SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             Washington, D.C.  20549     

                                    FORM 10-K

[X]  Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
     Exchange Act of 1934

                   For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996

OR

[ ]  Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
     Exchange Act of 1934 [No Fee Required]

                        Commission file number:  0-10546

                             LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC.               
               (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

           Delaware                         36-2229304     
(State or other jurisdiction of         (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)          Identification No.)

               1666 East Touhy Avenue, Des Plaines, Illinois 60018
                    (Address of principal executive offices)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (847) 827-9666

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

                              Name of each exchange
     Title of Each Class       on which registered 

          None                        None

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

                        Common Stock, $1.00 Par Value                         
                                (Title of class)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (l) has filed all reports required
to be filed by section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes   X      No       

As of March 1, 1997, 11,137,464 shares of Common Stock were outstanding.

The aggregate market value of the Registrant's Common Stock held by
nonaffiliates on March 1, 1997 was approximately $167,822,000.

The following documents are incorporated into this Form 10-K by reference:

     Proxy Statement for Annual Meeting of
     Stockholders to be held on May 28, 1997 Part III

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K (Section 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein,
and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in
definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part
III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  [X]


                                     PART I

Item 1.  Business.

          Lawson Products, Inc. was incorporated in Illinois in 1952 and
reincorporated in Delaware in 1982.


Products

          The Company is a distributor of approximately 33,000 expendable
maintenance, repair and replacement products.  In addition, the Company
distributes 12,000 production components (mostly fasteners) to the O.E.M.
marketplace.  It manufactures approximately 1,000 of these items.  These
products may be divided into three broad categories:  Fasteners, Fittings and
Related Parts, such as screws, nuts, rivets and other fasteners; Industrial
Supplies, such as hoses and hose fittings, lubricants, cleansers, adhesives and
other chemicals, as well as files, drills, welding products and other shop
supplies; and Automotive and Equipment Maintenance Parts, such as primary
wiring, connectors and other electrical supplies, exhaust and other automotive
parts.  The Company estimates that these categories of products accounted for
the indicated percentages of its total consolidated net sales for 1996, 1995 and
1994 respectively:

Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales 1996 1995 1994 Fasteners, Fittings and Related Parts . . . 45% 41% 41% Industrial Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . 50% 54% 53% Automotive and Equipment Maintenance Parts 5% 5% 6% 100% 100% 100%
All of the Company's maintenance products are manufactured by others and must meet the Company's specifications. Approximately 90% of the Company's products are sold under the Company label. Substantially all maintenance items which the Company distributes are purchased by the Company in bulk and subsequently repackaged in smaller quantities. The Company regularly uses a large number of suppliers but has no long-term or fixed price contracts with any of them. Most maintenance items which the Company distributes are purchased from several sources, and the Company believes that the loss of any single supplier would not significantly affect its operations. No single supplier accounted for more than 6% of the Company's purchases in 1996. Production components sold to the O.E.M. marketplace may be manufactured to customers' specification or purchased from other sources. Marketing The Company's principal markets are as follows: Heavy Duty Equipment Maintenance. Customers in this market include operators of trucks, buses, agricultural implements, construction and road building equipment, mining, logging and drilling equipment and other off-the-road equipment. The Company estimates that approximately 42% of 1996 sales were made to customers in this market. In-Plant and Building Maintenance. This market includes plants engaged in a broad range of manufacturing and processing activities, as well as institutions such as hospitals, universities, school districts and government units. The Company estimates that approximately 39% of 1996 sales were made to customers in this market. Passenger Car Maintenance. Customers in this market include automobile service center chains, independent garages, automobile dealers, car rental agencies and other fleet operators. The Company estimates that approximately 10% of 1996 sales were made to customers in this market. Original Equipment Manufacturers. This market includes plants engaged in a broad range of manufacturing and processing activities. The Company estimates that approximately 7% of 1996 sales were made to customers in this market. The Company has approximately 210,000 customers, the largest of which accounted for less than one percent of net sales during 1996. Sales are made through a force of approximately 1,841 independent sales representatives of which 114 serve the O.E.M. marketplace. Included in this group are 223 district and zone managers, each of whom, in addition to his own sales activities, acts in an advisory capacity to other sales representatives in a designated area of the country. The Company employs 36 regional managers to coordinate regional marketing efforts. Most sales representatives, including district and zone managers, are compensated on a commission basis and are responsible for repayment of commissions on their respective uncollectible accounts. In addition to the sales representatives and district, zone and regional managers discussed above, the Company has 1,021 employees. The Company's products are sold in all 50 states, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Canada and England. The Company believes that an important factor in its success is its ability to service customers promptly. During the past five years, more than 99% of all items were shipped to the customer within 24 hours after an order was received by the Company. This rapid delivery is facilitated by computer controlled order entry and inventory control systems in each general distribution center. In addition, the receipt of customer orders at Lawson distribution facilities has been accelerated by portable facsimile transmission equipment and personal computer systems used by sales representatives operating in certain areas of the country. Customer orders are delivered by common carriers. The Company is required to carry significant amounts of inventory in order to meet its high standards of rapid processing of customer orders. The Company funds its working capital requirements internally. Distribution and Manufacturing Facilities Substantially all of the Company's maintenance products are stocked in and distributed from each of its seven general distribution centers in; Addison, Illinois; Reno, Nevada; Farmers Branch, Texas; Norcross, Georgia; Fairfield, New Jersey; Mississauga, Ontario, Canada and Bradley Stoke (Bristol) England. Chemical products are distributed from a facility in Vernon Hills, Illinois and welding products are distributed from a facility in Charlotte, North Carolina. Production components are stocked in and distributed from five centers located in Decatur, Alabama; Conway, Arkansas; Burr Ridge, Illinois; Tupelo, Mississippi; and Memphis, Tennessee. Production components are manufactured in Decatur, Alabama. In the opinion of the Company, all existing facilities are in good condition and are well maintained. All are being used substantially to capacity on a single shift basis, except the manufacturing facility in Decatur, Alabama which operates three shifts. Most of the Company's facilities are relatively new. Further expansion of warehousing capacity may require new warehouses, some of which may be located in new geographical areas. Canadian Operations Canadian operations are conducted at the Company's 40,000 square foot general distribution center in Mississauga, Ontario, a suburb of Toronto. These operations constituted less than 3% of the Company's net sales during 1996. United Kingdom Operations Operations in the United Kingdom are conducted under the name of Lawson Products Limited from a 19,000 square foot general distribution center in Bradley Stoke (Bristol) England. These operations constituted approximately 1% of the Company's net sales during 1996. Mexican Operations Operations in Mexico are conducted under the name of Lawson Products de Mexico S.A. de C.V. from a 5,000 square foot facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. These operations constituted less than 1% of the Company's net sales during 1996. Competition The Company encounters intense competition from several national distributors and manufacturers and a large number of regional and local distributors. Due to the nature of its business and the absence of reliable trade statistics, the Company cannot estimate its position in relation to its competitors. However, the Company recognizes that some competitors may have greater financial and personnel resources, handle more extensive lines of merchandise, operate larger facilities and price some merchandise more competitively than the Company. Although the Company believes that the prices of its products are competitive, it endeavors to meet competition primarily through the quality of its product line and its service. Item 2. Properties. The Company owns two facilities located in Des Plaines, Illinois, (152,600 and 27,000 square feet, respectively). These buildings contain the Company's main administrative activities and an inbound warehouse facility that principally supports the Addison, Illinois facility and other distribution facilities to a lesser degree. Additional administrative, warehouse and distribution facilities owned by the Company are located in Addison, Illinois (65,000 square feet); Fairfield, New Jersey (61,000 square feet); Reno, Nevada (97,000 square feet); Norcross, Georgia (61,300 square feet); Farmers Branch, Texas (54,500 square feet); and Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (40,000 square feet). Chemical products are distributed from a 56,300 square foot owned facility in Vernon Hills, Illinois and welding products are distributed from a 40,000 square foot owned facility located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Administrative, warehouse and distribution facilities in Bradley Stoke (Bristol) England (19,000 square feet) are leased by the Company. Administrative and distribution facilities in Guadalajara, Mexico (5,000 square feet) are leased by the Company. Production components are distributed from facilities leased in Conway, Arkansas (6,500 sq. ft.) Burr Ridge, Illinois (24,000 sq. ft.) Tupelo, Mississippi, (10,000 sq. ft.) and Memphis, Tennessee, (40,000 sq. ft.). The Company owns a 54,000 square foot facility in Decatur, Alabama which distributes and manufactures production components. From time to time, the Company leases additional warehouse space near its present facilities. See Item 1, "Business - Distribution Facilities" for further information regarding the Company's properties. Item 3. Legal Proceedings. There is no material pending litigation to which the Company, or any of its subsidiaries, is a party or to which any of their property is subject. Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders. No matter was submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this Report. PART II Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters. The Company's Common Stock is traded on the NASDAQ National Market System under the symbol of "LAWS." The approximate number of stockholders of record at December 31, 1996 was 1,185. The following table sets forth the high and low closing sale prices as reported on the NASDAQ National Market System during the last two years. The table also indicates the cash dividends paid by the Company during such periods.
