LEI: 635400TLVVBNXLFHWC59

 

News release

31 July 2020

 

Kerry Group - Interim Management Report 2020

Unprecedented first half due to COVID-19 impact, with business recovering well across the second quarter

 

Kerry Group, the global taste & nutrition and consumer foods group, reports business performance for the half year ended 30 June 2020.

 

OVERVIEW

·       Strong response to COVID-19 pandemic aligned to key priorities of our people, customers and communities, as restrictions on movement impacted performance, particularly in the foodservice channel ·       Group revenue of €3.4 billion, reflecting a business volume reduction of 6.0% ·       Group trading margin of 9.3% (H1 2019: 10.7%) ·       Adjusted EPS of 132.1 cent (H1 2019: 164.1 cent) ·       Basic EPS of 120.4 cent (H1 2019: 135.5 cent) ·       Free cash flow of €107m (H1 2019: €195m) ·       Interim dividend per share of 25.9 cent (Interim 2019: 23.5 cent)

Edmond Scanlon - Chief Executive Officer

"The first half of 2020 has been an unprecedented period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and I am immensely proud of the tremendous efforts of our people in supporting our customers and local communities throughout this period, aligned to our purpose to Inspire Food and Nourish Life.

 

We had a strong start to the year, prior to restrictions on movement impacting business performance as we moved through the first quarter. As anticipated, we have seen a significant impact on our Taste & Nutrition business - particularly our foodservice channel, where the impact was most pronounced in April, with the channel recovering well since then. Performance in our retail channel improved in the second quarter, primarily through increased consumer demand for authentic cooking, plant-based offerings and health and wellness products.

 

In spite of the challenges arising from COVID-19, we continued to make good progress on a number of fronts aligned to our key strategic priorities. Our global operations and supply chain continue to demonstrate resilience and engagement with our customers has been overwhelmingly positive, which gives us confidence in the trajectory of business recovery. We will emerge a stronger organisation, as this period of uncertainty continues to enhance Kerry's role as our customers' most valued partner."

 

Contact Information

 

Media Catherine Keogh   Investor Relations Marguerite Larkin William Lynch   Website www.kerrygroup.com

VP Corporate Affairs & Communications     Chief Financial Officer Head of Investor Relations

+353 66 7182304     +353 66 7182292 +353 66 7182292

corpaffairs@kerry.com     investorrelations@kerry.ie investorrelations@kerry.ie

INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT

For the half year ended 30 June 2020

 

The Marketplace

The first half of the year has seen major changes in the daily lives of consumers across the globe, with purchasing and consumption behaviours being significantly disrupted. Food and beverage purchases were impacted by restrictions on movement and closure of foodservice operators, with online and delivery experiencing a surge in demand. During the period, a number of key consumer trends accelerated, with increased demand for health and immunity enhancement, natural authentic cooking, sustainability and plant protein, while many consumers reverted to centre-of-store offerings.

 

These changes meant customers have had to rapidly adapt to this new dynamic operating environment, where interpreting demand has become much more challenging and the strength of supply chains has been tested. Customers' primary focus was on ensuring the continuity of supply but has since moved to evaluating their product portfolios and new product development strategies aligned to these rapidly changing consumer demands. This has resulted in significant business development opportunities, as customers seek partners with full support models to move at pace and navigate this changing market environment.

 

COVID-19

Our teams continue to ensure the safety of all employees and to support customers as they supply food and beverage products across the globe. Throughout this turbulent time, our actions have been focussed on three main priorities:

 

·       Our People: protecting the health and wellbeing of employees has been prioritised at all times. Measures taken have included remote working where possible, segregation and zoning, use of appropriate personal protective equipment and increased sanitisation and screening measures

·       Our Customers: ensuring continuity of supply to our customers around the globe despite challenges presented by the pandemic, sharing COVID-19 quality control and health & safety playbooks, while supporting customers with insights to adapt their offerings to address changing consumer demands

·       Our Communities: donating food, personal protective equipment and sanitiser to front-line staff, producing hand sanitiser in our facilities when global supply was impacted, and through the MyCommunity Initiative, pledging 26,000 volunteer days and a €1 million fund to support local community initiatives

 

The restrictions on mobility in the period significantly impacted demand in the foodservice channel, while the retail channel experienced increased demand in places. We have worked on a number of actions to reduce the short-term cost impact of lower volumes and higher oncosts, including the suspension of all non-essential and discretionary expenditure and targeted cost management initiatives in impacted business areas.

 

Group Performance 

The Group reported revenue of €3.4 billion decreased by 4.3% versus the same period last year, reflecting a volume reduction of 6.0%, increased pricing of 0.4%, contribution from acquisitions of 1.2%, and a favourable translation currency impact of 0.1%.

 

The Group reported trading profit of €316 million (H1 2019: €383 million), with trading profit margin decreasing by 140bps to 9.3%, primarily due to the significant operating deleverage impact resulting from the sharp decline in foodservice orders once lockdown measures were introduced globally, with additional COVID-related costs being partially offset by cost mitigation actions.

 

Constant currency adjusted earnings per share decreased by 19.8% to 132.1 cent (H1 2019 currency adjusted: 164.7 cent). Basic earnings per share decreased by 11.1% to 120.4 cent (H1 2019: 135.5 cent).

 

In line with our dividend strategy, the interim dividend of 25.9 cent per share (H1 2019: 23.5 cent) reflects an increase from the prior year interim dividend. The Group achieved free cash flow of €107m in the period (H1 2019: €195m).

 

Business Reviews

 

Taste & Nutrition

	H1 2020	Performance
Revenue	€2,799m	-5.6%¹
Trading margin	11.6%	-170bps
		1volume performance

 

·        Overall volume reduction in H1 driven by Q2 decline of 11.8% reflecting the impact of COVID-19

·        Q2 retail channel growing by 4.8%, with foodservice channel declining 49%

·        Strong volume growth in the second quarter within the retail channel across Food (particularly Snacks and Dairy), Beverage and Pharma EUMs

·        Trading margin decrease principally driven by operating deleverage, with some additional COVID-related costs partially offset by cost mitigation actions

 

Taste & Nutrition began the year strongly before the global spread of COVID-19. While performance in Q2 was impacted most in April, business volumes have been recovering well since then. Kerry's nutrition and wellness technology portfolio had a very good performance within the retail channel through customised solutions incorporating Kerry's broad protein portfolio, fermented ingredients, probiotics and immunity enhancing technologies.

 

Business volumes in the foodservice channel declined 27% in the first half of the year, with many out-of-home food and beverage outlets closed for an extended period of time. The impact from these closures was a major contributor to overall performance in developing markets, where business volumes declined by 3.8%.

 

The Group completed the acquisition of Tecnispice, S.A. in the period - a leading savoury taste business based in Guatemala. The Group also announced the strategic development of its Georgia, US facility, creating a world-leading manufacturing facility to meet increasing demand for integrated solutions across a variety of protein applications.

 

Americas Region

·        -3.9% business volumes as the foodservice channel was considerably impacted in Q2

·        North America recovering well, aligned to lifting of restrictions

·        Good performance in Beverage, Meals and Snacks within the retail channel

 

Revenue in the region was €1,547m, reflecting a reported decrease of 0.6%, with lower business volumes partially offset by marginally positive pricing, positive foreign currency translation and contribution from acquisitions.

 

The foodservice channel in North America was impacted considerably in April, but performance has seen a significant improvement since then, benefitting from a more established infrastructure to cater for drive-through, curbside pickup and delivery options.

 

The North American retail channel achieved excellent growth in Beverage, particularly in nutritional and plant-based beverages with a number of innovations incorporating Kerry's immunity enhancing technologies, broad protein portfolio and natural extracts. Meals delivered very strong growth through authentic culinary solutions, with demand for natural stocks and broths increasing, as consumers turned to more home cooking once lockdown measures were introduced. Overall Meat category performance was impacted by customer product availability on retail shelves. Snacks performed very well with an increase in demand for healthy and clean label solutions, while Cereals and other centre-of-store categories experienced a rejuvenation in the period.

 

In LATAM, the foodservice channel in Brazil was significantly impacted, along with some impulse driven categories within the retail channel including ice-cream and confectionery, while Beverage experienced good growth. Performance in Mexico was better, due to good growth across a number of key end use markets.

 

The global Pharma EUM delivered very strong growth, led by excipients and immunity enhancing technologies.

 

Europe Region

·        -8.8% business volumes as foodservice channel significantly impacted in Q2

·        Good performance in Beverage, Meat and Snacks within the retail channel

·        Russia and Eastern Europe delivered very good growth in the retail channel

 

Revenue in the region was €657m, reflecting a reported decrease of 8.4%, with lower business volumes partially offset by contribution from acquisitions.

 

The foodservice channel in the region was significantly impacted in the first half of the year, as most operators were temporarily closed for an extended period of time, with the UK, Italy and Spain most affected. As restrictions began to lift in a phased manner towards the end of the period, the pace of recovery varied from country to country depending on local conditions.

