How much does an annual report typically cost?
Are 10-K wraps or summary reports cheaper to produce than a traditional annual report?
If a company has typically just sent out the 10-K as a stand-alone document, why should it consider producing a narrative section now?
If a company has an in-house design department, why should they consider using an outside agency?
Why should a company consider using an out-of-town agency vs. a local one for its annual report?
When should a company start its annual report?
When should a company deliver its annual report & proxy materials to shareholders and how does the recently approved Notice & Access rule impact scheduling and related logistics?
Should we consider creating an online Annual Report?
Why should a company consider creating a corporate social responsibility or sustainability report?
How much does an annual report typically cost?
The price varies depending on the size of the book, number of pages, print quantity, amount of original photography or artwork, and choice of paper stock. With that many variables, it’s pretty difficult to define what a “typical” annual report would look like. But we understand you need help in determining your budget each year and we’re happy to provide you with ballpark estimates for different configurations and format alternatives to help in that regard. If you want to get an idea of the costs for your next annual, please contact John Stoepler at .
back to topAre 10-K wraps or summary reports cheaper to produce than a traditional annual report?
Because they consist of fewer pages, both formats tend to be less expensive than a traditional annual report. Traditional annuals can be over 40 pages long, chiefly because they include a narrative section and a lengthy financial section comprised of an MD&A and summary financials. In contrast, 10-K wraps and summary reports have a shorter narrative section (from 4 to 20 pages) with no financial section, leaving the 10-K to serve as the sole source of detailed financial information.
If a company has typically just sent out the 10-K as a stand-alone document, why should it consider producing a narrative section now?
We truly stand by the maxim, “don’t hide behind your 10-K.” The 10-K is a strictly a financial document, with lots of caveats and cautions as to the company’s potential. It doesn’t fully outline your company’s business strategy and all the intangibles that go into making your business a success. Even if you don’t do a large glossy section, you should consider including at least a 4-page letter from your CEO in your annual that shares the company’s business strategy, culture, and vision.
If a company has an in-house design department, why should they consider using an outside agency?
The responsibility of most in-house design departments is to develop the myriad of communications materials needed to sell and market products. They know the language of your products and understand the needs of your customers, but they may not necessarily know Wall Street. And while they are used to working with your sales and marketing staffs, they may have more limited contact with your CFO and the rest of your executive management staff. Mentus brings extensive experience in developing annual reports, including knowledge of SEC regulations and annual report trends that an in-house staff may not have. And we not only have the time to devote to such a large project, we also have the experience of working with corporate executives to meet their expectations and get the project completed on time.
Why should a company consider using an out-of-town agency vs. a local one for its annual report?
Often, the best design firm for your needs may not be local. Finding the right agency for any project should mean identifying a group that understands your needs and can deliver a quality product. When the project is as critical to the company as its annual report, you also want to feel comfortable that you’ve placed such an important assignment into capable hands. Your criteria in picking an annual report agency should focus more on capability and experience than on locale. An given today’s technologies, particularly the ability to transfer files electronically, an out-of-town agency can work as if you they are right next door.
When should a company start its annual report?
Obviously, the length of time necessary to create and print your annual report depends on the complexity of the story and the design. But we usually recommend that you kick-off the project three months before your year-end. Some books can be completed in a shorter timeframe – it just depends on your company story and how much needs to be communicated.
When should a company deliver its annual report & proxy materials to shareholders and how does the recently approved Notice & Access rule impact scheduling and related logistics?
On July 26, 2007, the SEC posted final rules on electronic proxy delivery, otherwise known as "Shareholder Choice Regarding Proxy Materials" or more informally, “Notice and Access.” The new rule provides that companies can choose to deliver their annual meeting materials in one of two ways. First, the "Notice Only" option, requires a company to post its proxy material online at least 40 days in advance of the meeting, and mail a Notice to its shareholders advising them of the online availability. The Notice must provide a means for stockholders to request paper delivery of the proxy materials, or to elect permanent paper or electronic delivery. The second option, the "Full Set Delivery" option, allows a company to make a traditional paper delivery of all proxy materials, as long as it also makes the materials available on the Internet. Regardless of the option chosen, Mentus advises its clients to make all their proxy materials available 45-47 days prior to their meeting date.
The rules are effective January 1, 2008, for companies defined as "large accelerated filer" (i.e., have a public float of $700 million or more), and January 1, 2009, for all other public companies. To review the complete rule in its entirety, please click: http://www.sec.gov/rules/final/2007/34-56135.pdf. Or for more information, please contact John Stoepler at .
Should we consider creating an online Annual Report?
More and more, savvy investors are going to the web to gain knowledge about your company. With the new eProxy ruling, analysts estimate that those numbers will continue to grow. While many companies feel their investor bases are not quite ready to let go of their printed annuals, many recognize the trend and are considering a hybrid of a 10-K wrap plus an online report. We have experience developing fully functional online annual reports, as well as their hybrid cousins. It’s really your choice as to which format best fulfills your investors’ needs.
Why should a company consider creating a corporate social responsibility or sustainability report?
Today’s investors and “watch dog” groups are looking at every aspect of your business, not just pure financials. Corporate social responsibility or sustainability reports provide a great way to communicate your company’s vision, while demonstrating the role it is taking in the community and/or in supporting the environment.