1996 1995 Cash Cash High Low Dividends High Low Dividends First Quarter . . . $26 1/4 $22 $.13 $27 3/16 $25 $.12 Second Quarter . . 25 1/4 21 1/2 .13 27 1/2 26 .12 Third Quarter . . . 25 1/8 21 1/2 .13 28 1/2 26 1/2 .13 Fourth Quarter . . 22 1/4 21 .13 27 1/8 23 1/8 .13
Item 6. Selected Financial Data. The following selected financial data should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements of the Company and notes thereto included elsewhere in this Report. The income statement data and balance sheet data for and as of the end of each of the fiscal years in the five-year period ended December 31, 1996, are derived from the audited Financial Statements of the Company.
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 Net Sales $250,289,124 $223,537,182 $213,097,143 $195,735,202 $186,709,454 Income Before Income Taxes 33,884,637 34,815,029 34,031,074 27,767,480 25,379,448 Net Income 19,994,637 21,120,029 20,524,074 18,117,480 15,343,448 Total Assets 175,161,839 160,613,798 168,130,848 171,428,606 158,029,952 Noncurrent Liabilities 22,065,583 19,292,794 17,084,617 15,160,121 13,319,626 Stockholders' Equity 128,746,212 122,810,577 131,230,469 140,649,876 128,755,648 Return on Equity (percent) 15.8% 16.9% 14.7% 13.4% 12.3% Per Share of common Stock: Net Income $1.73 $1.75 $1.55 $1.34 $1.13 Stockholders' Equity 11.13 10.17 9.91 10.37 9.49 Cash Dividends Declared .52 .51 .48 .44 .40 Weighted Average Shares Outstanding 11,563,052 12,072,668 13,237,181 13,556,714 13,564,114
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Results of Operations Net sales for 1996 and 1995 advanced 12.0% and 4.9%, respectively, over the immediately preceding years. The sales gain for 1996 occurred primarily as a result of an increase in the number of orders shipped and sales generated by our new subsidiary, Assembly Component Systems, Inc., while the sales advance for 1995 resulted principally from increases in unit sales and the average order size. Net income in 1996 declined 5.3% from 1995 to $19,994,637, while net income per share in 1996 decreased 1.1% to $1.73 from $1.75 in 1995. The decline in net income for 1996 resulted principally from marketing programs that provided lower gross margins on selected products, increased costs incurred in our U.K. subsidiary, and a higher effective tax rate, which more than offset sales gains. Net income in 1995 increased 2.9% from 1994 to $21,120,029. The increase in net income for 1995 over 1994 resulted primarily from sales gains, proceeds from redemption of life insurance, and cost containment efforts, partially offset by a decrease in gross margins. Per share net income for 1996 and 1995 was positively affected by the Company's share repurchases discussed below. Liquidity and Capital Resources Cash flows provided by operations for 1996, 1995, and 1994 were $24,552,774, $21,309,287 and $23,041,066, respectively. The 1996 improvement over 1995 resulted principally from increases in operating liabilities, which more than offset increases in operating assets and lower net income from 1995 levels. The decrease in 1995 was due primarily to increases in operating assets and declines in operating liabilities from 1994 levels, which more than offset the advance in net income noted above. Current investments and cash flows from operations have continued to be sufficient to fund operating requirements, cash dividends and capital improvements. Such internally generated funds are also expected to finance the Company's future growth. Capital expenditures for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, were $4,820,724, $3,020,330, and $6,888,262. As in prior years, additions to property, plant and equipment were incurred primarily for new facilities, improvement of existing facilities, and for the purchase of related equipment. During 1996, construction began relative to the facilities expansion of the Company's specialty chemical subsidiary, Drummond American Corporation. Total capital expenditures for this project are expected to be approximately $3,000,000, with completion during the second quarter of 1997. The construction of Lawson's outbound facility in Addison, Illinois was substantially completed by the end of 1994, at a cost of approximately $5,600,000, and opened during the first quarter of 1995. In addition, during the first quarter of 1994, the Company established a new Lawson subsidiary in Guadalajara, Mexico, which operates out of a leased facility. During the second quarter of 1996, the Company purchased, for cash, substantially all of the assets and liabilities of Automatic Screw Machine Products Company (Automatic) headquartered in Decatur, Alabama, at a cost of approximately $10,746,000. Automatic is a manufacturer and distributor of production components. The former business operations of Automatic are conducted by new subsidiaries known as Assembly Component Systems, Inc. and Automatic Screw Machine Products Company. In 1996, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company's common stock, of which 292,000 shares were purchased for approximately $6,386,000. Also, during 1996, the remaining 86,000 shares relative to the 1994 authorization noted below, were purchased for $2,095,000. In 1994, the Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to a 1,500,000 shares of the Company's common stock. During 1995, 917,500 shares were purchased for approximately $24,085,000, relative to the 1994 share authorization. Also, during 1994, the Company expended approximately $23,105,000 for the purchase of 961,500 shares, consisting of 496,500 shares relative to the 1,500,000 shares authorized for purchase in 1994 and 465,500 shares relating to the share purchases previously authorized during 1990. Funds to purchase these shares were provided by investments and cash flows from operations. Impact of Inflation and Changing Prices The Company has continued to be successful in passing higher product costs on to its customers and, accordingly, gross margins have not been materially impacted. The impact from inflation has been more significant on the Company's fixed and semi-variable operating expenses, primarily wages and benefits, although to a lesser degree in recent years due to moderate inflation levels. Although the Company expects that future costs of replacing warehouse and distribution facilities will increase due to inflation, such higher costs are not anticipated to have a material effect on future earnings. Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data. The following information is presented in this report: Report of Independent Auditors Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1996 and 1995. Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Schedule II Report of Independent Auditors Stockholders and Board of Directors Lawson Products, Inc. We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Lawson Products, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 14(a). These financial statements and related schedule are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and related schedule based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Lawson Products, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. Ernst & Young LLP Chicago, Illinois February 21, 1997 LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, 1996 1995 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 14,515,158 $ 10,432,139 Marketable securities 14,266,412 16,068,113 Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts (1996- $1,357,662; 1995-$1,111,337) 30,326,067 28,295,687 Inventories 37,047,114 27,082,903 Miscellaneous receivables 2,812,809 2,977,144 Prepaid expenses 3,526,375 2,657,933 Deferred income taxes 606,000 464,000 Total Current Assets 103,099,935 87,977,919 Property, plant and equipment, at cost, less allowances for depreciation and amortization (1996-$24,634,950; 1995-$22,894,444) 40,052,534 35,501,105 Other assets: Marketable securities 13,452,931 20,847,081 Investments in real estate 3,304,664 3,152,164 Cash value of life insurance 10,361,091 8,790,756 Deferred income taxes 3,758,000 3,201,000 Other 1,132,684 1,143,773 32,009,370 37,134,774 $175,161,839 $160,613,798 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 6,006,695 $ 3,218,887 Accrued expenses and other liabilities 15,850,415 14,329,710 Income taxes 2,492,934 961,830 Total Current Liabilities 24,350,044 18,510,427 Noncurrent liabilities and deferred credits: Accrued liability under security bonus plans 12,886,934 11,421,646 Deferred compensation and other liabilities 9,178,649 7,871,148 22,065,583 19,292,794 Stockholders' equity: Preferred Stock, $1 par value: Authorized-500,000 shares Issued and outstanding-None - - Common Stock, $1 par value: Authorized-35,000,000 shares Issued-1996-11,311,464 shares; 1995-11,686,614 shares 11,311,464 11,686,614 Capital in excess of par value 512,008 493,783 Retained earnings 117,234,229 111,320,907 129,057,701 123,501,304 Foreign currency translation adjustment (819,489) (1,160,727) Unrealized gain on marketable securities 508,000 470,000 128,746,212 122,810,577 $175,161,839 $160,613,798 See notes to consolidated financial statements
LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Year ended December 31, 1996 1995 1994 Net sales $250,289,124 $223,537,182 $213,097,143 Interest and dividend income 1,499,993 1,671,383 1,725,871 Other income - net 362,282 977,451 18,170 252,151,399 226,186,016 214,841,184 Cost of goods sold 81,116,518 63,535,746 58,559,096 Selling, general and administrative expenses 136,265,322 126,839,711 121,357,853 Interest expense 25,596 10,271 44,831 Provision for doubtful accounts 859,326 985,259 848,330 218,266,762 191,370,987 180,810,110 Income Before Income Taxes 33,884,637 34,815,029 34,031,074 Federal and state income taxes (benefit): Current 14,610,000 14,472,000 14,100,000 Deferred (720,000) (777,000) (593,000) 13,890,000 13,695,000 13,507,000 Net Income $ 19,994,637 $ 21,120,029 $ 20,524,074 Per share of Common Stock: Net Income $1.73 $1.75 $1.55 See notes to consolidated financial statements
