and mobile computing solutions. The Company cannot predict the degree of difficulty in future process node transitions; the timing of the industry’s transition to volume production of next generation technology nodes; or the timing of up and down cycles with precise accuracy, but believes that such transitions and cycles will continue into the future, which could affect its business, financial condition and operating results in the near term. The Company’s ability to remain successful in these environments is based upon achieving its goals of being a service and technology leader, an efficient solutions supplier, and a company able to continually reinvest in its global infrastructure.

     The photomask industry has been, and is expected to continue to be, characterized by technological change and evolving industry standards. In order to remain competitive, the Company will be required to continually anticipate, respond to and utilize changing technologies. In particular, the Company believes that as semiconductor geometries continue to become smaller and FPD sizes larger and resolution improved, it will be required to manufacture complex optically enhanced reticles, including optical proximity correction and phase-shift photomasks. Additionally, demand for photomasks has been, and could in the future be adversely affected by changes in methods of manufacturing (which could affect the type or quantity of photomasks utilized), such as changes in semiconductor and FPD demand that favor field programmable gate arrays and other semiconductor designs that replace application-specific IC. Through the first six months of fiscal 2005, the Company has not experienced a significant loss of revenue as a result of alternative semiconductor design methodologies. Additionally, increased market acceptance of alternative methods of transferring circuit designs onto semiconductor wafers, such as imprint or direct-write lithography, could reduce or eliminate the need for certain types or all photomasks entirely. Through the first six months of fiscal 2005, direct-write lithography has not been proven to be a commercially viable alternative to photomasks, as it is considered too slow for high volume semiconductor wafer production. However, should direct-write or other alternative methods of transferring IC designs to semiconductor wafers be done without the use of photomasks, the Company's business and results of operations would be materially adversely affected.  If the Company is unable to anticipate, respond to, or utilize these or other changing technologies, due to resource, technological or other constraints, its business and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.

     Both revenues and costs have been affected by the increased demand for high-end technology photomasks that require more advanced manufacturing capabilities but generally command higher average selling prices. To meet the technological demands of its customers and position the Company for future growth, the Company continues to make substantial investments in high-end manufacturing capability both at existing and new facilities. The Company's capital expenditures for new facilities and equipment to support its customers' requirements for high technology products was an aggregate of approximately $254 million for the three fiscal years ended October 31, 2004, plus $31.8 million during the first six months of fiscal 2005.  Based on the anticipated technological changes in the industry, the Company expects these trends to continue.  The Company anticipates capital expenditures to be in the range of $105 million to $125 million for the fiscal year ending October 30, 2005.


- 15 -


     The manufacture of photomasks for use in fabricating IC and other related products built using comparable photomask-based process technologies has been, and continues to be, capital intensive, based upon the need to maintain a technology-based infrastructure. The Company's integrated global manufacturing network and employees, which consist of nine sites, represent a significant portion of its fixed operating cost base. Should sales volumes decrease based upon the flow of design releases from the Company's customers, the Company may have excess and underutilized production capacity that could significantly impact operating margins.

     Currently, the vast majority of photomasks produced for the semiconductor industry employ geometries of 130 nanometers or larger. In the FPD market, the majority of photomasks produced are to support Generation 3 to Generation 5 processes.  At these technologies, the Company can produce full lines of photomasks and there is no significant technology employed by the Company's competitors that is not available to the Company. Recently, a limited amount of semiconductor fabrication has begun utilizing 90 nanometer and Generation 6 and Generation 7 processes. The Company is currently capable of producing a broad range of photomasks at still smaller geometries, and has begun accelerating its efforts to support the development and production of photomasks for both the 65 nanometer and 45 nanometer technology nodes in semiconductors and Generation 8 in FPD. However, as is typical of industries in the midst of technological change, some of the Company's competitors may be able to achieve higher manufacturing yields than the Company when producing these more complex photomasks, in part because these competitors may have completed more cycles of learning than the Company in this area, and in part because of the Company's need to replicate production of these complex photomasks at its four advanced technology locations world-wide. The Company believes that these cases are not material to its business.

Material Changes in Results of Operations
Three and Six Months ended May 1, 2005 versus May 2, 2004

     The following table represents selected operating information expressed as a percentage of net sales:

                                     

       

Three Months Ended

      

Six Months Ended

                                         


 


                            

May 1,
2005

        

May 2,
2004

          

May 1,
2005

       

May 2,
2004

                                       


 


 


 


                                     

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales 

100% 

 

100%

 

100%

 

100%

                                       

 

 

 

Cost of sales

66.0 

 

66.0 

 

67.1 

 

67.1 





Gross margin

34.0 

 

34.0 

 

32.9 

 

32.9 

                              

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

12.0 

 

13.7 

 

12.3 

 

14.3 

    

Research and development expenses

7.1 

 

7.7 

 

7.4 

 

8.0 





Operating income

14.9 

 

12.6 

 

13.2 

 

10.6 

                                      

 

 

 

Other expense, net

(1.8)

(2.7)

(2.4)

(2.9)