 

The retail channel performed well, with Beverage achieving good growth through a number of launches in low/non-alcoholic and refreshing beverage categories incorporating Kerry's botanicals, natural extracts and sugar-reduction technologies. Meat performed well, driven by strong growth and business development in plant-based alternatives, while Snacks had good growth in savoury applications with a number of large customers. Dairy delivered a solid performance in the period, while international dairy markets were impacted by global supply/demand dynamics. Meals performance was softer due to reduced impulse purchases, however cleaner label and 'better for you' innovations performed well.

 

APMEA Region

·        -5.9% business volumes as restrictions on movements impacted performance beyond China from March

·        Strong growth in Meat, Dairy and Snacks within the retail channel

·        Progressing strategic expansion and business development across the region

 

Revenue in the region was €566m, reflecting a reported decrease of 6.9%, with lower business volumes, adverse impact from currency transaction and translation, partially offset by marginally positive pricing and the contribution from acquisitions.

 

Performance in the period was most impacted in China, Sub-Saharan Africa and India, while performance in South East Asia, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand was more robust.

 

After the initial lockdown period, foodservice in China continued to recover across the second quarter. Foodservice performance outside of China varied by country depending on the level of restrictions in place, with India being most impacted.

 

Retail performance in the region was led by Meat, Dairy and Snacks through a number of launches with regional leaders, while Beverage and Meals were more challenged, as consumers opted for more traditional food and beverage offerings in many geographies across the region.

 

The Group continued to make good progress in expanding its capacity and deploying technology capabilities in China and the Middle East, while also moving into our new Technology & Innovation Centre in Shanghai.

 

Consumer Foods

 

	H1 2020	Performance
Revenue	€647m	-7.8% (-0.7%)¹
Trading margin	7.0%	0bps
		1volume performance (excluding contract exit)

 

·        Overall volume performance impacted by ready meals contract exit in the prior year

·        Positive impact from COVID-19 in Q1 was more than offset in Q2

·        Pricing of 1.7% reflective of increases in input costs and market pricing

·        Trading margin maintained as efficiencies offset COVID-19 impacts and pricing

 

The market was highly volatile across the period due to COVID-19, with major swings in category performance resulting from overnight changes in consumers' purchasing and consumption behaviours. Shopping habits became more functional with centre-of-store aisles benefitting most. Retailers scaled back many category product listings and their freshly prepared over-the-counter operations. The large traditional retailers benefitted versus the discounters, with increased average basket sizes and reduced promotional activity, while demand for online and delivery has increased dramatically.

 

Revenue in the division was €647m, reflecting a reported decrease of 6.2%, as lower business volumes primarily due to the impact of the previously reported ready meals contract exit and transaction currency were partially offset by increased net pricing.

 

The Richmond sausage range delivered a strong performance, while the recently launched meat-free ranges under both Richmond and Naked Glory brands performed very well in the period. The Denny brand in Ireland performed well, while meat sales were impacted by deli counter operations being reduced by retailers. Spreadable butter and the Dairygold range benefitted from an uplift in consumer demand during the period.

 

The chilled meals category was impacted by reduced consumer impulse purchases, while frozen meals had a good performance across the range.

 

The 'Food to go' range experienced variability in sales performance across the period. Fridge Raiders delivered good growth in the first quarter but was challenged across the second quarter. The Strings & Things range, led by Cheestrings delivered overall good growth, while the Oakhouse Foods range of home delivery meals delivered exceptionally strong growth across the second quarter.

 

Financial Review

 

As anticipated, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted business performance in the period, with restrictions on movement impacting performance particularly in the foodservice channel.

 

			H1 2020	H1 2019
Analysis of Results		% Change	€'m	€'m
Revenue		-4.3%	3,414.0	3,568.9
Trading profit		-17.5%	315.9	382.9
Trading margin			9.3%	10.7%
Computer software amortisation			(13.1)	(12.9)
Finance costs (net)			(37.3)	(38.9)
Adjusted earnings before taxation			265.5	331.1
Income taxes (excluding non-trading items)			(31.8)	(41.1)
Adjusted earnings after taxation			233.7	290.0
Brand related intangible asset amortisation			(20.6)	(16.4)
Non-trading items (net of related tax)			-	(34.2)
Profit after taxation			213.1	239.4
			EPS	EPS
			Cent	Cent
Basic EPS		-11.1%	120.4	135.5
Brand related intangible asset amortisation			11.7	9.3
Non-trading items (net of related tax)			-	19.3
Adjusted* EPS		-19.5%	132.1	164.1
Impact of retranslating prior period adjusted EPS at current period average exchange rates			-	0.6
Adjusted* EPS in constant currency		-19.8%	132.1	164.7

* Before brand related intangible asset amortisation and non-trading items (net of related tax)

 

 

Analysis of Results

 

Revenue 

On a reported basis, Group revenue decreased by 4.3% to €3.4 billion (H1 2019: €3.6 billion), including a volume decrease of 6.0%, positive pricing of 0.4%, a positive translation currency impact of 0.1% and contribution from business acquisitions of 1.2%.

 

H1 2019: Group reported revenue +10.7%, volume +3.3%, neutral pricing, translation currency +2.7%, acquisitions +4.7%.

 

In Taste & Nutrition, reported revenue decreased by 4.0% to €2.8 billion (H1 2019: €2.9 billion), including a volume decrease of 5.6%, positive pricing of 0.1%, a positive translation currency impact of 0.1% and contribution from business acquisitions of 1.4%.

 

H1 2019: Taste & Nutrition reported revenue +13.0%, volume +3.8%, neutral pricing, translation currency +3.3%, acquisitions +5.9%.

 

In Consumer Foods, reported revenue decreased by 6.2% to €647m (H1 2019: €689m), including a volume decrease of 7.8%, positive pricing of 1.7% and an adverse transaction currency impact of 0.1%. Excluding the impact of the ready meals contract exit, divisional volumes would have decreased by 0.7%.

 

H1 2019: Consumer Foods reported revenue +0.6%, volume +0.6%, pricing (0.3%), translation currency +0.3%.

 

Trading Profit & Margin

Group trading profit decreased by 17.5% to €315.9m (H1 2019: €382.9m).

 

Group trading profit margin decreased by 140 basis points to 9.3%, reflecting significant operating deleverage and COVID-related costs partially offset by cost mitigation actions, negative net pricing and a benefit from net operational efficiencies.

 

Trading profit margin in Taste & Nutrition decreased by 170 basis points to 11.6%, reflecting significant operating deleverage and COVID-related costs partially offset by cost mitigation actions, and a benefit from net operational efficiencies.

 

Trading profit margin in Consumer Foods was maintained at 7.0%, as efficiencies delivered from the 2019 Realignment Programme were offset by net operating deleverage/portfolio mix, net COVID-related costs partially offset by cost mitigation actions, and negative net pricing in a challenging market.

 

Finance Costs (net)

Finance costs (net) for the period decreased to €37.3m (H1 2019: €38.9m) as cash generation and lower interest rates were partially offset by acquisition activity.

 

Taxation

The tax charge for the period before non-trading items was €31.8m (H1 2019: €41.1m) which represents an effective tax rate of 13.0% (H1 2019: 13.0%).

 

Acquisitions

During the period, the Group completed the acquisition of Tecnispice, Sociedad Anónima at a cost of €52.2m.

 

Adjusted EPS

Adjusted EPS in constant currency decreased by 19.8% in the period due to the impact from COVID-19 on business performance (H1 2019: +8.4%). Adjusted EPS in reporting currency decreased by 19.5% to 132.1 cent (H1 2019: 164.1 cent).

 

Basic EPS

Basic EPS decreased by 11.1% to 120.4 cent in the period (H1 2019: 135.5 cent).

 

Free Cash Flow

The Group achieved free cash flow of €107.0m (H1 2019: €194.8m), reflecting the impact of COVID-19 on trading profit and increased investment in working capital as we supported our customers through this period.

 

		H1 2020	H1 2019
Free Cash Flow		€'m	€'m
Trading profit		315.9	382.9
Depreciation (net)		101.2	94.0
Movement in average working capital		(116.4)	(77.3)
Pension contributions paid less pension expense		(3.8)	(11.2)
Cash flow from operations		296.9	388.4
Finance costs paid (net)		(25.1)	(30.4)
Income taxes paid		(35.7)	(28.7)
Purchase of non-current assets		(129.1)	(134.5)
Free cash flow		107.0	194.8
Cash conversion1		46%	67%

¹Cash conversion is free cash flow expressed as a percentage of adjusted earnings after tax

 

Balance Sheet

A summary balance sheet as at 30 June 2020 is provided below:

 

		H1 2020	H1 2019	FY 2019
		€'m	€'m	€'m
Property, plant and equipment		2,017.2	1,928.8	2,062.9
Intangible assets		4,564.1	4,380.0	4,589.7
Other non-current assets		202.2	171.1	179.5
Current assets		2,991.7	2,453.5	2,672.2
Total assets		9,775.2	8,933.4	9,504.3
Current liabilities		1,812.5	2,018.9	2,014.0
Non-current liabilities		3,454.2	2,728.0	2,928.1
Total liabilities		5,266.7	4,746.9	4,942.1
Net assets		4,508.5	4,186.5	4,562.2
Shareholders' equity		4,508.5	4,186.5	4,562.2

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment decreased by €45.7m to €2,017.2m (Dec 2019: €2,062.9m, H1 2019: €1,928.8m) due to the depreciation charge and the impact of foreign exchange translation partially offset by additions made in the period.