Lawson Products, Inc. Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Unrealized Common Capital Cost of Foreign Gain (Loss) Stock, in excess of Common Currency on $1 par par Retained Stock in Translation Marketable value value Earnings Treasury Adjustment Securities Balance at January 1, 1994 $17,093,915 $687,296 $181,380,565 $(57,779,689) $(732,211) $ - Net income 20,524,074 Cash dividends declared (6,295,407) Stock issued under employee stock plans 3,575 28,815 Purchase of common stock (23,104,516) Translation adjustment (354,948) Unrealized loss on marketable securities (221,000) Balance at December 31, 1994 17,097,490 716,111 195,609,232 (80,884,205) (1,087,159) (221,000) Net income 21,120,029 Cash dividends declared (6,076,922) Stock issued under employee stock plans 300 4,551 Purchase of common stock (24,085,282) Retirement of treasury stock (5,411,176) (226,879) (99,331,432) 104,969,487 Translation adjustment (73,568) Unrealized gain on marketable securities 691,000 Balance at December 31, 1995 11,686,614 493,783 111,320,907 - (1,160,727) 470,000 Net income 19,994,637 Cash dividends declared (5,994,808) Stock issued under employee stock plans 2,850 34,718 Purchase of common stock (8,481,000) Retirement of treasury stock (378,000) (16,493) (8,086,507) 8,481,000 Translation adjustment 341,238 Unrealized gain on marketable securities 38,000 Balance at December 31, 1996 $11,311,464 $512,008 $117,234,229 $ - $(819,489) $508,000 See notes to consolidated financial statements
LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year ended December 31, 1996 1995 1994 Operating activities: Net income $ 19,994,637 $ 21,120,029 $ 20,524,074 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 4,014,251 3,349,186 3,085,476 Provision for allowance for doubtful accounts 859,326 985,259 848,330 Deferred income taxes (720,000) (777,000) (593,000) Deferred compensation and security bonus plans 3,734,727 3,739,807 2,767,055 Payments under deferred compensation and security bonus plans (1,068,542) (1,509,086) (847,666) Losses from sale of property, plant and equipment 274,717 18,884 36,058 (Income)/losses from investments in real estate (232,500) (148,000) 208,500 Changes in operating assets and liabilities (Exclusive of effect of acquisition): Accounts receivable (864,397) (1,961,852) (3,095,661) Inventories (3,965,081) (243,629) (3,183,058) Prepaid expenses and other assets (2,265,095) (2,248,330) (1,383,412) Accounts payable and accrued expenses 2,751,842 (256,456) 2,116,976 Income taxes payable 1,531,104 (1,055,180) 2,079,249 Other 507,785 295,655 478,145 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 24,552,774 21,309,287 23,041,066 Investing activities: Additions to property, plant and equipment (4,820,724) (3,020,330) (6,888,262) Purchases of marketable securities (367,665,946) (293,575,770) (246,580,492) Proceeds from sale of marketable securities 376,705,975 305,232,277 251,437,202 Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 94,421 36,000 5,200 Proceeds from life insurance policies 130,000 668,372 173,297 Acquisition of Automatic Screw Machine Products, net of cash acquired of $240,545 (10,506,472) - - Other 80,000 80,000 80,000 Net Cash (Used In) Provided by Investing Activities (5,982,746) 9,420,549 (1,773,055) Financing Activities: Purchases of common stock (8,481,000) (24,085,282) (23,104,516) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 37,568 4,851 32,390 Dividends paid (6,043,577) (6,070,121) (6,294,979) Net Cash Used in Financing Activities (14,487,009) (30,150,552) (29,367,105) Increase/(Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 4,083,019 579,284 (8,099,094) Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Year 10,432,139 9,852,855 17,951,949 Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year $ 14,515,158 $ 10,432,139 $ 9,852,855 See notes to consolidated financial statements
Lawson Products, Inc. and subsidiaries principally are distributors of expendable parts and supplies for maintenance, repair and operation of equipment. The Company's operations are principally conducted in North America. NOTE A-SUMMARY OF MAJOR ACCOUNTING POLICIES Principles of Consolidation: The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, each of which is wholly owned. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Revenue Recognition: Sales and associated cost of goods sold are recognized when products are shipped to customers. Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Investments in Real Estate: The Company's investments in real estate representing limited partnership interests are carried on the basis of the equity method. Marketable Securities: Marketable equity securities and debt securities are classified as available-for-sale and are carried at fair value, with the unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, recorded in shareholders' equity. Realized gains and losses, declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary, and interest and dividends are included in investment income. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method. Inventories: Inventories (principally finished goods) are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out method) or market. Property, Plant and Equipment: Provisions for depreciation and amortization are computed by the straight-line method for buildings using useful lives of 20 to 30 years and by the double declining balance method for machinery and equipment, furniture and fixtures and vehicles using useful lives of 4 to 10 years. Investment Tax Credits: Investment tax credits on assets leased to others (see Investments in Real Estate) are deferred and amortized over the useful life of the related asset. Cash Equivalents: The Company considers all highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents. Stock Options: Stock options are accounted for under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting For Stock Issued to Employees." Under APB 25, no compensation expense is recognized because the exercise price of the stock options granted equals the market price of the underlying stock at the date of grant. Foreign Currency Translation: The financial statements of foreign entities have been translated in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 52 and, accordingly, unrealized foreign currency translation adjustments are reflected as a component of stockholders' equity. Realized foreign currency transaction gains and losses were not significant for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Reclassifications: Certain amounts have been reclassified in the 1994 and 1995 financial statements to conform with the 1996 presentation. NOTE B-BUSINESS COMBINATION On April 30, 1996, the Company purchased substantially all of the assets and liabilities of Automatic Screw Machine Products Company (Automatic) for cash of approximately $10,746,000. This transaction was accounted for as a purchase; accordingly, the accounts and transactions of the acquired company have been included in the consolidated financial statements since the date of acquisition. Automatic manufactures precision machine components and distributes parts used in the assembly of original equipment. Automatic's operations are being conducted through the Company's new subsidiaries, Assembly Component Systems, Inc. and Automatic Screw Machine Products Company. Pro forma consolidated net sales, assuming the purchase had occurred as of January 1, 1995, would approximate $257,218,000 and $246,298,000 for 1996 and 1995, respectively; pro forma net income or net income per share would not differ materially from reported amounts. NOTE C-MARKETABLE SECURITIES The following is a summary of the Company's investments at December 31 which are all classified as available-for-sale:
(In Thousands) Gross Gross Unrealized Unrealized Estimated 1996 Cost Gains Losses Fair Value Obligations of states and political subdivisions $25,368 $252 $1 $25,619 Foreign government securities 1,563 - - 1,563 Total debt securities 26,931 252 1 27,182 Equity securities 6 537 6 537 $26,937 $789 $7 $27,719 1995 Obligations of states and political subdivisions $34,472 $287 $2 $34,757 Foreign government securities 1,516 - - 1,516 Other debt securities 204 - - 204 Total debt securities 36,192 287 2 36,477 Equity securities - 438 - 438 $36,192 $725 $2 $36,915
The gross realized gains on sales totaled: $127,603, $116,062, and $11,867 in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, and the gross realized losses totaled $28,285, $46,186 and $55,050, respectively. The net adjustment to unrealized holding gains included as a separate component of shareholders' equity, net of taxes, totaled $38,000 and $691,000 in 1996 and 1995, respectively. In 1996 and 1995 the Company received equity shares on the conversion of certain mutual insurance companies, from which the Company held policies, to stock companies. These shares carry no cost. The amortized cost and estimated fair value of marketable securities at December 31, 1996, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of certain securities have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.
Estimated (In Thousands) Cost Fair Value Due in one year or less $14,067 $14,266 Due after one year through five years 12,864 12,916 Total debt securities 26,931 27,182 Equity securities 6 537 $26,937 $27,719