Income before income taxes
  and minority interest

13.1 


9.9 

10.8 


7.7 

Income tax provision

2.3 

1.3 

2.1 

1.3 

Minority interest

(1.4)

(2.4)

(1.6)

(2.1)





Net income

9.4%

6.2%

7.1%

4.3%





     Note:  All of the following tabular comparisons, unless otherwise indicated, are for the quarters ended May 1, 2005 (Q2 2005) and May 2, 2004 (Q2 2004) and for the six months ended May 1, 2005 (YTD 2005) and May 2, 2004 (YTD 2004) in thousands:

- 16 -



Net Sales

        

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended



Q2
2005

  

Q2
2004

  

Percent
Change

      

YTD
2005

  

YTD
2004

  

Percent
Change







     

Total net sales

$112.9

$97.2

16.2%

$214.1

$187.7

14.1%

     Net sales for the three months ended May 1, 2005 increased 16.2% to $112.9 million as compared to $97.2 million for the three months ended May 2, 2004.  Sales increased for photomasks used for both IC and FPD (which typically have higher average selling prices than IC photomasks) as a result of increased design releases for IC photomasks and improved FPD revenue associated with increased demand for FPD.  The increase in sales is also related to an improved high-end mix which is defined as mask sets for semiconductor designs at and below 130 nanometer, and for FPD sets utilizing G6 and G7 technology.  By geographic area, net sales in Asia increased $14.3 million or 33.3%, North American sales decreased $0.5 million or 1.3% and European sales increased $1.9 million or 10.2%.

     Net sales for the six months ended May 1, 2005 increased 14.1% to $214.1million as compared to $187.7 million for the six months ended May 2, 2004.  The increase is a result of increased sales of FPD photomasks and improved design releases for IC photomasks associated with the improved, year over year, semiconductor market.

Gross Margin

     

Three Months Ended

       

Six Months Ended



Q2
2005

  

Q2
2004

  

Percent
Change

  

YTD
2005

  

YTD
2004

  

Percent
Change







     

Gross margin

$38.4   

$33.0   

16.4%

$70.4   

$61.7   

14.2%

Percentage to sales

34.0%

34.0%

32.9%

32.9%

     Gross margin was 34.0% of net sales for both the three months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004, and 32.9% of net sales for both the six months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004.  The Company's respective gross margin did not experience an increase that would typically result from a 16.2% and 14.1% increase in sales as compared to the respective prior year periods as a result of increased infrastructure costs related to additional equipment and production capability, primarily in Asia.  To a lesser extent, gross margin was impacted in 2005 by increased material costs associated with increased FPD sales and increased equipment and infrastructure costs in Asia. The Company operates in a high fixed cost environment and to the extent that the Company’s revenues and capacity utilization increases or decreases, gross margin will be positively or negatively impacted.

     The gross margin percentage throughout the remainder of fiscal 2005 could be negatively impacted by increased depreciation expense associated with the Company’s capital expenditures for additional tool sets and corresponding infrastructure for FPD and advanced photomask technologies.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

     

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended



Q2
2005

  

Q2
2004

  

Percent
Change

  

YTD
2005

  

YTD
2004

  

Percent
Change







     

Selling, general and
  administrative expenses


$13.5   


$13.3   


1.7%


$26.2   


$26.8   


(2.2)%

Percentage to sales

12.0%

13.7%

12.3%

14.3%

- 17 -



      Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $1.7% for the three months ended May 1, 2005, as compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year.

     For the six months ended May 1, 2005, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $0.6 million to $26.2 million, compared to the same period in the prior year, primarily due to lower salary and wages that were in part offset by additional costs associated with the Company's expansion in Asia, primarily related to the Company’s Taiwan FPD and China facilities.

Research and Development

     

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended



Q2
2005

  

Q2
2004

  

Percent
Change

  

YTD
2005

  

YTD
2004

  

Percent
Change







     

Research & development

$8.1    

$7.5   

8.4%

$15.9   

$14.9   

6.4%

Percentage to sales

7.2% 

7.7%

7.4%

8.0%

     Research and development expenses increased $0.6 million to $8.1 million for the three months ended May 1, 2005, compared with $7.5 million for the same period in the prior fiscal year.  Research and development expenses for the six months ended May 1, 2005 increased $1.0 million to $15.9 million compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year. Research and development expenditures consist primarily of global development efforts relating to high-end process technologies for advanced sub wavelength reticle solutions at and below 65 nanometers and next generation FPD technologies.

