Final Results

Final Results

Smurfit Kappa Group PLC

8 February 2017: Smurfit Kappa Group plc (‘SKG’ or ‘the Group’) today announced results for the 3 months and 12 months ending 31 December 2016.

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Key Financial Performance Measures

                                                                   
€m     FY
2016 		      FY
2015 		      Change       Q4
2016 		      Q4
2015 		      Change       Q3
2016 		      Change
Revenue €8,159 €8,109 1% €2,060 €2,089 (1%) €2,050 1%

EBITDA before Exceptional Items and
Share-based Payments(1)(2)

€1,236 €1,182 5% €320 €326 (2%) €323 (1%)
EBITDA margin (1) 15.1% 14.6% 15.5% 15.6% 15.7%

Operating Profit before Exceptional
Items(1)

€830 €780 6% €221 €229 (3%) €219 1%
Profit before Income Tax €654 €599 9% €155 €191 (19%) €187 (17%)
Basic EPS (cent) 189.4 172.6 10% 42.3 52.9 (20%) 56.4 (25%)
Pre-exceptional Basic EPS (cent) (1) 189.4 197.3 (4%) 47.4 59.3 (20%) 56.4 (16%)
Return on Capital Employed (1) 15.4% 14.8% 16.1%
Free Cash Flow (1)     €303       €388       (22%)       €104       €152       (32%)       €164       (37%)
                                                               
Net Debt (1) €2,941 €3,048 (4%) €2,953 -
Net Debt to EBITDA (LTM) (1)     2.4x       2.6x                                       2.4x        
 

1) Additional information in relation to these Alternative Performance Measures (‘APMs’) is set out in Supplementary Financial Information on page 32.
2) EBITDA before exceptional items and share-based payment expense is denoted by EBITDA throughout the remainder of the management commentary for ease of reference.

Full Year Key Points

  • Full year 2016 revenues on a constant currency basis up 5%
  • 2016 EBITDA of €1,236 million, a new record for the Group
  • Improved ROCE at 15.4%
  • Continued good cash generation with free cash flow of €303 million
  • Admission to FTSE 100 index effective 19 December 2016
  • 7 year bond issuance of €500 million at 2.375% in January 2017
  • Final dividend increased by 20% to 57.6 cent per share

Performance Review and Outlook

Tony Smurfit, Group CEO, commented:

“In 2016 SKG delivered continued earnings growth with EBITDA of €1,236 million and an EBITDA margin of 15.1%, driven by solid volume growth across our markets, resilient box pricing and the Group’s investment in high return capital projects.

“These strong results against most performance metrics were delivered despite the significant headwinds experienced by the Group in higher raw material input costs and adverse currency impacts. This once again highlights the strength of the Group’s integrated business model, our geographically diverse portfolio of businesses and our performance based culture.

“In 2016 we have invested approximately €500 million in our business, building a platform to deliver continued performance and growth. Effective capital spend will enhance operating efficiency, optimise our asset base and continuously improve our market positioning across Europe and the Americas enabling us to deliver added value to our customers. In 2017 we will continue to realise the benefits of our average annual capital spend of more than €450 million over the last three years.

“In December 2016, the Group was pleased to be admitted to the FTSE 100 index, one of the world's leading equity markets indices. Admission to the FTSE 100 is consistent with our vision of being a globally recognised and respected business delivering both secure and superior returns for all stakeholders.

“In January 2017 we issued a 7 year, €500 million bond enabling the Group to extend the maturity profile of our debt to 4.3 years and secure, at 2.375%, our lowest ever coupon for the Group.

“We are excited about the significant number of internal opportunities that exist within SKG which will continue to drive business improvement as we deliver 15% ROCE through the cycle. The Group is also well positioned to make acquisitions that deliver long term value.

“SKG has an unrivalled market offering which helps our customers succeed in their chosen markets. This is underpinned by our unique differentiation tools, market insights and innovation infrastructure, supported by our ongoing capital expenditure programmes and our leading sustainable business practices across our operations.

“From a demand perspective, the year has started well across most areas of our business and, while recently announced paper price increases should translate with the customary time lag into higher box prices, we look forward to 2017 and beyond.

“Reflecting the distinct strengths and capabilities of our business, the Board is recommending a 20% increase in the final dividend to 57.6 cent per share.”

About Smurfit Kappa

Smurfit Kappa, a FTSE 100 company, is one of the leading providers of paper-based packaging solutions in the world, with around 45,000 employees in approximately 370 production sites across 34 countries and with revenue of €8.2 billion in 2016. We are located in 21 countries in Europe, and 13 in the Americas. We are the only large-scale pan-regional player in Latin America.

With our pro-active team, we relentlessly use our extensive experience and expertise, supported by our scale, to open up opportunities for our customers. We collaborate with forward thinking customers by sharing superior product knowledge, market understanding and insights in packaging trends to ensure business success in their markets. We have an unrivalled portfolio of paper-packaging solutions, which is constantly updated with our market-leading innovations. This is enhanced through the benefits of our integration, with optimal paper design, logistics, timeliness of service, and our packaging plants sourcing most of their raw materials from our own paper mills.

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Forward Looking Statements

Some statements in this announcement are forward-looking. They represent expectations for the Group’s business, and involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events. The Group believes that current expectations and assumptions with respect to these forward-looking statements are reasonable. However, because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which are in some cases beyond the Group’s control, actual results or performance may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

 
Contacts

Garrett Quinn

Smurfit Kappa

T: +353 1 202 71 80

E: ir@smurfitkappa.com

 

     

FTI Consulting

 

T: +353 1 663 36 80

E: smurfitkappa@fticonsulting.com

 

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Performance Overview

In 2016 the Group reported its strongest ever result with EBITDA of €1,236 million and an EBITDA margin of 15.1% driven by solid volume growth across our markets, resilient box pricing and the Group’s investment in high return capital projects. These strong results across most metrics were delivered despite the significant headwinds experienced by the Group in higher raw material input costs and adverse currency impacts and highlight the strength of the Group’s integrated business model, the dynamism of the Group’s performance led culture and the geographically diverse portfolio of businesses.

In Europe for the year, EBITDA increased by 3% to €928 million. Box price resilience through the year, along with the benefits of our ‘Quick Win’ programme and good corrugated volume growth were key drivers in this improvement. Total corrugated volumes for the year were up 1%, with boxes up over 2% when adjusted for the impact of our German rationalisation programme. On a constant currency basis the Group’s average corrugated pricing in Europe for the year was up 1%.

In the Americas for the year, EBITDA increased by 11% to €339 million. This result was driven by the impact of our recent acquisitions along with strong underlying EBITDA growth, up 15% for the year. Volumes in the Americas grew 20% in 2016 with growth of 18% in the fourth quarter driven by the positive impact of acquisitions and solid underlying volume growth. The integration of our Brazilian, Central American and US acquisitions is progressing well notwithstanding some of the input cost pressures in Brazil. The profile of our Americas business is primarily weighted to the US, Mexican and Colombian markets, which comprised over 70% of the Americas’ EBITDA in 2016. SKG is the largest pan-regional producer of corrugated packaging in Latin America.

In 2016 the Group completed the acquisitions of four businesses, of which three were in the US and one in the UK.

The Group’s differentiation programme continues to help our customers succeed in their chosen markets and delivers tangible results with increased sales for our corrugated customers. This has been driven by our unique market insights, tools and expertise. In 2016 the Group was recognised by both peers and customers, garnering over 50 awards. The five red dot design awards won in 2016 were a highlight, with SKG the most successful corrugated packaging company.

The Group reported a free cash flow of €303 million in 2016 compared to €388 million in 2015, reflecting higher outflows mainly in respect of working capital, retirement benefits, tax and cash interest and some

one-off inflows from 2015. Following the recent bond issuance achieved at a historically low rate for SKG of 2.375%, the average maturity profile of the Group’s debt was extended from 3.7 to 4.3 years while maintaining our Net Debt to EBITDA at 2.4x. With these metrics along with an EBITDA to cash interest cover of 8.35 times at the end of 2016, the Group remains well positioned within its Ba1/BB+/BB+ rating category. The Group will continue to balance the maintenance of a strong capital structure with its growth objectives through 2017 and beyond.