 

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets decreased by €25.6m to €4,564.1m (Dec 2019: €4,589.7m, H1 2019: €4,380.0m) due to the amortisation charge and the impact of foreign exchange translation partially offset by the acquisition made in the period.

 

Current Assets

Current assets increased by €319.5m to €2,991.7m (Dec 2019: €2,672.2m, H1 2019: €2,453.5m), mainly due to increases in cash, inventory and trade and other receivables.

 

Retirement Benefits

At the balance sheet date, the net deficit for all defined benefit schemes (after deferred tax) was €78.8m (Dec 2019: €8.6m, H1 2019: €64.4m). The increase in the net deficit from year end was driven primarily by a reduction in scheme assets valuation arising from market reaction to COVID-19 and adverse movements in discount rates.

 

Net Debt

At 30 June 2020, net debt was €1,996.4m. This increase of €133.6m relative to the December 2019 net debt of €1,862.8m reflected acquisition investment and dividends, partially offset by cash generated in the period. The Group completed a €200m tap issuance onto its 2025 notes, a drawdown of €250m under the revolving credit facility and exercised the first of the two 'plus one' extension options on the revolving credit facility to further enhance the maturity date of this facility to June 2025.

 

Return on Average Capital Employed (ROACE)

The Group achieved ROACE of 10.5% (H1 2019: 11.9%) reflecting reduced profits as a result of the impact on business performance from COVID-19.

 

Financial Ratios

The Group's balance sheet is in a healthy position. With a Net debt to EBITDA* ratio of 2.0 times, the organisation has sufficient headroom to support future growth plans. Other than €178.5m of US$ Private Placements, the Group's debt is not subject to financial covenants. Treasury monitors compliance with financial covenants and at 30 June the covenants were as follows:

 

	Covenant	H1 2020 Times	H1 2019 Times	FY 2019 Times
Net debt: EBITDA*	Maximum 3.5	2.0	1.9	1.8
EBITDA: Net interest*	Minimum 4.0	12.8	14.4	13.2

 *Calculated on a pro-forma basis

 

Related Party Transactions

There were no changes in related party transactions from the 2019 Annual Report that could have a material effect on the financial position or performance of the Group in the first half of the year.

 

Exchange Rates

Group results are impacted by fluctuations in exchange rates year-on-year versus the euro. The average rates below are the principal rates used for the translation of results. The closing rates below are used to translate assets and liabilities at period end.

 

	Average Rates		Closing Rates
	H1 2020	H1 2019	H1 2020	H1 2019
Australian Dollar	1.68	1.60	1.63	1.63
Brazilian Real	5.15	4.38	5.92	4.37
British Pound Sterling	0.87	0.87	0.90	0.89
Chinese Yuan Renminbi	7.74	7.66	7.93	7.83
Malaysian Ringgit	4.65	4.65	4.80	4.72
Mexican Peso	23.49	21.68	25.40	21.76
South African Rand	17.98	16.16	19.58	16.09
US Dollar	1.10	1.13	1.12	1.14

 

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

Details of the principal risks and uncertainties facing the Group can be found in the 2019 Annual Report on pages 76 to 87. The Group actively manages all risks through its control and risk management process and these risks include but are not limited to; portfolio management, Brexit, geopolitical/developing markets, business acquisition and divestiture, talent management, quality, food safety & regulatory, health & safety, margin management, Kerryconnect, information security & cybercrime, intellectual property management, taxation and treasury.

 

Within our geopolitical/developing markets strategic risk, outlined on pages 78 and 79 of the 2019 Annual Report, global pandemic outbreaks are identified as an area of potential impact. The risks associated with a pandemic include the health and wellbeing of our employees, disruption to our customers and supply chain and, depending on scale, the potential impact on liquidity. A key focus of the Group over the first half of the year has been managing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic which has had significant consequences across the globe. Given the Group's position as a leader in the food industry, it has played a role in providing a safe and continuous food supply for people around the world and this crisis has heightened the interdependencies between a number of the Group's principal risks.

 

The Group's global crisis management team has led the Group's response and focussed on:

 

Our People - protecting the health and wellbeing of employees has been prioritised at all times and the Group has taken all necessary steps and precautions as advised by global and local authorities. These measures have included remote working where possible, segregation and zoning, use of appropriate personal protective equipment and increased sanitisation and screening measures

 

Our Customers and Supply Chain - ensuring continuity of supply as well as supporting customers on numerous fronts as they navigate the short-term disruption caused by the crisis

 

Our Community - the Group has ensured that it has fulfilled its responsibilities in relation to supporting the communities in which it operates through its MyCommunity Initiative which has pledged 26,000 volunteer days and a €1 million fund to support local community initiatives

 

The Group also further strengthened its liquidity position through this period - by completing a €200m tap issuance onto our 2025 notes, a drawdown of €250m under the revolving credit facility and also exercising the first of the two 'plus one' extension options on our revolving credit facility to further enhance the maturity date of this facility to June 2025.

 

In addition to managing the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 crisis in the second half of the year and beyond, the Group will continue to monitor the impact of ongoing Brexit trade negotiations as outlined previously. The Group has considered a number of different scenarios and appropriate mitigation plans have been developed.

 

Dividend

In line with our dividend strategy, the Board has declared an interim dividend of 25.9 cent per share, compared to the prior year interim dividend of 23.5 cent, payable on 13 November 2020 to shareholders registered on the record date 16 October 2020.

 

Future Prospects

Due to the continued uncertainty in relation to the extent and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are not providing full year earnings guidance at this time.

 

Our Taste & Nutrition business is focussed on managing through the short-term challenges to emerge an even stronger customer partner. The foodservice channel continues to recover well, and we are focusing on particular growth areas in the channel, while continuing to partner with customers on new menu developments. The retail channel continues to deliver good growth due to Kerry's co-creation model and leading solutions offering. We have a good innovation pipeline with strong customer engagement to meet the demands of the post-COVID consumer. Based on the current prevailing environment, we see continued good recovery and momentum in Taste & Nutrition and are currently estimating modestly lower volumes in the third quarter versus the prior year.

 

Our Consumer Foods business continues to see short-term changes in consumer purchasing behaviour with some variability across categories. The business continues to selectively focus on growth opportunities.

 

We will continue to invest for growth and pursue M&A opportunities aligned to strategic growth priorities. Kerry's unique business model, broad taste and nutrition portfolio and industry-leading integrated solutions capabilities are more critical than ever, as we support our customers through this changing environment.

 

Responsibility Statement

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Half Yearly Financial Report in accordance with the Transparency (Directive 2004/109/EC) Regulations 2007 of Ireland (S.I. No. 277 of 2007) ('the Regulations'), the Transparency Rules of the Central Bank of Ireland and with IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' as adopted by the European Union.

 

 

The Directors confirm that to the best of their knowledge:

 

·        the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2020 have been prepared in accordance with the international accounting standard applicable to interim financial reporting adopted pursuant to the procedure provided for under Article 6 of the Regulation (EC) No. 1606/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 July 2002;

 

·        the Interim Management Report includes a fair review of the important events that have occurred during the first six months of the financial year, and their impact on the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2020, and a description of the principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months; and

 

·        the Interim Management Report includes a fair review of the related party transactions that have occurred during the first six months of the current financial year and that have materially affected the financial position or the performance of the Group during that period, and any changes in the related parties' transactions described in the last Annual Report that could have a material effect on the financial position or performance of the Group in the first six months of the current financial year.

   

On behalf of the Board

 

                                

Edmond Scanlon Chief Executive Officer

Marguerite Larkin      Chief Financial Officer

30 July 2020

 

 

Disclaimer: Forward Looking Statements

This Announcement contains forward looking statements which reflect management expectations based on currently available data. However actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward looking statements. These forward looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

 

RESULTS FOR THE HALF YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2020

 

Kerry Group plc
Condensed Consolidated Income Statement
for the half year ended 30 June 2020
			Notes	Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Half year ended 30 June 2019  Unaudited €'m	Year ended 31 Dec. 2019  Audited €'m
Continuing operations
Revenue			2	3,414.0	3,568.9	7,241.3
				_________	_________	_________
Trading profit			2	315.9	382.9	902.7
Intangible asset amortisation				(33.7)	(29.3)	(64.3)
Non-trading items				-	(42.3)	(110.9)
				_________	_________	_________
Operating profit				282.2	311.3	727.5
Finance income			3	0.1	0.2	0.3
Finance costs			3	(37.4)	(39.1)	(81.9)
				_________	_________	_________
Profit before taxation				244.9	272.4	645.9
Income taxes				(31.8)	(33.0)	(79.4)
				_________	_________	_________
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent				213.1	239.4	566.5
				_________	_________	_________
Earnings per A ordinary share				Cent	Cent	Cent
- basic			4	120.4	135.5	320.4
- diluted			4	120.3	135.4	319.9
				_________	_________	_________