Operating Income (Loss)

     The following table sets forth the operating income (loss) by geographic area for the three and six months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004:

         

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended



Q2
2005

  

Q2
2004

  

Percent
Change

  

YTD
2005

  

YTD
2004

  

Percent
Change







     

North America

$(0.4)

$     - 

-   

$(1.9)

$(0.8)

(137.5)%

Europe

3.3 

2.2 

45.6%

4.9 

2.4 

104.2     

Asia

13.9 

10.0 

39.0   

25.3 

18.3 

38.3     







Total

$16.8 

$12.2 

37.2%

$28.3 

$19.9 

42.2%  








Other Expense, Net

     

Three Months Ended

    

Six Months Ended



Q2
2005

  

Q2
2004

YTD
2005

  

YTD
2004





                

Interest expense

$(2.9)

$(4.0)

$(6.2)

$(7.9)

Investment and other income
   (expense), net


0.8 


1.3 


1.1 


2.5 





Other income (expense), net

$(2.1)

$(2.7)

$(5.1)

$(5.4)






-18 -


     Interest expense decreased $1.1 million and $1.7 million, respectively, for the three and six months ended May 1, 2005 as compared to the three and six months ended May 2, 2004.  The decrease was primarily a result of reduced debt associated with the Company’s aggregate redemption, from June 2004 through April 2005, of $100 million, of its 4.75% convertible subordinated notes.  Investment and other income, net, decreased $0.5 million and $1.4 million respectively for the three and six months ended May 1, 2005 as compared to the three and six months ended May 2, 2004.  The decrease is a result of lower investment income and foreign currency losses.

Provision for Income Taxes

     The provision for income taxes for the quarter ended May 1, 2005 was $ 2.6 million as compared to a provision of $1.2 million for the quarter ended May 2, 2004. For the six months ended May 1, 2005 the provision for income taxes was $4.5 million compared to a provision of $2.5 million for the six months ended May 2, 2004. The effective tax rate for the six months ended May 1, 2005 was 19% compared with 17% for the comparable 2004 period. The effective tax rate is impacted by the Company's inability to record tax benefits on the net operating losses generated in the U.S., tax holidays and credits. The Company’s operations have followed the recent migration of the semiconductor industry to Asia, where the Company operates in countries where it is accorded favorable tax treatment. The Company currently has tax holidays in Taiwan and Singapore which will expire in 2006 and 2005 respectively.  In Korea, various investment tax credits have been utilized to further reduce the Company’s overall effective income tax rate.

     The American Jobs Creation Act (AJCA) was signed into law on October 22, 2004. The AJCA includes a provision for an 85% deduction for the repatriation of certain foreign earnings. The Company may elect to apply this provision to qualifying earnings repatriations in fiscal 2005. Currently, the Company is reviewing the published guidance and expects to complete its evaluation within a reasonable period of time following the issuance of final guidance. The range of possible amounts that the Company is considering for repatriation is between zero and $129 million. The related potential range of income tax effects is estimated to be between zero and $22 million taking into account the Company’s tax attributes.

Minority Interest

     Minority interest of $1.5 million and $2.4 million for the three months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004, respectively, and $3.7 million and $3.9 million for the six months ended May 1, 2005 and May 2, 2004, respectively, represents the minority interest in earnings of the Company's non-wholly owned subsidiaries in Taiwan and Korea.  The Company’s ownership in its subsidiary in Taiwan was approximately 58% at May 1, 2005 and October 31, 2004.  The Company’s ownership in its subsidiary in Korea was 90% at May 1, 2005 and 75% at October 31, 2004.  The increased ownership was a result of an additional investment of $40.4 million made by the Company during 2005.  The decrease in minority interest during the three and six month periods ended May 1, 2005 as compared to the same periods in the prior year was due to the increased ownership of the Company’s subsidiary in Korea, which was offset in part by increased earnings of these subsidiaries in 2005.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

     The Company's working capital at May 1, 2005 decreased $52.3 million to $202.7 million as compared with $255.1 million at October 31, 2004. Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments at May 1, 2005 were $160.3 million compared to $226.9 million at October 31, 2004. The decrease in working capital, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments during the six months ended May 1, 2005 was due to the Company's redemption of $51.4 million of its 4.75% convertible subordinated notes and $40.4 million additional investment in PKL. Cash provided by operating activities was $58.3 million for the six months ended May 1, 2005, as compared to $41.2 million for the same period last year. This increase was primarily due to increased net income generated during the first six months of 2005 and increased collections of accounts receivable.  Cash used in investing activities for the six months ended May 1, 2005 was $56.0 million, which is primarily comprised of the $40.4 million additional investment in PKL and capital expenditures of $31.8 million.  Cash used in financing activities was $54.0 million, which was primarily comprised of the redemption of $51.4 million of the Company's 4.75% convertible subordinated notes.


- 19 -


     The Company has a credit agreement that expires in July 2005, with a group of financial institutions that provides for a revolving credit facility with an aggregate commitment of $100 million. The credit facility allows for borrowings in various currencies with an interest rate that is based on the terms of the agreement and will vary based on currencies borrowed and market conditions. The facility fee is 0.4% of the total aggregate commitment. The credit facility agreement contains various financial and other covenants, including, but not limited to: Defined maximum ratio of senior funded debt to EBITDA (most restrictive covenant), Minimum EBITDA to interest expense, Minimum consolidated net worth and cash balances, Limitation on cash dividends available for payment to shareholders and Annual Capital Expenditures.