2016 Fourth Quarter | Financial Performance

Revenue of €2,060 million in the fourth quarter of 2016 was down €29 million or 1% on the fourth quarter of 2015. Revenues in Europe decreased by €36 million year-on-year driven by adverse currency impacts. In the Americas revenues increased by €7 million year-on-year driven by both underlying revenue growth and the benefit of acquisitions, which were offset in part by currency. The underlying year-on-year move in Group revenue when adjusted for net negative currency movements and net acquisitions, was an increase of 2%.

EBITDA for the fourth quarter was €320 million, €6 million down on the same period in 2015 with earnings growth in the Americas offset by lower earnings in Europe and higher Group centre costs. Allowing for currency movements and net acquisitions, the underlying year-on-year move in EBITDA for the quarter was an increase of nearly 1%.

Exceptional items charged within operating profit in the fourth quarter of 2016 amounted to €15 million relating to reorganisation and restructuring costs in the Americas.

An exceptional charge of €15 million within operating profit in the fourth quarter of 2015 represented the net impact of the adjustment for hyperinflation on the currency trading loss incurred in the first quarter following the adoption of the Simadi rate, offset by a €13 million exceptional gain on the sale of the site of the Group’s former Nanterre containerboard mill, near Paris.

Pre-exceptional basic EPS was 47.4 cent for the quarter to December 2016 (2015: 59.3 cent), a decrease of 20% year-on-year.

2016 Full year | Financial Performance

Revenue for the year to December of €8,159 million was €50 million or 1% higher than 2015. Higher reported revenue in the Americas was partly offset by lower revenue in Europe predominantly due to negative currency impacts. Allowing for currency movements and the contribution from acquisitions net of disposals, the underlying increase in revenue was €188 million, the equivalent of over 2%, with higher underlying revenue in both Europe and the Americas.

EBITDA for the full year 2016 of €1,236 million compared to €1,182 million in 2015 with higher earnings in both Europe and the Americas offset by slightly higher Group Centre costs.

Allowing for currency movements and the contribution from acquisitions net of disposals, comparable earnings in Europe and the Americas were €39 million and €47 million higher respectively in 2016.

Exceptional items of €15 million charged within operating profit in the year to December 2016 related to reorganisation and restructuring costs in the Americas.

Exceptional items charged within operating profit in the year to December 2015 amounted to €69 million which included a number of offsetting balances. The higher cost to the Venezuelan operations of discharging their non-Bolivar denominated payables following our adoption of the Simadi rate resulted in a charge of €69 million. The remaining offsetting amounts primarily comprise a charge of €12 million relating to the solidboard operations less the gain of €13 million on the sale of the Nanterre site.

Operating profit after exceptional items for the year was €815 million compared to €711 million for 2015, an increase of 15% (increase of 6% before exceptional items).

Net finance costs before exceptional items at €175 million were €46 million higher year-on-year reflecting increases in both cash and non-cash interest. The increase in cash interest reflects the higher level of debt following our acquisition activity in 2015 and into early 2016 and a slight increase in our average interest rate, partly as a result of our exposure to the relatively high local interest rates in Brazil. In addition, cash interest income fell year-on-year as deposit rates progressively turned negative during the year. Non-cash interest was higher mainly due to increased hyperinflationary adjustments.

The exceptional finance income in 2016 related to the gain of €12 million on the sale of our shareholding in the Swedish company, IL Recycling.

Exceptional finance costs in the year to December 2015 amounted to €2 million relating to the accelerated amortisation of the issue costs relating to the debt within our Senior Credit Facility which was paid down with the proceeds of February’s €250 million bond issue. Exceptional finance income amounted to €16 million and represented a gain in Venezuela on US dollar denominated intra-group loans following our adoption of the Simadi rate in the first quarter of 2015.

Including the Group’s share of associates’ profit of €2 million, profit before income tax was €654 million in 2016 compared to €599 million in 2015, an increase of 9% year-on-year.

Basic earnings per share was 189.4 cent for the full year 2016 (2015: 172.6 cent), an increase of 10% year-on-year. Adjusting for exceptional items, pre-exceptional basic EPS was 189.4 cent (2015: 197.3 cent), a decrease of 4% year-on-year.

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Free Cash Flow

The Group reported free cash flow of €303 million in 2016 compared to €388 million in 2015. The year-on-year decrease of €85 million reflected higher outflows mainly in respect of working capital, retirement benefits, tax and cash interest. In addition our free cash flow in the fourth quarter and full year 2015 included the proceeds of the Nanterre site sale.

The working capital move in the year to December was an outflow of €95 million compared to €24 million in 2015. The outflow in 2016 was the combination of an increase in stocks and, to a lesser extent, debtors partly offset by an increase in creditors. Working capital amounted to €573 million at December 2016 (2015: €548 million), representing 7.0% of annualised revenue compared to 7.7% at September 2016 and 6.6% at December 2015.

Capital expenditure amounted to €499 million in the year to December 2016, approximately 127% of depreciation, compared to 123% in 2015. Capital expenditure is expected to reduce to a level closer to 100% of depreciation in 2017.

Cash interest at €148 million in 2016 was €25 million higher than in 2015, reflecting our acquisition activity in 2015 and the average interest rate which was slightly higher year-on-year given our exposure now to the relatively high local interest rates in Brazil.

The Group made tax payments of €151 million in 2016, €20 million higher than 2015 reflecting the impact of higher profitability and the timing of payments.

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Capital Structure

The reported net debt was €2,941 million at the end of the year delivering a net debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.4x compared to 2.6x at the end of 2015. The Group’s net debt continues to reduce in both absolute and in multiple terms positioning the Group with considerable financial strategic flexibility subject to the stated leverage range of 2.0x to 3.0x through the cycle and SKG’s Ba1/BB+/BB+ credit rating.

At 31 December 2016 the Group’s average interest rate was 4.3%, slightly higher year-on-year primarily as a result of the local currency Brazilian debt associated with the acquisitions of INPA and Paema in December 2015. The Group’s diversified funding base and long dated maturity profile at 3.7 years provide a stable funding outlook. In terms of liquidity, the Group held cash on the balance sheet of €443 million at the end of the year which was further supplemented by available commitments under its revolving credit facility of approximately €613 million.

On 17 January 2017 the Group took the opportunity to access the bond markets taking advantage of the current low interest rate environment to further extend maturity profile, diversify funding sources and increase liquidity at a historically low coupon for the Group. The proceeds will be used to reduce indebtedness under the Group’s senior facilities agreement and existing securitisation facilities and for general corporate purposes. The funding will significantly enhance the Group’s liquidity and position us very strongly from the perspective of our refinancing programme over the next couple of years as we replace more expensive debt.

The Group has a stable financing base with a long term and well spread maturity profile. The Group’s credit rating of Ba1/BB+/BB+ contributes to a lower cost of capital and access to the widest range of financing options available. These positions were achieved as a result of the Group’s consistent ability to generate strong free cash flows together with active management of its debt portfolio. The strength of the Group’s capital base together with consistent delivery of strong free cash flows provides a solid and cost effective support to the Group’s growth agenda over the medium term.

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Dividend

The Group views its dividend as an important component of its investment thesis and a way to directly transfer value creation within the business to shareholders. For the year 2016, the Board is recommending a final dividend of 57.6 cent per share, a 20% increase year-on-year. Combined with an interim dividend of 22 cent per share paid in October 2016, this will bring the total dividend to 79.6 cent, a 17% increase year-on-year.

It is proposed to pay the final dividend on 12 May 2017 to all ordinary shareholders on the share register at the close of business on 21 April 2017. As in previous years, the 2017 dividend will be paid in two parts, an interim dividend payable in October 2017 and a final dividend payable in May 2018.

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Operating Efficiency

Cost Take-out Programme

The Group delivered €74 million of cost take-out in 2016, with €25 million in the fourth quarter. Since the programme’s inception in 2008 the Group has achieved cost savings of over €850 million and the Group continues to view these projects as a key tool in combating cost inflation creep throughout the business.