NOTE D-PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT The cost of property, plant and equipment consists of:
1996 1995 Land $ 6,113,574 $ 5,976,341 Buildings and improvements 33,467,535 32,360,549 Machinery and equipment 18,315,412 14,475,356 Furniture and fixtures 4,962,178 4,618,726 Vehicles 218,593 303,317 Construction in Progress 1,610,192 661,260 $64,687,484 $58,395,549
NOTE E-INVESTMENTS IN REAL ESTATE The Company is a limited partner in three real estate limited partnerships. An affiliate of the Company has a 1.5% interest and 5% interest, respectively, as a general partner in two of the partnerships, which interests are subordinated to the Company's interests in distributable cash. NOTE F-ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LIABILITIES Accrued expenses and other liabilities consist of the following:
1996 1995 Salaries, commissions and other compensation $ 5,940,828 $ 5,416,903 Accrued and withheld taxes, other than income taxes 1,636,558 1,408,108 Accrued profit sharing contributions 1,944,232 1,994,328 Accrued self-insured health benefits 1,300,000 1,300,000 Cash dividends payable 1,471,465 1,519,260 Other 3,557,332 2,691,111 $15,850,415 $14,329,710
NOTE G-STOCK PLAN The Company's Incentive Stock Plan (Plan), as amended, provides for the issuance of up to 750,000 shares of Common Stock to officers and key employees pursuant to stock options, stock appreciation rights, stock purchase agreements and stock awards. The Plan permits the grant of incentive stock options, subject to certain annual limitations, with substantially the same terms as non-qualified stock options, except that incentive stock options are not exercisable within six months from date of grant and may not be exercisable while an optionee holds a prior incentive stock option. Incentive stock options may be granted at prices not less than the fair market value of the shares at the dates of grant. Benefits currently may be granted under the Plan through December 16, 1996. However, the Board of Directors has approved, subject to ratification by the Company's shareholders at their 1997 annual meeting, a ten year extension to the Plan. Additional information with respect to the Plan is summarized as follows:
Shares 1996 1995 1994 As of December 31: Options outstanding (per share: $12.83 to $29.75) 293,081 126,131 126,431 Available for grant 366,791 536,591 536,591 Options exercisable 123,281 126,131 126,431 For the year ended December 31: Options granted (per share: $22.50) 169,800 - - Options exercised (per share: 1996, 1995, and 1994-$8.78 to $27.50) 2,850 300 3,575 Benefits cancelled - - 750
As of December 31, 1996, the Company has the following outstanding options:
Weighted Weighted Options Average Average Options Exercise Price Outstanding Exercise Price Remaining Life Exercisable $12.83-$16.17 1,931 $14.93 .9 years 1,931 27.50-29.75 121,350 27.51 4.1 121,350 22.50 169,800 22.50 9.5 -
Disclosure of pro forma information regarding net income and net income per share is required by Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," and has been determined as if the Company had accounted for its employee stock options granted in 1996 (no options were granted in 1995) under the fair value method using the Black-Scholes options pricing model. The following assumptions were utilized in the valuation: risk- free interest rate of 6.61%; dividend yield of 2.0%; volatility factor of the expected market price of the Company's Common Stock of .21; and a weighted- average expected life of the option of 8 years. The weighted-average fair value of options granted in 1996 was $7.24. Had compensation cost for the Company's stock options granted in 1996 been determined based on the fair value at the date of grant, the Company's net income and net income per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts of $19,801,000 and $1.73, respectively. The pro forma effect on net income for 1996 is not representative of the pro forma effect on net income in future years because it does not take into consideration pro forma compensation expense related to grants made prior to 1995. At December 31, 1996, 659,872 shares of Common Stock were reserved for issuance under the Plan. NOTE H-PROFIT SHARING AND SECURITY BONUS PLANS The Company and certain subsidiaries have a profit sharing plan for office and warehouse personnel. The amounts of the companies' annual contributions are determined by the respective boards of directors subject to limitations based upon current operating profits (as defined) or participants' compensation (as defined). The Company and its subsidiaries also have in effect security bonus plans for the benefit of their regional managers and independent sales representatives, under the terms of which participants are credited with a percentage of their yearly earnings (as defined). Of the aggregate amounts credited to participants' accounts, 25% vests after five years and an additional 5% vests each year thereafter. For financial reporting purposes, amounts are charged to operations over the vesting period. Provisions for profit sharing and security bonus plans aggregated $3,945,825, $3,890,250 and $3,517,052 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. In 1994 the Company established a 401(k) defined contribution savings plan. The plan, which is available to all employees, was provided to give employees a pre-tax investment vehicle to save for retirement. All contributions to the plan are made by plan participants. NOTE I-INCOME TAXES Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. In addition, deferred income taxes include net operating loss carryforwards of a foreign subsidiary which do not expire. The valuation allowance has been provided since there is no assurance that the benefit of the net operating loss carryforwards will be realized. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31 are as follows:
Deferred Tax Assets: 1996 1995 Compensation and benefits $8,541,000 $7,630,000 Inventory 492,000 509,000 Net operating loss carryforward of subsidiary 2,800,000 2,047,000 Accounts receivable 419,000 373,000 Total Deferred Tax Assets 12,252,000 10,559,000 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets (2,800,000) (2,047,000) Net Deferred Tax Assets 9,452,000 8,512,000 Deferred Tax Liabilities: Property, plant & equipment 1,416,000 1,200,000 Investments in real estate 3,163,000 3,167,000 Marketable securities 274,000 253,000 Other 235,000 227,000 Total Deferred Tax Liabilities 5,088,000 4,847,000 Total Net Deferred Tax Assets $4,364,000 $3,665,000
The provisions for income taxes for the years ended December 31, consist of the following:
1996 1995 1994 Current: Federal $11,733,000 $11,657,000 $11,955,000 State 2,877,000 2,815,000 2,145,000 14,610,000 14,472,000 14,100,000 Deferred benefit (720,000) (777,000) (593,000) $13,890,000 $13,695,000 $13,507,000
The reconciliation between the effective income tax rate and the statutory federal rate is as follows:
1996 1995 1994 Statutory federal rate 35.0% 35.0% 35.0% Increase (decrease) resulting from: State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit 5.5 5.3 4.1 Non-taxable dividend and interest income (1.1) (1.4) (1.5) Foreign loss 2.2 1.7 1.7 Other items (.6) (1.3) .4 Provision for income taxes 41.0% 39.3% 39.7%
Income taxes paid for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 amounted to $12,944,000 $15,327,000 and $12,098,000, respectively. NOTE J-COMMITMENTS The Company's minimum rental commitments, principally for equipment, under noncancelable leases in effect at December 31, 1996 amounted to approximately $2,380,000. Such rentals are payable as follows: 1997-$1,145,000; 1998- $791,000; 1999-$269,000 and 2000 and thereafter-$175,000. Total rental expense for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 amounted to $1,401,855, $1,087,271 and $1,188,740. NOTE K-PER SHARE DATA Per share data are based on the weighted average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding during each year: 1996-11,563,052, 1995-12,072,668 and 1994- 13,237,181. Exercise of outstanding stock options would not have a material dilutive effect on such per share data. NOTE L SUMMARY OF UNAUDITED QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Unaudited quarterly results of operations for the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 are summarized as follows:
Quarter ended 1996 Mar. 31 Jun. 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31* (In thousands, except per share data) Net sales $56,108 $63,479 $66,303 $64,399 Cost of goods sold 16,678 20,752 22,856 20,831 Income before income taxes 6,789 8,104 8,271 10,721 Provision for income taxes 2,765 3,375 3,443 4,307 Net income 4,024 4,729 4,828 6,414 Net income per share of common stock $.35 $.41 $.42 $.56 Weighted average shares outstanding 11,622 11,601 11,601 11,457 Quarter ended 1995 Mar. 31 Jun. 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31* (In thousands, except per share data) Net sales $54,845 $56,095 $56,177 $56,420 Cost of goods sold 15,421 15,822 15,832 16,461 Income before income taxes 8,238 8,482 8,439 9,655 Provision for income taxes 3,214 3,205 3,348 3,928 Net income 5,024 5,277 5,091 5,727 Net income per share of common stock $.40 $.43 $.43 $.49 Weighted average shares outstanding 12,454 12,217 11,826 11,742 *Inventories and cost of goods sold during interim periods are determined through the use of estimated gross profit rates. The difference between actual and estimated gross profit rates used for the interim periods is adjusted in the fourth quarter. In 1996, this adjustment increased net income by approximately $528,000, while in 1995, this adjustment decreased net income by approximately $354,000. Also, the fourth quarters of 1996 and 1995 reflect adjustments to certain accrued expenses which increased net income by approximately $514,000 and $908,000, respectively.