     The Company's commitments represent investments in additional manufacturing capacity as well as advanced equipment for the production of high-end, more complex photomasks. At May 1, 2005, Photronics had commitments outstanding for capital expenditures of approximately $80 million. Additional commitments for capital expenditures are expected to be incurred during the remainder of fiscal 2005. The Company expects capital expenditures for fiscal 2005 to be approximately $105 to $125 million. The Company will continue to use its working capital to finance its capital expenditures. Photronics believes that its currently available resources, together with its capacity for growth, and its access to other debt and equity financing sources, are sufficient to satisfy its currently planned capital expenditures, as well as its anticipated working capital requirements for the foreseeable future.

Business Outlook

      The Company expects revenue growth for the third quarter of fiscal 2005 in both IC and FPD photomasks, and a majority of the revenue growth has come from, and is expected to continue to come from, the Asian region as customers increase their use of manufacturing foundries located outside of North America and Europe. The Company's Korean and Taiwanese operations are non-wholly owned subsidiaries; therefore a portion of earnings generated at each location is allocated to the minority shareholders. 

     For the third quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company expects earnings per share to increase over the second quarter of fiscal 2005 due to the planned revenue increases to improve operating income with increased utilization of its manufacturing infrastructure.  The Company is projecting an effective tax rate of 17% to 22% for fiscal 2005, dependent upon the country in which the pre-tax income is generated.

     Capital spending was $31.8 million for the first six months of 2005.  The Company is planning on capital spending of $105 million to $125 million for the full year of fiscal 2005.  This spending includes the installation of a 65 nanometer production line, additional large area mask production capacity, and a facility and equipment costs for the China and Taiwan FPD sites.

     The Company’s future results of operations and the other forward looking statements contained in this filing involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the projected third quarter results of 2005.  Various factors that have been discussed and a number of other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations.

Application of Critical Accounting Policies

      The Company's consolidated financial statements are based on the selection and application of significant accounting policies, which require management to make significant estimates and assumptions. The Company believes that the following are some of the more critical judgment areas in the application of the Company's accounting policies that affect its financial condition and results of operations.

Estimates and Assumptions

     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 amounts reported in them. Management bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The Company's estimates are based on the facts and circumstances available at the time; different reasonable estimates could have been used in the current period, and changes in the accounting estimates

- 20 -


used are likely to occur from period to period, which may have a material impact on the presentation of the Company's financial condition and results of operations. Actual results reported by the Company may differ from such estimates. The Company reviews these estimates periodically and reflects the effect of revisions in the period that they are determined.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

     The Company records derivatives in the consolidated balance sheet as assets or liabilities, measured at fair value. Gains or losses resulting from changes in the values of those derivatives are reported in the consolidated statements of operations or as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a separate component of shareholders' equity, depending on the use of the derivatives and whether they qualify for hedge accounting. In order to qualify for hedge accounting, the derivative must be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the hedged items during the term of the hedge. The Company uses judgment in assessing the fair value of derivatives and related financial instruments, including assumptions utilized in derivative fair value models in areas such as projected interest rates and changes in the Company's stock price during the contract term.

Property, Plant and Equipment

     Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Repairs and maintenance, as well as renewals and replacements of a routine nature are charged to operations as incurred, while those which improve or extend the lives of existing assets are capitalized. Upon sale or other disposition, the cost of the asset and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in operations.

     Depreciation and amortization are computed on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Buildings and improvements are depreciated over 15 to 40 years, machinery and equipment over 3 to 10 years and furniture, fixtures and office equipment over 3 to 5 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the life of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement, whichever is less. Judgment and assumptions are used in establishing estimated useful lives and depreciation periods. The Company also uses judgment and assumptions as it periodically reviews property, plant and equipment for any potential impairment in carrying values whenever events such as a significant industry downturn, plant closures, technological obsolescence or other changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. Actual fair values may differ from estimated fair values.

Intangible Assets

     Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill and other acquisition-related intangibles, and software development costs. These assets are stated at fair value as of the date acquired less accumulated amortization. Amortization is calculated on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of 5 years for software development costs and, prior to November 1, 2001, 3 to 15 years for goodwill and acquisition-related assets. As a result of the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142, goodwill is no longer amortized, but the future economic benefit of the carrying value of all intangible assets is reviewed annually and the Company uses judgment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of an intangible asset may not be recoverable based on discounted cash flows or market factors and an impairment loss would be recorded in the period so determined.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

     Long-lived assets and certain identifiable assets to be held and used are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Determination of recoverability is based on the Company's judgment and estimate of undiscounted future cash flows resulting from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition. Measurement of an impairment loss for long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets that management expects to hold and use is based on the fair value of the asset. Long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangible assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.

- 21 -


Income Taxes

     The income tax provision (benefit) is computed on the basis of consolidated financial statement income or loss before income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the tax effects of differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. In the event the Company determines that future taxable income is not expected to be sufficient, the Company uses judgment and assumptions to determine if valuation allowances for deferred income tax assets are required by considering future market growth, forecasted operations, future taxable income, and the mix of earnings in the tax jurisdictions in which it operates in order to determine the need for a valuation allowance.

