AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING INC current report, Q3 FY2016

Business Context and Reporting Period

Company: Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (ADP)
Filing Type: Form 8-K (Current Report)
Date of Report: July 28, 2016
Reporting Period: Fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2016

This filing announces the Company's financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2016, and details a new service alignment initiative intended to streamline geographic operations and improve client service.

Key Financial Metrics and Restructuring Costs

Note: Specific revenue, profit, cash flow, and margin figures for the quarter are not included in this 8-K text; they are referenced in the attached press release (Exhibit 99).

The filing provides specific estimates for costs associated with the announced service alignment initiative (Item 2.05):

  • Total Pre-Tax Restructuring Charges (Fiscal 2016-2018): $100 million to $125 million.
  • Severance Costs (Cash): $75 million to $85 million.
  • Relocation Costs (Cash): $15 million to $20 million.
  • Other Charges (Contract terminations, asset impairments, building gains/losses): $10 million to $20 million aggregate.

Material Changes and Strategic Initiatives

ADP announced a service alignment initiative to simplify its service organization and align operations with strategic platforms. Key changes include:

  • Strategic Locations: Norfolk, Virginia, and Maitland, Florida have been selected as the next two strategic locations. A third location in the western U.S. is expected to be announced later in the year.
  • Geographic Streamlining: Over the next three years, the Company will focus on building service capabilities within these strategic locations while reducing its broader geographic footprint.

Outlook, Timing, and Risks

Timing of Charges:

  • Fiscal Q1 2017: Approximately $45 million of charges expected.
  • Latter part of Fiscal 2017: Approximately $45 million of charges expected.
  • Fiscal 2018: Remainder of charges expected.

Risks and Contingencies:

  • The initiative involves significant cash expenditures for severance and relocation.
  • The Company anticipates non-cash asset impairment charges and potential gains or losses on owned buildings as it exits existing locations.
  • Contract termination costs at existing locations are expected.

Investor Verification Checklist

  • Review the attached Press Release (Exhibit 99) for specific Q2 2016 revenue, net income, and earnings per share figures not detailed in this 8-K.
  • Monitor the announcement of the third strategic location in the western U.S. expected later in 2016.
  • Track the actual recognition of restructuring charges against the $100-125 million range in upcoming quarterly reports.
  • Assess the impact of the $75-85 million severance cash outflow on the Company's liquidity and cash flow statements in fiscal 2017.