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the half year ended 30 June 2020
		Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Half year ended 30 June 2019  Unaudited €'m	Year ended 31 Dec. 2019  Audited €'m
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent		213.1	239.4	566.5
Other comprehensive income:
Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Fair value movements on cash flow hedges		18.1	7.6	7.2
Cash flow hedges - reclassified to profit or loss from equity		(5.2)	0.1	0.1
Net change in cost of hedging		0.1	1.5	0.6
Deferred tax effect of fair value movements on cash flow hedges		(1.7)	(1.2)	(1.4)
Exchange difference on translation of foreign operations		(116.4)	23.6	67.0
Fair value movement on revaluation of financial assets held at fair value through other comprehensive
income		(1.3)	-	(1.0)
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Re-measurement on retirement benefits obligation		(87.9)	(34.7)	14.0
Deferred tax effect of re-measurement on retirement benefits obligation		17.3	5.1	(2.0)
		_________	_________	_________
Net (expense)/income recognised directly in other comprehensive income		(177.0)	2.0	84.5
		_________	_________	_________
Total comprehensive income		36.1	241.4	651.0
		_________	_________	_________

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
as at 30 June 2020
	Notes	30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	30 June 2019 Unaudited €'m	31 Dec. 2019 Audited €'m
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment		2,017.2	1,928.8	2,062.9
Intangible assets		4,564.1	4,380.0	4,589.7
Financial asset investments		39.8	39.5	41.7
Investment in associates and joint ventures		16.9	15.9	16.2
Other non-current financial instruments		105.9	79.3	82.7
Deferred tax assets		39.6	36.4	38.9
		__________	___________	___________
		6,783.5	6,479.9	6,832.1
		__________	__________	___________
Current assets
Inventories		1,093.4	1,029.8	993.3
Trade and other receivables		1,140.5	1,093.2	1,066.3
Cash at bank and in hand	7	736.1	267.4	554.9
Other current financial instruments		21.7	61.1	57.7
Assets classified as held for sale		-	2.0	-
		__________	__________	___________
		2,991.7	2,453.5	2,672.2
		__________	__________	___________
Total assets		9,775.2	8,933.4	9,504.3
		__________	__________	___________
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables		1,640.8	1,663.4	1,643.0
Borrowings and overdrafts	7	4.6	201.1	190.8
Other current financial instruments		9.5	5.2	12.1
Tax liabilities		128.7	123.9	140.7
Provisions		26.5	24.9	25.2
Deferred income		2.4	0.4	2.2
		__________	__________	___________
		1,812.5	2,018.9	2,014.0
		__________	__________	___________
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings	7	2,833.8	2,107.9	2,355.3
Other non-current financial instruments		-	0.2	-
Retirement benefits obligation	6	98.3	77.0	11.9
Other non-current liabilities		147.0	167.3	167.9
Deferred tax liabilities		322.8	324.8	338.9
Provisions		32.6	29.8	33.2
Deferred income		19.7	21.0	20.9
		__________	__________	___________
		3,454.2	2,728.0	2,928.1
		__________	__________	___________
Total liabilities		5,266.7	4,746.9	4,942.1
		__________	__________	___________
Net assets		4,508.5	4,186.5	4,562.2
		__________	__________	___________
Issued capital and reserves attributable to owners of the parent
Share capital	8	22.1	22.0	22.1
Share premium		398.7	398.7	398.7
Other reserves		(216.2)	(167.7)	(119.0)
Retained earnings		4,303.9	3,933.5	4,260.4
		__________	__________	___________
Shareholders' equity		4,508.5	4,186.5	4,562.2
		__________	__________	___________

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the half year ended 30 June 2020
	Note	Share Capital €'m	Share Premium €'m	Other Reserves €'m	Retained Earnings €'m	Total €'m
At 31 December 2018 - audited		22.0	398.7	(207.3)	3,821.0	4,034.4
Adjustment on initial application of IFRS 16 'Leases'		-	-	-	(9.4)	(9.4)
		________	________	________	________	________
Adjusted balances at 1 January 2019		22.0	398.7	(207.3)	3,811.6	4,025.0
Profit after tax attributable to owners of the parent		-	-	-	239.4	239.4
Other comprehensive income/(expense)		-	-	32.8	(30.8)	2.0
		________	________	________	________	________
Total comprehensive income		-	-	32.8	208.6	241.4
Dividends paid	5	-	-	-	(86.7)	(86.7)
Share-based payment expense		-	-	6.8	-	6.8
		________	________	________	________	________
At 30 June 2019 - unaudited		22.0	398.7	(167.7)	3,933.5	4,186.5
Profit after tax attributable to owners of the parent		-	-	-	327.1	327.1
Other comprehensive income		-	-	41.1	41.4	82.5
		________	________	________	________	________
Total comprehensive income		-	-	41.1	368.5	409.6
Shares issued during the period		0.1	-	-	-	0.1
Dividends paid	5	-	-	-	(41.6)	(41.6)
Share-based payment expense		-	-	7.6	-	7.6
		________	________	________	________	________
At 31 December 2019 - audited		22.1	398.7	(119.0)	4,260.4	4,562.2
Profit after tax attributable to owners of the parent		-	-	-	213.1	213.1
Other comprehensive expense		-	-	(104.7)	(72.3)	(177.0)
		_______	________	________	________	________
Total comprehensive (expense)/income		-	-	(104.7)	140.8	36.1
Dividends paid	5	-	-	-	(97.3)	(97.3)
Share-based payment expense		-	-	7.5	-	7.5
		_______	_______	________	________	________
At 30 June 2020 - unaudited		22.1	398.7	(216.2)	4,303.9	4,508.5
		_______	_______	________	________	________

 

 

Other Reserves comprise the following:
			FVOCI Reserve €'m	Capital Redemption Reserve €'m	Other Undenominated Capital €'m	Share-Based Payment Reserve €'m	Translation Reserve €'m	Hedging Reserve €'m	Cost of Hedging Reserve €'m	Total €'m
At 1 January 2019			1.6	1.7	0.3	63.3	(256.7)	(15.5)	(2.0)	(207.3)
Other comprehensive income			-	-	-	-	23.6	7.7	1.5	32.8
Share-based payment expense			-	-	-	6.8	-	-	-	6.8
			_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	______
At 30 June 2019 - unaudited			1.6	1.7	0.3	70.1	(233.1)	(7.8)	(0.5)	(167.7)
Other comprehensive (expense)/income			(1.0)	-	-	-	43.4	(0.4)	(0.9)	41.1
Share-based payment expense			-	-	-	7.6	-	-	-	7.6
			_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	______
At 31 December 2019 - audited			0.6	1.7	0.3	77.7	(189.7)	(8.2)	(1.4)	(119.0)
Other comprehensive (expense)/income			(1.3)	-	-	-	(116.4)	12.9	0.1	(104.7)
Share-based payment expense			-	-	-	7.5	-	-	-	7.5
			_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	______
At 30 June 2020 - unaudited			(0.7)	1.7	0.3	85.2	(306.1)	4.7	(1.3)	(216.2)
			_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	______

 

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
for the half year ended 30 June 2020
	Notes	Half year  ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m		Half year  ended 30 June 2019 Unaudited €'m		Year  ended 31 Dec. 2019 Audited €'m
Operating activities
Trading profit		315.9		382.9		902.7
Adjustments for:
Depreciation (net)		101.2		94.0		191.4
Change in working capital		(197.9)		(133.5)		(63.9)
Pension contributions paid less pension expense		(3.8)		(11.2)		(26.7)
Payments on non-trading items		(25.3)		(29.3)		(89.1)
Exchange translation adjustment		2.2		(0.5)		(2.5)
		_________		__________		__________
Cash generated from operations		192.3		302.4		911.9
Income taxes paid		(35.7)		(28.7)		(67.2)
Finance income received		0.1		0.2		0.5
Finance costs paid		(25.2)		(30.6)		(81.3)
		_________		__________		__________
Net cash from operating activities		131.5		243.3		763.9
		_________		__________		__________
Investing activities
Purchase of assets (net)		(111.4)		(123.8)		(315.6)
Proceeds from the sale of assets		-		6.4		32.8
Capital grants received		-		-		3.0
Purchase of businesses (net of cash acquired)	9	(30.8)		(324.0)		(562.7)
Payments relating to previous acquisitions		(3.8)		(5.3)		(5.3)
Income received from joint ventures		0.7		0.2		-
		_________		__________		__________
Net cash used in investing activities		(145.3)		(446.5)		(847.8)
		_________		__________		__________
Financing activities
Dividends paid	5	(97.3)		(86.7)		(128.3)
Payment of lease liabilities		(17.7)		(17.1)		(35.5)
Issue of share capital	8	-		-		0.1
Repayment of borrowings (net of swaps)		(141.2)		(3.9)		(564.4)
Increase in borrowings		463.6		155.5		950.0
		_________		__________		__________
Net cash movement due to financing activities		207.4		47.8		221.9
		_________		__________		__________
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		193.6		(155.4)		138.0
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		549.7		403.9		403.9
Exchange translation adjustment on cash and cash equivalents		(11.8)		2.3		7.8
		_________		__________		__________
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	7	731.5		250.8		549.7
		_________		__________		__________
Reconciliation of Net Cash Flow to Movement in Net Debt
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		193.6		(155.4)		138.0
Cash flow from debt financing		(322.4)		(145.0)		(385.6)
		__________		__________		___________
Changes in net debt resulting from cash flows		(128.8)		(300.4)		(247.6)
Fair value movement on interest rate swaps (net of adjustment to borrowings)		8.2		7.9		12.5
Exchange translation adjustment on net debt		(13.0)		(2.2)		(4.2)
		_________		__________		__________
Movement in net debt in the period		(133.6)		(294.7)		(239.3)
Net debt at beginning of period		(1,862.8)		(1,623.5)		(1,623.5)
		_________		__________		__________
Net debt at end of period	7	(1,996.4)		(1,918.2)		(1,862.8)
		_________		__________		__________
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements
for the half year ended 30 June 2020

 

1. Accounting policies

 

These Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2020 have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of IAS 34 'Interim Financial Reporting' and using accounting policies consistent with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union. The accounting policies applied by the Group in these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements are the same as those detailed in the 2019 Annual Report.