     The Company considers income taxes in each of the tax jurisdictions in which it operates in order to determine its effective income tax rate. Current income tax exposure is identified along with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items for tax and financial reporting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included in the Company's consolidated balance sheets. The actual annual amount of taxable income in each tax jurisdiction may differ from the estimates used to compute the effective income tax rate during the first, second and third quarters. Additionally, the Company evaluates the recoverability of deferred income tax assets from future taxable income and establishes valuation allowances if recovery is deemed not likely. Accordingly, the income tax provision in the consolidated statements of operations is impacted by changes in the valuation allowance. Significant management estimates and judgment are required in determining any valuation allowance recorded against net deferred tax assets.

Revenue Recognition

     The Company recognizes revenue when both title and risk of loss transfer to the customer. The Company makes estimates and assumptions and uses judgment relating to discounts and estimates for product return and warranties which are accrued and recognized at the time of sale.

     Discounts - Sales discounts are negotiated with customers prior to billing and at the time of billing, sales invoices are prepared net of negotiated sales discounts.

     Product Returns - Customer returns have historically been insignificant. However, the Company does record a liability for the insignificant amount of estimated sales returns based upon historical experience.

     Warranties and Other Post Shipment Obligations - For a 30-day period, the Company warrants that items sold will conform to customer specification. However, the Company's liability is limited to repair or replacement of the photomasks at its sole option. The Company inspects photomasks for conformity to customer specifications prior to shipment. Accordingly, customer returns of items under warranty have historically been insignificant. However, the Company records a liability for the insignificant amount of estimated warranty returns based on historical experience. The Company's specific return policies include accepting returns for products with defects or products that have not been produced to precise customer specifications. At the time of shipment, a liability is established for these items.

     Customer Acceptance - Customer acceptance occurs concurrently with the transfer of title and risk of loss based upon the applicable shipping and delivery terms.

     Allowance for Doubtful Accounts - The Company is required to use considerable judgment in estimating the collectibility of its accounts receivable. This estimate is based on a variety of factors, including the length of time receivables are past due, macroeconomic conditions, significant one-time events, and historical experience.

Effect of New Accounting Standards

     In December 2004, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 123, "Share-Based Payments (revised 2004)," (SFAS No. 123R). This statement eliminates the option to apply the intrinsic value measurement provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," to stock compensation awards issued to employees. Rather this statement requires companies to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of the award. That cost will be recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide services in exchange for the award - the

- 22-


requisite service period (usually the vesting period). SFAS No. 123R will also require companies to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) awards and the Company will be required to expense the grant date fair value of the Company's ESPP awards. On April 14, 2005, the Securities and Exchange Commission deferred the effective date of SFAS No. 123R for certain companies, thereby deferring the effective date for the Company from its quarter beginning August 1, 2005 to its quarter beginning October 31, 2005. Based on the number of stock options outstanding as of May 1, 2005, the effect of the adoption of SFAS No. 123R would be to increase compensation expense by approximately $0.2 million in the Company’s fiscal quarter beginning October 31, 2005.

     In November of 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 151, "Inventory Costs, an amendment of ARB No. 43, Chapter 4."  The purpose of this statement is to clarify the accounting of abnormal amounts of idle facility expense, freight, handling costs and waste material. ARB No. 43 stated that under some circumstances these costs may be so abnormal that they are required to be treated as current period costs.  SFAS 151 requires that these costs be treated as current period costs regardless if they meet the criteria of "so abnormal." In addition, the statement requires that allocation of fixed production overheads to the costs of conversion be based on the normal capacity of the production facilities. The provision of this statement shall be effective for inventory costs incurred during fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2005. The early adoption of SFAS 151 did not have a material impact on the Company's results of operations or financial position.

     In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 153, "Exchanges of Nonmonetary Assets, an amendment of APB Opinion No. 29."  SFAS No. 153 is effective for nonmonetary asset exchanges occurring in fiscal periods beginning after June 15, 2005, with earlier application permitted. The Company is evaluating SFAS No. 153, and does not believe it will have a material impact on its 2005 consolidated financial statements.

Item 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

     The Company records derivatives on the balance sheet as assets or liabilities, measured at fair value. Gains or losses resulting from changes in the values of those derivatives are reported in the statement of operations or as accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), a separate component of shareholders' equity, depending on the use of the derivatives and whether they qualify for hedge accounting. In order to qualify for hedge accounting, the derivative must be highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair value or cash flows of the hedged items during the term of the hedge. In general, the types of risks hedged are those relating to the variability of future cash flows caused by movements in foreign currency exchange rates. The Company documents its risk management strategy and hedge effectiveness at the inception of and during the term of each hedge.

     During fiscal 2002, the Company entered into an interest rate swap contract, which effectively converted $100 million of its 4.75% fixed rate convertible subordinated notes to a variable rate. Contract payments are made on a LIBOR based variable rate (3.21% at May 1, 2005) and are received at the 4.75% fixed rate.