SCHEDULE II LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Additions Balance at Charged to Beginning of Costs and Deductions- Balance at End Description Period Expenses Describe(A) of Period Allowance deducted from assets to which it applies: Allowance for doubtful accounts: Year ended December 31, 1996 $1,111,337 $859,326 $ 613,001 $1,357,662 Year ended December 31, 1995 1,127,017 985,259 1,000,939 1,111,337 Year ended December 31, 1994 1,067,754 848,330 789,067 1,127,017 Note A - Uncollected receivables written off, net of recoveries.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure. None. PART III Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant. a. Executive Officers The executive officers of the Company, all of whose terms of office expire on May 28, 1997, are as follows:
Year First Other Offices Held Name and Present Elected to During the Past Position with Company Age Present Office Five Years Sidney L. Port, 86 1977 * Chairman of the Executive Committee and Director Bernard Kalish, 59 1989 * Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board and Director Peter G. Smith, 58 1989 * President, Chief Operating Officer and Director Jeffrey B. Belford 50 1989 * Executive Vice President--Operations Hugh Allen, 61 1991 * Senior Executive Vice President--Sales and Marketing James Smith, 56 1996 Mr. Smith was Vice Vice President-- President, Personnel Human Resources from 1995 to 1996. Prior to 1995, Mr. Smith was Manager, Human Resources since he joined the Company in 1993. Jerome Shaffer, 69 1987 * Vice President, Treasurer and Director Joseph L. Pawlick, 54 1987 * Vice President and Controller and Assistant Secretary * These persons have held the indicated positions for at least five years.
b. Directors The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 28, 1997, under the caption "Election of Directors," which information is incorporated herein by reference. Item 11. Executive Compensation. The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 28, 1997, under the caption "Remuneration of Executive Officers," which information is incorporated herein by reference. Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management. The information required by this Item is set forth in the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on May 28, 1997 under the caption "Securities Beneficially Owned by Principal Stockholders and Management," which information is incorporated herein by reference. Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions. None. PART IV Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K. (a) (1) Financial Statements The following information is presented in this report: Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1996 and 1995. Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. (2) Financial Statement Schedule The following consolidated financial statement schedule of Lawson Products, Inc. and subsidiaries is included in Item 14(d): Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts is submitted with this report. All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not submitted because they are not applicable or are not required under Regulation S-X or because the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto. (a) (3) Exhibits. 2 Purchase Agreement dated April 30, 1996 among Assembly Component Systems, Inc., Automatic Screw Machine Products Company, David E. Norman and James C. Norman, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (2)(a) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 30, 1996. 3(a) Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988. 3(b) By-laws of the Company, dated May 7, 1991, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 6(a) to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1991. *10(c)(1) Lawson Products, Inc. Incentive Stock Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 33-17912). *10(c)(2) Salary Continuation Agreement between the Company and Mr. Sidney L. Port dated January 7, 1980 incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(2) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1991. *10(c)(3) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Peter G. Smith dated July 17, 1972 incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(6) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1981. *10(c)(4) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Bernard Kalish, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(6) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1985; First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated as of May 27, 1988 incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(6) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988. *10(c)(4.1) Second Amendment to Employment Agreement dated as of August 1, 1996. *10(c)(5) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Hugh Allen, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(7) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1985. *10(c)(6) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Jerome Shaffer, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(9) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1985. *10(c)(6.1) First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated as of August 1, 1996. *10(c)(7) Amended and Restated Executive Deferral Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(7) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995. 11 Statement regarding computation of per share earnings. 21 Subsidiaries of the Company. 23 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP. 27 Financial Data Schedule - ------------------------------ * Indicates management employment contracts or compensatory plans or arrangements. (b) Reports on Form 8-K No reports on Form 8-K were filed during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this Report. (c) Exhibits See item 14(a)(3) above for a list of exhibits to this report. (d) Schedules See item 14(a)(2) above for a list of schedules filed with this report. SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC. Date: March 27, 1997 By /s/ Bernard Kalish Bernard Kalish, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated. Signature Title Date Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director /s/ Bernard Kalish (principal executive officer) Bernard Kalish Vice President, Treasurer and Director /s/ Jerome Shaffer (principal financial officer) Jerome Shaffer Vice President and Controller /s/ Joseph L. Pawlick (principal accounting officer) Joseph L. Pawlick /s/ James T. Brophy Director March 27, 1997 James T. Brophy /s/ Hugh Allen Director Hugh Allen /s/ Ronald B. Port, M.D. Director Ronald B. Port, M.D. /s/ Sidney L. Port Director Sidney L. Port /s/ Robert G. Rettig Director Robert G. Rettig /s/ Peter G. Smith Director Peter G. Smith EXHIBIT INDEX Sequentially Exhibit Numbered Number Description of Exhibit Page 2 Purchase Agreement dated April 30, 1996 among Assembly Component Systems, Inc., Automatic Screw Machine Products Company, David E. Norman and James C. Norman, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (2)(a) to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 30, 1996. 3(a) Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988. 3(b) By-laws of the Company, dated May 7, 1991, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 6(a) to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 1991. 10(c)(1) Lawson Products, Inc. Incentive Stock Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 4 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 33-17912). 10(c)(2) Salary Continuation Agreement between the Company and Mr. Sidney L. Port, dated January 7, 1980, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(2) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1991. 10(c)(3) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Peter G. Smith, dated January 17, 1972 incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(6) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1981. 10(c)(4) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Bernard Kalish, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(6) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1985; First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated as of May 27, 1988 incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(6) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988. 10(c)(4.1) Second Amendment to Employment Agreement dated as of August 1, 1996. 10(c)(5) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Hugh Allen, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(7) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1985. 10(c)(6) Employment Agreement between the Company and Mr. Jerome Shaffer, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(9) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1985. 10(c)(6.1) First Amendment to Employment Agreement dated as of August 1, 1996. 10(c)(7) Amended and Restated Executive Deferral Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(7) to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995. 11 Statement regarding computation of per share earnings. 21 Subsidiaries of the Company. 23 Consent of Ernst & Young LLP. 27 Financial Data Schedule