 

 

The following Standards and Interpretations are effective for the Group from 1 January 2020 but do not have a material effect on the results or financial position of the Group:			Effective Date
-	IFRS 3 (Amendments)	Business Combinations	1 January 2020
-	IFRS 9, IAS 39 & IFRS 7 (Amendments)	Interest Rate Benchmark Reform	1 January 2020
-	IAS 1 (Amendments)	Presentation of Financial Statements	1 January 2020
-	IAS 8 (Amendments)	Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors	1 January 2020
-	The Conceptual Framework	Revised Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting	1 January 2020
The following Standard is not yet effective for the Group and is not expected to have a material effect on the results or financial position of the Group:			Effective Date
-	IFRS 17	Insurance Contracts	1 January 2021

 

 

Going concern

The current unprecedented economic environment has created uncertainty in relation to the timing of a return to efficient production in certain categories of the Group's business, future consumer behaviour and the associated recovery of sales volumes and trading margins. The timing and shape of recovery is uncertain, and accordingly, the Group has considered a number of scenarios, taking account of current levels of trading and the consequential impact on cash flows, including working capital.

 

The Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements have been prepared on the going concern basis of accounting. The Directors have considered the Group's business activities and how it generates value, together with the main trends and factors likely to affect future development, business performance and position of the Group including the impact of the current pandemic. Due to the uncertainty of the ongoing duration and impact of the pandemic on mobility restrictions in different countries around the world, additional stressed scenarios, reflecting different levels and timing of recovery, have been considered. In these scenarios, the Group has sufficient resources and liquidity headroom. There are no material uncertainties that cast a significant doubt on the Group's ability to continue as a going concern over a period of at least 12 months.

 

The Directors report that they have satisfied themselves that the Group is a going concern, having adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. In forming this view, the Directors have reviewed the Group's budget for a period not less than 12 months, the medium term plans as set out in the rolling five year plan, and have taken into account the cash flow implications of the plans, including proposed capital expenditure, and compared these with the Group's committed borrowing facilities and projected gearing ratios.

 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements

The preparation of the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements requires management to make certain estimations, assumptions and judgements that affect the reported profits, assets and liabilities. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Changes in accounting estimates may be necessary if there are changes in the circumstances on which the estimate was based or as a result of new information or more experience. Such changes are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised.

 

In preparing the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements, the significant judgements made by management in applying the Group's accounting policies and the key sources of estimation uncertainty were the same as those applied to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2019 with the addition of COVID-19 related uncertainty as set out below.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has become a worldwide crisis and at the date of this report it continues to evolve. We have considered the impact of this on our business and reassessed our principal risks and uncertainties.

 

The key impacts of COVID-19 up to 30 June 2020 include:

-	All plants remained open except for a limited number of those that were mandated to close temporarily in specific jurisdictions. While there were changes to shift patterns and ways of working to ensure the safety of employees through additional segregation and cleaning routines, there were no indicators of impairment to property, plant and equipment. There were also no rationalisations as a result of COVID-19.
-	The Group considered the impact of the global pandemic on its impairment risk on the carrying value of the goodwill and indefinite life intangible assets and given there was significant headroom, no impairment was identified.
-	While supporting our customers during this crisis through the carrying of additional inventory and receivable balances, the Group has assessed the additional risks and to date, does not believe there is additional risks around the recovery of these assets.
-	The impact of the mobility restrictions globally has impacted the Group's revenue and profitability, most significantly in the foodservice part of the Group's business; however, this channel is showing signs of recovery as mobility restrictions are lifted. The foodservice business represented approximately 30% of the Taste & Nutrition business segment in 2019.

 

 

 

2. Analysis of results

 

The Group has determined it has two reportable segments: Taste & Nutrition and Consumer Foods. The Taste & Nutrition segment is the global leader in the development of taste and nutrition solutions for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries across Ireland, Europe, Americas and APMEA. Our broad technology foundation, customer-centric business model, and industry-leading integrated solutions capability make Kerry the co-creation partner of choice. The Consumer Foods segment is a leader in its categories in the chilled cabinet primarily in Ireland and in the UK.

	Half year ended 30 June 2020 - Unaudited				Half year ended 30 June 2019 - Unaudited				Year ended 31 December 2019 - Audited
	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Group Eliminations and Unallocated	Total	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Group Eliminations and Unallocated	Total	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Group Eliminations and Unallocated	Total
	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m
External revenue	2,770.1	643.9	-	3,414.0	2,882.2	686.7	-	3,568.9	5,939.1	1,302.2	-	7,241.3
Inter-segment revenue	28.5	2.7	(31.2)	-	32.6	2.7	(35.3)	-	78.5	4.4	(82.9)	-
	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______
Revenue	2,798.6	646.6	(31.2)	3,414.0	2,914.8	689.4	(35.3)	3,568.9	6,017.6	1,306.6	(82.9)	7,241.3
	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______
Trading profit	324.8	45.1	(54.0)	315.9	388.1	48.0	(53.2)	382.9	918.5	98.9	(114.7)	902.7
	_______	_______	_______		_______	_______	_______		_______	_______	_______
Intangible asset amortisation				(33.7)				(29.3)				(64.3)
Non-trading items				-				(42.3)				(110.9)
				_______				_______				_______
Operating profit				282.2				311.3				727.5
Finance income				0.1				0.2				0.3
Finance costs				(37.4)				(39.1)				(81.9)
				_______				_______				_______
Profit before taxation				244.9				272.4				645.9
Income taxes				(31.8)				(33.0)				(79.4)
				_______				_______				_______
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent				213.1				239.4				566.5
				_______				_______				_______

Revenue analysis

Disaggregation of revenue from external customers is analysed by End Use Market (EUM), which is the primary market in which Kerry's products are consumed. An EUM is defined as the market in which the end consumer or customer of Kerry's product operates. The economic factors within the EUMs of Food, Beverage and Pharma and within the primary geographic markets which affect the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are similar.

 

Analysis by EUM

	Half year ended 30 June 2020 - Unaudited			Half year ended 30 June 2019 - Unaudited			Year ended 31 December 2019 - Audited
	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Total	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Total	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Total
	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m
Food	1,944.0	643.9	2,587.9	2,021.9	686.7	2,708.6	4,161.5	1,302.2	5,463.7
Beverage	680.1	-	680.1	734.0	-	734.0	1,507.6	-	1,507.6
Pharma	146.0	-	146.0	126.3	-	126.3	270.0	-	270.0
	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______
External revenue	2,770.1	643.9	3,414.0	2,882.2	686.7	3,568.9	5,939.1	1,302.2	7,241.3
	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______

 

 

 

Analysis by primary geographic market

Disaggregation of revenue from external customers is analysed by geographical split:

 

	Half year ended 30 June 2020 - Unaudited			Half year ended 30 June 2019 - Unaudited			Year ended 31 December 2019 - Audited
	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Total	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Total	Taste & Nutrition	Consumer Foods	Total
	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m
Republic of Ireland	79.5	142.5	222.0	88.0	144.8	232.8	184.9	252.5	437.4
Rest of Europe	577.7	501.4	1,079.1	629.7	541.9	1,171.6	1,271.5	1,049.7	2,321.2
Americas	1,546.5	-	1,546.5	1,556.3	-	1,556.3	3,197.8	-	3,197.8
APMEA*	566.4	-	566.4	608.2	-	608.2	1,284.9	-	1,284.9
	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______
External revenue	2,770.1	643.9	3,414.0	2,882.2	686.7	3,568.9	5,939.1	1,302.2	7,241.3
	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______	_______

* Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa

 

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those detailed in the Statement of accounting policies in the 2019 Annual Report. Under IFRS 15 'Revenue from Contracts with Customers' revenue is primarily recognised at a point in time. Revenue recorded over time during the period was not material to the Group.