     The interest rate swap contract is used to adjust the proportion of total debt that is subject to fixed interest rates. This contract is considered to be a hedge against interest rate risk of the Company's fixed rate debt obligation. Accordingly, the contract has been reflected at fair value in the Company's consolidated balance sheets and the related portion of fixed rate debt being hedged is reflected at an amount equal to the sum of its carrying value plus an adjustment representing the change in fair value of the debt obligation attributable to the interest rate risk being hedged. In addition, changes during any accounting period in the fair value of the contract, as well as offsetting changes in the adjusted carrying value of the related portion of fixed rate debt being hedged, are recognized as adjustments to interest expense in the Company's consolidated statements of operations. The net effect of this accounting on the Company's operations results, is that the interest expense portion of fixed rate debt being hedged is generally recorded based on variable rates. At this time, the Company does not have plans to enter into additional interest rate swap contracts, however, at a future point the Company may decide to do so.

- 23 -


Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

     The Company conducts business in several major international currencies through its worldwide operations and is subject to changes in foreign exchange rates of such currencies. Changes in exchange rates can positively or negatively affect the Company's sales, operating margins and retained earnings. The functional currencies of the Company's Asian subsidiaries are the Korean won, New Taiwan dollar and Singapore dollar. The functional currencies of the Company's European subsidiaries are the British pound and euro.

     The Company attempts to minimize its risk to foreign currency transaction losses by producing its products in the same country in which the products are sold and thereby generating revenues and incurring expenses in the same currency and by managing its working capital. In some instances, the Company may sell products in a currency other than the functional currency of the country where it was produced. To date, the Company has not experienced a significant foreign exchange loss on these sales. However, there can be no assurance that this approach will be successful, especially in the event of a significant adverse movement in the value of any foreign currencies against the United States dollar. The Company does not engage in purchasing forward exchange contracts for speculative purposes.

     The Company's primary net foreign currency exposures as of May 1, 2005 included the Korean won, Singapore dollar, New Taiwan dollar, euro and the British pound. As of May 2005, a 10% adverse movement in the value of these currencies against the United States dollar would have resulted in a net unrealized pre-tax loss of $4.0 million. The Company does not believe that a 10% change in the exchange rates of other non-U.S. dollar foreign currency balances would have a material effect on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Interest Rate Risk

     The majority of the Company's borrowings are in the form of its convertible subordinated notes, which bear interest at rates of 2.25% and 4.75%, and certain foreign unsecured notes payable which bear interest at rates between 5.45% and 5.59%. In addition, the interest rate swap contract discussed above subjects the Company to market risk as interest rates fluctuate and impacts the interest payments due on the $100 million notional amount of the contract. At May 1, 2005, the Company had approximately $113 million in variable rate financial instruments which were sensitive to interest rate risk. A 10% change in interest rates would not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 4 - CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

     The Company's chief executive officer and chief financial officer have concluded that, as of the end of the second quarter of fiscal 2005, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) were effective, based on the evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

- 24 -



PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

Item 2.

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

  

   

During the Six Months Ended May 1, 2005

     

     

  

  

  

Maximum Number

     

Total Number of

(or Approximate Dollar

      

Principal Amount

Value of Principal

Total Principal

Average Price Paid

of Convertible Notes

Amount of Convertible

Amount of

Per $1,000 Principal

Purchased as Part

Notes) that May Yet to

  

Convertible Notes

Amount of

of Publicly Announced

be Purchased Under the

Purchased

Convertible Notes

Plans or Programs

Plans or Programs





   

November

$41,413,000

$1,015

$     - 

$    - 

(1)

   

December

   

January

     

February

      

March

     

April

10,000,000

1,010

-

    - 

(1)

     





$51,413,000

$1,014

$     - 

$     - 





          

(1)  The Company does not have a specific bond repurchase program established and all of the repurchases were made in open market transactions.

            

  

Item 4.

   

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

    

  

  

  

(a)

   

The matters set forth in this Item 4 were submitted to a vote of security holders of the
Company at an Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on March 22, 2005.

      

       

  

(b)

  

The following directors, constituting the entire Board of Directors, were elected at the
Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on March 22, 2005.  Also indicated are the
affirmative and authority withheld votes for each director.


For

  

Authority
Withheld



   

Walter M. Fiederowicz

28,359,945

1,626,165

Joseph A. Fiorita, Jr.

28,353,045

1,633,065

Constantine S. Macricostas

28,885,929

1,100,181

George C. Macricostas

29,033,236

952,874

Willem D. Maris

29,657,017

329,093

Mitchell G. Tyson

28,333,420

1,652,690

             

 

(c)

  

Ratification of the selection of Deloitte & Touche LLP as registered independent public accounting firm for the fiscal year ended October 30, 2005.


For

 


Against

 


Abstain

 

Broker
Non-Votes





28,385,553

1,586,720

13,837

0

- 25 -



               

  

                                

Item 5.