                                                              Exhibit 10(c)(4.1)

                    SECOND AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT


     This Second Amendment to Employment Agreement ("Second Amendment") is made
as of August 1, 1996 by and between LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC., a Delaware
corporation ("Company") and BERNARD KALISH ("Kalish").

                          U N D E R S T A N D I N G S:

     The parties to this Second Amendment previously entered into an Employment
Agreement dated April 1, 1984, as amended by that certain First Amendment to
Employment Agreement dated as of May 27, 1988 ("Employment Agreement").  The
parties desire to further amend the Employment Agreement in certain respects.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the undertakings of the parties hereto
and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of
which are hereby acknowledged by the parties, it is agreed:

     1.   The Employment Agreement is hereby amended by deleting Paragraph A in
its entirety and replacing it with the following:

          "A.  Kalish has been Chairman of the Board of the Company since
     July 5, 1989, presently serves in such capacity and shall continue to
     serve the Company in accordance with the Employment Agreement, as
     amended hereby.

     2.   The Employment Agreement is hereby further amended by deleting
Paragraph F in its entirety and replacing it with the following:

          "F.  The term of Kalish's employment with the Company shall be
     through December 31, 2001 (the "Term").  Unless terminated as provided
     herein, the Term shall be automatically extended for additional one
     year terms.  The Employment Agreement, as amended hereby, may be
     terminated effective on or after December 31, 2001 by either party
     upon at least one year's prior notice to the other.  Such notice shall
     be deemed to have been given if delivered personally, by facsimile
     transmission, or if mailed, postage prepaid, by United States
     registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, or if
     delivered by a recognized overnight courier, addressed to the regular
     mailing address of the party being notified or to such other address
     or addresses as the party to be given notice may have furnished in
     writing to the party giving the notice, provided that no change in
     address shall be effective until seven (7) days after being given to
     the other party in the manner provided for above.  Any notice given in
     accordance with the foregoing shall be deemed given when delivered
     personally, or if by facsimile transmission, upon confirmation of
     transmittal, or if mailed, five business days after it shall have been
     deposited in the United States mail as aforesaid or, if sent by
     overnight courier, the business day following the date of delivery to
     such courier."

     3.   The Employment Agreement is hereby further amended by deleting
Paragraph G in its entirety and replacing it with the following:

          "G.  The basis of compensation shall be no less than the current
     amount of Three Hundred Thirty One Thousand, Six Hundred Fifty One
     ($331,651.00) Dollars per year, subject to increases as from time to
     time may be determined by the Compensation Committee of the Board of
     Directors of the Company."

     4.   The Employment Agreement is hereby further amended by deleting the
second paragraph on Page 2 in its entirety and replacing it with the following:

     "In addition, Kalish is to receive those benefits as may from time to
     time be in effect and on the same terms and conditions as provided to
     other key executive officers of the Company."

     5.   The first sentence of the third paragraph on page 2 of the Employment
Agreement is hereby amended by replacing the word "man" in each place that it
appears with "person."

     6.   Except as amended by Paragraphs 1 through 5 hereof, the parties agree
that all other terms, conditions and provisions of the Employment Agreement
shall be and remain in full force and effect.



     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed or caused their duly
authorized representatives to execute this Second Amendment to Employment
Agreement as of the date first above written.


ATTEST:                       LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC.