 

3. Finance income and costs

 

	Half year  ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Half year ended 30 June 2019  Unaudited €'m	Year ended 31 Dec. 2019 Audited €'m
Finance income:
Interest income on deposits	0.1	0.2	0.3
	__________	__________	___________
Finance costs:
Interest payable	(36.9)	(39.7)	(84.0)
Interest rate derivative	(0.5)	1.0	2.9
	__________	__________	___________
	(37.4)	(38.7)	(81.1)
Net interest cost on retirement benefits obligation	-	(0.4)	(0.8)
	__________	__________	___________
Finance costs	(37.4)	(39.1)	(81.9)
	__________	__________	___________

4. Earnings per A ordinary share

 

		Half year ended  30 June 2020  Unaudited		Half year ended 30 June 2019 Unaudited			Year ended 31 Dec. 2019 Audited
		EPS			EPS			EPS
		cent	€'m		cent	€'m		cent	€'m
Basic earnings per share
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent		120.4	213.1		135.5	239.4		320.4	566.5
		______	______		______	______		______	______
Diluted earnings per share
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent		120.3	213.1		135.4	239.4		319.9	566.5
		______	______		______	______		______	______

 

 

	30 June 2020 Unaudited			30 June 2019 Unaudited			31 Dec. 2019 Audited
Number of Shares	m's			m's			m's
Basic weighted average number of shares	176.9			176.7			176.8
Impact of share options outstanding	0.2			0.1			0.3
	_______			_______			_______
Diluted weighted average number of shares	177.1			176.8			177.1
	_______			_______			_______

5. Dividends

 

	Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Half year ended 30 June 2019 Unaudited €'m		Year ended 31 Dec. 2019 Audited €'m
Amounts recognised as distributions to equity shareholders in the period
Final 2019 dividend of 55.10 cent per A ordinary share paid 15 May 2020 (Final 2018 dividend of 49.20 cent per A ordinary share paid 10 May 2019)	97.3	86.7		86.7
Interim 2019 dividend of 23.50 cent per A ordinary share paid 15 November 2019	-	-		41.6
	________	________		_________
	97.3	86.7		128.3
	________	________		_________

Since the end of the period, the Board has proposed an interim dividend of 25.90 cent per A ordinary share which amounts to €45.8m. The payment date for the interim dividend will be 13 November 2020 to shareholders registered on the record date as at 16 October 2020. These Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements do not reflect this dividend.

 

6. Retirement benefits obligation

 

The net deficit recognised in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet for the Group's defined benefit post-retirement schemes was as follows:

 

	Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited	Half year ended 30 June 2019 Unaudited	Year ended 31 Dec. 2019  Audited
	€'m	€'m	€'m
Net recognised deficit in plans before deferred tax	(98.3)	(77.0)	(11.9)
Net related deferred tax asset	19.5	12.6	3.3
	________	________	_________
Net recognised deficit in plans after deferred tax	(78.8)	(64.4)	(8.6)
	________	________	_________

At 30 June 2020, the net deficit before deferred tax for defined benefit post-retirement schemes was €98.3m (30 June 2019: €77.0m; 31 December 2019: €11.9m). This was calculated by rolling forward the defined benefit post-retirement schemes' liabilities at 31 December 2019 to reflect material movements in underlying assumptions over the period while the defined benefit post-retirement schemes' assets at 30 June 2020 are measured at market value. The increase in the net deficit before deferred tax of €86.4m was driven by both a reduction in scheme assets arising from market reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic and adverse movements in discount rates.

 

7. Financial instruments

 

i) The following table outlines the financial assets and liabilities in relation to net debt held by the Group at the balance sheet date:

 

	Financial Assets/ (Liabilities) at Amortised Cost €'m	Liabilities at Fair Value through Profit or Loss €'m	Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments €'m	Assets/ (Liabilities) at FVOCI €'m	Total €'m
Assets:
Interest rate swaps	-	-	105.9	-	105.9
Cash at bank and in hand	736.1	-	-	-	736.1
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
	736.1	-	105.9	-	842.0
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
Liabilities:
Bank overdrafts	(4.6)	-	-	-	(4.6)
Bank loans	(250.0)	-	-	-	(250.0)
Senior notes	(2,544.6)	(39.2)	-	-	(2,583.8)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
Borrowings and overdrafts	(2,799.2)	(39.2)	-	-	(2,838.4)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
At 30 June 2020 - unaudited	(2,063.1)	(39.2)	105.9	-	(1,996.4)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
Assets:
Interest rate swaps	-	-	123.4	-	123.4
Cash at bank and in hand	267.4	-	-	-	267.4
	___________	___________	___________	___________	__________
	267.4	-	123.4	-	390.8
	___________	___________	___________	___________	__________
Liabilities:
Bank overdrafts	(16.6)	-	-	-	(16.6)
Banks loans	(499.9)	-	-	-	(499.9)
Senior notes	(1,763.0)	(29.5)	-	-	(1,792.5)
	___________	___________	___________	___________	___________
Borrowings and overdrafts	(2,279.5)	(29.5)	-	-	(2,309.0)
	___________	___________	___________	___________	___________
At 30 June 2019 - unaudited	(2,012.1)	(29.5)	123.4	-	(1,918.2)
	___________	___________	___________	___________	___________
Assets:
Interest rate swaps	-	-	128.4	-	128.4
Cash at bank and in hand	554.9	-	-	-	554.9
	___________	___________	___________	___________	___________
	554.9	-	128.4	-	683.3
	___________	___________	___________	___________	___________
Liabilities:
Bank overdrafts	(5.2)	-	-	-	(5.2)
Bank loans	(1.2)	-	-	-	(1.2)
Senior notes	(2,514.8)	(24.9)	-	-	(2,539.7)
	___________	___________	___________	___________	__________
Borrowings and overdrafts	(2,521.2)	(24.9)	-	-	(2,546.1)
	___________	___________	___________	___________	__________
At 31 December 2019 - audited	(1,966.3)	(24.9)	128.4	-	(1,862.8)
	___________	___________	___________	___________	__________

All Group borrowings are guaranteed by Kerry Group plc. No assets of the Group have been pledged to secure the borrowings.

 

Part of the Group's debt portfolio includes US$750m of senior notes issued in 2013 and US$408m of senior notes issued in 2010. At the time of issuance, US$250m of the 2013 senior notes and US$500m of the 2010 US$600m senior notes were swapped, using cross currency swaps, to euro. US$192m of the 2010 senior notes were repaid in January 2017 and the related swaps matured at that date. In addition, the Group holds €750m of senior notes issued in 2015, of which €175m were swapped, using cross currency swaps, to US dollar. No interest rate derivatives were entered into for the September 2019 €750m senior notes issuance or on the €200m tap issuance of the 2015 senior notes issued during the period, which will mature in 2025.

 

The adjustment to senior notes classified under liabilities at fair value through profit or loss of €39.2m (30 June 2019: €29.5m; 31 December 2019: €24.9m) represents the part adjustment to the carrying value of debt from applying fair value hedge accounting for interest rate risk. This amount is primarily offset by the fair value adjustment on the corresponding hedge items being the underlying cross currency interest rate swaps.

 

ii) The Group's exposure to interest rates on financial assets and liabilities are detailed in the table below including the impact of cross currency swaps (CCS) on the currency profile of net debt:

 

	Total Pre CCS Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Impact of CCS Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Total after CCS Half year ended 30 June 2020 Unaudited €'m	Half year ended 30 June 2019 Unaudited €'m	Year ended 31 Dec. 2019 Audited €'m
Euro	(1,427.1)	(226.6)	(1,653.7)	(1,509.0)	(1,594.1)
Sterling	74.0	-	74.0	47.0	77.9
US Dollar	(717.4)	226.6	(490.8)	(498.3)	(475.8)
Other	74.1	-	74.1	42.1	129.2
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
	(1,996.4)	-	(1,996.4)	(1,918.2)	(1,862.8)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________

 

iii) The following table details the maturity profile of the Group's net debt:

 

	On demand & up to 1 year €'m	Up to 2 years €'m	2 - 5 years €'m	> 5 years €'m	Total €'m
Cash at bank and in hand	736.1	-	-	-	736.1
Interest rate swaps	-	33.2	63.2	9.5	105.9
Bank overdrafts	(4.6)	-	-	-	(4.6)
Bank loans	-	-	(250.0)	-	(250.0)
Senior notes	-	(117.9)	(758.5)	(1,707.4)	(2,583.8)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
At 30 June 2020 - unaudited	731.5	(84.7)	(945.3)	(1,697.9)	(1,996.4)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
Cash at bank and in hand	267.4	-	-	-	267.4
Interest rate swaps	44.2	-	44.9	34.3	123.4
Bank overdrafts	(16.6)	-	-	-	(16.6)
Bank loans	-	(1.4)	(498.5)	-	(499.9)
Senior notes	(184.5)	-	(775.1)	(832.9)	(1,792.5)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
At 30 June 2019 - unaudited	110.5	(1.4)	(1,228.7)	(798.6)	(1,918.2)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
Cash at bank and in hand	554.9	-	-	-	554.9
Interest rate swaps	45.7	-	52.0	30.7	128.4
Bank overdrafts	(5.2)	-	-	-	(5.2)
Bank loans	-	(1.2)	-	-	(1.2)
Senior notes	(185.6)	-	(784.6)	(1,569.5)	(2,539.7)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________
At 31 December 2019 - audited	409.8	(1.2)	(732.6)	(1,538.8)	(1,862.8)
	__________	__________	__________	__________	__________

 

Following the renewal of the revolving credit facility in June 2019 and the issuance of €750m senior notes in September 2019, the Group entered 2020 with significant available liquidity. Since the beginning of 2020, this position was further strengthened by (a) completing a €200m tap issuance onto our 2025 notes and (b) the exercise of the first of the two 'plus one' extension options on our revolving credit facility to further enhance the maturity date of this facility to June 2025.

 

At 30 June 2020, the Group had cash on hand of €736.1m, including €250m of a drawdown under the revolving credit facility. At the period end, the Group had undrawn committed bank facilities of €850m.