  

Other Information

   

  

 

   

  

(a)

  

On January 25, 2005, the Company entered into a Resignation Agreement with Paul J. Fego effective as of January 25, 2005 (the "Effective Date").  Benefits include payment of $85,000, less applicable withholdings and deductions, in equal installments over the course of the next twelve (12) months, on a bi-weekly basis, starting the Effective Date; payment of a bonus for the period from the end of the last fiscal year until the Effective Date in the amount of $71,940, less applicable withholdings and deductions; permission to exercise any Company stock options which are vested as of the Effective Date for a period of one year following the Effective Date, options that are not vested as of the Effective Date shall terminate as of the Effective Date, and payment of monthly premiums to continue health insurance coverage under COBRA for three months starting the Effective Date.  Filed herewith.


Item 6.

  

Exhibits

      

     

  

(a)

Exhibits

  

  

 

  

  

 

  

     

  

 

   

Exhibit
Number

  


Description

       

  

 

  

      

  

    

     

10.1

Resignation Agreement dated January 25, 2005 between the Company and Paul J. Fego.

        

    

  

31.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

  

  

 

 

 

 

     

  

31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of
the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

   

  

 

 

 

 

   

  

 

   

32.1

  

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as
adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

       

  

 

  

   

  

       

  

 

  

32.2

 

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as
adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 

SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements 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.

Photronics, Inc.

(Registrant)

               

                         

By:

/s/ SEAN T. SMITH


Sean T. Smith

Senior Vice President

Chief Financial Officer

(Duly Authorized Officer and

Principal Financial Officer)

Date:  June 3, 2005

- 26 -

Exhibit 10.1

EXHIBIT 10.1

CONFIDENTIAL

RESIGNATION AGREEMENT

("Agreement")

     Photronics, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Company") and I, Paul J. Fego, agree as follows:

     1.  Resignation of Employment, Directorship.  I have resigned my employment and all positions as an officer and director with the Company effective as of January 25, 2005 (the "Effective Date").  On the Company's next regular pay day, I will receive my last pay check.

     2.  Separation Benefits.  In exchange for my execution of this Agreement and the promises I made herein, and provided that I do not give the Company reason to stop such benefits under Section 8, below, the Company will provide the following (but will not provide any other benefits or payments to me):

     (a)  Pay me a total of $85,000, less applicable withholdings and deductions, in equal installments over the course of the next twelve (12) months ("Continuation Period"), on a bi-weekly basis, starting the Effective Date.

     (b)  Pay me, on or before the Effective Date, my bonus for the period from the end of the last fiscal year until the Effective Date in the amount of $71,940, less applicable withholdings and deductions.

     (c)  Contribute to the cost of my monthly premiums to continue my health insurance coverage under COBRA during the first three months of the Continuation Period, at the same level it contributes to the premiums of active employees, starting the Effective Date.

     (d)  Permit me to exercise any Company stock options which are vested as of the Effective Date for a period of one year following the Effective Date.  Options that have not vested as of the Effective Date shall terminate as of the Effective Date.

     3.  Release of Claims.  In exchange for the benefits provided to me under this Agreement, I irrevocably and unconditionally forever release and discharge the Company, its successors and assigns, and each of their current and former employees, officers, directors, owners, shareholders, representatives, administrators, fiduciaries, agents, insurers, and employee benefit programs (and the trustees, administrators, fiduciaries and insurers of any such programs) (collectively, the "Released Parties") from all actual or potential, known or unknown claims that I presently may have, including but not limited to any arising out of my employment with, and separation from, the Company.  The claims that I am releasing include, for example and without limitation, claims under any federal, state or local common law, statute, regulation or law of any type and claims for any other or further compensation, payments or benefits of any kind from any Released Party, including under my Employment Agreement with the Company dated as of February 20, 2003 ("Employment Agreement").  I have not filed or caused to be filed any lawsuit, complaint, charge, grievance or any other proceeding against the Company with any court, agency or other tribunal and to the extent permissible by law, I promise never to do so based on any claims released in this Section.

     4.  Prior Agreements.  I acknowledge my continuing obligations under those provisions of my Employment Agreement which, by their terms, survive the termination of my employment ("Surviving Obligations"), including Sections 7 (Confidential Information), 8 (Non-competition), and 9 (Intellectual Property).

     5.  Confidentiality of Agreement, Separation.  I agree to keep every term of this Agreement confidential and will not hereafter disclose the existence of this Agreement, the fact that this agreement was being discussed or considered, or the substance or contents of this Agreement to any person or entity other than my attorneys, tax advisors and immediate family, or otherwise as required by subpoena, court order or other legal process.  Upon service to me, or anyone acting on my behalf, of any subpoena, court order or other legal process requiring me to disclose information described in this Section 5, I shall immediately notify the Company and shall cooperate fully with the Company to lawfully resist disclose of the information prior to actual compliance with the request.  I further agree that I will not make any statement concerning my separation from the Company (or the circumstances surrounding or leading up to my separation) to any reporter, research analyst, or other member of the financial press or investment or financial services communities without the prior written approval of the Company as to both the fact and content of such statement, nor will I disparage the Company to anyone in any way.