Capital Expenditure (‘Quick Win’) Programme

In 2016 the Group continued its investment stage of the current ‘Quick Win’ capital expenditure programme. The benefits of these high return investments have been delivered since 2014 and are expected to deliver a total incremental EBITDA of €75 million by the end of 2017. Of this, €25 million was delivered in 2016 with an expected balance of approximately €30 million to be delivered in 2017.

2016 Fourth Quarter & Full Year | Regional Performance Review

Europe

The European segment delivered a 3% increase in EBITDA to €928 million in 2016. This was achieved despite increased raw material input costs, lower containerboard pricing and adverse currency impacts. The improved result was delivered through resilient box pricing, increased volumes and cost reduction programmes which delivered an improved EBITDA margin of 15.1% against 14.4% in 2015.

Our differentiation project continues to deliver profitable growth for the Group. SKG works with its customers to help them succeed in their marketplace. We are increasingly seeing the benefit of more collaborative relationships with customers as we help them at the front end of their business, helping them sell more by using our unique tools and expertise.

The scale of our unrivalled databases with supply chain data from across the globe allows us to deliver scientifically backed, cost effective solutions to our customers.

Operations in Spain, Poland and Germany contributed to the Group’s five red dot awards in 2016 and showcased the unique talent the Group has in helping our customers sell more.

In the corrugated division following rationalisations in 2015, both France and Germany saw recovery in their EBITDA results and this is expected to continue into 2017.

Strong volume growth in the Benelux, Spain and Portugal and Eastern Europe helped to drive volume growth in Europe, offsetting lower volumes in Germany which was impacted by the rationalisation programme in 2015.

In 2016, in Europe, the Group experienced significant cost headwinds in the form of higher OCC input costs. In the fourth quarter of 2016, the price of OCC was up 11% year-on-year, driven by both strong domestic demand and continued export market demand. For the full year 2016, OCC was up over 10%, with a high OCC price providing positive support to the containerboard price and, in turn, packaging business in the medium term. With the generation of mixed waste declining coupled with the continued demand both domestically and on export markets for recovered paper, the Group expects the medium term trend for OCC pricing to remain at a high level.

In recycled containerboard, prices softened through 2016, reducing by €50 per tonne after increases went through in the middle of 2015. However, on the back of significantly lower containerboard inventories year-on-year and good demand, the Group has announced an increase of €60 per tonne on brown recycled containerboard for implementation on 1 February 2017.

Following successful price increases in the second half of 2016, demand for kraftliner containerboard remains robust and as a result, the Group announced a €60 per tonne price increase on both white and brown kraftliner across Europe for implementation on 1 March 2017. Kraftliner is a vital part of today’s global supply chain requirements with its relative strengths against recycled alternatives, positioning it as a critical part of our customers’ requirements in certain industries and supply chain applications.

The Americas

The Group’s Americas business continues to provide a source of geographic diversification and growth opportunities. EBITDA for the year and quarter was up 11% delivering €339 million and €98 million respectively. The EBITDA margin in the Americas increased again in the fourth quarter of 2016 to 17.8% from 16.8% in the third quarter of 2016 and from 16.2% in the fourth quarter of 2015. For the year to December the EBITDA margin increased to 16.8% from 16.4% in 2015 with both Mexico and Chile delivering a record EBITDA performance.

These results were delivered against a backdrop of adverse currency impacts of approximately €42 million year-on-year. This currency impact was offset by the positive contributions of acquisitions in the region, continued pricing initiatives in most markets, strong underlying volume growth and the benefits of our capital investment programme.

Year-on-year corrugated volumes increased by over 20% driven by our acquisitions in the region together with strong growth in the larger economies in which we operate, specifically the three major markets of the US, Mexico and Colombia. In the US, corrugated volumes were up 14% year-on-year and 12% in the fourth quarter of 2016 versus the fourth quarter of 2015. Our Mexican and Colombian businesses were both up 6% year-on-year. Overall underlying volume growth in the region, excluding the impact of Venezuela and acquisitions was 2%.

Pan American Sales (‘PAS’) continues to deliver above market growth for the Group with customers enjoying the ability to partner with SKG on a regional basis. 2016 PAS volumes were up 6% excluding Venezuela. Growth in Brazil was seen in PAS on the back of SKG’s entry into the market in December 2015.

In Mexico the business delivered a record EBITDA with strong volumes throughout the country. The negative currency impact in the year was offset by volume growth and productivity gains. Box price increases are underway in the first quarter of 2017 to recover increased input cost pressures. The previously announced project to increase capacity at the Los Reyes mill near Mexico City is expected to be completed mid-2017.

In Colombia we continue to see very strong volume growth in corrugated with volumes up 6% in 2016 and 7% in the fourth quarter year-on-year. The Group’s recent capital investment programme has allowed the country to keep pace with the demand growth. Price increases for boxes are underway in the first quarter of 2017. Our recent acquisitions in Central America and the Caribbean region are performing in line with expectations.

In the US volume growth of 14% has been predominantly due to acquisitions. A successful containerboard price increase of US$40 per tonne towards the end of 2016 has been implemented with box price increases being processed in the first half of 2017. Domestic OCC prices increased throughout the year and into January against a backdrop of an improving climate for containerboard. Containerboard price increases achieved in late 2016 should be supportive going into 2017.

The Brazilian operations are successfully integrating and are ahead of expectations net of OCC input cost pressures. Volume growth in 2016 was ahead of the market albeit with a flat volume evolution year-on-year against a market which was down 2%. Recent industry publications indicate some softening of OCC prices in January.

In volume terms the Group’s Argentinean operations performed ahead of the market but remained down year-on-year as the country adjusts to local government reforms. Volume growth is expected as we enter the second quarter. The Group also implemented significant price increases in the year to December 2016, helping offset inflationary pressures.

The Group’s Venezuelan business performed well in a very challenging environment. Despite a drop in corrugated shipments of 48% in 2016, due to a stronger export performance and our ability to supply Group containerboard needs in the Americas, our operations continue to perform. In the year to December 2016 Venezuela accounted for approximately 3% of Group EBITDA. Local management and our people continue to do an outstanding job under difficult circumstances.

In Venezuela, we expect a similar EBITDA performance in 2017. However, the Group is aware that the macro situation in Venezuela remains uncertain. The effect of high inflation without a corresponding devaluation of the exchange rate would result in a net monetary loss which may distort some of the Group’s key metrics. We will continue to monitor events as they unfold. Net assets in Venezuela amounted to €91 million at year end.

 
Summary Cash Flow
 
Summary cash flows() 1for the fourth quarter and twelve months are set out in the following table.
    3 months to       3 months to       12 months to       12 months to    
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m       €m       €m       €m
EBITDA 320 326 1,236 1,182
Exceptional items (15) (29) (15) (69)
Cash interest expense (38) (33) (148) (123)
Working capital change 15 41 (95) (24)
Current provisions (2) (8) (8) (28)
Capital expenditure (177) (164) (499) (451)
Change in capital creditors 48 3 49 12
Tax paid (34) (29) (151) (131)
Sale of fixed assets 1 29 3 33
Other (14)       16       (69)       (13)
Free cash flow 104 152 303 388
 
Share issues - - - 2
Sale/(purchase) of own shares (net) - 2 (10) (13)
Sale of businesses and investments 4 - 17 29
Purchase of businesses and investments (4) (140) (44) (321)
Dividends (53) (48) (170) (145)
Derivative termination receipts/(payments) 13       -       13       (2)
Net cash inflow/(outflow) 64 (34) 109 (62)
 
Net debt acquired (1) (41) (1) (62)
Deferred debt issue costs amortised (2) (2) (10) (11)
Currency translation adjustment (49)       (18)       9       (154)
Decrease/(increase) in net debt 12       (95)       107       (289)
 

(1) The summary cash flow is prepared on a different basis to the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows under IFRS (‘IFRS cash flow’) and as such the reconciling items between EBITDA and decrease/(increase) in net debt may differ to amounts presented in the IFRS cash flow. The principal differences are as follows:

(a) The summary cash flow details movements in net debt. The IFRS cash flow details movements in cash and cash equivalents.