 

iv) Fair value of financial instruments

 

a) Fair value of financial instruments carried at fair value

 

Financial instruments recognised at fair value are analysed between those based on:

-      quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1);

-      those involving inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the assets or liabilities, either directly (as prices) or indirectly (derived from prices) (Level 2); and

-      those involving inputs for the assets or liabilities that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs) (Level 3).

The following table sets out the fair value of financial instruments carried at fair value:
		Fair	30 June 2020	30 June 2019	31 Dec. 2019
		Value	Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited
		Hierarchy	€'m	€'m	€'m
Financial assets
Interest rate swaps:	Non-current	Level 2	105.9	79.2	82.7
	Current	Level 2	-	44.2	45.7
Forward foreign exchange contracts:	Non-current	Level 2	-	0.1	-
	Current	Level 2	21.7	16.9	12.0
Financial asset investments:	Fair value through profit or loss	Level 1	36.8	34.2	37.4
	Fair value through other comprehensive
	income	Level 3	3.0	5.3	4.3
Financial liabilities
Forward foreign exchange contracts:	Non-current	Level 2	-	(0.2)	-
	Current	Level 2	(9.5)	(5.2)	(12.1)
			_________	__________	__________

There have been no transfers between levels during the current or prior financial period.

 

b) Fair value of financial instruments carried at amortised cost

 

Except as defined in the following table, it is considered that the carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities recognised at amortised cost in the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements approximate their fair values.

 

		Carrying Amount	Fair Value	Carrying Amount	Fair Value	Carrying Amount	Fair Value
	Fair	30 June 2020	30 June 2020	30 June 2019	30 June 2019	31 Dec. 2019	31 Dec. 2019
	Value	Unaudited	Unaudited	Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited	Audited
	Hierarchy	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m
Financial liabilities
Senior notes - Public	Level 2	(2,366.1)	(2,464.4)	(1,404.0)	(1,465.6)	(2,151.4)	(2,217.1)
Senior notes - Private	Level 2	(178.5)	(195.1)	(359.0)	(376.9)	(363.4)	(372.9)
		_________	_________	__________	__________	__________	__________
		(2,544.6)	(2,659.5)	(1,763.0)	(1,842.5)	(2,514.8)	(2,590.0)
		_________	_________	__________	__________	__________	__________

 

 

c) Valuation principles

 

The fair value of financial assets and liabilities are determined as follows: 

-      assets and liabilities with standard terms and conditions which are traded on active liquid markets are determined with reference to quoted market prices. This includes equity investments;

-      other financial assets and liabilities (excluding derivatives) are determined in accordance with generally accepted pricing models based on discounted cash flow analysis using prices from observable current market transactions and dealer quotes for similar instruments. This includes interest rate swaps and forward foreign exchange contracts which are determined by discounting the estimated future cash flows;

-      the fair values of financial instruments that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs) requires entity specific valuation techniques; and

-      derivative financial instruments are calculated using quoted prices. Where such prices are not available, a discounted cash flow analysis is performed using the applicable yield curve for the duration of the instruments. Forward foreign exchange contracts are measured using quoted forward exchange rates and yield curves derived from quoted interest rates adjusted for counterparty credit risk, which is calculated based on credit default swaps of the respective counterparties. Interest rate swaps are measured at the present value of future cash flows estimated and discounted based on the applicable yield curves derived from quoted interest rates adjusted for counterparty credit risk, which is calculated based on credit default swaps of the respective counterparties.

 

 

Net debt reconciliation

 

	Cash at bank and in hand	Interest Rate Swaps	Overdrafts due within 1 year*	Borrowings due with 1 year*	Borrowings due after 1 year*	Net debt	Lease liabilities*	Total
	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m
At 31 December 2018 - audited	413.8	96.2	(9.9)	(3.9)	(2,119.7)	(1,623.5)	-	(1,623.5)
Cash flows	(148.8)	-	(6.6)	3.9	(148.9)	(300.4)	(17.1)	(317.5)
Foreign exchange adjustments	2.4	-	(0.1)	-	(4.5)	(2.2)	-	(2.2)
Other non-cash movements	-	27.2	-	(184.5)	165.2	7.9	(93.1)	(85.2)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
At 30 June 2019 - unaudited	267.4	123.4	(16.6)	(184.5)	(2,107.9)	(1,918.2)	(110.2)	(2,028.4)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
Cash flows	281.9	-	11.5	-	(240.6)	52.8	(18.4)	34.4
Foreign exchange adjustments	5.6	-	(0.1)	-	(7.5)	(2.0)	-	(2.0)
Other non-cash movements	-	5.0	-	(1.1)	0.7	4.6	19.2	23.8
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
At 31 December 2019 - audited	554.9	128.4	(5.2)	(185.6)	(2,355.3)	(1,862.8)	(109.4)	(1,972.2)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
Cash flows	193.1	(45.4)	0.5	185.3	(462.3)	(128.8)	17.7	(111.1)
Foreign exchange adjustments	(11.9)	-	0.1	-	(1.2)	(13.0)	2.8	(10.2)
Other non-cash movements	-	22.9	-	0.3	(15.0)	8.2	0.3	8.5
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
At 30 June 2020 - unaudited	736.1	105.9	(4.6)	-	(2,833.8)	(1,996.4)	(88.6)	(2,085.0)
	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________	_________
* Liabilities from financing activities.

 

 

 

8. Share capital

 

Half year Half year Year   ended ended ended   30 June 2020 30 June 2019 31 Dec. 2019   Unaudited Unaudited Audited   €'m €'m €'m Authorised       280,000,000 A ordinary shares of 12.50 cent each 35.0 35.0 35.0   _________ _________ _________ Allotted, called-up and fully paid (A ordinary shares of 12.50 cent each)       At beginning of the financial period 22.1 22.0 22.0 Shares issued during the financial period - - 0.1   _________ _________ _________         At end of the financial period 22.1 22.0 22.1   _________ _________ _________

 

Kerry Group plc has one class of ordinary share which carries no right to fixed income.

 

Shares issued during the period

During the period a total of 166,495 A ordinary shares each with a nominal value of 12.50 cent, were issued at nominal value per share under the Long Term Incentive Plan and Short Term Incentive Plan.

 

The total number of shares in issue at 30 June 2020 was 176,681,437 (30 June 2019: 176,477,146; 31 December 2019: 176,514,942).

 

9. Business combinations

 

During the period, the Group completed one acquisition which is 100% owned by the Group.

 

Acquisition	Acquired	Principal activity
Tecnispice, Sociedad Anónima	April	Tecnispice, located in Guatemala, is a leading savoury taste business servicing the meat and snacks markets incorporating spices, herbs and seasonings.

 

The total consideration for this acquisition was €52.2m, of which €18.0m was prepaid in December 2019 and €3.3m is a deferred element. The resulting cash outflow in the period, net of cash acquired of €0.1m for this acquisition, was €30.8m. Transaction expenses related to this acquisition were charged against trading profit in the Group Condensed Consolidated Income Statement during the period and represented less than one percent of the total consideration.

 

The provisional fair value of net assets acquired before combination were €10.6m and the Group recognised goodwill on this acquisition of €41.6m. Given that the valuation of the fair value of assets and liabilities recently acquired is still in progress, these values are determined provisionally. The goodwill is attributable to the expected profitability, revenue growth, future market development and assembled workforce of the acquired business and the synergies expected to arise within the Group after the acquisition. None of the goodwill recognised is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.

 

The acquisition method of accounting has been used to consolidate the business acquired in the Group Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements. Due to the fact that this acquisition was recently completed, the revenue and results included in the Group's reported figures are not material. For the acquisitions completed in 2019, to date, there have been no material revisions of the provisional fair value adjustments since the initial values were established.

 

The Group performs quantitative and qualitative assessments of each acquisition in order to determine whether it is material for the purposes of separate disclosure under IFRS 3 'Business Combinations'. As a result, the acquisition completed during the period was not considered material to warrant detailed separate disclosure in line with IFRS 3 requirements.

 

10. Events after the Balance Sheet date

 

Since the period end, the Group has proposed an interim dividend of 25.90 cent per A ordinary share (see note 5).

 

There have been no other significant events, outside of the ordinary course of business, affecting the Group since 30 June 2020.

 

11. General information

 

These unaudited Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the half year ended 30 June 2020 are not full financial statements and were not reviewed by the auditors. These Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 30 July 2020. The figures disclosed relating to 31 December 2019 have been derived from the consolidated financial statements which were audited, received an unqualified audit report and have been filed with the Registrar of Companies. This report should be read in conjunction with the 2019 Annual Report which was prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ('IFRS') and the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee ('IFRIC') and those parts of the Companies Act, 2014 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. The Group financial statements have also been prepared in accordance with IFRS adopted by the European Union ('EU') which comprise standards and interpretations approved by the International Accounting Standards Board ('IASB'). The Group financial statements comply with Article 4 of the EU IAS Regulation. IFRS adopted by the EU differs in certain respects from IFRS issued by the IASB. References to IFRS refer to IFRS adopted by the EU.