  /s/ Mary Ann Sturino        By: /s/ Sidney L. Port            
Its Clerk                        SIDNEY L. PORT, Chairman of the Executive
                                 Committee


                               /s/ Bernard Kalish
                              BERNARD KALISH


                                                              Exhibit 10(c)(6.1)

                     FIRST AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

     This First Amendment to Employment Agreement ("First Amendment") is made as
of August 1, 1996 by and between LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC., a Delaware corporation
("Company") and JEROME SHAFFER ("Shaffer").


                          U N D E R S T A N D I N G S:

     The parties to this First Amendment previously entered into an Employment
Agreement dated December 14, 1972 ("Employment Agreement") . The parties desire
to amend the Employment Agreement in certain respects.

     NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the undertakings of the parties hereto
and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of
which are hereby acknowledged by the parties, it is agreed:

     1.   The Employment Agreement is hereby amended by deleting
Paragraph A in its entirety and replacing it with the following:

          "A.  Shaffer has been Treasurer and Vice President of the Company
     for many years, presently serves in such capacity and shall continue
     to serve to serve the Company in accordance with the Employment
     Agreement, as amended hereby.

     2.   The Employment Agreement is hereby further amended by deleting
Paragraph F in its entirety and replacing it with the following:

          "F.  The term of Shaffer's employment with the Company shall be
     through December 31, 1999 (the "Term").  Unless terminated as provided
     herein, the Term shall be automatically extended for additional one
     year terms.  The Employment Agreement, as amended hereby, may be
     terminated effective on or after December 31, 1999 by either party
     upon at least one year's prior notice to the other.  Such notice shall
     be deemed to have been given if delivered personally, by facsimile
     transmission, or if mailed, postage prepaid, by United States
     registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, or if
     delivered by a recognized overnight courier, addressed to the regular
     mailing address of the party being notified or to such other address
     or addresses as the party to be given notice may have furnished in
     writing to the party giving the notice, provided that no change in
     address shall be effective until seven days after being given to the
     other party in the manner provided for above.  Any notice given in
     accordance with the foregoing shall be deemed given when delivered
     personally, or if by facsimile transmission, upon confirmation of
     transmittal, or if mailed, five business days after it shall have been
     deposited in the United States mail as aforesaid or, if sent by
     overnight courier, the business day following the date of delivery to
     such courier."

          3.   The Employment Agreement is hereby further amended by deleting
Paragraph G in its entirety and replacing it with the following:

          "G.  The basis of compensation shall be no less than the current
     amount of Two Hundred Two Thousand, Five Hundred Eighty-Five
     ($202,585.00) Dollars per year, subject to increases as from time to
     time may be recommended to the Chairman of the Executive Committee or
     the Chairman of the Board by the Compensation Committee of the Board
     of Directors of the Company."

     4.  The Employment Agreement is hereby further amended by deleting the
second unlettered paragraph on Page 2 thereof in its
entirety and replacing it with the following:

     "In addition, Shaffer is to receive those benefits as may from time to
     time be in effect and on the same terms and conditions as provided to
     other key executive officers of the Company."

          5.   The last unlettered paragraph on page 2 of the Employment
Agreement is hereby amended by replacing the word "man" in each place that it
appears with "person."

     6.  Except as amended by Paragraphs 1 through 5 hereof, the parties agree
that all other terms, conditions and provisions of the Employment Agreement
shall be and remain in full force and effect.



     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed or caused their duly
authorized representatives to execute this First to Employment Agreement as of
the date first above written.


ATTEST:                       LAWSON PRODUCTS, IN



 /s/ Mary Ann Sturino         By: /s/ Sidney L. Port
Its                              SIDNEY L. PORT, Chairman
                                 of the Executive
                                 Committee



                               /S/ JEROME SHAFFER
                              JEROME SHAFFER

                                                                      EXHIBIT 11


                     LAWSON PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

                        COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS

                             YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31

1996 1995 1994 Net income per share of common stock: Average shares outstanding 11,563,052 12,072,668 13,237,181 Net income $ 19,994,637 $ 21,120,029 $ 20,524,074 Net income per share of common stock $1.73 $1.75 $1.55 Primary: Average shares outstanding 11,563,052 12,072,668 13,237,181 Net effect of dilutive stock options-based on the treasury method using average market price 1,280 1,979 2,843 Total 11,564,332 12,074,647 13,240,024 Net income $ 19,994,637 $ 21,120,029 $ 20,524,074 Net income per share of common stock $1.73 $1.75 $1.55 Fully diluted: Average shares outstanding 11,563,052 12,072,668 13,237,181 Net effect of dilutive stock options-based on the treasury stock method using the year-end market price, if higher than average market price 1,280 1,979 2,843 Total 11,564,332 12,074,647 13,240,024 Net income $ 19,994,637 $ 21,120,029 $ 20,524,074 Net income per share of common stock $1.73 $1.75 $1.55 /TABLE
                                   EXHIBIT 21


                           Subsidiaries of the Company

                                                  Jurisdiction of
Name                                               Incorporation  
Lawson Products, Inc.                             New Jersey
Lawson Products, Inc.                             Texas
Lawson Products, Inc.                             Georgia
Lawson Products, Inc.                             Nevada
Lawson Products, Inc. (Ontario)                   Ontario, Canada
Lawson Products Limited                           England
LPI Holdings, Inc.                                Illinois
Lawson Products de                                Mexico
  Mexico S.A. de C.V.
Drummond American Corporation                     Illinois
Cronatron Welding Systems, Inc.                   North Carolina

Assembly Component Systems, Inc.                  Illinois
Automatic Screw Machine
  Products Company, Inc.*                         Alabama














*subsidiary of Assembly Component Systems, Inc.
                                                                      Exhibit 23


                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 33-17912) pertaining to the Lawson Products, Inc. Employees' Profit
Sharing Trust, and in the related Prospectus of our report dated February 21,
1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of
Lawson Products, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K), for the year
ended December 31, 1996.


                                   Ernst & Young LLP


Chicago, Illinois
March 27, 1997
 

5 This schedule contains summary financial information extracted from Lawson Products, Inc.'s Form 10-K and is qualified in its entirety by reference to such Form 10-K filing. 1,000 YEAR DEC-31-1996 DEC-31-1996 14,515 27,719 30,326 0 37,047 103,100 40,053 0 175,162 24,350 0 0 0 11,311 117,435 175,162 250,289 252,151 81,117 81,117 0 859 26 33,885 13,890 19,995 0 0 0 19,995 1.73 1.73