(b) Free cash flow reconciles to cash generated from operations in the IFRS cash flow as shown in the table on the next page. The main adjustments are in respect of cash interest, capital expenditure, tax payments and the sale of fixed assets and businesses.

(c) The IFRS cash flow has different sub-headings to those used in the summary cash flow.

  • Current provisions in the summary cash flow are included within change in employee benefits and other provisions in the IFRS cash flow.
  • The total of capital expenditure and change in capital creditors in the summary cash flow includes additions to intangible assets which is shown separately in the IFRS cash flow. It also includes capitalised leased assets which are excluded from additions to property, plant and equipment and biological assets in the IFRS cash flow.
  • Other in the summary cash flow includes changes in employee benefits and other provisions (excluding current provisions), amortisation of capital grants, receipt of capital grants and dividends received from associates which are shown separately in the IFRS cash flow.
 

Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow to Cash Generated from Operations

         
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
          €m     €m
Free cash flow 303 388
 
Add back: Cash interest 148 123
Capital expenditure (net of change in capital creditors) 450 439
Tax payments 151 131
 
Less: Sale of fixed assets (3) (33)
Profit on sale of assets and businesses – non exceptional (9) (7)
Receipt of capital grants (in ‘Other’ in summary cash flow) (3) (2)
Dividends received from associates (in ‘Other’ in summary cash flow) (1)     (1)
Cash generated from operations 1,036     1,038
 

Capital Resources

The Group's primary sources of liquidity are cash flow from operations and borrowings under the revolving credit facility. The Group's primary uses of cash are for funding day to day operations, capital expenditure, debt service, dividends and other investment activity including acquisitions.

At 31 December 2016, Smurfit Kappa Treasury Funding Designated Activity Company had outstanding US$292.3 million 7.50% senior debentures due 2025. The Group had outstanding €113.9 million and STG£59.7 million variable funding notes issued under the €240 million accounts receivable securitisation programme maturing in June 2019, together with €115 million variable funding notes issued under the €175 million accounts receivable securitisation programme maturing in April 2018.

Smurfit Kappa Acquisitions Unlimited Company had outstanding €200 million 5.125% senior notes due 2018, US$300 million 4.875% senior notes due 2018, €400 million 4.125% senior notes due 2020, €250 million senior floating rate notes due 2020, €500 million 3.25% senior notes due 2021 and €250 million 2.75% senior notes due 2025. Smurfit Kappa Acquisitions Unlimited Company and certain subsidiaries are also party to a senior credit facility. At 31 December 2016, the Group’s senior credit facility comprised term drawings of €572.6 million, US$51.3 million and STG£106.9 million under the amortising Term A facility maturing in 2020. In addition, as at 31 December 2016, the facility included a €625 million revolving credit facility of which €6 million was drawn in revolver loans, with a further €6 million in operational facilities including letters of credit drawn under various ancillary facilities.

The following table provides the range of interest rates as at 31 December 2016 for each of the drawings under the various senior credit facility loans.

       

Borrowing Arrangement

Currency

Interest Rate

 

Term A Facility

EUR

1.229% - 1.299%

USD

2.370%

GBP

1.862%

 

Revolving Credit Facility

EUR

0.980%

 

Borrowings under the revolving credit facility are available to fund the Group's working capital requirements, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes.

Following acquisitions of over €380 million in 2015, including the Brazilian acquisitions in December, the Group increased the Term Loan under its Senior Credit Facility by €250 million, from €500 million to €750 million on 5 February 2016. The terms applicable to the increase, including margin, amortisation profile and maturity date are the same as the existing Term A loan. The proceeds were substantially applied to reduce drawings under the revolving credit facility, thereby further improving the Group’s liquidity.

Market Risk and Risk Management Policies

The Group is exposed to the impact of interest rate changes and foreign currency fluctuations due to its investing and funding activities and its operations in different foreign currencies. Interest rate risk exposure is managed by achieving an appropriate balance of fixed and variable rate funding. As at 31 December 2016, the Group had fixed an average of 68% of its interest cost on borrowings over the following twelve months.

The Group’s fixed rate debt comprised €200 million 5.125% senior notes due 2018, US$300 million 4.875% senior notes due 2018 (US$50 million swapped to floating), €400 million 4.125% senior notes due 2020, €500 million 3.25% senior notes due 2021, €250 million 2.75% senior notes due 2025 and US$292.3 million 7.50% senior debentures due 2025. In addition the Group had €349 million in interest rate swaps with maturity dates ranging from October 2018 to January 2021.

The Group’s earnings are affected by changes in short-term interest rates as a result of its floating rate borrowings. If LIBOR/EURIBOR interest rates for these borrowings increase by one percent, the Group’s interest expense would increase, and income before taxes would decrease, by approximately €12 million over the following twelve months. Interest income on the Group’s cash balances would increase by approximately €4 million assuming a one percent increase in interest rates earned on such balances over the following twelve months.

The Group uses foreign currency borrowings, currency swaps, options and forward contracts in the management of its foreign currency exposures.

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

Risk assessment and evaluation is an integral part of the management process throughout the Group. Risks are identified, evaluated and appropriate risk management strategies are implemented at each level.

The Board in conjunction with senior management identifies major business risks faced by the Group and determines the appropriate course of action to manage these risks.

The principal risks and uncertainties faced by the Group were outlined in our 2015 annual report on pages 16-17. The annual report is available on our website smurfitkappa.com. The principal risks and uncertainties for the financial year are summarised below.

  • If the current economic climate were to deteriorate, for example following Brexit or changes in world trade agreements, and result in an economic slowdown which was sustained over any significant length of time, or the sovereign debt crisis (including its impact on the euro) were to re-emerge or exacerbate, it could adversely affect the Group’s financial position and results of operations.
  • The cyclical nature of the packaging industry could result in overcapacity and consequently threaten the Group’s pricing structure.
  • If operations at any of the Group’s facilities (in particular its key mills) were interrupted for any significant length of time it could adversely affect the Group’s financial position and results of operations.
  • Price fluctuations in raw materials and energy costs could adversely affect the Group’s manufacturing costs.
  • The Group is exposed to currency exchange rate fluctuations.
  • The Group may not be able to attract and retain suitably qualified employees as required for its business.
  • Failure to maintain good health and safety practices may have an adverse effect on our business.
  • The Group is subject to a growing number of environmental laws and regulations, and the cost of compliance or the failure to comply with current and future laws and regulations may negatively affect the Group’s business.
  • The Group is subject to anti-trust and similar legislation in the jurisdictions in which it operates.
  • The Group, similar to other large global companies, is susceptible to cyber attacks with the threat to the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data in systems.
  • The Group is exposed to potential risks in relation to the current political situation in Venezuela which are set out as follows:
    • The Venezuelan economy remains depressed and the political situation unpredictable, increasing the risk of future inflationary pressures and currency devaluations. The effect of high inflation without a corresponding devaluation of the exchange rate would result in a net monetary loss which may distort some of the Group’s key metrics. Were the exchange rate to devalue in line with inflation it would have an adverse effect on the Group’s results of operations and financial position. We will continue to monitor events as they unfold. Net assets in Venezuela amounted to €91 million at year end.
    • Our Venezuelan operations have mitigated to some extent the loss of revenue due to the drop in corrugated volumes in the country by exporting paper to our operations in other Latin American countries. This export of paper is subject to the availability of local raw materials to produce the paper, the quality of the paper being maintained to a satisfactory standard for our end markets and the renewal of an export licence by the Government every five months. There is a risk that if the quality of paper materially deteriorated due to a lack of raw materials or if we were unable to renew the export licence it would have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
    • In 2014 the Venezuelan government decreed that companies could only seek price increases if they had clearance that their margins were within certain guidelines. Our Venezuelan operations may not be able to implement price increases in a timely manner to cover the cost of its increasing raw material and labour costs as a result of inflation and the devaluation of currency, which would have an adverse effect on our results of operations in Venezuela.