 

These unaudited Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements have been prepared on the going concern basis of accounting as set out in note 1. The Directors report that they have satisfied themselves that the Group is a going concern, having adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. In forming this view, the Directors have reviewed the Group's budget for a period not less than 12 months, the medium term plans as set out in the rolling five year plan, and have taken into account the cash flow implications of the plans, including proposed capital expenditure, and compared these with the Group's committed borrowing facilities and projected gearing ratios.

 

In relation to seasonality, trading profit is lower in the first half of the year due to the nature of the food business and stronger trading in December. While revenue is relatively evenly spread, margin has traditionally been higher in the second half of the year due to product mix and the timing of promotional activity. There is also a material change to the levels of working capital between December and June mainly due to the seasonal nature of the dairy and crop-based businesses. Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Group's performance was negatively impacted in the first half of the year. The level of impact in H2 2020 will depend on the duration of the current COVID-19 mobility restrictions globally and the pace of recovery, as these restriction measures are eased.

 

As permitted by the Transparency (Directive 2004/109/EC) Regulations 2007 this Interim Report is available on www.kerrygroup.com. However, if a physical copy is required, please contact the Corporate Affairs department.

 

FINANCIAL DEFINITIONS

 

1. Revenue

Volume performance

This represents the sales performance year-on-year, excluding pass-through pricing on raw material costs, currency impacts, acquisitions (net of disposals) and rationalisation volumes.

 

Volume performance is an important metric as it is seen as the key driver of top-line business improvement. This is used as the key revenue metric, as Kerry operates a pass-through pricing model with its customers to cater for raw material price fluctuations. Pricing therefore impacts like-for-like revenue performance positively or negatively depending on whether raw material prices move up or down. A full reconciliation to reported revenue performance is detailed in the revenue reconciliation below.

 

Revenue Reconciliation

H1 2020		Volume performance	Price	Transaction currency	Acquisitions/ Disposals	Translation currency	Reported revenue performance
Taste & Nutrition		(5.6%)	0.1%	-	1.4%	0.1%	(4.0%)
Consumer Foods		(7.8%)	1.7%	(0.1%)	-	-	(6.2%)
Group		(6.0%)	0.4%	-	1.2%	0.1%	(4.3%)
H1 2019
Taste & Nutrition		3.8%	-	-	5.9%	3.3%	13.0%
Consumer Foods		0.6%	(0.3%)	-	-	0.3%	0.6%
Group		3.3%	-	-	4.7%	2.7%	10.7%

 

2. EBITDA

EBITDA represents profit before finance income and costs, income taxes, depreciation (net of capital grant amortisation), intangible asset amortisation and non-trading items.

	H1 2020	H1 2019
	€'m	€'m
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent	213.1	239.4
Finance income	(0.1)	(0.2)
Finance costs	37.4	39.1
Income taxes	31.8	33.0
Non-trading items	-	42.3
Intangible asset amortisation	33.7	29.3
Depreciation (net of capital grant amortisation)	101.2	94.0
EBITDA	417.1	476.9

 

3. Trading Profit

Trading profit refers to the operating profit generated by the businesses before intangible asset amortisation and gains or losses generated from non-trading items. Trading profit represents operating profit before specific items that are not reflective of underlying trading performance and therefore hinder comparison of the trading performance of the Group's businesses, either year-on-year or with other businesses.

 

	H1 2020		H1 2019
	€'m		€'m
Operating profit	282.2		311.3
Intangible asset amortisation	33.7		29.3
Non-trading items	-		42.3
Trading profit	315.9		382.9

4. Trading Margin

Trading margin represents trading profit, expressed as a percentage of revenue.

 

	H1 2020	H1 2019
	€'m	€'m
Trading profit	315.9	382.9
Revenue	3,414.0	3,568.9
Trading margin	9.3%	10.7%

5. Operating Profit

Operating profit is profit before income taxes, finance income and finance costs.

 

	H1 2020	H1 2019
	€'m	€'m
Profit before taxation	244.9	272.4
Finance income	(0.1)	(0.2)
Finance costs	37.4	39.1
Operating profit	282.2	311.3

6. Adjusted Earnings Per Share and Performance in Adjusted Earnings Per Share on a Constant Currency Basis

The performance in adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis is provided as it is considered more reflective of the Group's underlying trading performance. Adjusted earnings is profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent before brand related intangible asset amortisation and non-trading items (net of related tax). These items are excluded in order to assist in the understanding of underlying earnings. A full reconciliation of adjusted earnings per share to basic earnings per share is provided below. Constant currency eliminates the translational effect that arises from changes in foreign currency year-on-year. The performance in adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis is calculated by comparing current year adjusted earnings per share to the prior year adjusted earnings per share retranslated at current year average exchange rates.

 

	H1 2020	H1 2019
	EPS	EPS
	cent	cent
Basic earnings per share	120.4	135.5
Brand related intangible asset amortisation	11.7	9.3
Non-trading items (net of related tax)	-	19.3
Adjusted earnings per share	132.1	164.1
Impact of retranslating prior period adjusted earnings per share at current period average exchange rates	-	0.6
Adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis	132.1	164.7
Performance in adjusted earnings per share on a constant currency basis	(19.8%)	8.4%

 

7. Free Cash Flow

Free cash flow is trading profit plus depreciation, movement in average working capital, capital expenditure, payment of lease liabilities, pension costs less pension expense, finance costs paid (net) and income taxes paid.

 

Free cash flow is seen as an important indicator of the strength and quality of the business and of the availability to the Group of funds for reinvestment or for return to shareholders. Movement in average working capital is used when calculating free cash flow as management believes this provides a more accurate measure of the increase or decrease in working capital needed to support the business over the course of the period rather than at two distinct points in time and more accurately reflects fluctuations caused by seasonality and other timing factors. Average working capital is the sum of each month's working capital over 12 months. Below is a reconciliation of free cash flow to the nearest IFRS measure, which is 'Net cash from operating activities'.

 

	H1 2020	H1 2019
	€'m	€'m
Net cash from operating activities	131.5	243.3
Difference between movement in monthly average working capital and movement in the period end working capital	81.5	56.2
Expenditure on acquisition integration and restructuring costs	25.3	29.3
Purchase of assets	(111.4)	(123.8)
Payment of lease liabilities	(17.7)	(17.1)
Proceeds from the sale of property, plant and equipment	-	6.4
Capital grants received	-	-
Exchange translation adjustment	(2.2)	0.5
Free cash flow	107.0	194.8

 

8. Cash Conversion

Cash conversion is defined as free cash flow, expressed as a percentage of adjusted earnings after tax.

 

	H1 2020	H1 2019
	€'m	€'m
Free cash flow	107.0	194.8
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent	213.1	239.4
Brand related intangible asset amortisation	20.6	16.4
Non-trading items (net of related tax)	-	34.2
Adjusted earnings after tax	233.7	290.0
Cash Conversion	46%	67%

9. Financial Ratios

The Net debt: EBITDA and EBITDA: Net interest ratios disclosed are calculated in accordance with lenders' facility agreements using an adjusted EBITDA, adjusted finance costs (net of finance income) and an adjusted net debt value to adjust for the impact of non-trading items, acquisitions (net of disposals), deferred payments in relation to acquisitions and lease liabilities. As outlined on page 185 of the 2019 Annual Report, these ratios are calculated in accordance with lenders' facility agreements and these agreements specifically require these adjustments in the calculation.

 

 

	Covenant	H1 2020 Times	H1 2019 Times
Net debt: EBITDA	Maximum 3.5	2.0	1.9
EBITDA: Net interest	Minimum 4.0	12.8	14.4

 

10. Net Debt

Net debt comprises of borrowings and overdrafts, interest rate derivative financial instruments and cash at bank and in hand. See full reconciliation of net debt in note 7 of these Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements.

 

11. Average Capital Employed

Average capital employed is calculated by taking an average of the shareholders' equity and net debt over the last three reported balance sheets plus an additional €527.8m relating to goodwill written off to reserves pre conversion to IFRS.

 

	H1 2020	2019	H1 2019	2018	H1 2018
	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m	€'m
Shareholders' equity	4,508.5	4,562.2	4,186.5	4,034.4	3,773.6
Goodwill amortised (pre conversion to IFRS)	527.8	527.8	527.8	527.8	527.8
Adjusted equity	5,036.3	5,090.0	4,714.3	4,562.2	4,301.4
Net debt	1,996.4	1,862.8	1,918.2	1,623.5	1,403.3
Total	7,032.7	6,952.8	6,632.5	6,185.7	5,704.7
Average capital employed	6,872.7	6,590.3	6,174.3

 

12. Return on Average Capital Employed (ROACE)

This measure is defined as profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent before non-trading items (net of related tax), brand related intangible asset amortisation and finance income and costs expressed as a percentage of average capital employed.

 

			12 months to	12 months to
			H1 2020	H1 2019	FY 2019
			€'m	€'m	€'m
Profit after taxation attributable to owners of the parent			540.2	553.2	566.5
Non-trading items (net of related tax)			57.5	73.9	91.7
Brand related intangible asset amortisation			42.0	32.5	37.8
Net finance costs			80.0	72.1	81.6
Adjusted profit			719.7	731.7	777.6
Average capital employed			6,872.7	6,174.3	6,590.3
Return on average capital employed			10.5%	11.9%	11.8%