     6.  Return of Company Property.  On or before the Effective Date, I will return to the Company all files, documents, records, and copies of the foregoing (whether in hand or electronic form), Company-provided computer and telephone equipment, credit cards, keys, building passes, security passes, access or identification cards, and any other property of the Company in my possession or control, including the keys to my Company-provided automobile.  The Company will arrange for the prompt return of my personal items from the office.

     7.  Cooperation.  I agree that I will assist and cooperate with the Company in connection with the defense or prosecution of any claim that may be made against or by the Company, or in connection with any ongoing or future investigation or dispute or claim of any kind involving the Company, including any proceeding before any arbitral, administrative, judicial, legislative, or other body or agency, including testifying in any proceeding to the extent such claims, investigations or proceedings are related to services performed or required to be performed by me, or knowledge possessed by me.  I further agree to perform all acts and execute and deliver any documents that may be reasonably necessary to carry out he provisions of this Section 7.  The Company agrees to reimburse me for any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses I may incur in complying with this Section 7 at the request of the Company.

     8.  Violations.  I agree that (a) if I violate any provision of Sections 3, 5, 6 or 7 of this Agreement or any of the Surviving Obligations, in addition to any other rights and remedies the Company might have (i) all payments and benefits under Section 2 of the Agreement will cease immediately and I will not be entitled to any further payments or benefits of any kind from the Company, and (ii) the Company shall be entitled to obtain an injunction to be issued by any court of competent jurisdiction restraining me from committing or continuing any such violation(s), without the need to post any bond or for any other undertaking or prove the inadequacy of money damages.

     9.  Miscellaneous.  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between me and the Company with respect to the subject matter hereof, and I represent that I am not signing this Agreement in reliance on any representation not expressly set forth herein.  No provisions of this Agreement may be modified, waived, amended or discharged except by a written document signed by me and a duly authorized Company representative.  This Agreement binds my heirs, administrators, representative, executors, successors and assigns, and will inure to the benefit of all Released Parties and their respective heirs, administrators, representatives, executors, successors, and assigns.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.  A waiver of any conditions or provisions of this Agreement in a given instance shall not be deemed a waiver of such conditions or provisions at any other time.  If any of the provisions, terms or clauses of this Agreement are declared illegal, unenforceable or ineffective in a legal forum, those provisions, terms and clauses shall be deemed severable, such that all other provisions, terms and clauses of this Agreement shall remain valid and binding upon both parties.  If a court of competent jurisdiction finds that the release language found in Section 3 is unenforceable, I agree to immediately reimburse the Company for all amounts paid to me pursuant to Section 2 of this Agreement.  The validity, interpretation, construction, and performance of this Agreement shall be governed by the internal laws of the State of Connecticut (excluding any that mandate the use of another jurisdiction's laws).  Section headings are intended solely for convenience of reference only and shall not be a part of this Agreement for any other purpose.  I have carefully read this Agreement, fully understand what it means, and am entering into it voluntarily.

Dated:  January 25, 2005

/s/ Paul J. Fego
Paul J. Fego

PHOTRONICS, INC.

Dated:  January 25, 2005

By:  /s/ Edwin L. Lewis
       Name:  Edwin L. Lewis
       Title:    Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

Exhibit 31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

     

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Executive Officer

      

I, Constantine S. Macricostas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Photronics, Inc., certify that:

          

1.

I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Photronics, Inc.

 

2.

Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report.

 

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report.

 

4.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

 

      

a)  

designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

 

     

b)   

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report based on such evaluation; and

 

 

 

c)

disclosed in this quarterly report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors:

 

      

a)    

all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

     

b)   

any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.


June 3, 2005

          

/s/ CONSTANTINE S. MACRICOSTAS

                        

          


                         

      

Constantine S. Macricostas
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

     

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Chief Financial Officer

      

I, Sean T. Smith, Chief Financial Officer of Photronics, Inc., certify that:

          

1.

I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Photronics, Inc.

 

2.

Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this quarterly report.

 

3.

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this quarterly report.

 

4.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have:

 

      

a)  

designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this quarterly report is being prepared;

 

     

b)   

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this quarterly report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report based on such evaluation; and

 

 

 

c)

disclosed in this quarterly report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5.

The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors:

 

      

a)    

all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

     

b)   

any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting.


June 3, 2005

          

/s/ SEAN T. SMITH

                        

          


                         

      

Sean T. Smith
Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 32.1

EXHIBIT 32.1

Section 1350 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer

I, Constantine S. Macricostas, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Photronics, Inc. (the "Company"), certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that, to my knowledge:

(1)     the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the quarter ended May 1, 2005 (the "Report") fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and

(2)     the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/  CONSTANTINE S. MACRICOSTAS


Constantine S. Macricostas

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

June 3, 2005

Exhibit 32.2

EXHIBIT 32.2

Section 1350 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer

I, Sean T. Smith, Chief Financial Officer of Photronics, Inc. (the "Company"), certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that, to my knowledge:

(1)     the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of the Company for the quarter ended May 1, 2005 (the "Report") fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and

(2)     the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/  SEAN T. SMITH


Sean T. Smith

Chief Financial Officer

June 3, 2005