The Board regularly monitors all of the above risks and appropriate actions are taken to mitigate those risks or address their potential adverse consequences.

   

Consolidated Income Statement – Twelve Months

       
12 months to 31-Dec-16 12 months to 31-Dec-15
Unaudited Audited

Pre-
exceptional
2016

     

Exceptional
2016

     

Total
2016

Pre-
exceptional
2015

      

Exceptional
2015

      

Total
2015
      €m       €m       €m     €m       €m       €m
Revenue 8,159 - 8,159 8,109 - 8,109
Cost of sales (5,690)       -       (5,690)     (5,672)       (8)       (5,680)
Gross profit 2,469 - 2,469 2,437 (8) 2,429
Distribution costs (636) - (636) (643) - (643)
Administrative expenses (1,003) - (1,003) (1,014) - (1,014)
Other operating expenses -       (15)       (15)     -       (61)       (61)
Operating profit 830 (15) 815 780 (69) 711
Finance costs (215) - (215) (177) (2) (179)
Finance income 40 12 52 48 16 64
Share of associates’ profit (after tax) 2       -       2     3       -       3
Profit before income tax 657       (3) 654 654       (55) 599
Income tax expense (196) (186)
Profit for the financial year 458 413
 
Attributable to:
Owners of the parent 444 400
Non-controlling interests 14 13
Profit for the financial year 458 413
 

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share - cent

189.4

172.6

Diluted earnings per share - cent

187.5

169.4

 
 
             

Consolidated Income Statement – Fourth Quarter

 
3 months to 31-Dec-16 3 months to 31-Dec-15
Unaudited Unaudited

Pre-
exceptional
2016

     

Exceptional
2016

     

Total
2016

Pre-
exceptional
2015

      

Exceptional
2015

      

Total
2015
      €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m
Revenue 2,060 - 2,060 2,089 - 2,089
Cost of sales (1,433)       -       (1,433)       (1,452)       -       (1,452)
Gross profit 627 - 627 637 - 637
Distribution costs (160) - (160) (161) - (161)
Administrative expenses (246) - (246) (247) - (247)
Other operating expenses -       (15)       (15)       -       (15)       (15)
Operating profit 221 (15) 206 229 (15) 214
Finance costs (54) - (54) (49) - (49)
Finance income 3       -       3       22       4       26
Profit before income tax 170       (15) 155 202       (11) 191
Income tax expense (49) (60)
Profit for the financial period 106 131
 
Attributable to:
Owners of the parent 99 123
Non-controlling interests 7 8
Profit for the financial period 106 131
 

Earnings per share

Basic earnings per share - cent

42.3

52.9

Diluted earnings per share - cent

41.9

51.9

 
             

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income – Twelve Months

 
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
Unaudited Audited
      €m       €m
 
Profit for the financial year 458       413
 
Other comprehensive income:
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss
Foreign currency translation adjustments:
- Arising in the year (80) (485)
 
Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges:
- Movement out of reserve 7 10
- New fair value adjustments into reserve (7)       1
(80) (474)
 
Items which will not be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss
Defined benefit pension plans:
- Actuarial (loss)/gain (148) 37
- Movement in deferred tax 23       (10)
(125) 27
         
Total other comprehensive expense (205)       (447)
 
Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the financial year 253       (34)
 
Attributable to:
Owners of the parent 235 18
Non-controlling interests 18       (52)
Total comprehensive income/(expense) for the financial year 253       (34)
 
             

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income – Fourth Quarter

 
3 months to 3 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
Unaudited Unaudited
      €m       €m
 
Profit for the financial period 106       131
 
Other comprehensive income:
Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss
Foreign currency translation adjustments:
- Arising in the period 43 20
 
Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges:
- Movement out of reserve 2 2
- New fair value adjustments into reserve -       (1)
45 21
 
Items which will not be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss
Defined benefit pension plans:
- Actuarial gain/(loss) 43 (6)
- Movement in deferred tax (5)       (6)
38 (12)
         
Total other comprehensive income 83       9
 
Total comprehensive income for the financial period 189       140
 
Attributable to:
Owners of the parent 179 130
Non-controlling interests 10       10
Total comprehensive income for the financial period 189       140
 
       

Consolidated Balance Sheet

 
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
Unaudited Audited
      €m     €m
ASSETS
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment 3,261 3,103
Goodwill and intangible assets 2,478 2,508
Available-for-sale financial assets 21 21
Investment in associates 17 17
Biological assets 114 98
Trade and other receivables 29 34
Derivative financial instruments 42 34
Deferred income tax assets 190     200
6,152     6,015
Current assets
Inventories 779 735
Biological assets 10 8
Trade and other receivables 1,470 1,451
Derivative financial instruments 10 28
Restricted cash 7 5
Cash and cash equivalents 436     270
2,712     2,497
Total assets 8,864     8,512
 
EQUITY
Capital and reserves attributable to owners of the parent
Equity share capital - -
Share premium 1,983 1,983
Other reserves (507) (425)
Retained earnings 853     619
Total equity attributable to owners of the parent 2,329 2,177
Non-controlling interests 174     151
Total equity 2,503     2,328
 
LIABILITIES
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings 3,247 3,238
Employee benefits 884 818
Derivative financial instruments 12 15
Deferred income tax liabilities 183 179
Non-current income tax liabilities 30 25
Provisions for liabilities and charges 69 52
Capital grants 14 13
Other payables 13     13
4,452     4,353
Current liabilities
Borrowings 137 85
Trade and other payables 1,705 1,672
Current income tax liabilities 21 30
Derivative financial instruments 27 10
Provisions for liabilities and charges 19     34
1,909     1,831
Total liabilities 6,361     6,184
Total equity and liabilities 8,864     8,512
 
                   

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

 
Attributable to owners of the parent

Equity
share
capital

     

Share
premium

     

Other
reserves

     

Retained
earnings

      Total

Non-
controlling
interests

Total
equity

      €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m
Unaudited
At 1 January 2016 - 1,983 (425) 619 2,177 151 2,328
 
Profit for the financial year - - - 444 444 14 458
Other comprehensive income
Foreign currency translation adjustments - - (84) - (84) 4 (80)
Defined benefit pension plans -       -       -       (125)       (125)       -       (125)
Total comprehensive (expense)/income for the financial year -       -       (84)       319       235       18       253
 
Hyperinflation adjustment - - - 81 81 9 90
Dividends paid - - - (166) (166) (4) (170)
Share-based payment - - 12 - 12 - 12
Shares acquired by SKG Employee Trust -       -       (10)       -       (10)       -       (10)
At 31 December 2016 -       1,983       (507)       853       2,329       174       2,503
 
Audited
At 1 January 2015 - 1,981 (30) 271 2,222 197 2,419
 
Profit for the financial year - - - 400 400 13 413
Other comprehensive income
Foreign currency translation adjustments - - (420) - (420) (65) (485)
Defined benefit pension plans - - - 27 27 - 27
Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges -       -       11       -       11       -       11
Total comprehensive (expense)/income for the financial year -       -       (409)       427       18       (52)       (34)
 
Shares issued - 2 - - 2 - 2
Hyperinflation adjustment - - - 61 61 7 68
Dividends paid - - - (141) (141) (4) (145)
Share-based payment - - 28 - 28 - 28
Shares (acquired)/disposed by SKG Employee Trust - - (14) 1 (13) - (13)
Acquired non-controlling interest -       -       -       -       -       3       3
At 31 December 2015 -       1,983       (425)       619       2,177       151       2,328
 

An analysis of the movements in Other reserves is provided in Note 13.

       

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

 
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
Unaudited Audited
      €m     €m
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before income tax 654 599
 
Net finance costs 163 115
Depreciation charge 357 338
Impairment of assets - 8
Amortisation of intangible assets 40 37
Amortisation of capital grants (2) (2)
Equity settled share-based payment expense 12 28
Profit on purchase/sale of assets and businesses (13) (15)
Share of associates’ profit (after tax) (2) (3)
Net movement in working capital (94) (18)
Change in biological assets (4) (7)
Change in employee benefits and other provisions (87) (85)
Other (primarily hyperinflation adjustments) 12     43
Cash generated from operations 1,036 1,038
Interest paid (151) (128)
Income taxes paid:
Irish corporation tax paid (24) (2)
Overseas corporation tax (net of tax refunds) paid (127)     (129)
Net cash inflow from operating activities 734     779
 
Cash flows from investing activities
Interest received 3 5
Business disposals 4 30
Additions to property, plant and equipment and biological assets (427) (428)
Additions to intangible assets (13) (11)
Receipt of capital grants 3 2
Disposal of available-for-sale financial assets 13 -
(Increase)/decrease in restricted cash (2) 2
Disposal of property, plant and equipment 12 39
Dividends received from associates 1 1
Purchase of subsidiaries and non-controlling interests (35) (332)
Deferred consideration paid (9)     (8)
Net cash outflow from investing activities (450)     (700)
 
Cash flows from financing activities
Proceeds from issue of new ordinary shares - 2
Proceeds from bond issue - 250
Proceeds from other debt issues 250 -
Purchase of own shares (net) (10) (13)
(Decrease)/increase in other interest-bearing borrowings (65) 106
Repayment of finance leases (3) (4)
Repayment of borrowings (169) (264)
Derivative termination receipts/(payments) 13 (2)
Deferred debt issue costs paid (3) (10)
Dividends paid to shareholders (166) (141)
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests (4)     (4)
Net cash outflow from financing activities (157)     (80)
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 127     (1)
 
Reconciliation of opening to closing cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 263 361
Currency translation adjustment 12 (97)
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 127     (1)
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 402     263
 

An analysis of the net movement in working capital is provided in Note 11.

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

1. General Information

Smurfit Kappa Group plc (‘SKG plc’ or ‘the Company’) and its subsidiaries (together ‘SKG’ or ‘the Group’) manufacture, distribute and sell containerboard, corrugated containers and other paper-based packaging products such as solidboard, graphicboard and bag-in-box. The Company is a public limited company whose shares are publicly traded. It is incorporated and domiciled in Ireland. The address of its registered office is Beech Hill, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4, D04 N2R2, Ireland.

2. Basis of Preparation and Accounting Policies

The consolidated financial statements of the Group are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (‘IASB’) as adopted by the European Union (‘EU’); and those parts of the Companies Act 2014 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS.

The financial information in this report has been prepared in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies. Full details of the accounting policies adopted by the Group are contained in the consolidated financial statements included in the Group’s annual report for the year ended 31 December 2015 which is available on the Group’s website; smurfitkappa.com. The accounting policies and methods of computation and presentation adopted in the preparation of the Group financial information are consistent with those described and applied in the annual report for the year ended 31 December 2015. There are no new IFRS standards effective from 1 January 2016 which had a material effect on the financial information included in this report.

The financial information includes all adjustments that management considers necessary for a fair presentation of such financial information. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. Certain tables in the financial information may not add precisely due to rounding.

The financial information presented in this preliminary release does not constitute full statutory financial statements. The preliminary release was approved by the Board of Directors. The annual report and financial statements will be approved by the Board of Directors and reported on by the auditors in due course. The annual financial statements reported on by the auditors will not contain quarterly information. Accordingly, the financial information is unaudited. Full statutory financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2015 have been filed with the Irish Registrar of Companies. The audit report on those statutory financial statements was unqualified.

3. Segmental Analyses

The Group has determined operating segments based on the manner in which reports are reviewed by the chief operating decision maker (‘CODM’). The CODM is determined to be the executive management team responsible for assessing performance, allocating resources and making strategic decisions. The Group has identified two operating segments: 1) Europe and 2) The Americas.

The Europe segment is highly integrated. It includes a system of mills and plants that primarily produces a full line of containerboard that is converted into corrugated containers. The Americas segment comprises all forestry, paper, corrugated and folding carton activities in a number of Latin American countries and the United States. Inter-segment revenue is not material. No operating segments have been aggregated for disclosure purposes.

Segment profit is measured based on earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation, exceptional items, share-based payment expense and share of associates’ profit (after tax) (‘EBITDA before exceptional items’).

             
12 months to 31-Dec-16 12 months to 31-Dec-15
Europe      

The
Americas

      Total Europe      

The
Americas

       Total
      €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m
Revenue and results
Revenue 6,146       2,013       8,159       6,249       1,860       8,109
 
EBITDA before exceptional items 928 339 1,267 901 306 1,207
Segment exceptional items -       (15)       (15)       8       (69)       (61)
EBITDA after exceptional items 928       324 1,252 909       237 1,146
 
Unallocated centre costs (31) (25)
Share-based payment expense (13) (34)
Depreciation and depletion (net) (353) (331)
Amortisation (40) (37)
Impairment of assets - (8)
Finance costs (215) (179)
Finance income 52 64
Share of associates’ profit (after tax) 2 3
Profit before income tax 654 599
Income tax expense (196) (186)
Profit for the financial year 458 413
 

3. Segmental Analyses (continued)

             
3 months to 31-Dec-16 3 months to 31-Dec-15
Europe      

The
Americas

      Total Europe      

The
Americas

       Total
      €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m
Revenue and results
Revenue 1,506       554       2,060       1,542       547       2,089
 
EBITDA before exceptional items 228 98 326 238 89 327
Segment exceptional items -       (15)       (15)       13       (28)       (15)
EBITDA after exceptional items 228       83 311 251       61 312
 
Unallocated centre costs (6) (1)
Share-based payment expense - (2)
Depreciation and depletion (net) (85) (82)
Amortisation (14) (13)
Finance costs (54) (49)
Finance income 3 26
Profit before income tax 155 191
Income tax expense (49) (60)
Profit for the financial period 106 131
 

4. Exceptional Items

               
12 months to 12 months to
The following items are regarded as exceptional in nature: 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
        €m       €m
 
Impairment of assets - 8
Loss on the disposal of the solidboard operations - 4
Profit on the sale of the Nanterre site - (13)
Reorganisation and restructuring costs 15 1
Currency trading loss on change in Venezuelan translation rate -       69
Exceptional items included in operating profit 15       69
 
Exceptional finance costs - 2
Exceptional finance income (12)       (16)
Exceptional items included in net finance costs (12)       (14)
 

Exceptional items charged within operating profit in the year to December in 2016 amounted to €15 million. These were reported in the fourth quarter and related to reorganisation and restructuring costs in the Americas.

The exceptional finance income in 2016 related to the gain of €12 million on the sale of our shareholding in the Swedish company, IL Recycling, in the second quarter.

Exceptional items charged within operating profit in 2015 amounted to €69 million in total, primarily relating to a charge of €69 million which represented the higher cost to our Venezuelan operations of discharging their non-Bolivar denominated payables following our adoption of the Simadi rate. The remaining offsetting amounts comprised a charge of €12 million relating to the solidboard operations and €1 million in reorganisation and restructuring costs less the gain of €13 million on the sale of the site of our former Nanterre mill.

Exceptional finance income of €16 million in 2015 represented the gain in Venezuela on their US dollar denominated intra-group loans as a result of our adoption of the Simadi rate. This gain was partly offset by an exceptional finance cost of €2 million. This represented the accelerated amortisation of the issue costs relating to the debt within our Senior Credit Facility which was paid down with the proceeds of the €250 million bond issue in February 2015.

5. Finance Costs and Income

               
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
        €m       €m
Finance costs:
Interest payable on bank loans and overdrafts 56 37
Interest payable on other borrowings 106 100
Exceptional finance costs associated with debt restructuring - 2
Unwinding discount element of provision 1 1
Foreign currency translation loss on debt 12 16
Fair value loss on derivatives not designated as hedges 17 2
Net interest cost on net pension liability 23       21
Total finance costs 215       179
 
Finance income:
Other interest receivable (3) (5)
Foreign currency translation gain on debt (28) (18)
Exceptional foreign currency translation gain - (16)
Exceptional gain on sale of investment (12) -
Fair value gain on derivatives not designated as hedges (5) (10)
Net monetary gain - hyperinflation (4)       (15)
Total finance income (52)       (64)
Net finance costs 163       115
 

6. Income Tax Expense

Income tax expense recognised in the Consolidated Income Statement

             
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m       €m
Current tax:
Europe 87 86
The Americas 69       60
156 146
Deferred tax 40       40
Income tax expense 196       186
 
Current tax is analysed as follows:
Ireland 14 20
Foreign 142       126
156       146
 

Income tax recognised in the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

   
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
    €m   €m
Arising on actuarial (loss)/gain on defined benefit plans (23)   10
 

The income tax expense in 2016 is €10 million higher than in the comparable period. In Europe, the income tax expense is higher by €6 million. This reflects the tax effects of increased profitability and a tax rate change on deferred tax assets recorded in prior periods. In the Americas, the income tax expense is €4 million higher and includes the effects of a change in the profitability mix, the impact of a tax rate change on deferred tax liabilities recorded in prior periods and foreign currency.

The deferred tax expense in 2016 is the same as in 2015. However, there is an overall increase in the deferred tax expense from the impact of tax rate changes both in Europe and the Americas which is offset by other timing differences and credits.

The income tax expense includes a €3 million tax credit in respect of exceptional items compared to a €3 million charge in 2015.

7. Employee Benefits – Defined Benefit Plans

The table below sets out the components of the defined benefit cost for the year:

       
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m     €m
 
Current service cost 29 43
Past service cost (21) (9)
Gain on settlement (5) (3)
Actuarial loss arising on other long-term employee benefits 1 1
Net interest cost on net pension liability 22     21
Defined benefit cost 26     53
 

Included in cost of sales, distribution costs and administrative expenses is a defined benefit cost of €4 million (2015: cost of €32 million). Net interest cost on net pension liability of €22 million (2015: €21 million) is included in finance costs in the Consolidated Income Statement.

The negative past service cost of €21 million in 2016 relates to the change from defined benefit to defined contribution arrangements in a number of countries in Europe.

The amounts recognised in the Consolidated Balance Sheet were as follows:

             
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m       €m
Present value of funded or partially funded obligations (2,320) (2,195)
Fair value of plan assets 1,953       1,884
Deficit in funded or partially funded plans (367) (311)
Present value of wholly unfunded obligations (517)       (507)
Net pension liability (884)       (818)
 

The employee benefits provision has increased from €818 million at 31 December 2015 to €884 million at 31 December 2016, mainly as a result of lower Eurozone and Sterling corporate bond yields which have decreased the discount rates in the Eurozone and Sterling area, partially offset by an increase in the fair value of plan assets.

8. Earnings per Share

Basic

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to owners of the parent by the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue during the year less own shares.

             
12 months to 12 months to
      31-Dec-16       31-Dec-15
Profit attributable to owners of the parent (€ million) 444 400
 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (million) 235 232
 
Basic earnings per share (cent) 189.4       172.6
 

Diluted

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares which comprise convertible shares issued under the 2007 Share Incentive Plan and both deferred shares held in trust and matching shares issued under the Deferred Annual Bonus Plan.

             
12 months to 12 months to
      31-Dec-16       31-Dec-15
Profit attributable to owners of the parent (€ million) 444 400
 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (million) 235 232
Potential dilutive ordinary shares assumed (million) 2       4
Diluted weighted average ordinary shares (million) 237       236
 
Diluted earnings per share (cent) 187.5       169.4
 

Pre-exceptional

             
12 months to 12 months to
      31-Dec-16       31-Dec-15
Profit attributable to owners of the parent (€ million) 444 400
Exceptional items included in profit before income tax (Note 4) (€ million) 3 55
Income tax on exceptional items (€ million) (3)       3
Pre-exceptional profit attributable to owners of the parent (€ million) 444 458
 
Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue (million) 235 232
 
Pre-exceptional basic earnings per share (cent) 189.4       197.3
 
Diluted weighted average ordinary shares (million) 237 236
 
Pre-exceptional diluted earnings per share (cent) 187.6       193.7
 

9. Dividends

In May 2016, the final dividend for 2015 of 48 cent per share was paid to the holders of ordinary shares. In October 2016, an interim dividend for 2016 of 22 cent per share was paid to the holders of ordinary shares.

The Board is recommending a final dividend of 57.6 cent per share for 2016 subject to the approval of the shareholders at the AGM. It is proposed to pay the final dividend on 12 May 2017 to all ordinary shareholders on the share register at the close of business on 21 April 2017. The final dividend and interim dividend are paid in May and October in each year.

10. Property, Plant and Equipment

                   

Land and
buildings

Plant and
equipment

Total
      €m       €m       €m
Year ended 31 December 2016
Opening net book amount 988 2,115 3,103
Reclassifications 42 (43) (1)
Additions 11 465 476
Acquisitions 10 56 66
Depreciation charge (48) (309) (357)
Retirements and disposals (1) (11) (12)
Hyperinflation adjustment 25 21 46
Foreign currency translation adjustment (23)       (37)       (60)
At 31 December 2016 1,004       2,257       3,261
 

Year ended 31 December 2015

Opening net book amount

1,079

1,954

3,033

Reclassifications

19

(21)

(2)

Additions

7

421

428

Acquisitions

46

116

162

Depreciation charge

(47)

(291)

(338)

Retirements and disposals

(18)

(2)

(20)

Hyperinflation adjustment

17

13

30

Foreign currency translation adjustment

(115)

     

(75)

     

(190)

At 31 December 2015

988

     

2,115

     

3,103

 

11. Net Movement in Working Capital

             
12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m       €m
 
Change in inventories (60) (75)
Change in trade and other receivables (51) (49)
Change in trade and other payables 17       106
Net movement in working capital (94)       (18)
 

12. Analysis of Net Debt

             
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m       €m
Senior credit facility:
Revolving credit facility(1) – interest at relevant interbank rate + 1.35%(5) 1 149
Facility A term loan(2) – interest at relevant interbank rate + 1.60%(5) 741 494
US$292.3 million 7.50% senior debentures due 2025 (including accrued interest) 279 270
Bank loans and overdrafts 167 124
Cash (443) (275)
2018 receivables securitisation variable funding notes 114 174
2019 receivables securitisation variable funding notes 182 232
2018 senior notes (including accrued interest)(3) 488 477
€400 million 4.125% senior notes due 2020 (including accrued interest) 404 403
€250 million senior floating rate notes due 2020 (including accrued interest)(4) 249 249
€500 million 3.25% senior notes due 2021 (including accrued interest) 496 495
€250 million 2.75% senior notes due 2025 (including accrued interest) 249       248
Net debt before finance leases 2,927 3,040
Finance leases 14       8
Net debt including leases 2,941       3,048
 

(1)

   

Revolving credit facility ('RCF') of €625 million (available under the senior credit facility) to be repaid in 2020.

(a) Revolver loans - €6 million, (b) drawn under ancillary facilities and facilities supported by letters of credit – nil and (c) other operational facilities including letters of credit - €6 million.

(2)

Facility A term loan (‘Facility A’) due to be repaid in certain instalments from 2018 to 2020. In February 2016, the Group increased Facility A by €250 million. The proceeds were substantially applied to reduce the Group’s drawings under the RCF.

(3)

€200 million 5.125% senior notes due 2018 and US$300 million 4.875% senior notes due 2018.

(4)

Interest at EURIBOR + 3.5%.

(5)

The margins applicable under the senior credit facility are determined as follows:

            Net debt/EBITDA ratio         RCF     Facility A
 
Greater than 3.00 : 1 1.85% 2.10%
3.00 : 1 or less but more than 2.50 : 1 1.35% 1.60%
2.50 : 1 or less but more than 2.00 : 1 1.10% 1.35%
2.00 : 1 or less 0.85% 1.10%
 

13. Other Reserves

Other reserves included in the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity are comprised of the following:

                                             

Reverse
acquisition
reserve

Cash flow
hedging
reserve

Foreign
currency
translation
reserve

Share-
based
payment
reserve

Own
shares

Available-
for-sale
reserve

 

Total

        €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m       €m
 
At 1 January 2016 575 (22) (1,109) 168 (38) 1 (425)
Other comprehensive income
Foreign currency translation adjustments -       -       (84)       -       -       -       (84)
Total other comprehensive expense -       -       (84)       -       -       -       (84)
 
Share-based payment - - - 12 - - 12
Shares acquired by SKG Employee Trust - - - - (10) - (10)
Shares distributed by SKG Employee Trust -       -       -       (15)       15       -       -
At 31 December 2016 575       (22)       (1,193)       165       (33)       1       (507)
 
At 1 January 2015 575 (33) (689) 156 (40) 1 (30)
Other comprehensive income
Foreign currency translation adjustments - - (420) - - - (420)
Effective portion of changes in fair value of cash flow hedges -       11       -       -       -       -       11
Total other comprehensive income/(expense) -       11       (420)       -       -       -       (409)
 
Share-based payment - - - 28 - - 28
Shares acquired by SKG Employee Trust - - - - (14) - (14)
Shares distributed by SKG Employee Trust -       -       -       (16)       16       -       -
At 31 December 2015 575       (22)       (1,109)       168       (38)       1       (425)
 

14. Venezuela

Hyperinflation

As discussed more fully in the 2015 annual report, Venezuela became hyperinflationary during 2009 when its cumulative inflation rate for the past three years exceeded 100%. As a result, the Group applied the hyperinflationary accounting requirements of IAS 29 – Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies to its Venezuelan operations at 31 December 2009 and for all subsequent accounting periods.

In 2015 and 2016 management engaged an independent expert to determine an estimate of the annual inflation rate. The level of and movement in the price index at December 2016 and 2015 are as follows:

             
      31-Dec-16       31-Dec-15
Index at year-end 11,154.7 2,575.1
Movement in year     333.2%       206.7%
 

As a result of the entries recorded in respect of hyperinflationary accounting under IFRS, the Consolidated Income Statement is impacted as follows: Revenue €62 million increase (2015: €14 million decrease), pre-exceptional EBITDA €6 million increase (2015: €nil) and profit after taxation €51 million decrease (2015: €24 million decrease). In 2016, a net monetary gain of €4 million (2015: €15 million gain) was recorded in the Consolidated Income Statement. The impact on our net assets and our total equity is an increase of €64 million (2015: €69 million increase).

Exchange Control and Devaluation

In quarter one of 2016, the Venezuelan government announced changes to its system of multiple exchange rates for the Venezuelan Bolivar Fuerte (‘VEF’) as follows:

  • The Sicad and Simadi transaction systems were unified into a single variable rate (‘DICOM’);
  • The DICOM rate was VEF 673.8 per US dollar at 31 December 2016; and
  • The official CENCOEX fixed rate of VEF 6.3 per US dollar has been replaced by the DIPRO fixed rate of VEF 10.0 per US dollar.

The Group consolidates its Venezuelan operations at the variable DICOM rate. The Group believes that DICOM is the most appropriate rate for accounting and consolidation, as it believes that this is the rate at which the Group extracts economic benefit.

Control

The nationalisation of foreign owned companies or assets by the Venezuelan government remains a risk. Market value compensation is either negotiated or arbitrated under applicable laws or treaties in these cases. However, the amount and timing of such compensation is necessarily uncertain.

The Group continues to control operations in Venezuela and, as a result, continues to consolidate all of the results and net assets of these operations at the period end in accordance with the requirement of IFRS 10.

In 2016, the Group’s operations in Venezuela represented approximately 3% (2015: 2%) of its EBITDA, 2% (2015: 2%) of its total assets and 4% (2015: 4%) of its net assets. Cumulative foreign translation losses arising on its net investment in these operations amounting to €987 million (2015: €927 million) are included in the foreign currency translation reserve.

15. Events after the balance sheet date

On 17 January 2017, the Group successfully completed the pricing of €500 million of euro denominated senior notes due 2024 issued by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Smurfit Kappa Acquisitions Unlimited Company. The proceeds will be used to reduce indebtedness under the Group’s senior facilities agreement and existing securitisation facilities and for general corporate purposes.

Supplementary Financial Information

Alternative Performance Measures

Certain financial measures set out in this report are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’). An explanation for the use of these Alternative Performance Measures (‘APMs’) is set out within Financial Performance Indicators on pages 26-28 of the Group’s 2015 annual report. The key APMs of the Group are set out below.

   
APM Description
 
EBITDA

Earnings before exceptional items, share-based payment
expense, shares of associates’ profit (after tax), net finance
costs, income tax expense, depreciation and depletion (net)
and intangible assets amortisation

EBITDA Margin %

EBITDA

Revenue

x 100

Operating Profit before Exceptional Items

Profit before exceptional items, net finance costs, share of
associates’ profit (after tax) and income tax expense

Pre-exceptional Basic EPS (cent)

Profit attributable to owners of the parent, adjusted
for exceptional items included in profit before tax and
income tax on exceptional items

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue

x 100

Return on Capital Employed %

LTM (last twelve months) pre-exceptional operating
profit plus share of associates’ profit (after tax)

Average capital employed (where capital employed
is the sum of total equity and net debt at the beginning and end of the period)

x 100

Free Cash Flow

Free cash flow is the result of the cash inflows and outflows
from our operating activities, and is before those arising from
acquisition and disposal activities.

 

Free cash flow (APM) and a reconciliation of free cash flow to
cash generated from operations (IFRS measure) are included
in the management commentary. The IFRS cash flow is
included in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Net Debt

Net debt is comprised of borrowings net of cash and cash
equivalents and restricted cash

Net Debt to EBITDA (LTM) times

Net debt

EBITDA (LTM)

 

 
                         
Reconciliation of Profit to EBITDA
3 months to 3 months to 12 months to 12 months to
31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15
      €m       €m       €m       €m
 
Profit for the financial period 106 131 458 413
Income tax expense 49 60 196 186
Exceptional items charged in operating profit 15 15 15 69
Share of associates’ profit (after tax) - - (2) (3)
Net finance costs (after exceptional items) 51 23 163 115
Share-based payment expense - 2 13 34
Depreciation, depletion (net) and amortisation 99       95       393       368
EBITDA 320       326       1,236       1,182
 
                   

Return on Capital Employed

 
Q4, 2016 Q4, 2015 Q3, 2016
      €m       €m       €m

Pre-exceptional operating profit plus share of associates’ profit
(after tax) (LTM)

832 783 838
 
Total equity – current period end 2,503 2,328 2,356
Net debt – current period end 2,941       3,048       2,953
Capital employed – current period end 5,444       5,376       5,309
 
Total equity – prior period end 2,328 2,419 2,181
Net debt – prior period end 3,048       2,759       2,953
Capital employed – prior period end 5,376       5,178       5,134
 
Average capital employed 5,410       5,277       5,221
 
Return on capital employed 15.4%       14.8%       16.1%
 
                                       

Supplementary Historical Financial Information

 
€m       FY, 2015       Q1, 2016       Q2, 2016       Q3, 2016       Q4, 2016       FY, 2016
 
Group and third party revenue 13,309 3,280 3,375 3,424 3,441 13,521
Third party revenue 8,109 2,001 2,049 2,050 2,060 8,159
EBITDA 1,182 281 312 323 320 1,236
EBITDA margin 14.6% 14.0% 15.3% 15.7% 15.5% 15.1%
Operating profit 711 179 211 219 206 815
Profit before income tax 599 128 184 187 155 654
Free cash flow 388 7 28 164 104 303
Basic earnings per share - cent 172.6 38.8 52.0 56.4 42.3 189.4

Weighted average number of shares used in
EPS calculation (million)

232 234 234 234 235 235
Net debt 3,048 3,029 3,121 2,953 2,941 2,941
EBITDA (LTM) 1,182 1,197 1,224 1,242 1,236 1,236
Net debt to EBITDA (LTM) 2.58 2.53 2.55 2.38 2.38 2.38

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